Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Chicago, IL
I utilize a variety of evidence-based practices, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) to help clients embrace their experiences and find meaning, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge negative thought patterns and improve coping skills, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to develop emotional regulation skills.
I am a therapist providing services with New Insights Behavioral Health Services. I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth. I use a client-centered and collaborative approach to therapy, striving to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions, gain self-awareness, and be empowered to implement tools to navigate life. I have experience working with a diverse range of adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, career changes, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and other mood concerns and life changes.
I utilize a variety of evidence-based practices, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) to help clients embrace their experiences and find meaning, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge negative thought patterns and improve coping skills, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to develop emotional regulation skills.
I am a therapist providing services with New Insights Behavioral Health Services. I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth. I use a client-centered and collaborative approach to therapy, striving to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions, gain self-awareness, and be empowered to implement tools to navigate life. I have experience working with a diverse range of adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, career changes, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and other mood concerns and life changes.
I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, to identify specific challenges, integrate mindfulness practices to cultivate self-awareness, and draw upon psychodynamic principles to uncover underlying patterns.
I’m a warm and thoughtful therapist who truly believes that everyone deserves an opportunity to heal and grow. Therapy is a powerful tool for healing old wounds, discovering new strengths, and evolving into the best version of yourself. Whether you’re looking to address past trauma, navigate a difficult life transition, or simply gain a deeper understanding of yourself, I’m here to guide you on that journey. My goal is to support you in unlocking your potential, helping you cultivate the confidence and tools needed to lead a fulfilling life. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and becoming the person you're meant to be.
I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, to identify specific challenges, integrate mindfulness practices to cultivate self-awareness, and draw upon psychodynamic principles to uncover underlying patterns.
I’m a warm and thoughtful therapist who truly believes that everyone deserves an opportunity to heal and grow. Therapy is a powerful tool for healing old wounds, discovering new strengths, and evolving into the best version of yourself. Whether you’re looking to address past trauma, navigate a difficult life transition, or simply gain a deeper understanding of yourself, I’m here to guide you on that journey. My goal is to support you in unlocking your potential, helping you cultivate the confidence and tools needed to lead a fulfilling life. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and becoming the person you're meant to be.
With a career-long focus on trauma therapy, I also utilize acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and cognitive processing therapy (CPT).
Often, the people I work with don’t feel like they have words for what they’re struggling with – we may spend time in session finding your own language for what hasn’t been named. Many of the people I see feel like the approaches they've been trying for the challenges of life aren't cutting it. Maybe you feel stuck in certain cycles. Maybe you're struggling with the much discussed, ever-elusive, and often frustrating task of trying to process trauma. Sometimes, my clients know exactly what's wrong, sometimes it’s hard to know where to start or what could be helpful - often, it's both.
With a career-long focus on trauma therapy, I also utilize acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and cognitive processing therapy (CPT).
Often, the people I work with don’t feel like they have words for what they’re struggling with – we may spend time in session finding your own language for what hasn’t been named. Many of the people I see feel like the approaches they've been trying for the challenges of life aren't cutting it. Maybe you feel stuck in certain cycles. Maybe you're struggling with the much discussed, ever-elusive, and often frustrating task of trying to process trauma. Sometimes, my clients know exactly what's wrong, sometimes it’s hard to know where to start or what could be helpful - often, it's both.
Drawing from existential psychotherapy and evidence-based approaches like CPT, DBT, and ACT, I work from an integrative, trauma-informed lens.
When helplessness whispers, "There's nothing you can do," our work together will explore the quiet strength within you. We'll work to transform limiting beliefs into paths of empowerment, affirming a profound truth: "My power has limits, and it is still power." Whether you're processing trauma, exploring identity, or seeking to reclaim personal agency,
Drawing from existential psychotherapy and evidence-based approaches like CPT, DBT, and ACT, I work from an integrative, trauma-informed lens.
When helplessness whispers, "There's nothing you can do," our work together will explore the quiet strength within you. We'll work to transform limiting beliefs into paths of empowerment, affirming a profound truth: "My power has limits, and it is still power." Whether you're processing trauma, exploring identity, or seeking to reclaim personal agency,
I have extensive training and experience providing mindfulness-based interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy and other evidence-based treatments.
Together, we will work on identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that are keeping you stuck. We will aim to shift your attention from your mind’s incessant chatter, to help you focus on what is most important to you, what brings you joy, and what has the power to keep you connected to the present moment.
I have extensive training and experience providing mindfulness-based interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy and other evidence-based treatments.
Together, we will work on identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that are keeping you stuck. We will aim to shift your attention from your mind’s incessant chatter, to help you focus on what is most important to you, what brings you joy, and what has the power to keep you connected to the present moment.
With my clients experiencing anxiety, I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I work with adolescents, teens, and adults to address a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, panic, stress, perfectionism, grief, and relationship issues. With a background in the arts, I often incorporate creative strategies into therapy to support healing, self-soothing, & trauma processing.
In our sessions, you'll find a supportive environment where we can connect with warmth and humor. I strive to create a space where you feel seen and heard. My approach is holistic & relational, encouraging you to actively engage in your growth and healing. Ultimately, my goal is to empower you to strengthen your relationship with yourself.
With my clients experiencing anxiety, I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I work with adolescents, teens, and adults to address a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, panic, stress, perfectionism, grief, and relationship issues. With a background in the arts, I often incorporate creative strategies into therapy to support healing, self-soothing, & trauma processing.
In our sessions, you'll find a supportive environment where we can connect with warmth and humor. I strive to create a space where you feel seen and heard. My approach is holistic & relational, encouraging you to actively engage in your growth and healing. Ultimately, my goal is to empower you to strengthen your relationship with yourself.
Our staff are trained and experienced in a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), and mindfulness-based practices, as well as Motivational Interviewing, psychodynamic therapies, client-centered, humanistic and existential, and systems theories.
We believe in taking a strengths-based approach to serving clients. Through our comprehensive services, we work to maximize your strengths to help you reach your full potential. We treat each client based on the unique needs they bring into the room; hence we will help you to stay motivated and supported as you work towards your goals. Our wide array of treatment services include psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, and groups of all ages; as well as testing and evaluation, coaching, and consultation. We are committed to helping you make positive changes in your life and we work to provide a safe environment for doing s
Our staff are trained and experienced in a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), and mindfulness-based practices, as well as Motivational Interviewing, psychodynamic therapies, client-centered, humanistic and existential, and systems theories.
We believe in taking a strengths-based approach to serving clients. Through our comprehensive services, we work to maximize your strengths to help you reach your full potential. We treat each client based on the unique needs they bring into the room; hence we will help you to stay motivated and supported as you work towards your goals. Our wide array of treatment services include psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, and groups of all ages; as well as testing and evaluation, coaching, and consultation. We are committed to helping you make positive changes in your life and we work to provide a safe environment for doing s
I primarily draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in my practice.
My specialties include working with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, self-esteem and self-image issues, social difficulties, and issues surrounding gender and sexual identity. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I am passionate about working with LGBTQ clients and clients in consensually nonmonogamous relationships. I strive to be aware of how all individuals I work with are impacted by their social contexts, such as personal relationships, family systems, and systems of oppression.
I primarily draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in my practice.
My specialties include working with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, self-esteem and self-image issues, social difficulties, and issues surrounding gender and sexual identity. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I am passionate about working with LGBTQ clients and clients in consensually nonmonogamous relationships. I strive to be aware of how all individuals I work with are impacted by their social contexts, such as personal relationships, family systems, and systems of oppression.
I draw from modalities like DBT, CBT, and ACT, personalized to support you in your journey.
I’m passionate about the transformative potential of therapy and the resilience and strength inherent in every individual. I believe that therapy is a collaborative journey, and I am committed to walking alongside you every step of the way. I aim to create a space where you feel not only heard and understood but also valued for your unique experiences and perspectives. Together, we will work to uncover the strengths and abilities you possess to overcome life's challenges and achieve your goals.
I draw from modalities like DBT, CBT, and ACT, personalized to support you in your journey.
I’m passionate about the transformative potential of therapy and the resilience and strength inherent in every individual. I believe that therapy is a collaborative journey, and I am committed to walking alongside you every step of the way. I aim to create a space where you feel not only heard and understood but also valued for your unique experiences and perspectives. Together, we will work to uncover the strengths and abilities you possess to overcome life's challenges and achieve your goals.
I am an avid believer that we are all capable of living the lives we want, but sometimes we need someone to support us by means of facilitating exploration, understanding, and acceptance of ourselves and circumstances.
I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with my Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked in a myriad of clinical settings including intensive outpatient programming (IOP), therapeutic day school, private practice, and telemental health.
I am an avid believer that we are all capable of living the lives we want, but sometimes we need someone to support us by means of facilitating exploration, understanding, and acceptance of ourselves and circumstances.
I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with my Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked in a myriad of clinical settings including intensive outpatient programming (IOP), therapeutic day school, private practice, and telemental health.
Jenna incorporates CBT, ERP, ACT, mindfulness and whole body awareness to support the client's work towards their goals.
Jenna's clinical experience includes working with teenagers and adults coping with a variety of presenting concerns including depression, anxiety, OCD, and life transitions. Jenna believes facilitating the connection between mind and body helps to maintain a healthy and happy life. She appreciates the use of humor to decrease the power challenges may hold over each individual. Jenna is committed to providing an empowering and welcoming space to her clients.
Jenna incorporates CBT, ERP, ACT, mindfulness and whole body awareness to support the client's work towards their goals.
Jenna's clinical experience includes working with teenagers and adults coping with a variety of presenting concerns including depression, anxiety, OCD, and life transitions. Jenna believes facilitating the connection between mind and body helps to maintain a healthy and happy life. She appreciates the use of humor to decrease the power challenges may hold over each individual. Jenna is committed to providing an empowering and welcoming space to her clients.
Meet Our Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists
Ellie Schwartzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Through our work, you will get to a place of self- acceptance and emotional well-being – giving you the confidence needed to create real lasting connections.
You want to connect, but too often your efforts end with you feeling more alone. There are so many miscommunications and hurt feelings. You’re trying to be authentic – but it feels like you’re not heard - not really seen. The last thing you want is to set yourself up to be hurt again. Your plans and interests are little comfort when you feel so isolated and disconnected and trusting others seems to come with so much risk. Know that this is not how it has to be. You can have the relationships and experiences you want – not simply settling for what is available. It's common to feel lost and unsure or where to begin.
Through our work, you will get to a place of self- acceptance and emotional well-being – giving you the confidence needed to create real lasting connections.
You want to connect, but too often your efforts end with you feeling more alone. There are so many miscommunications and hurt feelings. You’re trying to be authentic – but it feels like you’re not heard - not really seen. The last thing you want is to set yourself up to be hurt again. Your plans and interests are little comfort when you feel so isolated and disconnected and trusting others seems to come with so much risk. Know that this is not how it has to be. You can have the relationships and experiences you want – not simply settling for what is available. It's common to feel lost and unsure or where to begin.
When we feel secure in being ourselves, we can engage in introspection and act upon insights, tasks that demand their own form of courage.
The ideal client for me seeks fresh insights, deeper comprehension, and is open to reshaping narratives, whether they pertain to themselves, others, or the broader world. I thrive when partnering with individuals who are eager to delve into their experiences, draw connections with their current challenges, and work together towards transformative change and relief.
When we feel secure in being ourselves, we can engage in introspection and act upon insights, tasks that demand their own form of courage.
The ideal client for me seeks fresh insights, deeper comprehension, and is open to reshaping narratives, whether they pertain to themselves, others, or the broader world. I thrive when partnering with individuals who are eager to delve into their experiences, draw connections with their current challenges, and work together towards transformative change and relief.
ACT, DBT, CBT, mindfulness modalities, and more) to treat a variety of mental health struggles including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, and difficult life transitions with humor and support.
I am a mental health expert committed to helping my clients navigate through challenging situations or symptoms. The focus is to make a different relationship with their thoughts, emotions, and behavioral urges, and to grow in a way that is aligned with their values. I believe incorporating whole-health elements can be beneficial in healing. My approach is simple: it is personable and direct, it is conversational using the expertise my educational and clinical experiences have given me, it is creating a nest-like environment in which my clients can practice skills and concepts that they want to bring into their lives.
ACT, DBT, CBT, mindfulness modalities, and more) to treat a variety of mental health struggles including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, and difficult life transitions with humor and support.
I am a mental health expert committed to helping my clients navigate through challenging situations or symptoms. The focus is to make a different relationship with their thoughts, emotions, and behavioral urges, and to grow in a way that is aligned with their values. I believe incorporating whole-health elements can be beneficial in healing. My approach is simple: it is personable and direct, it is conversational using the expertise my educational and clinical experiences have given me, it is creating a nest-like environment in which my clients can practice skills and concepts that they want to bring into their lives.
Kathleen G Katsikeas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a graduate of University of Chicago (SSA/Crown), Kath studied and sincerely connected with the mindful and values-based practices of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy ( ACT), where each client can feel empowered and validated in their experience.
Consider working with Kathleen for: Family Systems Therapy; Survivors of Trauma; Gender Identity; LGBTQIA+; Sexual Identity; Racial Identity; Anxiety; Depression; OCD and Compulsive Behaviors; Body Image and Eating Disorders; Stress and Life Transitions Management; Grief and Loss; Chronic Pain and Chronic Illness; Codependency and Attachment
As a graduate of University of Chicago (SSA/Crown), Kath studied and sincerely connected with the mindful and values-based practices of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy ( ACT), where each client can feel empowered and validated in their experience.
Consider working with Kathleen for: Family Systems Therapy; Survivors of Trauma; Gender Identity; LGBTQIA+; Sexual Identity; Racial Identity; Anxiety; Depression; OCD and Compulsive Behaviors; Body Image and Eating Disorders; Stress and Life Transitions Management; Grief and Loss; Chronic Pain and Chronic Illness; Codependency and Attachment
Savanna L. Halman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
In session, we will strengthen the mind-body-soul connection while integrating therapeutic modalities such as internal family system, psychodynamic therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, and feminist theory.
It can be challenging to take the first step in releasing the parts of us that no longer serve us. Wherever you are in your journey, I would be grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing holistic and weight-inclusive care for presenting concerns related to eating disorders, body image, women’s issues, trauma, grief, and other mood disorders. As a person-centered therapist, I utilize a warm and authentic approach encouraging my clients to learn more about themselves, their identity, and their values.
In session, we will strengthen the mind-body-soul connection while integrating therapeutic modalities such as internal family system, psychodynamic therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, and feminist theory.
It can be challenging to take the first step in releasing the parts of us that no longer serve us. Wherever you are in your journey, I would be grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing holistic and weight-inclusive care for presenting concerns related to eating disorders, body image, women’s issues, trauma, grief, and other mood disorders. As a person-centered therapist, I utilize a warm and authentic approach encouraging my clients to learn more about themselves, their identity, and their values.
We bring a depth of experience in serving LGBTQIA+ and Gender Expansive folx with ongoing group therapy focusing on themes relating to identity, belonging and self- acceptance utilizing anti-oppressive, transformative justice and empowerment-based frameworks.
Chicago Pride Center offers a breadth of specializations and training to tailor the therapeutic experience to the needs and preferences of each client, serving children and adults throughout the life-course. We bring a depth of experience in work with LGBTQ+, Gender Expansive folx, Allys, non-monogamous relationships as well as veterans through trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, transformative justice and empowerment-based frameworks.
We bring a depth of experience in serving LGBTQIA+ and Gender Expansive folx with ongoing group therapy focusing on themes relating to identity, belonging and self- acceptance utilizing anti-oppressive, transformative justice and empowerment-based frameworks.
Chicago Pride Center offers a breadth of specializations and training to tailor the therapeutic experience to the needs and preferences of each client, serving children and adults throughout the life-course. We bring a depth of experience in work with LGBTQ+, Gender Expansive folx, Allys, non-monogamous relationships as well as veterans through trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, transformative justice and empowerment-based frameworks.
Stacy Olandezos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained and have helped train clinicians in DBT, ACT, and CBT and use a variety of interventions that best support your unique needs.
Do you feel your anxiety or depression is holding you back from living the life you want to live? Do you feel stuck and not where you want to be in life? Or you want to make a change but not sure what that looks like? Do you want to live your best life but not sure where to start?
I am trained and have helped train clinicians in DBT, ACT, and CBT and use a variety of interventions that best support your unique needs.
Do you feel your anxiety or depression is holding you back from living the life you want to live? Do you feel stuck and not where you want to be in life? Or you want to make a change but not sure what that looks like? Do you want to live your best life but not sure where to start?
I aim to help you move toward self-understanding, acceptance, and growth.
My therapeutic work focuses on individuals and couples exploring sex, intimacy, sexuality, and relationship matters. I understand the vulnerability involved in sharing these personal aspects of life, so I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and encouraging space through a strong therapeutic relationship built on authenticity, compassion, and shared laughter. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive, and provide a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach.
I aim to help you move toward self-understanding, acceptance, and growth.
My therapeutic work focuses on individuals and couples exploring sex, intimacy, sexuality, and relationship matters. I understand the vulnerability involved in sharing these personal aspects of life, so I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and encouraging space through a strong therapeutic relationship built on authenticity, compassion, and shared laughter. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive, and provide a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach.
I use evidence-based techniques (CBT, DBT, ACT) to help you manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in healthier ways.
Feeling overwhelmed by emotions or stress and unsure where to turn? You don’t have to face it alone. As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in helping adults and teens navigate the complexities of overwhelming emotions, anxiety, and stress to regain control. In a supportive, judgment-free space, we’ll explore the root causes of your feelings, uncover the obstacles holding you back, and develop actionable strategies that truly make a difference. Together, we’ll move beyond simply surviving to thriving. You deserve more than just getting by—you deserve to feel confident, empowered, and at peace. Let’s take the first step!
I use evidence-based techniques (CBT, DBT, ACT) to help you manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in healthier ways.
Feeling overwhelmed by emotions or stress and unsure where to turn? You don’t have to face it alone. As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in helping adults and teens navigate the complexities of overwhelming emotions, anxiety, and stress to regain control. In a supportive, judgment-free space, we’ll explore the root causes of your feelings, uncover the obstacles holding you back, and develop actionable strategies that truly make a difference. Together, we’ll move beyond simply surviving to thriving. You deserve more than just getting by—you deserve to feel confident, empowered, and at peace. Let’s take the first step!
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
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- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Norridge
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- Oak Park
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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.