Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Wisconsin

Photo of Antonia Posey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Wisconsin
Antonia Posey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAC, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Twin Lakes, WI 53181
Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing that will lead you to greater self-acceptance, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.
If you're reading this, you've already taken a courageous step toward prioritizing your mental health and well-being. I want to commend you and I'm here to offer you a path to healing and self-discovery. My name is Andi and I'm not just a therapist, but a passionate advocate for holistic healing through expressive art , somatic psychotherapy, and mindfulness and meditation. My journey into this field began with a deep desire to help individuals navigate life's challenges with empathy, support, and unwavering care, ultimately guiding them toward healing and self-discovery.
Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing that will lead you to greater self-acceptance, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.
If you're reading this, you've already taken a courageous step toward prioritizing your mental health and well-being. I want to commend you and I'm here to offer you a path to healing and self-discovery. My name is Andi and I'm not just a therapist, but a passionate advocate for holistic healing through expressive art , somatic psychotherapy, and mindfulness and meditation. My journey into this field began with a deep desire to help individuals navigate life's challenges with empathy, support, and unwavering care, ultimately guiding them toward healing and self-discovery.
(815) 240-2687 View (815) 240-2687
Photo of Renee St Clair, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Renee St Clair
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
Using Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, Meditation, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, DBT, ACT, EFT, Gottman Method and Strategic Family Therapy, the interventions I use with individuals, families, and couples will definitely work! I use a Faith-Based Model of counseling for those clients in need of spiritual counseling.
Do you want immediate relief and help? I have a significant success rate with anyone living with anxiety, depression or relationship issues. My therapy style is best described as honest and strategic in helping you discover the root of your problem and coming up with solutions that fit your specific problem. Life can be hard yet you can achieve happiness through all of it. Learning to really live life on life's terms is the key! As an LMFT and Ph.D. in counseling I can help you take a leap of faith and start working on you!
Using Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, Meditation, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, DBT, ACT, EFT, Gottman Method and Strategic Family Therapy, the interventions I use with individuals, families, and couples will definitely work! I use a Faith-Based Model of counseling for those clients in need of spiritual counseling.
Do you want immediate relief and help? I have a significant success rate with anyone living with anxiety, depression or relationship issues. My therapy style is best described as honest and strategic in helping you discover the root of your problem and coming up with solutions that fit your specific problem. Life can be hard yet you can achieve happiness through all of it. Learning to really live life on life's terms is the key! As an LMFT and Ph.D. in counseling I can help you take a leap of faith and start working on you!
(608) 208-6847 View (608) 208-6847
Photo of Alev Ildiz, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Alev Ildiz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy integrates Interpersonal Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with mindfulness.
Sometimes the way you relate to yourself and others no longer aligns with who you truly are, your values or how you envisioned your life. You may feel disconnected from yourself and others. You may feel anxious or misunderstood, and start to question your worth or love. To cope, you wear a mask to hide parts of yourself, which creates feelings of tension within yourself and with others. What if you lived your life according to your values while accepting and expressing your genuine self? I create a judgement free, safe therapeutic space where you can explore, understand and find your authentic self.
My approach to therapy integrates Interpersonal Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with mindfulness.
Sometimes the way you relate to yourself and others no longer aligns with who you truly are, your values or how you envisioned your life. You may feel disconnected from yourself and others. You may feel anxious or misunderstood, and start to question your worth or love. To cope, you wear a mask to hide parts of yourself, which creates feelings of tension within yourself and with others. What if you lived your life according to your values while accepting and expressing your genuine self? I create a judgement free, safe therapeutic space where you can explore, understand and find your authentic self.
(262) 537-5458 View (262) 537-5458
ONE9 Trauma & Behavioral Health Counseling Service
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53212
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW - Clinical Supervision, Trauma-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Client / Person Centered - Acceptance & Commitment (ACT), Grief Therapy, Moral Recognition & Domestic Violence (MRT/DV), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) & Substance Abuse Therapy & Groups.
An ideal client is a person that is open to working on their mental health concerns. One that is willing to engage with the therapist, build a report, make sacrifices, and take the necessary risk to get better.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW - Clinical Supervision, Trauma-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Client / Person Centered - Acceptance & Commitment (ACT), Grief Therapy, Moral Recognition & Domestic Violence (MRT/DV), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) & Substance Abuse Therapy & Groups.
An ideal client is a person that is open to working on their mental health concerns. One that is willing to engage with the therapist, build a report, make sacrifices, and take the necessary risk to get better.
(414) 420-0097 View (414) 420-0097
Photo of India Gray-Schmiedlin, Psychologist in Wisconsin
India Gray-Schmiedlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53216  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I approach therapy by using EBT’s such as CBT, ACT, CPT, and MI to help my patients.
Whether you are struggling with Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, insomnia, self esteem issues, suicidal thoughts, or you need help coping with chronic pain, or other chronic illnesses; you are not alone, healing is possible and help is available.
I approach therapy by using EBT’s such as CBT, ACT, CPT, and MI to help my patients.
Whether you are struggling with Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, insomnia, self esteem issues, suicidal thoughts, or you need help coping with chronic pain, or other chronic illnesses; you are not alone, healing is possible and help is available.
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Photo of Sarah Shermo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Sarah Shermo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
I also practice multiple methodologies including, ACT, DBT, CBT, Emotional Freedom Technique and others.
We each hold a narrative inside of our struggles, our pain, our triumphs, our goals and our dreams. I am honored to be able to help you navigate through yours. Through collaborative work we can identify where you are at in your life journey and where you want to go, whether it is substance use, mental health concerns, trauma, life transitions or other needs. My passion is to help others gain personal insight, inner peace and awareness to promote lasting change.
I also practice multiple methodologies including, ACT, DBT, CBT, Emotional Freedom Technique and others.
We each hold a narrative inside of our struggles, our pain, our triumphs, our goals and our dreams. I am honored to be able to help you navigate through yours. Through collaborative work we can identify where you are at in your life journey and where you want to go, whether it is substance use, mental health concerns, trauma, life transitions or other needs. My passion is to help others gain personal insight, inner peace and awareness to promote lasting change.
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Photo of Benjamin de Boer, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Benjamin de Boer
Psychologist, PsyD, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703  (Online Only)
I see psychotherapy as a collaborative and exploratory process, in which your specific goals, needs, and wishes will determine the focus of our work and I will help you navigate through the impasses, challenges, and complexity that inevitably confront us as human beings. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing mental health or for righting the ‘ship – our relationship to self and others in our life. That is why I tailor treatment to address the deeply personal concerns you are contending with. I have experience in psychodynamic, relational, CBT, and ACT. Oftentimes, a combination or integration of approaches works best.
I see psychotherapy as a collaborative and exploratory process, in which your specific goals, needs, and wishes will determine the focus of our work and I will help you navigate through the impasses, challenges, and complexity that inevitably confront us as human beings. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing mental health or for righting the ‘ship – our relationship to self and others in our life. That is why I tailor treatment to address the deeply personal concerns you are contending with. I have experience in psychodynamic, relational, CBT, and ACT. Oftentimes, a combination or integration of approaches works best.
(608) 602-8348 View (608) 602-8348
Photo of Gwyn Schell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Gwyn Schell
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
Within a non-judgemental supportive space, we will work to balance your insight with ongoing acceptance, and provide strategies and skills to challenge you towards deeper and lasting change.
Our lives are complex. As your therapist, it is my job to understand this complexity coupled with your psychological needs to facilitate the realization of your goals. I see my role as understanding you, your history, and your environment in a holistic way and using that knowledge to promote exploration and growth. Beyond understanding why people act the way that they do, I collaborate with you to apply that understanding to interventions that facilitate positive change.
Within a non-judgemental supportive space, we will work to balance your insight with ongoing acceptance, and provide strategies and skills to challenge you towards deeper and lasting change.
Our lives are complex. As your therapist, it is my job to understand this complexity coupled with your psychological needs to facilitate the realization of your goals. I see my role as understanding you, your history, and your environment in a holistic way and using that knowledge to promote exploration and growth. Beyond understanding why people act the way that they do, I collaborate with you to apply that understanding to interventions that facilitate positive change.
(608) 200-2052 View (608) 200-2052
Photo of Sarah Francois, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Sarah Francois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713  (Online Only)
I work with patients to address Depression, Anxiety, OCD as well as trauma sequelae which are manifest by depressed or anxious mood, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, insomnia, substance misuse, and interpersonal problems. I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)(ERP), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) and relevant clinical adaptations to address mood or anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use disorders and/or trauma recovery as well as singular diagnoses. I have significant clinical experience in addressing deep, psychological wounds often referred to as "moral injury”.
I work with patients to address Depression, Anxiety, OCD as well as trauma sequelae which are manifest by depressed or anxious mood, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, insomnia, substance misuse, and interpersonal problems. I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)(ERP), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) and relevant clinical adaptations to address mood or anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use disorders and/or trauma recovery as well as singular diagnoses. I have significant clinical experience in addressing deep, psychological wounds often referred to as "moral injury”.
(608) 673-4085 View (608) 673-4085
Photo of Jackie Wichert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Jackie Wichert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
I am a trauma-informed therapist that primarily utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Exposure and Prevention Response Therapy.
Part of the success in therapy is your relationship with your therapist. That is why my goal is to create an authentic, genuine, and compassionate space for you to process and work through life's most difficult challenges. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety (OCD, social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, generalized anxiety), depression, and trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional). I work with children 8 and up, teens, and adults.
I am a trauma-informed therapist that primarily utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Exposure and Prevention Response Therapy.
Part of the success in therapy is your relationship with your therapist. That is why my goal is to create an authentic, genuine, and compassionate space for you to process and work through life's most difficult challenges. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety (OCD, social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, generalized anxiety), depression, and trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional). I work with children 8 and up, teens, and adults.
(414) 667-6589 View (414) 667-6589
Photo of Lisa Hidde, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Lisa Hidde
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
Lisa A. Hidde, MSE, NCC, LPC, TFCBT and ERP trained mental health therapist who specializes in adolescent/adult mood and behavior disorders, depression, self injury, anxiety/OCD with Exposure and Response Prevention, ADHD, self esteem, life transitions, relationship issues and anger management. She works with ages 10 and up, adolescents, adults and families. Lisa is eclectic in her therapy approach, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectic, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, solution-focused work, motivational interviewing, behavior therapy approaches to treatment.
Lisa A. Hidde, MSE, NCC, LPC, TFCBT and ERP trained mental health therapist who specializes in adolescent/adult mood and behavior disorders, depression, self injury, anxiety/OCD with Exposure and Response Prevention, ADHD, self esteem, life transitions, relationship issues and anger management. She works with ages 10 and up, adolescents, adults and families. Lisa is eclectic in her therapy approach, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectic, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, solution-focused work, motivational interviewing, behavior therapy approaches to treatment.
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Photo of Sherrie Kamm, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Sherrie Kamm
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adolescents, and young adults to support healthy growth and development. I also believe that parent involvement is an important part of helping children and families reach their goals. I utilize evidenced-based interventions and creative approaches that honor a patient’s unique interests and strengths. I have completed specialized training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) , Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and Clinical Hypnosis.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adolescents, and young adults to support healthy growth and development. I also believe that parent involvement is an important part of helping children and families reach their goals. I utilize evidenced-based interventions and creative approaches that honor a patient’s unique interests and strengths. I have completed specialized training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) , Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and Clinical Hypnosis.
(920) 315-6109 View (920) 315-6109
Photo of Kelsey Penkal, Pre-Licensed Professional in Wisconsin
Kelsey Penkal
Pre-Licensed Professional, APSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
I utilize a variety of different modalities, such as the NeuroAffective Relational Model, Family Systems Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, to figure out the best approach that is personalized to each client.
I am a neurodivergent friendly therapist who specializes in ADHD, life transitions, chronic illness, burnout and internal conflict. I strive to provide an environment that is safe and genuine, with a touch of humor. We all deserve a supportive space to be seen and heard so we can heal and grow. I am currently in the process of acurring hours towards my LCSW and am offering sessions at a discounted rate.
I utilize a variety of different modalities, such as the NeuroAffective Relational Model, Family Systems Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, to figure out the best approach that is personalized to each client.
I am a neurodivergent friendly therapist who specializes in ADHD, life transitions, chronic illness, burnout and internal conflict. I strive to provide an environment that is safe and genuine, with a touch of humor. We all deserve a supportive space to be seen and heard so we can heal and grow. I am currently in the process of acurring hours towards my LCSW and am offering sessions at a discounted rate.
(608) 636-8339 View (608) 636-8339
Photo of Megan Meskan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Megan Meskan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW
Verified Verified
Janesville, WI 53548
I have specialized training in CBT, DBT and ACT which are all evidence-based practices with positive outcomes for therapy.
I am a trained and licensed therapist here to help you with your journey. Dealing with anxiety, depression, negative thoughts, and internal conflicts can feel very lonely and defeating. But, it doesn't have to. Let's find a way together to get you where you want to be in life. Whether that's creating your own happiness, developing healthy coping skills, establishing boundaries with yourself and others, or learning better communication skills - I am here for you.
I have specialized training in CBT, DBT and ACT which are all evidence-based practices with positive outcomes for therapy.
I am a trained and licensed therapist here to help you with your journey. Dealing with anxiety, depression, negative thoughts, and internal conflicts can feel very lonely and defeating. But, it doesn't have to. Let's find a way together to get you where you want to be in life. Whether that's creating your own happiness, developing healthy coping skills, establishing boundaries with yourself and others, or learning better communication skills - I am here for you.
(608) 602-8893 View (608) 602-8893
Photo of Madeline Ling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Madeline Ling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, WI 53211  (Online Only)
My practice is rooted in strengths-based and solutions-focused techniques, pulling from modalities such as cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and acceptance and commitment (ACT) therapies.
Are you feeling stuck in the same old cycle? Are you facing something new and unfamiliar, and not sure how to cope with the changes? My aim is to make a space for you to feel empowered to process and create the change you hope to see in your life. I have experience working with adults with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, as well as major life transitions. I have a warm and caring approach with my clients, and I value their personal preferences in the therapy experience.
My practice is rooted in strengths-based and solutions-focused techniques, pulling from modalities such as cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and acceptance and commitment (ACT) therapies.
Are you feeling stuck in the same old cycle? Are you facing something new and unfamiliar, and not sure how to cope with the changes? My aim is to make a space for you to feel empowered to process and create the change you hope to see in your life. I have experience working with adults with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, as well as major life transitions. I have a warm and caring approach with my clients, and I value their personal preferences in the therapy experience.
(414) 246-5059 View (414) 246-5059
Photo of Ali Ambroso, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Ali Ambroso
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54913
My focus is on helping clients adjust to life changes, integrating pain and trauma and managing stressors. Everyone handles life experiences and situations different and we often aren't prepared to effectively handle the emotional consequences. Whether your pain has been the result of adverse experiences over a lengthy period of time or a more recent experience you deserve to take the time and explore what counseling has to offer you. I use a collaborative approach to therapy with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I am also trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
My focus is on helping clients adjust to life changes, integrating pain and trauma and managing stressors. Everyone handles life experiences and situations different and we often aren't prepared to effectively handle the emotional consequences. Whether your pain has been the result of adverse experiences over a lengthy period of time or a more recent experience you deserve to take the time and explore what counseling has to offer you. I use a collaborative approach to therapy with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I am also trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(920) 691-8464 View (920) 691-8464
Photo of Marcel Tassara, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Marcel Tassara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Shorewood, WI 53211
These updated CBT approaches include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Functional Analytic Psychotherapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Being human is hard. Each one of us, at some point in our lives, faces obstacles to moving forward. We get caught in cycles of running away from pain, and thus stop moving towards our values. My work focuses on helping people develop a relationship to themselves while moving through their pain and struggles- so that they can live life everyday, not just when the sun is shining. When we can befriend ourselves, we can know who we are, what we want, and in what direction we'd like to walk.
These updated CBT approaches include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Functional Analytic Psychotherapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Being human is hard. Each one of us, at some point in our lives, faces obstacles to moving forward. We get caught in cycles of running away from pain, and thus stop moving towards our values. My work focuses on helping people develop a relationship to themselves while moving through their pain and struggles- so that they can live life everyday, not just when the sun is shining. When we can befriend ourselves, we can know who we are, what we want, and in what direction we'd like to walk.
(414) 441-2965 View (414) 441-2965
Photo of Nichole Baumgartner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Nichole Baumgartner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Green Bay, WI 54301
Waitlist for new clients
Based on my client's needs, I blend traditional modalities like CBT, DBT, and ACT with more experiential modalities like IFS, polyvagal theory, and Gestalt therapy to help work towards the change they wish to see.
I support neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autism, BPD, PTSD, etc) in better understanding their brains and creating systems that actually work for them. So often my clients tell me that they feel like everyone else got a user manual for life but they were absent that day so I work with folks to create a better user manual for their unique brains so they can navigate life with more ease and focus on what matters to them most.
Based on my client's needs, I blend traditional modalities like CBT, DBT, and ACT with more experiential modalities like IFS, polyvagal theory, and Gestalt therapy to help work towards the change they wish to see.
I support neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autism, BPD, PTSD, etc) in better understanding their brains and creating systems that actually work for them. So often my clients tell me that they feel like everyone else got a user manual for life but they were absent that day so I work with folks to create a better user manual for their unique brains so they can navigate life with more ease and focus on what matters to them most.
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Photo of Shannon Kostuck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Shannon Kostuck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713  (Online Only)
Shannon has formal, advanced training in the following treatments: Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality.
Shannon works with adolescents and adults to provide evidence-based psychotherapy for the treatment of PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders and co-occurring Substance Abuse Disorders. She is a subject matter expert in the field of Suicide Prevention and has extensive experience working with individuals and families around the delicate subject of suicidality. Shannon places high value on a strengths-based approach to treatment. Her commitment to model fidelity yields data driven outcomes for clients with durable results promoting client’s to overcome mental health barriers and improve quality of life across life domains.
Shannon has formal, advanced training in the following treatments: Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality.
Shannon works with adolescents and adults to provide evidence-based psychotherapy for the treatment of PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders and co-occurring Substance Abuse Disorders. She is a subject matter expert in the field of Suicide Prevention and has extensive experience working with individuals and families around the delicate subject of suicidality. Shannon places high value on a strengths-based approach to treatment. Her commitment to model fidelity yields data driven outcomes for clients with durable results promoting client’s to overcome mental health barriers and improve quality of life across life domains.
(608) 673-4085 View (608) 673-4085
Photo of Midlands Psychological Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Midlands Psychological Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Lodi, WI 53555
My best work is in assisting my clients in a dynamic combination of Self Acceptance and Understanding. Utilizing techniques from psycho-dynamic, gestalt, mindfulness and body-mind therapies I lend direction in finding personal balance.
My best work is in assisting my clients in a dynamic combination of Self Acceptance and Understanding. Utilizing techniques from psycho-dynamic, gestalt, mindfulness and body-mind therapies I lend direction in finding personal balance.
(608) 400-4595 View (608) 400-4595
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.