Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO

Photo of Kathleen D Robinson, Psychologist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Kathleen D Robinson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 28 years of experience. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, self-injury, relationship issues and identity development. I primarily work with adolescents and adults providing individual, family and couples psychotherapy. All of my training and clinical work is grounded in evidenced-based research. I am trained in Mindfulness-Based Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR Level-II, Exposure Therapy, and the Safe Alternatives approach.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 28 years of experience. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, self-injury, relationship issues and identity development. I primarily work with adolescents and adults providing individual, family and couples psychotherapy. All of my training and clinical work is grounded in evidenced-based research. I am trained in Mindfulness-Based Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR Level-II, Exposure Therapy, and the Safe Alternatives approach.
(303) 782-0433 View (303) 782-0433
Photo of Karen Levine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Karen Levine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246
I view you as the expert of your own life, but act as a guide to help you reflect on where you want to go and how you can get there.
I work with individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression or just need some help navigating the challenges of work/life balance, parenting, relationships, or other life transitions.
I view you as the expert of your own life, but act as a guide to help you reflect on where you want to go and how you can get there.
I work with individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression or just need some help navigating the challenges of work/life balance, parenting, relationships, or other life transitions.
(720) 741-7522 View (720) 741-7522
Photo of Brooke Verbal, Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Brooke Verbal
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
There are a lot of beautiful things in this world, but there is nothing I have encountered more beautiful and complex than human beings. There is so much depth, mystery, beauty, pain, and meaning in each person's story. I became a therapist because of my longing to hear people's stories and meet them exactly where they are. My greatest passion is caring for people through empathy, understanding, listening, and interceding into life's painful moments. I am committed to offering my clients acceptance, compassion, and unconditional positive regard in the midst of struggle.
There are a lot of beautiful things in this world, but there is nothing I have encountered more beautiful and complex than human beings. There is so much depth, mystery, beauty, pain, and meaning in each person's story. I became a therapist because of my longing to hear people's stories and meet them exactly where they are. My greatest passion is caring for people through empathy, understanding, listening, and interceding into life's painful moments. I am committed to offering my clients acceptance, compassion, and unconditional positive regard in the midst of struggle.
(720) 782-0318 View (720) 782-0318
Photo of Dmitra Danilenko-Dixon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Dmitra Danilenko-Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
My personal and professional experiences has helped me understand that life can often make us feel lost. It challenges us and often makes us question who we are. I am here to be a companion on your journey of self-discovery while assisting to bring more clarity and meaning into your life. I believe every person has the answers they seek rooted within them just waiting to be unearthed. Life can be difficult to navigate alone, and we process our experiences best through social connection. I can provide you with a safe place to explore your struggles while challenging you and providing a sense of acceptance.
My personal and professional experiences has helped me understand that life can often make us feel lost. It challenges us and often makes us question who we are. I am here to be a companion on your journey of self-discovery while assisting to bring more clarity and meaning into your life. I believe every person has the answers they seek rooted within them just waiting to be unearthed. Life can be difficult to navigate alone, and we process our experiences best through social connection. I can provide you with a safe place to explore your struggles while challenging you and providing a sense of acceptance.
(720) 410-5754 View (720) 410-5754
Photo of Megan Vance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Megan Vance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222
Waitlist for new clients
Each of us comes into therapy with diverse backgrounds and unique experiences that shape our current ways of thinking and how we interact with the world around us. My job as a therapist is to create an environment where you feel safe, empowered, validated, and can trust that there is someone who genuinely wants to help you navigate through some of life’s most difficult and challenging moments. I approach the therapeutic process with empathy, acceptance, humor, and a curiosity about your goals, values, and passions.
Each of us comes into therapy with diverse backgrounds and unique experiences that shape our current ways of thinking and how we interact with the world around us. My job as a therapist is to create an environment where you feel safe, empowered, validated, and can trust that there is someone who genuinely wants to help you navigate through some of life’s most difficult and challenging moments. I approach the therapeutic process with empathy, acceptance, humor, and a curiosity about your goals, values, and passions.
(720) 734-7226 View (720) 734-7226
Photo of Jessica Reilly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Jessica Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80231  (Online Only)
Jessica Reilly is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker providing individual psychotherapy to adults with Anxiety, ADHD, and disordered eating. With knowledge of the complex interplay between ADHD, disordered eating, and distorted body image, treatment emphasis includes the exploration of the emotional relationship with food, body image, and self-acceptance. Often the myriad of symptoms experienced by her clients with ADHD are co-occuring with disordered eating when they seek therapy.
Jessica Reilly is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker providing individual psychotherapy to adults with Anxiety, ADHD, and disordered eating. With knowledge of the complex interplay between ADHD, disordered eating, and distorted body image, treatment emphasis includes the exploration of the emotional relationship with food, body image, and self-acceptance. Often the myriad of symptoms experienced by her clients with ADHD are co-occuring with disordered eating when they seek therapy.
(612) 662-0665 View (612) 662-0665
Photo of Allie Laber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Allie Laber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246
I primarily use Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to assist clients in gaining awareness of their thoughts and emotions, developing self-compassion, and living a life that is congruent with their values.
I aim to create a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel safe to be themselves and share their unique stories. I utilize a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach in practice to connect with clients and support them as they navigate life’s highs and lows. As a Licensed Social Worker, I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relational and identity challenges, and grief.
I primarily use Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to assist clients in gaining awareness of their thoughts and emotions, developing self-compassion, and living a life that is congruent with their values.
I aim to create a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel safe to be themselves and share their unique stories. I utilize a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach in practice to connect with clients and support them as they navigate life’s highs and lows. As a Licensed Social Worker, I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relational and identity challenges, and grief.
(720) 702-1816 View (720) 702-1816
Photo of Andy Archer, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Andy Archer
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222  (Online Only)
Our work may incorporate theory and techniques from acceptance and commitment therapy, existential therapy, and emotionally focused therapy.
Do you ever feel lost, overwhelmed, anxious...maybe even hopeless? It happens to everyone at times. And it can be hard to outthink our problems and face them on our own. My approach to counseling prioritizes a focus on connection, collaboration, and authenticity. You are the expert on your own life, and together we will work to better understand the struggles you face, the life you want to live, and the steps to take to get there.
Our work may incorporate theory and techniques from acceptance and commitment therapy, existential therapy, and emotionally focused therapy.
Do you ever feel lost, overwhelmed, anxious...maybe even hopeless? It happens to everyone at times. And it can be hard to outthink our problems and face them on our own. My approach to counseling prioritizes a focus on connection, collaboration, and authenticity. You are the expert on your own life, and together we will work to better understand the struggles you face, the life you want to live, and the steps to take to get there.
(303) 529-4554 View (303) 529-4554
Photo of Arnica Buckner, Psychologist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Arnica Buckner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222
My approach emphasizes the combination of acceptance and mindfulness practices with a focus on concrete behavioral change.
Do you feel like your life has become defined by your struggles with your symptoms or yourself? Do you feel far away from the life that you want? My goal is to work with you to help you let go of, move through, and transform your struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and grief, in order to move toward a more full, meaningful life. As part of our work together, we will create an idea of what a fulfilling life looks like for you, explore how to get there, and compassionately confront the barriers that might exist between you and that life.
My approach emphasizes the combination of acceptance and mindfulness practices with a focus on concrete behavioral change.
Do you feel like your life has become defined by your struggles with your symptoms or yourself? Do you feel far away from the life that you want? My goal is to work with you to help you let go of, move through, and transform your struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and grief, in order to move toward a more full, meaningful life. As part of our work together, we will create an idea of what a fulfilling life looks like for you, explore how to get there, and compassionately confront the barriers that might exist between you and that life.
(303) 747-3876 View (303) 747-3876
Photo of John Tzanos, Psychologist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
John Tzanos
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80210  (Online Only)
My pragmatic approach integrates acceptance-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused strategies, empowering you to achieve self-defined goals aligned with your values.
Seeking support for your well-being or feeling uncertain about your place in the world? I specialize in addressing ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and relationship challenges for adolescents and adults. I am committed to providing you with effective treatment that is specifically designed to meet your individual identity and needs and I place great emphasis on self-realization and authenticity. It is a privilege for me to accompany you on this path if you are feeling anxious but also ready to enhance your quality of life. Let's collaborate on your growth and progress ahead.
My pragmatic approach integrates acceptance-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused strategies, empowering you to achieve self-defined goals aligned with your values.
Seeking support for your well-being or feeling uncertain about your place in the world? I specialize in addressing ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and relationship challenges for adolescents and adults. I am committed to providing you with effective treatment that is specifically designed to meet your individual identity and needs and I place great emphasis on self-realization and authenticity. It is a privilege for me to accompany you on this path if you are feeling anxious but also ready to enhance your quality of life. Let's collaborate on your growth and progress ahead.
(720) 706-9881 View (720) 706-9881
Photo of Claire McHenry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Claire McHenry
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
I utilize modalities and perspectives like DBT, MI, ACT, & IFS.
Navigating this life is our greatest journey, and at times our biggest challenge. Asking for help, while difficult, can be the bravest and best way we support ourselves. No matter what obstacles you may be facing currently, you are not alone. During our time together, we will explore the patterns and stories that have been dominating your life and the systems around you. You are the expert of your lived experience, but sometimes it makes all the difference having assistance and guidance in changing the stories we are telling ourselves. Genuine connection is one of the most healing experiences.
I utilize modalities and perspectives like DBT, MI, ACT, & IFS.
Navigating this life is our greatest journey, and at times our biggest challenge. Asking for help, while difficult, can be the bravest and best way we support ourselves. No matter what obstacles you may be facing currently, you are not alone. During our time together, we will explore the patterns and stories that have been dominating your life and the systems around you. You are the expert of your lived experience, but sometimes it makes all the difference having assistance and guidance in changing the stories we are telling ourselves. Genuine connection is one of the most healing experiences.
(303) 590-3476 View (303) 590-3476
Photo of Michelle Chabino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Michelle Chabino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
Have you been struggling with difficult life events, mental health issues or life transitions? Are you looking to know more about yourself? I can help. I have been able to work with many clients with a variety of issues. I utilize and have trainings in most research based approaches including EMDR, DBT, IFS, and ACT among a few. I am able to work with clients with depression, Anxiety, and PTSD along with other life events and decisions.
Have you been struggling with difficult life events, mental health issues or life transitions? Are you looking to know more about yourself? I can help. I have been able to work with many clients with a variety of issues. I utilize and have trainings in most research based approaches including EMDR, DBT, IFS, and ACT among a few. I am able to work with clients with depression, Anxiety, and PTSD along with other life events and decisions.
(720) 986-4569 View (720) 986-4569
Photo of Justin Friel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Justin Friel
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246
Starting from a place of acceptance and understanding, we'll unravel complexities, empowering you to embrace your authentic self.
Feeling weighed down by the burdens of life yet struggling to find anyone who understands? Is stress, anxiety, or depression starting to impact relationships, work, or your sex life? Do you feel disconnected, trapped in cycles you can’t change, or haunted by the past? Are you unsure about who you are, who you want to be, or how to love all the parts of yourself? Since men are often expected to be strong, stoic, & steadfast, we often hide behind a mask, unsure about the internal swirl of emotions, doubts, & fears. You're not alone & what you face isn’t insurmountable. The journey of exploration, healing, & transformation begins here.
Starting from a place of acceptance and understanding, we'll unravel complexities, empowering you to embrace your authentic self.
Feeling weighed down by the burdens of life yet struggling to find anyone who understands? Is stress, anxiety, or depression starting to impact relationships, work, or your sex life? Do you feel disconnected, trapped in cycles you can’t change, or haunted by the past? Are you unsure about who you are, who you want to be, or how to love all the parts of yourself? Since men are often expected to be strong, stoic, & steadfast, we often hide behind a mask, unsure about the internal swirl of emotions, doubts, & fears. You're not alone & what you face isn’t insurmountable. The journey of exploration, healing, & transformation begins here.
(720) 552-5087 View (720) 552-5087
Photo of Evelyn J. Delacruz-Jiron, Marriage & Family Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Evelyn J. Delacruz-Jiron
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, LAC, CFM
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80224  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Dr. Evelyn DeLaCruz-Jiron, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Addictions Counselor, and certified in family mediation. I am licensed to practice in CO, AK, AZ and UT and I specialize in family therapy, couples therapy, parenting interventions and trauma informed care using DBT, CBT, experiential and ACT therapy. I am an AAMFT approved supervisor and have experience providing clinical supervision to both LPCs and LMFTs.
My name is Dr. Evelyn DeLaCruz-Jiron, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Addictions Counselor, and certified in family mediation. I am licensed to practice in CO, AK, AZ and UT and I specialize in family therapy, couples therapy, parenting interventions and trauma informed care using DBT, CBT, experiential and ACT therapy. I am an AAMFT approved supervisor and have experience providing clinical supervision to both LPCs and LMFTs.
(720) 383-4847 View (720) 383-4847
Photo of Katie Parker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Katie Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80209
I primarily practice through the lens of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I am passionate about helping others identify and build on strengths to live authentic, meaningful lives. I believe the therapeutic relationship is collaborative process in which you can safely explore and make sense of your inner most world. It is through this understanding that we begin to recognize and process patterns that no longer serve us and make small shifts towards rewriting our own stories.
I primarily practice through the lens of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I am passionate about helping others identify and build on strengths to live authentic, meaningful lives. I believe the therapeutic relationship is collaborative process in which you can safely explore and make sense of your inner most world. It is through this understanding that we begin to recognize and process patterns that no longer serve us and make small shifts towards rewriting our own stories.
(720) 640-6797 View (720) 640-6797
Photo of Kristin Geisler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Kristin Geisler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246
I use a combination of CBT, ACT, psychoeducation, and narrative therapy, but always tailor my approach carefully to every client and their particular struggles and strengths.
At its best, therapy is a space for intense self-discovery and exciting exploration. It is often true that the things we struggle with most lead us to encounters with our deepest values, and I am inspired by the way in which struggle can be transformed into strength and groundedness through careful, sensitive work. As a therapist, I’ll help you see the parts of you (your strengths, your challenges, your patterns) that have been invisible to you until now. After successful therapy, it should feel like you are seeing yourself clearly for the first time.
I use a combination of CBT, ACT, psychoeducation, and narrative therapy, but always tailor my approach carefully to every client and their particular struggles and strengths.
At its best, therapy is a space for intense self-discovery and exciting exploration. It is often true that the things we struggle with most lead us to encounters with our deepest values, and I am inspired by the way in which struggle can be transformed into strength and groundedness through careful, sensitive work. As a therapist, I’ll help you see the parts of you (your strengths, your challenges, your patterns) that have been invisible to you until now. After successful therapy, it should feel like you are seeing yourself clearly for the first time.
(720) 730-7236 View (720) 730-7236
Photo of Sarah Lucas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Sarah Lucas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222
I use the following therapeutic techniques: mindfulness-based psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, IFS, and ACT.
Welcome - I'm here to support you! In our sessions together, you'll be able to openly express your feelings, discover your strengths, and relate to your struggles in a whole new way. My style is warm, empowering, and practical. I want you to be able to walk out of each session feeling heard, supported, and equipped to handle the challenges life throws at you. I am a perinatal mental health specialist (PMH-C) and am passionate about working with individuals with prenatal and postpartum anxiety and prenatal and postpartum depression. I also enjoy helping clients who are encountering fertility challenges.
I use the following therapeutic techniques: mindfulness-based psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, IFS, and ACT.
Welcome - I'm here to support you! In our sessions together, you'll be able to openly express your feelings, discover your strengths, and relate to your struggles in a whole new way. My style is warm, empowering, and practical. I want you to be able to walk out of each session feeling heard, supported, and equipped to handle the challenges life throws at you. I am a perinatal mental health specialist (PMH-C) and am passionate about working with individuals with prenatal and postpartum anxiety and prenatal and postpartum depression. I also enjoy helping clients who are encountering fertility challenges.
(720) 770-2069 View (720) 770-2069
Photo of Laura Michaels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Laura Michaels
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, JD
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246
Resilience. Balance. Acceptance. Healing. Perspective. Hope. Choice. When we face circumstances that are difficult in our lives, how do we respond? How do we find our inner peace and structure, our sense of being content and whole? In a warm and protected space, I work collaboratively with clients to find ways to help them cope better with life's challenges and setbacks, solve problems, and live more fully and authentically.
Resilience. Balance. Acceptance. Healing. Perspective. Hope. Choice. When we face circumstances that are difficult in our lives, how do we respond? How do we find our inner peace and structure, our sense of being content and whole? In a warm and protected space, I work collaboratively with clients to find ways to help them cope better with life's challenges and setbacks, solve problems, and live more fully and authentically.
(720) 613-2185 View (720) 613-2185
Photo of Pamela Brody, Psychologist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Pamela Brody
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems informed therapy into my approach.
Are you struggling with anxiety or insomnia? I specialize in evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy. I'm passionate about helping people with anxiety, depression, and insomnia, and have decades of experience, including teaching and supervising others in the field. I provide compassionate, affirming treatment of the highest quality with a warm and engaging approach. I have extensive experience with panic disorder, post-traumatic stress, social anxiety, CBT for insomnia, relationship issues, and depressive disorders.
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems informed therapy into my approach.
Are you struggling with anxiety or insomnia? I specialize in evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy. I'm passionate about helping people with anxiety, depression, and insomnia, and have decades of experience, including teaching and supervising others in the field. I provide compassionate, affirming treatment of the highest quality with a warm and engaging approach. I have extensive experience with panic disorder, post-traumatic stress, social anxiety, CBT for insomnia, relationship issues, and depressive disorders.
(303) 647-9342 View (303) 647-9342
Photo of Debbie J Bassett, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Debbie J Bassett
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MFTC, EdS, NLC
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80237
Waitlist for new clients
Clients receive a strength-based approach, with a variety of therapeutic methods to meet their unique situation, including EMDR, CBT, ACT, Gottman and EFT.
Are you tired of feeling misunderstood, alone and overwhelmed? Do you feel like you’ve tried everything, only to still struggle? Emotions, trauma and relationship stress can leave us feeling defeated and hopeless. My clients include children and adults overwhelmed by emotions, trauma responses, and/or dealing with relationship wounds (e.g., parenting stressors, infidelity, communication breakdown). We work together so you feel truly heard, seen, and understood. Your goals matter and we take intentional actions so therapy feels productive and meaningful.
Clients receive a strength-based approach, with a variety of therapeutic methods to meet their unique situation, including EMDR, CBT, ACT, Gottman and EFT.
Are you tired of feeling misunderstood, alone and overwhelmed? Do you feel like you’ve tried everything, only to still struggle? Emotions, trauma and relationship stress can leave us feeling defeated and hopeless. My clients include children and adults overwhelmed by emotions, trauma responses, and/or dealing with relationship wounds (e.g., parenting stressors, infidelity, communication breakdown). We work together so you feel truly heard, seen, and understood. Your goals matter and we take intentional actions so therapy feels productive and meaningful.
(720) 613-2781 View (720) 613-2781

See more therapy options for Southeastern Denver, Denver

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists

How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

What are the goals of acceptance and commitment therapy?

The goal of acceptance and commitment is to expand a person’s psychological flexibility, a trait that encourages an individual to live in the present moment and to accept all their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, even ones that are difficult such as sadness and anxiety. In ACT, this acceptance is congruent with the individual’s values and beliefs.

Does acceptance and commitment therapy work for depression?

Acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for depression because it allows the individual to view their discomfort and suffering differently. Depressive feelings about relationship heartaches, for example, are a part of life. A despondent person learns to let go of their struggles and instead view their painful thoughts and feelings with compassion. This will lead the individual toward positive change.

How long are people typically in acceptance and commitment therapy?

A typical acceptance and commitment therapy session is 50 minutes long with one session per week. Treatment for common problems such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties can last between eight weeks to four months. However, more severe cases may require more than one session a week and/or a longer time frame for treatment.