Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in University Park, PA
You're looking to make life better - more satisfying, more meaningful, and more fulfilling. You’re the caterpillar: you need a space to cocoon, fall apart to goo and become a butterfly. Looking for a therapist feels daunting - wading through profile after profile is exhausting. You just want to find a therapist who can actually help, not just smile and nod. Even though this journey is tough, you've taken the best first step towards a new and improved you! You can become the person you want to be - and we're here to help. Check out our therapists and their specialties in the photos below.
You're looking to make life better - more satisfying, more meaningful, and more fulfilling. You’re the caterpillar: you need a space to cocoon, fall apart to goo and become a butterfly. Looking for a therapist feels daunting - wading through profile after profile is exhausting. You just want to find a therapist who can actually help, not just smile and nod. Even though this journey is tough, you've taken the best first step towards a new and improved you! You can become the person you want to be - and we're here to help. Check out our therapists and their specialties in the photos below.
I incorporate various approaches in the work with you, mainly from cultural-relational therapy/feminist therapy, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic therapy, attachment theory, and IFS/parts work.
Hi, I'm Eva! I'm dedicated to building a safe and nurturing space where you feel comfortable expressing your authentic, creative, and vulnerable selves. I aim to facilitate a collaborative partnership with self-exploration, healing, and personal growth through the power of connection and mutuality. I can help you navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, grief & loss, childhood trauma, and intersectional identity issues related to race, gender, and sexuality.
I incorporate various approaches in the work with you, mainly from cultural-relational therapy/feminist therapy, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic therapy, attachment theory, and IFS/parts work.
Hi, I'm Eva! I'm dedicated to building a safe and nurturing space where you feel comfortable expressing your authentic, creative, and vulnerable selves. I aim to facilitate a collaborative partnership with self-exploration, healing, and personal growth through the power of connection and mutuality. I can help you navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, grief & loss, childhood trauma, and intersectional identity issues related to race, gender, and sexuality.
I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR.
I have been passionate about teaching, coaching, and helping individuals reach their goals for my entire life. I spent much of my professional career as a gymnastics coach at Penn State University. Since retiring from coaching in 2010, I went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor, in Illinois and Pennsylvania. I have worked with people dealing with a variety of issues including trauma, child sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, and more. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and EMDR. My goal is to help you live your best life.
I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR.
I have been passionate about teaching, coaching, and helping individuals reach their goals for my entire life. I spent much of my professional career as a gymnastics coach at Penn State University. Since retiring from coaching in 2010, I went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor, in Illinois and Pennsylvania. I have worked with people dealing with a variety of issues including trauma, child sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, and more. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and EMDR. My goal is to help you live your best life.
Everyone can experience some hardship and barriers in life. You may feel helpless, powerless, confused, stuck, lost and lonely. You may experience some conflicts with others or within yourself, or get stuck in the valleys of life. You may be looking for someone to feel your pain, listen to you empathetically and nonjudgmentally, guide you to dig out your self love, and help you identify your paths and move forward in life. You may be searching for a safe place that allows you to share your stories, be your authentic self and feel reconnected with others and life.
Everyone can experience some hardship and barriers in life. You may feel helpless, powerless, confused, stuck, lost and lonely. You may experience some conflicts with others or within yourself, or get stuck in the valleys of life. You may be looking for someone to feel your pain, listen to you empathetically and nonjudgmentally, guide you to dig out your self love, and help you identify your paths and move forward in life. You may be searching for a safe place that allows you to share your stories, be your authentic self and feel reconnected with others and life.
More Therapists Nearby
I use an integrative approach, drawing from ACT, CBT, DBT, narrative, somatic, attachment-based and trauma-focused therapies.
My work is grounded in the belief that therapy should be collaborative, anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, and deeply human. I’m drawn to supporting folx carrying trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and the (often) accompanying executive functioning challenges that can leave us feeling stuck. These struggles are more complicated than simply ‘worrying too much,’ ‘feeling sad,’ or ‘not trying hard enough’: they can impact relationships, motivation, self-worth, routines, school, work, and the ability to feel present. I also identify as a lesbian and love supporting other LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating identity and queerness.
I use an integrative approach, drawing from ACT, CBT, DBT, narrative, somatic, attachment-based and trauma-focused therapies.
My work is grounded in the belief that therapy should be collaborative, anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, and deeply human. I’m drawn to supporting folx carrying trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and the (often) accompanying executive functioning challenges that can leave us feeling stuck. These struggles are more complicated than simply ‘worrying too much,’ ‘feeling sad,’ or ‘not trying hard enough’: they can impact relationships, motivation, self-worth, routines, school, work, and the ability to feel present. I also identify as a lesbian and love supporting other LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating identity and queerness.
I enjoy working with a diverse group of clients, including individuals, veterans, college students, those who identify as LGBTQIA+, older adults, couples, and families who need help finding their paths, understanding their roots, managing their symptoms, and taking actionable steps to achieve their goals. I also offer comprehensive psychological diagnostic assessment for individuals who feel they would benefit from concrete answers about diagnosis, including ADHD and autism.
I enjoy working with a diverse group of clients, including individuals, veterans, college students, those who identify as LGBTQIA+, older adults, couples, and families who need help finding their paths, understanding their roots, managing their symptoms, and taking actionable steps to achieve their goals. I also offer comprehensive psychological diagnostic assessment for individuals who feel they would benefit from concrete answers about diagnosis, including ADHD and autism.
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, we get clear on your actual values — not the ones you inherited, but the ones you want to live by.
Something keeps pulling you back — the same patterns, a life that looks right from the outside but doesn’t quite feel like yours from the inside.
You may already have a sense of where it comes from. You can love your parents and still reckon honestly with what they didn’t give you — and stop letting that unresolved tension quietly run your decisions, your relationships, and your career.
If you’ve spent years doing what you were supposed to do and are only now asking whether it’s what you want — that’s not a crisis. That’s clarity.
Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, we get clear on your actual values — not the ones you inherited, but the ones you want to live by.
Something keeps pulling you back — the same patterns, a life that looks right from the outside but doesn’t quite feel like yours from the inside.
You may already have a sense of where it comes from. You can love your parents and still reckon honestly with what they didn’t give you — and stop letting that unresolved tension quietly run your decisions, your relationships, and your career.
If you’ve spent years doing what you were supposed to do and are only now asking whether it’s what you want — that’s not a crisis. That’s clarity.
Welcome! Achieving the lives that we deserve may be our most courageous work. I believe that within each of us is the strength and wisdom to get there. I look forward to partnering with you in your journey to overcome adversity, know yourself, and create meaningful change. I work alongside my clients to address a range of concerns and create a space where you can feel unconditionally welcomed and safe.
Welcome! Achieving the lives that we deserve may be our most courageous work. I believe that within each of us is the strength and wisdom to get there. I look forward to partnering with you in your journey to overcome adversity, know yourself, and create meaningful change. I work alongside my clients to address a range of concerns and create a space where you can feel unconditionally welcomed and safe.
Finding peace, feeling heard and being understood is something each person deserves! Trauma exists in many forms and most of us have experienced it in some form or another. Whether you are looking to improve your quality of life or start your journey towards healing from trauma, I would be honored to be part of that process for you! I offer space for you to explore and express yourself in a safe and judgment free environment. If you are looking to feel heard and accepted, regardless of your circumstances, my goal is to offer you that opportunity. Any age, any stage of life, any circumstances!
Finding peace, feeling heard and being understood is something each person deserves! Trauma exists in many forms and most of us have experienced it in some form or another. Whether you are looking to improve your quality of life or start your journey towards healing from trauma, I would be honored to be part of that process for you! I offer space for you to explore and express yourself in a safe and judgment free environment. If you are looking to feel heard and accepted, regardless of your circumstances, my goal is to offer you that opportunity. Any age, any stage of life, any circumstances!
At Hartswick Counseling, our clinicians have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction recovery, and relationship conflict. We work with individuals, couples, families and groups to decrease distress and conflict to help you return to healthy levels of connection and daily functioning.
At Hartswick Counseling, our clinicians have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction recovery, and relationship conflict. We work with individuals, couples, families and groups to decrease distress and conflict to help you return to healthy levels of connection and daily functioning.
I believe that every human being has the ability to be the best person they can be. Everyone struggles at different times in life, some unfortunately, more than others complicated by circumstances, situations and relationships. I work with the understanding that we get stuck around negative emotions that we tend to avoid, as they are uncomfortable, unwanted and painful. I help people explore what their underlying core emotional issues are and help them clarify how they are avoiding them, inviting them to face these uncomfortable emotional experiences and move toward them, stretching their comfort zone.
I believe that every human being has the ability to be the best person they can be. Everyone struggles at different times in life, some unfortunately, more than others complicated by circumstances, situations and relationships. I work with the understanding that we get stuck around negative emotions that we tend to avoid, as they are uncomfortable, unwanted and painful. I help people explore what their underlying core emotional issues are and help them clarify how they are avoiding them, inviting them to face these uncomfortable emotional experiences and move toward them, stretching their comfort zone.
With ACT, CBT and DBT skills (e.g. ERP, cognitive restructuring, distress tolerance, core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, & emotion regulation), we can stabilize and harness these emotions, improve our confidence, and realize our potential in all parts of life.
Many of us are navigating systems that were not designed to nourish us, and growing through hardships that leave us feeling isolated and overwhelmed. With an emphasis on personal liberation, I aim to empower those most marginalized (i.e. those who are LGBTQ+, POC, &/ Neurodiverse). I also specialize in managing Bipolar Disorder, OCD/OCD-spectrum disorders, PTSD, & Social Anxiety. Psychotherapy skills help us overcome obstacles and create a life of joy and wellbeing. By enhancing your strengths, reworking coping mechanisms, and reframing beliefs about yourself, you can find inner peace.
With ACT, CBT and DBT skills (e.g. ERP, cognitive restructuring, distress tolerance, core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, & emotion regulation), we can stabilize and harness these emotions, improve our confidence, and realize our potential in all parts of life.
Many of us are navigating systems that were not designed to nourish us, and growing through hardships that leave us feeling isolated and overwhelmed. With an emphasis on personal liberation, I aim to empower those most marginalized (i.e. those who are LGBTQ+, POC, &/ Neurodiverse). I also specialize in managing Bipolar Disorder, OCD/OCD-spectrum disorders, PTSD, & Social Anxiety. Psychotherapy skills help us overcome obstacles and create a life of joy and wellbeing. By enhancing your strengths, reworking coping mechanisms, and reframing beliefs about yourself, you can find inner peace.
I am trained in ERP for OCD, and also integrate EFT and ACT into my work.
Welcome to my practice. No matter what circumstances have led you here, I hope to provide a safe place for you to explore, heal, and grow. Maybe life has presented some new challenges for you and you need to grow to meet those challenges. Maybe anxiety, depression, or some other experience seems to have hijacked your life and you want some guidance. Maybe your relationship isn't going the way you hoped and you wonder if there is a better way. Counseling is a tool for getting yourself into a healthier happier place.
I am trained in ERP for OCD, and also integrate EFT and ACT into my work.
Welcome to my practice. No matter what circumstances have led you here, I hope to provide a safe place for you to explore, heal, and grow. Maybe life has presented some new challenges for you and you need to grow to meet those challenges. Maybe anxiety, depression, or some other experience seems to have hijacked your life and you want some guidance. Maybe your relationship isn't going the way you hoped and you wonder if there is a better way. Counseling is a tool for getting yourself into a healthier happier place.
As they are comfortable with moving forward, I utilize a combination of cognitive-behavioral strategies, acceptance and commitment therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and/or psychodynamic modality.
Do you wish to get to the core of the issue? As a psychologist with a deep commitment to meaningful, long-term change, I specialize in helping individuals uncover the unconscious patterns and early life experiences that shape present-day challenges. Drawing from psychodynamic and psychoanalytic frameworks, my work focuses on exploring the underlying emotional and relational themes that often influence difficulties in relationships, career satisfaction, and achieving personal goals. Together, we identify and work through long-standing internal conflicts—bringing insight, healing, and lasting growth. Help is one click or call away!
As they are comfortable with moving forward, I utilize a combination of cognitive-behavioral strategies, acceptance and commitment therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and/or psychodynamic modality.
Do you wish to get to the core of the issue? As a psychologist with a deep commitment to meaningful, long-term change, I specialize in helping individuals uncover the unconscious patterns and early life experiences that shape present-day challenges. Drawing from psychodynamic and psychoanalytic frameworks, my work focuses on exploring the underlying emotional and relational themes that often influence difficulties in relationships, career satisfaction, and achieving personal goals. Together, we identify and work through long-standing internal conflicts—bringing insight, healing, and lasting growth. Help is one click or call away!
My approach to individual therapy integrates mindfulness- and acceptance-based techniques to guide people toward a healthier relationship with emotional distress and problematic behavior.
I also work with couples whose partnership has been disrupted in some way. This may be due to persistent conflict, poor communication, lack of intimacy, or violation of trust (infidelity). Therapy seeks to mend these and other forms of rupture by building effective communication skills and enhancing closeness and connection.
My approach to individual therapy integrates mindfulness- and acceptance-based techniques to guide people toward a healthier relationship with emotional distress and problematic behavior.
I also work with couples whose partnership has been disrupted in some way. This may be due to persistent conflict, poor communication, lack of intimacy, or violation of trust (infidelity). Therapy seeks to mend these and other forms of rupture by building effective communication skills and enhancing closeness and connection.
She incorporates CBT, ACT, DBT, and Systems Theory to support each client's unique needs.
Melissa is a Licensed Social Worker who supports adults navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, compassion fatigue, relationship concerns, identity development, life transitions, and other life stressors. She offers a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel supported as they explore challenges, build insight, and recognize their strengths.
Melissa believes therapy is a space for learning, healing, and growth. She works alongside clients to build on their strengths, deepen self-understanding, and develop the tools to navigate challenges with confidence.
She incorporates CBT, ACT, DBT, and Systems Theory to support each client's unique needs.
Melissa is a Licensed Social Worker who supports adults navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, compassion fatigue, relationship concerns, identity development, life transitions, and other life stressors. She offers a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel supported as they explore challenges, build insight, and recognize their strengths.
Melissa believes therapy is a space for learning, healing, and growth. She works alongside clients to build on their strengths, deepen self-understanding, and develop the tools to navigate challenges with confidence.
As a healer with both lived and professional experience, I employ a strength-based, holistic approach to therapy. I adapt various theories and techniques to suit each individual's unique personality and needs. Additionally, I have experience counseling other therapists, recognizing that clinicians also require support and guidance. Everyone possesses the innate ability to reach their most evolved and emotionally intelligent self. It is my privilege to assist others in discovering and nurturing their core values, boundaries, strengths, and resources. These are the primary concepts of achieving Dynamic Total Wellness.
As a healer with both lived and professional experience, I employ a strength-based, holistic approach to therapy. I adapt various theories and techniques to suit each individual's unique personality and needs. Additionally, I have experience counseling other therapists, recognizing that clinicians also require support and guidance. Everyone possesses the innate ability to reach their most evolved and emotionally intelligent self. It is my privilege to assist others in discovering and nurturing their core values, boundaries, strengths, and resources. These are the primary concepts of achieving Dynamic Total Wellness.
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.
My name is Jana Allen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 24 years of experience helping individuals and families navigating life's challenges. My approach in working with adolescents and adults integrates faith with evidence-based therapeutic practices for clients who desire a spiritually grounded path to healing. I hold degrees from Penn State University (BS), Howard University (MSW) and Walden University (MBA). I am an ordained minister and have been married for over 20 years with two teenage children.
My name is Jana Allen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 24 years of experience helping individuals and families navigating life's challenges. My approach in working with adolescents and adults integrates faith with evidence-based therapeutic practices for clients who desire a spiritually grounded path to healing. I hold degrees from Penn State University (BS), Howard University (MSW) and Walden University (MBA). I am an ordained minister and have been married for over 20 years with two teenage children.
See more therapy options for University Park
Nearby Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists Searches for University Park
See More Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) TherapistsNearby Searches for University Park
- Bellefonte
- Boalsburg
- Huntingdon
- Lemont
- Lewistown
- Lock Haven
- Mifflintown
- Milroy
- Philipsburg
- State College
- Tyrone
- Williamsburg
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.