Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA
I primarily integrate aspects of Radically-Open DBT, DBT, ACT, CBT, and person-centered therapies into my work.
As a Queer, neurodivergent person, I know what it means to feel like you don't naturally fit into the world. I love working with people who are trying to figure out life, whether that's diving into identity exploration, empowering neurodiversity, or learning how to fit into the world.
My hope is that as a therapist, I can help others connect with their intrinsic value, embrace their unique identities, and cultivate the feeling that they belong. I am passionate about guiding people through the processes of navigating identity, strengthening relationships with others and self, and healing their inner voice.
I primarily integrate aspects of Radically-Open DBT, DBT, ACT, CBT, and person-centered therapies into my work.
As a Queer, neurodivergent person, I know what it means to feel like you don't naturally fit into the world. I love working with people who are trying to figure out life, whether that's diving into identity exploration, empowering neurodiversity, or learning how to fit into the world.
My hope is that as a therapist, I can help others connect with their intrinsic value, embrace their unique identities, and cultivate the feeling that they belong. I am passionate about guiding people through the processes of navigating identity, strengthening relationships with others and self, and healing their inner voice.
I also draw from other modalities such as Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
I am a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor with experience working with a diverse population in an outpatient setting. I believe that developing a deeper understanding of yourself is the key to facing your mental health struggles and creating a life which is meaningful to you. I endeavor to help you feel seen and understood and to create an environment which is judgment-free and supportive.
I also draw from other modalities such as Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
I am a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor with experience working with a diverse population in an outpatient setting. I believe that developing a deeper understanding of yourself is the key to facing your mental health struggles and creating a life which is meaningful to you. I endeavor to help you feel seen and understood and to create an environment which is judgment-free and supportive.
I use an eclectic approach to treatment and include theories such as CBT, DBT, ACT, HeartMath, humanistic, solution focused and compassion based therapies.
One of my specialties is family therapy with adolescents and their parents. I enjoy supporting the bridge of communication between the generational differences, and helping each family member feel heard and seen. I work with the philosophy that we don't have to agree with one another to have compassion for one other. I see individuals, couples and families. I work with children as young as 6 years old. If you are seeking parenting support for your child/children, I offer a blended approach to supporting you based on where each specific child is in their development.
I use an eclectic approach to treatment and include theories such as CBT, DBT, ACT, HeartMath, humanistic, solution focused and compassion based therapies.
One of my specialties is family therapy with adolescents and their parents. I enjoy supporting the bridge of communication between the generational differences, and helping each family member feel heard and seen. I work with the philosophy that we don't have to agree with one another to have compassion for one other. I see individuals, couples and families. I work with children as young as 6 years old. If you are seeking parenting support for your child/children, I offer a blended approach to supporting you based on where each specific child is in their development.
Should I stay or should I go? A huge question that's weighed on you. It keeps you up at night, stressing you out. Life would be so much easier if your relationship wasn't so hard. You wish you could communicate better; feel understood. But, damn, your shit and their shit get in the way. Not to mention the pressures of career, aging parents, or demanding children. It all gets thrown in the mix, leaving you exhausted, distracted, and disenchanted by the status quo. You want things to change (better sex, intimacy, connection); you're finally ready to take charge of your life in a new and meaningful way. You've come to the right place!
Should I stay or should I go? A huge question that's weighed on you. It keeps you up at night, stressing you out. Life would be so much easier if your relationship wasn't so hard. You wish you could communicate better; feel understood. But, damn, your shit and their shit get in the way. Not to mention the pressures of career, aging parents, or demanding children. It all gets thrown in the mix, leaving you exhausted, distracted, and disenchanted by the status quo. You want things to change (better sex, intimacy, connection); you're finally ready to take charge of your life in a new and meaningful way. You've come to the right place!
I have worked with a variety of populations and settings including individuals, couples, and groups. I have experience with many areas including substance use, ADHD and neurodivergence, couples therapy, trauma and recovery, anxiety, depression, and BPD. I enjoy working with couples, groups, and individuals ages 15-70. I work to customize the style and path of treatment to your individualized needs. This means I use multiple different approaches and take elements from existing styles to help you reach your goals. I employ a collaborative approach to reach your goals and create a relationship based on safety and free of judgment.
I have worked with a variety of populations and settings including individuals, couples, and groups. I have experience with many areas including substance use, ADHD and neurodivergence, couples therapy, trauma and recovery, anxiety, depression, and BPD. I enjoy working with couples, groups, and individuals ages 15-70. I work to customize the style and path of treatment to your individualized needs. This means I use multiple different approaches and take elements from existing styles to help you reach your goals. I employ a collaborative approach to reach your goals and create a relationship based on safety and free of judgment.
Chances are, I already think you're awesome! I want to work with you to believe that for yourself as well.
I personally identify as queer and have become mainly an LGBTQIA+ therapist. I'm passionate about gender fluidity and contributing to a strong future generation by challenging societal norms. I mainly work with folks concerned with anxiety, childhood trauma/abuse, interpersonal violence (IPV) and sexual assault, intergenerational trauma, and self-esteem.
Chances are, I already think you're awesome! I want to work with you to believe that for yourself as well.
I personally identify as queer and have become mainly an LGBTQIA+ therapist. I'm passionate about gender fluidity and contributing to a strong future generation by challenging societal norms. I mainly work with folks concerned with anxiety, childhood trauma/abuse, interpersonal violence (IPV) and sexual assault, intergenerational trauma, and self-esteem.
You’re thoughtful and self-aware, but lately you feel disconnected, like you’ve lost touch with what you actually want. Maybe a relationship has shifted, your role has changed, or you’re questioning old beliefs that no longer fit. You’ve spent so long being who you should be that you’re unsure who you are. You want to feel grounded and genuine again, to trust yourself, honor your needs, and move through change with compassion instead of pressure. If starting feels overwhelming, we can take it one step at a time.
You’re thoughtful and self-aware, but lately you feel disconnected, like you’ve lost touch with what you actually want. Maybe a relationship has shifted, your role has changed, or you’re questioning old beliefs that no longer fit. You’ve spent so long being who you should be that you’re unsure who you are. You want to feel grounded and genuine again, to trust yourself, honor your needs, and move through change with compassion instead of pressure. If starting feels overwhelming, we can take it one step at a time.
Ascend Integrative Counseling & Holistic Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Things may get overwhelming and a person may need to explore ways to manage a particular stressor. Another may desire to work on long-term challenges, emotions, or relationship concerns. Ascend therapists have worked with children, adolescents, adults and the elderly in both medical and therapeutic settings in the Pittsburgh area, over the past 27 years. We utilize a strength-based perspective that recognizes and seeks to ignite the inner strength that each individual possesses. We customize and personalize your services to facilitate an increase in mood, functioning, and well-being; to take you to a higher level.
Things may get overwhelming and a person may need to explore ways to manage a particular stressor. Another may desire to work on long-term challenges, emotions, or relationship concerns. Ascend therapists have worked with children, adolescents, adults and the elderly in both medical and therapeutic settings in the Pittsburgh area, over the past 27 years. We utilize a strength-based perspective that recognizes and seeks to ignite the inner strength that each individual possesses. We customize and personalize your services to facilitate an increase in mood, functioning, and well-being; to take you to a higher level.
Working with OCD and co-occurring disorders, I provide a personalized blend of ERP, ACT, Compassion-Focused Therapy, I-CBT, and family systems therapy.
With 10 years of experience specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders, I bring expertise in clinical practice and education. I began at the UPMC Pediatric OCD Intensive Program, treating moderate to severe OCD, refining my skills in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and working as a family therapist to address systemic dynamics. Later, I served as Director of Education and Development at an OCD-specialized practice, developing a comprehensive training curriculum to onboard new employees and enhance their competency in treating OCD before moving on and founding my own practice, The OCD Treatment and Training Institute (OTTI).
Working with OCD and co-occurring disorders, I provide a personalized blend of ERP, ACT, Compassion-Focused Therapy, I-CBT, and family systems therapy.
With 10 years of experience specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders, I bring expertise in clinical practice and education. I began at the UPMC Pediatric OCD Intensive Program, treating moderate to severe OCD, refining my skills in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and working as a family therapist to address systemic dynamics. Later, I served as Director of Education and Development at an OCD-specialized practice, developing a comprehensive training curriculum to onboard new employees and enhance their competency in treating OCD before moving on and founding my own practice, The OCD Treatment and Training Institute (OTTI).
Kairos Ascending Therapeutic Services engages in the art of Holistic Therapy to help individuals reach their wellness goals. Through Kairos Ascending individuals are empowered to work towards self-actualization where One can Ascend into a strong sense of purpose to achieve personal fulfillment.
Kairos Ascending Therapeutic Services engages in the art of Holistic Therapy to help individuals reach their wellness goals. Through Kairos Ascending individuals are empowered to work towards self-actualization where One can Ascend into a strong sense of purpose to achieve personal fulfillment.
Michelle Coco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
I'm an attachment theory nerd who utilizes an eclectic approach - most frequently integrating ACT and DBT practices.
Hey there, I'm Michelle! My approach to therapy is relational and collaborative, meaning you and I both work together toward your healing. Once we've established a foundation of trust, my style leans creative and playful, as I believe the role of laughter is often undervalued in the therapeutic process. Our struggles aren't silly, but we human beings often are. Many clients enter treatment expecting tears, and they usually show up, but joy is equally powerful and cathartic. A major component of my job is to give you a safe place to feel ALL your feelings, process them, and ultimately find some balance in your human experience.
I'm an attachment theory nerd who utilizes an eclectic approach - most frequently integrating ACT and DBT practices.
Hey there, I'm Michelle! My approach to therapy is relational and collaborative, meaning you and I both work together toward your healing. Once we've established a foundation of trust, my style leans creative and playful, as I believe the role of laughter is often undervalued in the therapeutic process. Our struggles aren't silly, but we human beings often are. Many clients enter treatment expecting tears, and they usually show up, but joy is equally powerful and cathartic. A major component of my job is to give you a safe place to feel ALL your feelings, process them, and ultimately find some balance in your human experience.
I use trauma-informed, attachment-based, feminist, and compassion-focused approaches alongside ACT, CBT, DBT, and existential work.
Are you queer, trans/GNC, or neurospicy? Maybe you're struggling with identity, chronic health issues, self-esteem, or trying to break cycles of generational trauma. You want therapy that feels real - where you can swear, laugh, talk about the uncomfortable, and exist without judgment. To challenge the systems causing you harm, reconnect with yourself, and maybe even feel a little hopeful again. It can feel comforting knowing your therapist has walked a similar path, that your own identities are reflected in them, and that they can see the truth of your experiences because they've been through it, too. Let me walk with you.
I use trauma-informed, attachment-based, feminist, and compassion-focused approaches alongside ACT, CBT, DBT, and existential work.
Are you queer, trans/GNC, or neurospicy? Maybe you're struggling with identity, chronic health issues, self-esteem, or trying to break cycles of generational trauma. You want therapy that feels real - where you can swear, laugh, talk about the uncomfortable, and exist without judgment. To challenge the systems causing you harm, reconnect with yourself, and maybe even feel a little hopeful again. It can feel comforting knowing your therapist has walked a similar path, that your own identities are reflected in them, and that they can see the truth of your experiences because they've been through it, too. Let me walk with you.
I offer evidence-based therapy grounded in CBT, ACT, DBT, and CBT-I, tailored to each client’s needs and goals.
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, self-aware, and tired of feeling stuck in the same patterns. They may be dealing with anxiety, low mood, relationship stress, or a general sense of disconnection, even while functioning well on the outside. Often, they’re motivated to change but unsure what will actually help, and want a space to slow things down, make sense of their experience, and move forward in a way that feels grounded and real.
I offer evidence-based therapy grounded in CBT, ACT, DBT, and CBT-I, tailored to each client’s needs and goals.
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, self-aware, and tired of feeling stuck in the same patterns. They may be dealing with anxiety, low mood, relationship stress, or a general sense of disconnection, even while functioning well on the outside. Often, they’re motivated to change but unsure what will actually help, and want a space to slow things down, make sense of their experience, and move forward in a way that feels grounded and real.
I use ACT and strengths-based practices to help you build insight, emotional regulation, and move toward a life that feels more aligned with your values.
My ideal client is someone navigating a period of transition, grief, or uncertainty—whether that’s due to a reproductive decision, a loss, a relationship shift, or a change in how they see themselves. Many of my clients are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, or holding stories shaped by trauma. They often feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. What they want most is to feel seen, grounded, and more in control of their own lives. They’re looking for support that’s affirming, compassionate, and helps them understand themselves more deeply.
I use ACT and strengths-based practices to help you build insight, emotional regulation, and move toward a life that feels more aligned with your values.
My ideal client is someone navigating a period of transition, grief, or uncertainty—whether that’s due to a reproductive decision, a loss, a relationship shift, or a change in how they see themselves. Many of my clients are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, or holding stories shaped by trauma. They often feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. What they want most is to feel seen, grounded, and more in control of their own lives. They’re looking for support that’s affirming, compassionate, and helps them understand themselves more deeply.
I often use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) in my practice.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor committed to helping individuals bounce back from life-altering injuries—specializing in traumatic brain injuries, stroke, burn trauma, amputations, and spinal cord injuries. I blend clinical insight with heartfelt advocacy to guide clients through the toughest chapters of recovery, helping them rediscover purpose, independence, and possibility. Whether it’s rebuilding cognitive function, navigating vocational reintegration, or simply reclaiming hope, I’m in their corner—every step of the way.
I often use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) in my practice.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor committed to helping individuals bounce back from life-altering injuries—specializing in traumatic brain injuries, stroke, burn trauma, amputations, and spinal cord injuries. I blend clinical insight with heartfelt advocacy to guide clients through the toughest chapters of recovery, helping them rediscover purpose, independence, and possibility. Whether it’s rebuilding cognitive function, navigating vocational reintegration, or simply reclaiming hope, I’m in their corner—every step of the way.
Everyone comes to a point in their life where they find themselves struggling to reach their potential. Whether this struggle includes feelings of depression or anxiety, or it involves a deeper issue, no one has to go through the struggle alone. Sometimes we go through unexpected changes, whether in our professional life, our personal relationships, or even the state of the world. It is times like these where having the right support matters most.
Everyone comes to a point in their life where they find themselves struggling to reach their potential. Whether this struggle includes feelings of depression or anxiety, or it involves a deeper issue, no one has to go through the struggle alone. Sometimes we go through unexpected changes, whether in our professional life, our personal relationships, or even the state of the world. It is times like these where having the right support matters most.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness, humanistic, and supportive approaches while holding space for my clients' individual preferences and needs.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with 18 years of experience. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with depression, mood swings, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, grief, parenting-related challenges, and caregiver stress. I have worked in large-scale community mental health clinics, specialty hospitals, specialized treatment programs, and research institutions treating adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I also have experience working as part of interdisciplinary treatment teams and am comfortable communicating with and working alongside psychiatrists and general practitioners to support the health of my clients.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness, humanistic, and supportive approaches while holding space for my clients' individual preferences and needs.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with 18 years of experience. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with depression, mood swings, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, grief, parenting-related challenges, and caregiver stress. I have worked in large-scale community mental health clinics, specialty hospitals, specialized treatment programs, and research institutions treating adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I also have experience working as part of interdisciplinary treatment teams and am comfortable communicating with and working alongside psychiatrists and general practitioners to support the health of my clients.
30 yrs of clinical experience (25+ yrs post-licensure). Co-owner of Existential-Dynamic Associates. I see counseling as a collaborative process to help you overcome problems & live more fully—especially through quarterlife, midlife, and late-life crises of meaning. I lecture domestically & internationally on anger, mindful eating, & perfectionism. My approach to self-criticism was independently validated. Advisory Board member for The Mindfulness Project.
30 yrs of clinical experience (25+ yrs post-licensure). Co-owner of Existential-Dynamic Associates. I see counseling as a collaborative process to help you overcome problems & live more fully—especially through quarterlife, midlife, and late-life crises of meaning. I lecture domestically & internationally on anger, mindful eating, & perfectionism. My approach to self-criticism was independently validated. Advisory Board member for The Mindfulness Project.
I use approaches like ACT, DBT, CBT, and IFS, often weaving in somatic and relational techniques.
I’m a queer, nonbinary, chronically ill, and neurodiverse therapist who knows firsthand how hard it can be to exist in a world not designed for you. I work with trans and gender-diverse kids and teens, neurodivergent clients of all ages, and those living with disability to explore identity, navigate change, and make life feel more possible. In our sessions, we might laugh, cry, vent, or problem-solve - whatever the moment calls for. I show up candidly and without judgment, creating a space where you never have to justify who you are. My ethics don’t shift with politics; you are radically safe with me.
I use approaches like ACT, DBT, CBT, and IFS, often weaving in somatic and relational techniques.
I’m a queer, nonbinary, chronically ill, and neurodiverse therapist who knows firsthand how hard it can be to exist in a world not designed for you. I work with trans and gender-diverse kids and teens, neurodivergent clients of all ages, and those living with disability to explore identity, navigate change, and make life feel more possible. In our sessions, we might laugh, cry, vent, or problem-solve - whatever the moment calls for. I show up candidly and without judgment, creating a space where you never have to justify who you are. My ethics don’t shift with politics; you are radically safe with me.
My primary therapeutic modality is based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and I also integrate skills and strategies from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) when appropriate.
Many people come to counseling when life gets overwhelming, unhealthy patterns feel hard to change, or emotions become too heavy to carry alone. It’s no wonder then, that therapy can sometimes feel like a lot of work! But having a strong therapeutic relationship and safe environment to process feelings can make all the difference. I approach therapy with a supportive, down-to-earth style in order to give clients the space necessary to pause, reflect, and start taking concrete steps towards building a life that feels more meaningful.
My primary therapeutic modality is based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and I also integrate skills and strategies from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) when appropriate.
Many people come to counseling when life gets overwhelming, unhealthy patterns feel hard to change, or emotions become too heavy to carry alone. It’s no wonder then, that therapy can sometimes feel like a lot of work! But having a strong therapeutic relationship and safe environment to process feelings can make all the difference. I approach therapy with a supportive, down-to-earth style in order to give clients the space necessary to pause, reflect, and start taking concrete steps towards building a life that feels more meaningful.
See more therapy options for Pittsburgh
Nearby Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists Searches for Pittsburgh
- Aspinwall
- Carnegie
- East Liberty
- Fox Chapel
- Glenshaw
- McKees Rocks
- Mount Lebanon
- Munhall
- Shadyside
- Squirrel Hill
- Swissvale
- West Mifflin