Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Polk County, FL
I have always been drawn to helping people learn the skills necessary for acceptance and resilience, enabling them to thrive despite the challenges they may face.
During the intake process, I will ask about the events and experiences that have brought you to this point. These insights are crucial in framing our work together and understanding where you are in your healing process. I approach therapy with empathy and an open mind, including mindfulness and coping skills in each session.
I have always been drawn to helping people learn the skills necessary for acceptance and resilience, enabling them to thrive despite the challenges they may face.
During the intake process, I will ask about the events and experiences that have brought you to this point. These insights are crucial in framing our work together and understanding where you are in your healing process. I approach therapy with empathy and an open mind, including mindfulness and coping skills in each session.
Drawing on evidence-based practices like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT , and Exposure Therapy, Lisa provides effective tools and strategies to promote healing and resilience.
Lisa Scheidt, LMHC, is committed to helping individuals across Florida navigate the complexities of life with a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health care. She supports clients in exploring their experiences, fostering personal growth, and building healthier habits. With expertise in individual and group therapy, Lisa works with children, teens, adults, and seniors to help them achieve autonomy and connect with the human experience in transformative ways.
Drawing on evidence-based practices like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT , and Exposure Therapy, Lisa provides effective tools and strategies to promote healing and resilience.
Lisa Scheidt, LMHC, is committed to helping individuals across Florida navigate the complexities of life with a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health care. She supports clients in exploring their experiences, fostering personal growth, and building healthier habits. With expertise in individual and group therapy, Lisa works with children, teens, adults, and seniors to help them achieve autonomy and connect with the human experience in transformative ways.
Please reach out with any questions regarding insurance acceptance.
Are you struggling with overwhelming thoughts. Feeling like you're on a hamster wheel and your brain won't stop? I am here to assist you in reducing those thoughts and feelings of the never-ending cycle. Being afforded the opportunity to be trained in over 30 modalities, I have found that not one modality can serve all. There is help available and no one should ever feel stuck.
Please reach out with any questions regarding insurance acceptance.
Are you struggling with overwhelming thoughts. Feeling like you're on a hamster wheel and your brain won't stop? I am here to assist you in reducing those thoughts and feelings of the never-ending cycle. Being afforded the opportunity to be trained in over 30 modalities, I have found that not one modality can serve all. There is help available and no one should ever feel stuck.
My work is rooted in empathy, compassion, authenticity, and acceptance.
I believe that therapy should be person-centered, where you are seen and heard for exactly who you are, and where the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative process. In our work together, I integrate various therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic and supportive therapies, tailored to meet your individual needs.
My work is rooted in empathy, compassion, authenticity, and acceptance.
I believe that therapy should be person-centered, where you are seen and heard for exactly who you are, and where the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative process. In our work together, I integrate various therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic and supportive therapies, tailored to meet your individual needs.
I use an eclectic approach with my clients, while incorporating evidenced based models such as CBT and ACT and other listed approaches.
Are you significantly impacted by life experiences? I have worked extensively with individuals and families who have experienced trauma and other stressful events. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist. My approach is direct, yet gentle. My clients can rely on me to help get them through their past and present struggles. We together will work toward desired goals and accomplishments. My areas of expertise include trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflicts and grief. All strengths are highlighted and all feelings are important and acknowledged.
I use an eclectic approach with my clients, while incorporating evidenced based models such as CBT and ACT and other listed approaches.
Are you significantly impacted by life experiences? I have worked extensively with individuals and families who have experienced trauma and other stressful events. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist. My approach is direct, yet gentle. My clients can rely on me to help get them through their past and present struggles. We together will work toward desired goals and accomplishments. My areas of expertise include trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflicts and grief. All strengths are highlighted and all feelings are important and acknowledged.
The ABCs of positive mental health are Acceptance, Belonging, Connectedness, and Security.
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving for nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.
The ABCs of positive mental health are Acceptance, Belonging, Connectedness, and Security.
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving for nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.
Shannon Dawson
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am very passionate about helping people develop healthy relationships with themselves, practicing acceptance and forgiveness, and creating an internal environment that allows joy.
Does it feel like no matter how hard you try you find yourself wondering if things will ever change? You wonder if it’s just you if other people go through this. You might even be really nervous about hitting the contact button because after all only “crazy” people go to therapy. Here’s a little secret all therapists have to go to their own therapy before they can graduate from school. We know what it's like to be on both sides of the screen or room
I am very passionate about helping people develop healthy relationships with themselves, practicing acceptance and forgiveness, and creating an internal environment that allows joy.
Does it feel like no matter how hard you try you find yourself wondering if things will ever change? You wonder if it’s just you if other people go through this. You might even be really nervous about hitting the contact button because after all only “crazy” people go to therapy. Here’s a little secret all therapists have to go to their own therapy before they can graduate from school. We know what it's like to be on both sides of the screen or room
I strive to create a safe space for individuals where there is trust, acceptance, and empowerment.
Each client will be met where they are at in session, and I will work collaboratively with you in identifying ways and coping mechanisms to move forward. My counseling approach is unique to your situation and developed from a mix of cognitive behavioral, strengths-based, and relational modalities.
I strive to create a safe space for individuals where there is trust, acceptance, and empowerment.
Each client will be met where they are at in session, and I will work collaboratively with you in identifying ways and coping mechanisms to move forward. My counseling approach is unique to your situation and developed from a mix of cognitive behavioral, strengths-based, and relational modalities.
Hope Restored Counseling of Florida, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RD, CDCES
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803
I believe in meeting clients where they are in their life journey by providing unconditional acceptance, motivation, and encouragement toward becoming the person they desire.
In person or virtual sessions. Specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. I am also a Registered Dietitian (RD). It's my passion to help people gain control over and heal from disordered eating, anxiety, and depression so they can live their best life. We live in a society that dictates what size we should be, which drives us toward unhealthy habits in an effort to measure up. This can lead to disordered eating habits such as yo-yo dieting, binge eating, poor body image, and self-criticism, among others. I believe in focusing on the underlying causes of how food is being used to manage stress, emotions, and life.
I believe in meeting clients where they are in their life journey by providing unconditional acceptance, motivation, and encouragement toward becoming the person they desire.
In person or virtual sessions. Specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. I am also a Registered Dietitian (RD). It's my passion to help people gain control over and heal from disordered eating, anxiety, and depression so they can live their best life. We live in a society that dictates what size we should be, which drives us toward unhealthy habits in an effort to measure up. This can lead to disordered eating habits such as yo-yo dieting, binge eating, poor body image, and self-criticism, among others. I believe in focusing on the underlying causes of how food is being used to manage stress, emotions, and life.
I use CBT, DBT, ACT, and psychodynamic therapy to help you build coping tools and reconnect with your strengths.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Master of Social Work from Fordham University and a Post-Master Certificate in Trauma-Informed Clinical Practice from NYU. I specialize in trauma, including generational trauma and identity-related stress, and I understand how deeply emotional pain can impact both the mind and body. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, integrating each person’s culture, family history, and place in society. I believe in whole-person care that acknowledges the complexity of who you are and how your experiences have shaped you.
I use CBT, DBT, ACT, and psychodynamic therapy to help you build coping tools and reconnect with your strengths.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Master of Social Work from Fordham University and a Post-Master Certificate in Trauma-Informed Clinical Practice from NYU. I specialize in trauma, including generational trauma and identity-related stress, and I understand how deeply emotional pain can impact both the mind and body. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, integrating each person’s culture, family history, and place in society. I believe in whole-person care that acknowledges the complexity of who you are and how your experiences have shaped you.
Ana Maria Paniagua
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I encourage self-awareness, understanding, and acceptance of emotions while teaching you how to regulate them.
I do not believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach to therapy, and I cater each approach to the individual’s needs and goals by working together to review your history through the attachment theory lens. I believe that a lot of one’s struggles stem from ruptures in attachment and unresolved trauma that eventually leads to a dysregulated nervous system.
I encourage self-awareness, understanding, and acceptance of emotions while teaching you how to regulate them.
I do not believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach to therapy, and I cater each approach to the individual’s needs and goals by working together to review your history through the attachment theory lens. I believe that a lot of one’s struggles stem from ruptures in attachment and unresolved trauma that eventually leads to a dysregulated nervous system.
Meet Our Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists
Marissa Skipper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Together, we will use Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, somatic and mindfulness therapies to help you address your unwanted thoughts and to make choices that align with your values.
Do you find yourself burdened by anxiety or unwanted thoughts, no matter what you do? You might be exhausted from trying to manage all the thoughts that are constantly running through your mind. Your keep feeling anxious and overwhelmed - it's like you don't measure up, and you feel disappointed. Maybe it's becoming difficult to remember a time you didn't feel this way. You've tried on your own to feel better, and now you're ready to take the next step in finding relief. You want to understand your triggers and to feel more in control of your thoughts and emotions. You're motivated to learn, and open to trying new things.
Together, we will use Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, somatic and mindfulness therapies to help you address your unwanted thoughts and to make choices that align with your values.
Do you find yourself burdened by anxiety or unwanted thoughts, no matter what you do? You might be exhausted from trying to manage all the thoughts that are constantly running through your mind. Your keep feeling anxious and overwhelmed - it's like you don't measure up, and you feel disappointed. Maybe it's becoming difficult to remember a time you didn't feel this way. You've tried on your own to feel better, and now you're ready to take the next step in finding relief. You want to understand your triggers and to feel more in control of your thoughts and emotions. You're motivated to learn, and open to trying new things.
Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, existential therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy, I tailor each session to meet your needs.
With over 6 years of experience supporting individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, I specialize in helping international students, young professionals, and adults in transitional stages overcome stress, anxiety, workplace challenges, self-esteem issues, and the complexities of immigration and acculturation. Whether you’re struggling to adapt to a new environment, clarify your goals, or build meaningful relationships, therapy can provide the space to help you regain balance and move forward with confidence. As a bilingual therapist, I create a culturally sensitive, nonjudgmental space where your individuality is honored.
Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, existential therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy, I tailor each session to meet your needs.
With over 6 years of experience supporting individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, I specialize in helping international students, young professionals, and adults in transitional stages overcome stress, anxiety, workplace challenges, self-esteem issues, and the complexities of immigration and acculturation. Whether you’re struggling to adapt to a new environment, clarify your goals, or build meaningful relationships, therapy can provide the space to help you regain balance and move forward with confidence. As a bilingual therapist, I create a culturally sensitive, nonjudgmental space where your individuality is honored.
However, I primarily utilize ACT, CBT, DBT, person-centered and solution-focused therapeutic strategies.
My ideal client is someone excited to come to their therapy appointments. They are receptive to suggestions and are willing to put in the effort to utilize those suggestions. Their goals are to live a better quality of life with my help if that is what they desire. My ideal client is someone I enjoy meeting with on a regular basis and having enjoyable discussions in addition to our therapeutic work.
However, I primarily utilize ACT, CBT, DBT, person-centered and solution-focused therapeutic strategies.
My ideal client is someone excited to come to their therapy appointments. They are receptive to suggestions and are willing to put in the effort to utilize those suggestions. Their goals are to live a better quality of life with my help if that is what they desire. My ideal client is someone I enjoy meeting with on a regular basis and having enjoyable discussions in addition to our therapeutic work.
Sonica Sharma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to support you in radical self- acceptance.
Are you the one everyone turns to—the dependable and strong one—yet inside, you feel anxious, exhausted, and disconnected from yourself? Maybe you grew up in a family where emotions weren’t talked about, and now you carry the weight of being everything for everyone. You’re constantly doing, achieving, and holding it all together, but deep down, it never feels like enough. My clients are often BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, children of immigrants, and cycle-breakers—people who’ve learned to survive by staying small, silent, or hyper-independent.
My goal is to support you in radical self- acceptance.
Are you the one everyone turns to—the dependable and strong one—yet inside, you feel anxious, exhausted, and disconnected from yourself? Maybe you grew up in a family where emotions weren’t talked about, and now you carry the weight of being everything for everyone. You’re constantly doing, achieving, and holding it all together, but deep down, it never feels like enough. My clients are often BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, children of immigrants, and cycle-breakers—people who’ve learned to survive by staying small, silent, or hyper-independent.
Chemal Cruz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Although, depending on the client I use CBT to understand how our thoughts can alter our actions and emotions, and ACT to understand how working against our values creates inner turmoil.
New Hours 10am-3pm. My ideal client is a person or couple that is willing to talk about finding a better way of life and may need someone to confide in. Also, those needing an unbiased, non-judgmental ear with feedback. In our society, I believe men in particular need a safe place to be heard and take off their armor. So I welcome all men to try therapy and explore themselves beyond what they can provide. Whether you struggle with pride, shame/guilt, saying no, or making decisions I welcome you. Growth is a lifelong process that cannot be rushed. Hypnotherapy bridges your awareness so new possibilities emerge from embedded trauma.
Although, depending on the client I use CBT to understand how our thoughts can alter our actions and emotions, and ACT to understand how working against our values creates inner turmoil.
New Hours 10am-3pm. My ideal client is a person or couple that is willing to talk about finding a better way of life and may need someone to confide in. Also, those needing an unbiased, non-judgmental ear with feedback. In our society, I believe men in particular need a safe place to be heard and take off their armor. So I welcome all men to try therapy and explore themselves beyond what they can provide. Whether you struggle with pride, shame/guilt, saying no, or making decisions I welcome you. Growth is a lifelong process that cannot be rushed. Hypnotherapy bridges your awareness so new possibilities emerge from embedded trauma.
I use techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Mindfulness and grounding techniques.
Hello and welcome! Congratulations, you’ve made the first step. Let me help you follow through. In working with me, you will be provided with an authentic, safe, and comfortable environment where you are free to be yourself while we explore what led you here.
I use techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Mindfulness and grounding techniques.
Hello and welcome! Congratulations, you’ve made the first step. Let me help you follow through. In working with me, you will be provided with an authentic, safe, and comfortable environment where you are free to be yourself while we explore what led you here.
I am experienced with several types of therapy, but some of the modalities I am most passionate about include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), internal family therapy (IFS), somatic experiencing, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), psychodynamic therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and harm reduction.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the daily challenges of managing a chronic illness or struggling with the emotional toll it takes on your mental health? Perhaps your pain or flare-ups are impacting your mood and leaving you anxious or frustrated. Whether you're navigating the complexities of physical or mental health, you may be seeking a space where your experiences are validated, and your sense of self is strengthened. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with chronic illness and medical trauma, helping you explore the connection between your mind and body.
I am experienced with several types of therapy, but some of the modalities I am most passionate about include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), internal family therapy (IFS), somatic experiencing, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), psychodynamic therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and harm reduction.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the daily challenges of managing a chronic illness or struggling with the emotional toll it takes on your mental health? Perhaps your pain or flare-ups are impacting your mood and leaving you anxious or frustrated. Whether you're navigating the complexities of physical or mental health, you may be seeking a space where your experiences are validated, and your sense of self is strengthened. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with chronic illness and medical trauma, helping you explore the connection between your mind and body.
Denise Wasmer is a Licensed Psychotherapist in the State of Florida trained in EMDR Therapy, offering EMDR Therapy and Intensives, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I specialize in EMDR Therapy that aims to help individuals overcome traumatic symptoms and other emotional stressors such as anxiety and depression. I also offer EMDR Intensives that involve longer more concentrated therapy sessions to accelerate progress and provide a deeper exploration and integration.
Denise Wasmer is a Licensed Psychotherapist in the State of Florida trained in EMDR Therapy, offering EMDR Therapy and Intensives, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I specialize in EMDR Therapy that aims to help individuals overcome traumatic symptoms and other emotional stressors such as anxiety and depression. I also offer EMDR Intensives that involve longer more concentrated therapy sessions to accelerate progress and provide a deeper exploration and integration.
I utilized Acceptance and Commitment therapy along with other modalities to help people obtain their goals.
Life has plenty of curve balls and you don't have to swing all alone. Throughout life we have valleys and peaks. Sometimes we just need to remember that the storm doesn't last. Psychological hinderances such as the inner critic, negative self talk, painful past experiences, or bodily sensations such as heaviness or body tension can all hinder us from the life we want. We all want something in life and there will be a obstacle on that journey. I can help you on your journey.
I utilized Acceptance and Commitment therapy along with other modalities to help people obtain their goals.
Life has plenty of curve balls and you don't have to swing all alone. Throughout life we have valleys and peaks. Sometimes we just need to remember that the storm doesn't last. Psychological hinderances such as the inner critic, negative self talk, painful past experiences, or bodily sensations such as heaviness or body tension can all hinder us from the life we want. We all want something in life and there will be a obstacle on that journey. I can help you on your journey.
See more therapy options for Polk County
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.