Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Dr. Luke R. Allen, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Luke R. Allen
Psychologist, PhD
7 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
I primarily provide individual therapy with late teens and adults. I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity. Transgender clients and family members seeking assessment or counseling services can expect a safe space, and respectful, non-pathologizing, collaborative care.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
I primarily provide individual therapy with late teens and adults. I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity. Transgender clients and family members seeking assessment or counseling services can expect a safe space, and respectful, non-pathologizing, collaborative care.
(971) 715-0631 View (971) 715-0631
Photo of Calvin Myers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Calvin Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use CBT motivational interviewing, ACT and other modalities to help you manage your concerns so you can be your best self.
Hello, I’m Calvin Myers, LCSW. I can help you manage depression, stress, anxiety, cope with addictions, and LGBTQ+ related issues all with trauma informed practices. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
I use CBT motivational interviewing, ACT and other modalities to help you manage your concerns so you can be your best self.
Hello, I’m Calvin Myers, LCSW. I can help you manage depression, stress, anxiety, cope with addictions, and LGBTQ+ related issues all with trauma informed practices. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
(971) 458-5043 View (971) 458-5043
Photo of Kelsey Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kelsey Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Using ACT, IFS, and Brainspotting.
Hi! I'm Kelsey, a second-gen, Chinese-Canadian, escape room enthusiast, and therapist dedicated to helping you reconnect with your authentic self. As an LMFT with over a decade of experience, I specialize in providing trauma-informed, culturally affirming care to adults navigating life's complexities. In our work together, I'll provide the structure and focused support, while you bring the initiative and story. I'll hold the framework; you bring your authentic self, and together we can make meaningful change happen.
Using ACT, IFS, and Brainspotting.
Hi! I'm Kelsey, a second-gen, Chinese-Canadian, escape room enthusiast, and therapist dedicated to helping you reconnect with your authentic self. As an LMFT with over a decade of experience, I specialize in providing trauma-informed, culturally affirming care to adults navigating life's complexities. In our work together, I'll provide the structure and focused support, while you bring the initiative and story. I'll hold the framework; you bring your authentic self, and together we can make meaningful change happen.
(971) 451-2043 View (971) 451-2043
Photo of Kevin Menasco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kevin Menasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I have specialized in the treatment of OCD-spectrum and anxiety related disorders using CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) for over 8 years in inpatient, IOP, and outpatient settings.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence based treatment designed to work with individuals and families affected by all specialties and issues listed on my page. Treating challenges like anxiety, depression and OCD, requires a collaborative and supportive process tailored to each individual. With the right treatment it is possible to see significant changes in symptoms so you can spend more time pursing what is most important to you. I offer telehealth based appointments within the states of Oregon, Vermont, and New Hampshire and offer in-person appointments within the Portland, OR area.
I have specialized in the treatment of OCD-spectrum and anxiety related disorders using CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) for over 8 years in inpatient, IOP, and outpatient settings.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence based treatment designed to work with individuals and families affected by all specialties and issues listed on my page. Treating challenges like anxiety, depression and OCD, requires a collaborative and supportive process tailored to each individual. With the right treatment it is possible to see significant changes in symptoms so you can spend more time pursing what is most important to you. I offer telehealth based appointments within the states of Oregon, Vermont, and New Hampshire and offer in-person appointments within the Portland, OR area.
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Photo of Alexandra Scott, LPC Intern, MS
Alexandra Scott
LPC Intern, MS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Her toolbox includes a diverse range of evidence-based modalities, such as DBT, CBT, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), EFT, ACT, and MI.
Alexandra is a therapist who guides individuals, couples, poly systems. Raised in a religious context, she navigated personal beliefs around sexual orientation and marriage ideals, forming inclusive perspectives. Alexandra supports clients in exploring identities, life choices, and challenging societal norms. Embracing diverse relationship structures, including ENM/CNM and polyamory, she believes in individualized approaches. Alexandra empowers clients in their unique journeys toward fulfilling lives and genuine connections by modeling and teaching her clients about boundary-setting, communication, and collaborative problem-solving.
Her toolbox includes a diverse range of evidence-based modalities, such as DBT, CBT, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), EFT, ACT, and MI.
Alexandra is a therapist who guides individuals, couples, poly systems. Raised in a religious context, she navigated personal beliefs around sexual orientation and marriage ideals, forming inclusive perspectives. Alexandra supports clients in exploring identities, life choices, and challenging societal norms. Embracing diverse relationship structures, including ENM/CNM and polyamory, she believes in individualized approaches. Alexandra empowers clients in their unique journeys toward fulfilling lives and genuine connections by modeling and teaching her clients about boundary-setting, communication, and collaborative problem-solving.
(503) 714-7943 View (503) 714-7943
Photo of Auburn Beebe, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MA
Auburn Beebe
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MA
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) in my practice, but bring in elements of other approaches as needed.
I specialize in working with young adults, including students and early career professionals, who struggle with anxiety, stress, ADHD, perfectionism, trauma, depression, burn-out and more. If you're asking yourself "how am I supposed to balance school/work, my social life, eating healthy, exercising, having hobbies and taking care of my mental health?!" you are not alone. Adulting is hard, even if you feel like you "should" have it down by now. You might feel like your thoughts are always negative or spiraling out of control or you're always tense or can't seem to stay in the moment for things that are "supposed" to be fun.
I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) in my practice, but bring in elements of other approaches as needed.
I specialize in working with young adults, including students and early career professionals, who struggle with anxiety, stress, ADHD, perfectionism, trauma, depression, burn-out and more. If you're asking yourself "how am I supposed to balance school/work, my social life, eating healthy, exercising, having hobbies and taking care of my mental health?!" you are not alone. Adulting is hard, even if you feel like you "should" have it down by now. You might feel like your thoughts are always negative or spiraling out of control or you're always tense or can't seem to stay in the moment for things that are "supposed" to be fun.
(503) 298-5241 View (503) 298-5241
Photo of Jackson Wilshire, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Jackson Wilshire
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that practicing mindfulness and acceptance of your thoughts and feelings can help you achieve meaningful goals and lead a valued life.
I specialize in therapy for adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma disorders. My counseling approach blends Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). With couples, I use and emotion-focused approach for rebuilding strong, loving connections.
I believe that practicing mindfulness and acceptance of your thoughts and feelings can help you achieve meaningful goals and lead a valued life.
I specialize in therapy for adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma disorders. My counseling approach blends Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). With couples, I use and emotion-focused approach for rebuilding strong, loving connections.
(503) 386-0694 View (503) 386-0694
Photo of Madeleine Wilson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madeleine Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
My work is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Socio-Emotional Relational Therapy (SERT).
Hey there, I’m Madeleine. To me, therapy is all about collaborating on ways to bring your day-to-day life into alignment with your biggest values. I work with couples, with queer and trans folks, with non-monogamous and/or poly folks, and with teens and young adults. If you happen to be none of those things but you have a feeling that we’d be a good fit, I would love to hear from you too!
My work is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Socio-Emotional Relational Therapy (SERT).
Hey there, I’m Madeleine. To me, therapy is all about collaborating on ways to bring your day-to-day life into alignment with your biggest values. I work with couples, with queer and trans folks, with non-monogamous and/or poly folks, and with teens and young adults. If you happen to be none of those things but you have a feeling that we’d be a good fit, I would love to hear from you too!
(971) 791-3048 View (971) 791-3048
Photo of Lala Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MScN
Lala Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MScN
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Welcome to a space where healing is an intentional act of self-compassion, honoring our past and nurturing our collective future.
This space is yours to reconnect with your body, release stored trauma, reshape the stories you carry and breathe into your desires, sense of power while resuscitating full consciousness of your self worth. Together, we’ll weave conflicting emotions and past experiences into a journey that honors and amplifies your inherent capabilities and natural gifts.
Welcome to a space where healing is an intentional act of self-compassion, honoring our past and nurturing our collective future.
This space is yours to reconnect with your body, release stored trauma, reshape the stories you carry and breathe into your desires, sense of power while resuscitating full consciousness of your self worth. Together, we’ll weave conflicting emotions and past experiences into a journey that honors and amplifies your inherent capabilities and natural gifts.
(503) 479-4109 View (503) 479-4109
Photo of Charlie Blackmar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlie Blackmar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
My approach is trauma informed and draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
As a therapist my goal is to support you in your healing journey. I believe in the power of therapeutic relationship as a key component of healing and discovery. With a warm trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship, you can start to explore underlying issues impacting your wellbeing. I work with individuals from diverse background and support them as they examine their inner self as part of identifying and developing goals and understanding engrained patters of behavior.
My approach is trauma informed and draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
As a therapist my goal is to support you in your healing journey. I believe in the power of therapeutic relationship as a key component of healing and discovery. With a warm trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship, you can start to explore underlying issues impacting your wellbeing. I work with individuals from diverse background and support them as they examine their inner self as part of identifying and developing goals and understanding engrained patters of behavior.
(503) 917-3054 View (503) 917-3054
Photo of Dr. Will Hwang, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Will Hwang
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Drawing from evidence-based therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness techniques, Will empowers his clients to challenge their rigid self-expectations and embrace self-compassion.
Is your inner critic controlling your life? Are you often stuck either worrying about worst case scenarios or beating yourself up for past mistakes? Dr. Will Hwang is a compassionate and highly skilled therapist who specializes in guiding individuals who struggle with perfectionism, are chronic procrastinators, and can't shake the feeling that they are a "failure" or "not good enough." He has experience helping individuals with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Will creates a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore the underlying causes of their perfectionistic tendencies. He sees clients ages 18 and older.
Drawing from evidence-based therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness techniques, Will empowers his clients to challenge their rigid self-expectations and embrace self-compassion.
Is your inner critic controlling your life? Are you often stuck either worrying about worst case scenarios or beating yourself up for past mistakes? Dr. Will Hwang is a compassionate and highly skilled therapist who specializes in guiding individuals who struggle with perfectionism, are chronic procrastinators, and can't shake the feeling that they are a "failure" or "not good enough." He has experience helping individuals with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Will creates a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore the underlying causes of their perfectionistic tendencies. He sees clients ages 18 and older.
(503) 809-8966 View (503) 809-8966
Photo of Sid Napier, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Sid Napier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Online Only
My therapeutic approaches focus on compassionate acceptance, personal responsibility, and a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of the self.
The human experience is riddled with anxiety, grief, heartbreak, existential crises, relationship struggles, self-loathing and oppression, just to name a fraction of our suffering. I believe that moving through our pains, trauma, harmful thought patterns and behaviors starts with an accepting and compassionate exploration of all parts of the self and leads to more personal freedom, authenticity, positive ways of coping, improved relationships, different ways of thinking, and more compassion towards ourselves and others. My aim in our work together is to provide that caring, non-judgmental, reflective space to do just that.
My therapeutic approaches focus on compassionate acceptance, personal responsibility, and a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of the self.
The human experience is riddled with anxiety, grief, heartbreak, existential crises, relationship struggles, self-loathing and oppression, just to name a fraction of our suffering. I believe that moving through our pains, trauma, harmful thought patterns and behaviors starts with an accepting and compassionate exploration of all parts of the self and leads to more personal freedom, authenticity, positive ways of coping, improved relationships, different ways of thinking, and more compassion towards ourselves and others. My aim in our work together is to provide that caring, non-judgmental, reflective space to do just that.
(503) 601-8354 View (503) 601-8354
Photo of Anna Hennings, MA, CMPC
Anna Hennings
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
My approach to mental performance coaching is rooted in holistic sport psychology and is significantly informed by the tenets of and research supporting Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), mindfulness for performance enhancement, and psychological skills training (PST).
As a certified mental performance consultant with an MA in Sport Psychology, I work with athletes and performers who want to conquer their performance anxiety, strengthen their confidence, and renegotiate their relationship with making mistakes. Often, my clients feel like they: get stuck in their own heads; have trouble letting go of mistakes; struggle with perfectionism; are self-critical and getting in their own way; have to perform under pressure; are not communicating well with a coach or teammate; have lost confidence in skills that used to be second nature; and/or are struggling with the demands of being a student-athlete.
My approach to mental performance coaching is rooted in holistic sport psychology and is significantly informed by the tenets of and research supporting Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), mindfulness for performance enhancement, and psychological skills training (PST).
As a certified mental performance consultant with an MA in Sport Psychology, I work with athletes and performers who want to conquer their performance anxiety, strengthen their confidence, and renegotiate their relationship with making mistakes. Often, my clients feel like they: get stuck in their own heads; have trouble letting go of mistakes; struggle with perfectionism; are self-critical and getting in their own way; have to perform under pressure; are not communicating well with a coach or teammate; have lost confidence in skills that used to be second nature; and/or are struggling with the demands of being a student-athlete.
(503) 739-9858 View (503) 739-9858
Photo of Becca Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Becca Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
These might include Acceptance and Commitment therapy ( ACT), Mindfulness and self compassion practices, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Narrative therapy.
I strive to support clients in building emotional awareness, understanding and regulating their nervous system, enhancing self-compassion, deepening their mind-body connections, and cultivating relationships with themselves and others in their lives. I identify as a sex positive, queer, and gender affirming therapist. As one of my client’s you can expect a safe and warm space where all parts of your life can show up and be explored in therapy with respect and curiosity.
These might include Acceptance and Commitment therapy ( ACT), Mindfulness and self compassion practices, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Narrative therapy.
I strive to support clients in building emotional awareness, understanding and regulating their nervous system, enhancing self-compassion, deepening their mind-body connections, and cultivating relationships with themselves and others in their lives. I identify as a sex positive, queer, and gender affirming therapist. As one of my client’s you can expect a safe and warm space where all parts of your life can show up and be explored in therapy with respect and curiosity.
(503) 300-5397 View (503) 300-5397
Photo of Kristen Seghete, Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Kristen Seghete
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Portland, OR 97201
I use cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapies, such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
Are you looking for therapy or a psychological assessment tailored for women? Do you feel sad or anxious after having a baby? Do you feel stressed or overwhelmed as a parent? Does past trauma affect your life? You are not alone. It starts to feel scary when overwhelm takes over. You deserve emotional support from someone who is ready to listen with compassion and without judgement.
I use cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapies, such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
Are you looking for therapy or a psychological assessment tailored for women? Do you feel sad or anxious after having a baby? Do you feel stressed or overwhelmed as a parent? Does past trauma affect your life? You are not alone. It starts to feel scary when overwhelm takes over. You deserve emotional support from someone who is ready to listen with compassion and without judgement.
(971) 265-4759 View (971) 265-4759
Photo of Emily Ott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Emily Ott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and well as Exposure Response and Prevention (ERP).
You can expect therapy with me to be warm, compassionate, honest, and direct with room for humor. I look forward to meeting you! I specialize in working with clients who have symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and OCD. I am interested in working with clients who are open and willing to explore how their experiences have informed their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My hope is that we will be able to identify and possibly shift patterns that are no longer serving you, so that you can more often live in alignment with your unique values and goals moving forward.
I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and well as Exposure Response and Prevention (ERP).
You can expect therapy with me to be warm, compassionate, honest, and direct with room for humor. I look forward to meeting you! I specialize in working with clients who have symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and OCD. I am interested in working with clients who are open and willing to explore how their experiences have informed their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My hope is that we will be able to identify and possibly shift patterns that are no longer serving you, so that you can more often live in alignment with your unique values and goals moving forward.
(503) 213-9174 View (503) 213-9174
Photo of Brian Thompson, Psychologist, PhD
Brian Thompson
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97227
I specialize in a newer cognitive behavioral treatment called acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT) and frequently incorporate exposure therapy.
As the Director of the Portland Psychotherapy Anxiety Clinic, I value providing effective treatment delivered in collaboration with clients. I specialize in evidence-based treatment for problems related to anxiety, stress, and worry. My specialty areas include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD—including Pure “O” and relationship OCD), repetitive hair pulling (trichotillomania), and skin picking (excoriation). Additionally, I work with panic and health anxiety.
I specialize in a newer cognitive behavioral treatment called acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT) and frequently incorporate exposure therapy.
As the Director of the Portland Psychotherapy Anxiety Clinic, I value providing effective treatment delivered in collaboration with clients. I specialize in evidence-based treatment for problems related to anxiety, stress, and worry. My specialty areas include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD—including Pure “O” and relationship OCD), repetitive hair pulling (trichotillomania), and skin picking (excoriation). Additionally, I work with panic and health anxiety.
(971) 366-3211 View (971) 366-3211
Photo of Jey E Jang, Professional Counselor Associate, MA, MT-BC
Jey E Jang
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, MT-BC
Online Only
Common themes of therapy may include: high emotional reactivity, sense of inadequacy, fear of abandonment, difficulty with boundary setting, and deprivation of love, connection, or acceptance.
As a first-generation immigrant from South Korea, Jey understands the challenges of navigating different cultural values, systemic trauma, and the impact of colonial oppression. She aims to support individuals with intersecting identities and complex mental health needs.
Common themes of therapy may include: high emotional reactivity, sense of inadequacy, fear of abandonment, difficulty with boundary setting, and deprivation of love, connection, or acceptance.
As a first-generation immigrant from South Korea, Jey understands the challenges of navigating different cultural values, systemic trauma, and the impact of colonial oppression. She aims to support individuals with intersecting identities and complex mental health needs.
(503) 438-4407 View (503) 438-4407
Photo of Rin Miller, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Rin Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I draw from acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), emotionally focused therapy (EFT), and years of contemplative training in Buddhist monasteries.
If you're feeling stuck in old patterns, overwhelmed by anxiety or self-doubt, or burdened by trauma you can’t quite shake, I offer a safe and grounded space to explore what’s beneath the surface. As a former Zen Buddhist monk and trauma-trained therapist, I help clients gently untangle the roots of their struggles in a process that blends mindfulness, emotional depth, and practical tools. Together, we create new emotional experiences that help your nervous system relearn what’s safe, what’s possible, and what’s true now—so you can live with more freedom, clarity, and ease.
I draw from acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), emotionally focused therapy (EFT), and years of contemplative training in Buddhist monasteries.
If you're feeling stuck in old patterns, overwhelmed by anxiety or self-doubt, or burdened by trauma you can’t quite shake, I offer a safe and grounded space to explore what’s beneath the surface. As a former Zen Buddhist monk and trauma-trained therapist, I help clients gently untangle the roots of their struggles in a process that blends mindfulness, emotional depth, and practical tools. Together, we create new emotional experiences that help your nervous system relearn what’s safe, what’s possible, and what’s true now—so you can live with more freedom, clarity, and ease.
(971) 314-5406 View (971) 314-5406
Photo of Dan Rubin, Psychologist, PsyD
Dan Rubin
Psychologist, PsyD
Portland, OR 97214
I offer a warm and safe relationship, good old fashioned listening, and skills to improve effective communication, managing and learning from emotions, self- acceptance, compassion, and connecting with and living your values.
I specialize in psychotherapy for health care professionals, climate change related anxiety & grief, and trauma related to experiences of racism, homophobia, queerphobia, anti-semitism, and misogyny. I also work with people who suffer from anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, relationship distress, PTSD, and grief.
I offer a warm and safe relationship, good old fashioned listening, and skills to improve effective communication, managing and learning from emotions, self- acceptance, compassion, and connecting with and living your values.
I specialize in psychotherapy for health care professionals, climate change related anxiety & grief, and trauma related to experiences of racism, homophobia, queerphobia, anti-semitism, and misogyny. I also work with people who suffer from anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, relationship distress, PTSD, and grief.
(503) 894-3068 View (503) 894-3068

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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.