Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Sun Prairie, WI

Photo of Donald Bialkowski
Donald Bialkowski
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
i'm committed to empowering men and couples by teaching the skills, methods, and perspectives necessary for living a more balanced, connected, and fulfilling life. i am dedicated to providing personalized guidance as you navigate the highs and lows of your life and relationships.  my approach is non-judgmental and collaborative, empowering you to actively participate in the process and take ownership of yourself and relationship dynamics.
i'm committed to empowering men and couples by teaching the skills, methods, and perspectives necessary for living a more balanced, connected, and fulfilling life. i am dedicated to providing personalized guidance as you navigate the highs and lows of your life and relationships.  my approach is non-judgmental and collaborative, empowering you to actively participate in the process and take ownership of yourself and relationship dynamics.
(608) 447-6186 View (608) 447-6186
Photo of Claire Riddiough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP-IT
Claire Riddiough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP-IT
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
Do you feel disconnected from yourself—like you're living in your head, always “on,” but rarely grounded? Therapy can help you come home to your body and reclaim a sense of presence, safety, and wholeness. I work with individuals who are ready to move beyond talk therapy alone and deepen their awareness of what’s happening beneath the surface. Many of us carry stress, trauma, and emotional overwhelm in our bodies—often without realizing it. In our work together, we’ll slow down, tune into your nervous system, and help you build a more compassionate and connected relationship with yourself.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself—like you're living in your head, always “on,” but rarely grounded? Therapy can help you come home to your body and reclaim a sense of presence, safety, and wholeness. I work with individuals who are ready to move beyond talk therapy alone and deepen their awareness of what’s happening beneath the surface. Many of us carry stress, trauma, and emotional overwhelm in our bodies—often without realizing it. In our work together, we’ll slow down, tune into your nervous system, and help you build a more compassionate and connected relationship with yourself.
(608) 200-5956 View (608) 200-5956
Photo of Patricia Szambelan - Whole-istic Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
Whole-istic Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
1 Endorsed
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
At Whole-istic therapy, we believe mindfulness is a cornerstone of mental health and well-being. Mindfulness, the practice of being fully present, engaged in the current moment without judgment, offers a powerful tool for managing stress, enhancing emotional regulation, and fostering self-awareness. In our practice, we integrate mindfulness principles along with CBT/DBT/MI to support our clients in cultivating resilience and improving their overall quality of life. Whether through guided meditations, breath work, or mindful self-regulation, we strive to help individuals develop skills to navigate life's challenges.
At Whole-istic therapy, we believe mindfulness is a cornerstone of mental health and well-being. Mindfulness, the practice of being fully present, engaged in the current moment without judgment, offers a powerful tool for managing stress, enhancing emotional regulation, and fostering self-awareness. In our practice, we integrate mindfulness principles along with CBT/DBT/MI to support our clients in cultivating resilience and improving their overall quality of life. Whether through guided meditations, breath work, or mindful self-regulation, we strive to help individuals develop skills to navigate life's challenges.
(608) 623-6492 View (608) 623-6492
Photo of Aaron R Henn, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Aaron R Henn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Through acceptance and self-awareness, we’ll tap into your strengths while learning new strategies for growth.
Feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions or fear? Struggling with disconnection from loved ones or meaningful activities? Is the uncertainty of life feeling overwhelming and difficult to control? You are not alone in these emotions. My goal is to help you accept your emotions as natural and empower you to navigate them. With experience across various mental health settings I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, tailored to your needs. Using evidence-based tools, I foster resilience and guide you through tough conversations, always with a focus on personal growth and meaningful change.
Through acceptance and self-awareness, we’ll tap into your strengths while learning new strategies for growth.
Feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions or fear? Struggling with disconnection from loved ones or meaningful activities? Is the uncertainty of life feeling overwhelming and difficult to control? You are not alone in these emotions. My goal is to help you accept your emotions as natural and empower you to navigate them. With experience across various mental health settings I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, tailored to your needs. Using evidence-based tools, I foster resilience and guide you through tough conversations, always with a focus on personal growth and meaningful change.
(608) 736-9016 View (608) 736-9016
Photo of Shannon Meeks, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Shannon Meeks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hello! My name is Shannon (they / them). As a therapist, I believe YOU are the expert in your own lived experience. My role is to meet you where you are, listen deeply, and collaborate with you to create meaningful change. I want to understand the unique attributes that make you well... you! Life can be overwhelming, and asking for support takes courage. My goal is to create a space where rest and recovery can happen amid life's challenges, the current political and social climate, and whatever else you're carrying.
Hello! My name is Shannon (they / them). As a therapist, I believe YOU are the expert in your own lived experience. My role is to meet you where you are, listen deeply, and collaborate with you to create meaningful change. I want to understand the unique attributes that make you well... you! Life can be overwhelming, and asking for support takes courage. My goal is to create a space where rest and recovery can happen amid life's challenges, the current political and social climate, and whatever else you're carrying.
(608) 688-9051 View (608) 688-9051
Photo of Kelsie Olono, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Kelsie Olono
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
You might feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in cycles of overthinking, or unsure how to manage intense emotions. You may have experienced panic attacks, moments of crisis, or thoughts of self-harm and are looking for steadiness and support. You might also be exploring your sense of identity, relationship challenges, or learning how to set healthier boundaries. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’m here to provide support as we work together toward positive and meaningful progress.
You might feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in cycles of overthinking, or unsure how to manage intense emotions. You may have experienced panic attacks, moments of crisis, or thoughts of self-harm and are looking for steadiness and support. You might also be exploring your sense of identity, relationship challenges, or learning how to set healthier boundaries. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’m here to provide support as we work together toward positive and meaningful progress.
(608) 573-5134 View (608) 573-5134
Photo of Rachel Grzenia-Franchi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Rachel Grzenia-Franchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
This may be supplemented by Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy or Narrative Therapies, depending on your treatment goals.
Immediate openings! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has found their passion in treating Anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Trauma/PTSD, I enjoy working with individuals ages 10 and older, and utilize evidenced based treatments to support them in reducing the challenges that they face. I additionally work with individuals going through infertility, as well as prenatal and postpartum mental health challenges. I have worked in several different settings including residential and intensive outpatient programs. I am currently offering services both in person and virtually.
This may be supplemented by Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy or Narrative Therapies, depending on your treatment goals.
Immediate openings! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has found their passion in treating Anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Trauma/PTSD, I enjoy working with individuals ages 10 and older, and utilize evidenced based treatments to support them in reducing the challenges that they face. I additionally work with individuals going through infertility, as well as prenatal and postpartum mental health challenges. I have worked in several different settings including residential and intensive outpatient programs. I am currently offering services both in person and virtually.
(608) 975-3637 View (608) 975-3637
Photo of PENNY COLLINS, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
PENNY COLLINS
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
When you're carrying anxiety, trauma, depression, or the fallout of painful relationships, it can feel like you're surviving each day instead of fully living it. And when gambling or other behavioral addictions enter the picture, the shame and isolation can be overwhelming. You do not have to keep holding it all alone I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.I am excited to help people become the best version of themselves and to live their best life.
When you're carrying anxiety, trauma, depression, or the fallout of painful relationships, it can feel like you're surviving each day instead of fully living it. And when gambling or other behavioral addictions enter the picture, the shame and isolation can be overwhelming. You do not have to keep holding it all alone I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.I am excited to help people become the best version of themselves and to live their best life.
(520) 492-1526 View (520) 492-1526
Photo of Amber Teubert - Serenity Therapy, Counselor, LPC-WI, LMHC-IA, LPCC-MN, LCPC-IL, CCMHC
Serenity Therapy
Counselor, LPC-WI, LMHC-IA, LPCC-MN, LCPC-IL, CCMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I blend ACT, CBT, person-centered, and psychodynamic therapy to help you reduce anxiety, break cycles of self-criticism, heal from past trauma, strengthen self-esteem, navigate stress, and shift unhelpful patterns.
Feel Less Anxious. Feel More Like Yourself. Life can feel heavy when you’re overwhelmed yet still holding everything together. Maybe you tell yourself you should be able to “just handle it,” but inside you’re exhausted. You want relief, clarity, and someone who truly understands. Many of my clients are high-achievers, caregivers, and deeply capable people. They are strong and overwhelmed; competent on the outside, drained on the inside. They’ve spent years putting themselves last, questioning their needs, and wondering why it still feels this hard. Therapy here helps you slow down, feel grounded, and reconnect with yourself.
I blend ACT, CBT, person-centered, and psychodynamic therapy to help you reduce anxiety, break cycles of self-criticism, heal from past trauma, strengthen self-esteem, navigate stress, and shift unhelpful patterns.
Feel Less Anxious. Feel More Like Yourself. Life can feel heavy when you’re overwhelmed yet still holding everything together. Maybe you tell yourself you should be able to “just handle it,” but inside you’re exhausted. You want relief, clarity, and someone who truly understands. Many of my clients are high-achievers, caregivers, and deeply capable people. They are strong and overwhelmed; competent on the outside, drained on the inside. They’ve spent years putting themselves last, questioning their needs, and wondering why it still feels this hard. Therapy here helps you slow down, feel grounded, and reconnect with yourself.
(563) 239-3044 View (563) 239-3044
Photo of Phan Hong-Lishner - Children/Family: DBT, Neurofeedback, ADHD, Psychologist, PhD
Children/Family: DBT, Neurofeedback, ADHD
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
New: (1) Neurofeedback & Somatic Experiencing for Pain, Sleep, Injuries, Addictions, Trauma, Neurocognitive issues (e.g., migraines), anxiety, mood, and impulsive control. (2) Family, Children, and Parental concerns We specialize and focus on very specific disorders and treatments for kids and adults. All our clinicians are highly trained to analyze and understand thoughts, emotions, and behaviors around eating disorders, ADHD, autism/neurodiversity, and personality disorders to provide the most scientifically based treatments. We work as a team in our clinic to provide complete treatment for you or your family.
New: (1) Neurofeedback & Somatic Experiencing for Pain, Sleep, Injuries, Addictions, Trauma, Neurocognitive issues (e.g., migraines), anxiety, mood, and impulsive control. (2) Family, Children, and Parental concerns We specialize and focus on very specific disorders and treatments for kids and adults. All our clinicians are highly trained to analyze and understand thoughts, emotions, and behaviors around eating disorders, ADHD, autism/neurodiversity, and personality disorders to provide the most scientifically based treatments. We work as a team in our clinic to provide complete treatment for you or your family.
(920) 315-6670 View (920) 315-6670
Photo of Luccas Contreras, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Luccas Contreras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, ACT, ERP, Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
I work with those from all walks of life, whether you’re crawling from the wreckage of something painful, quietly holding it together on the outside while falling apart on the inside, or simply trying to make sense of who you are and where you’re going. Some of the people I support are kids and teens struggling with big emotions, neurodivergence, or anxiety that makes the world feel too loud. Others are adults, first responders, veterans, caregivers, who’ve always been the strong ones and are now looking for a space to lay their burdens down.
I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, ACT, ERP, Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
I work with those from all walks of life, whether you’re crawling from the wreckage of something painful, quietly holding it together on the outside while falling apart on the inside, or simply trying to make sense of who you are and where you’re going. Some of the people I support are kids and teens struggling with big emotions, neurodivergence, or anxiety that makes the world feel too loud. Others are adults, first responders, veterans, caregivers, who’ve always been the strong ones and are now looking for a space to lay their burdens down.
(608) 812-8971 View (608) 812-8971
Photo of Charles Lindsey, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Charles Lindsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
With a relational approach being primary, I also infuse training and experience in Mindfulness-Based interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Crisis and Trauma approaches, Experiential Therapy, and Sport Performance Counseling.
My passion is working with people across the human lifespan, from children and adolescents, through individuals in later adulthood. I am grateful for having the opportunity over the years to work with clients from a diversity of worldviews, lived experiences, identities, and social contexts. I have extensive experience working with grief and loss, developmental and lifespan transitions, crisis and trauma, mood and anxiety challenges, and with individuals identifying as neurodivergent. I look forward to the privilege of collaborating with you to figure out how to help you live your life in a way that feels more full and meaningful.
With a relational approach being primary, I also infuse training and experience in Mindfulness-Based interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Crisis and Trauma approaches, Experiential Therapy, and Sport Performance Counseling.
My passion is working with people across the human lifespan, from children and adolescents, through individuals in later adulthood. I am grateful for having the opportunity over the years to work with clients from a diversity of worldviews, lived experiences, identities, and social contexts. I have extensive experience working with grief and loss, developmental and lifespan transitions, crisis and trauma, mood and anxiety challenges, and with individuals identifying as neurodivergent. I look forward to the privilege of collaborating with you to figure out how to help you live your life in a way that feels more full and meaningful.
(608) 879-6477 View (608) 879-6477
Photo of Rainbow A. Marifrog - Wild Roots Healing Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Wild Roots Healing Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Finding acceptance for where we are and what we're dealing with in life opens the door to creating the life we want and know is possible.
I am experienced working with diverse cultural populations and the LGBTQI community. I am also an active voice in social justice and movements that support freedom from all forms of oppression.
Finding acceptance for where we are and what we're dealing with in life opens the door to creating the life we want and know is possible.
I am experienced working with diverse cultural populations and the LGBTQI community. I am also an active voice in social justice and movements that support freedom from all forms of oppression.
View
Photo of Margo Nelson, Counselor, MS, LPC
Margo Nelson
Counselor, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You are amazing. Together we can create a map for your unique journey of experiences, and change. I am an open and accepting, culturally competent, sex positive, compassionate, LGBTQAI+ friendly, and creative counselor. My approach is tailored to individual client's or couple’s needs. I have an emphasis in Rogerian, emotionally focused, cognitive behavioral, and narrative therapies. I work with people from late adolescence through older adult.
You are amazing. Together we can create a map for your unique journey of experiences, and change. I am an open and accepting, culturally competent, sex positive, compassionate, LGBTQAI+ friendly, and creative counselor. My approach is tailored to individual client's or couple’s needs. I have an emphasis in Rogerian, emotionally focused, cognitive behavioral, and narrative therapies. I work with people from late adolescence through older adult.
(608) 571-1398 View (608) 571-1398
Photo of Jonathan K. Irish, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Jonathan K. Irish
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
I am a licensed professional counselor specializing in providing effective treatment for a variety of concerns including trauma, emotional concerns, relationship difficulties, life transitions, mood problems, marital issues, and grief and loss concerns. I work well with children ages 6+, teens, young adults, adults, and married couples. As a Christian from the age of 6, I have a special desire to help those who seek to understand how faith in Christ, and a relationship with Him, allows true healing to take place. Sometimes a person's faith journey has hurt and pain, but there is hope nonetheless.
I am a licensed professional counselor specializing in providing effective treatment for a variety of concerns including trauma, emotional concerns, relationship difficulties, life transitions, mood problems, marital issues, and grief and loss concerns. I work well with children ages 6+, teens, young adults, adults, and married couples. As a Christian from the age of 6, I have a special desire to help those who seek to understand how faith in Christ, and a relationship with Him, allows true healing to take place. Sometimes a person's faith journey has hurt and pain, but there is hope nonetheless.
(262) 288-2948 View (262) 288-2948
Photo of Tammy Narance, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Tammy Narance
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
I use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, and ACT to support concerns including life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed? Experiencing changes in sleep, appetite, or mood? When mental health challenges arise, it’s common to feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to turn. Life stress and relationship difficulties can make you want to withdraw or handle things on your own but professional therapy can help. By exploring your experiences, patterns, and what has or hasn’t worked in the past, we work together to build healthier coping strategies, strengthen relationships, and support your emotional well-being so you can move toward the outcome and life you want.
I use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, and ACT to support concerns including life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed? Experiencing changes in sleep, appetite, or mood? When mental health challenges arise, it’s common to feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to turn. Life stress and relationship difficulties can make you want to withdraw or handle things on your own but professional therapy can help. By exploring your experiences, patterns, and what has or hasn’t worked in the past, we work together to build healthier coping strategies, strengthen relationships, and support your emotional well-being so you can move toward the outcome and life you want.
(608) 292-3315 View (608) 292-3315
Photo of Faith Beckley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Faith Beckley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating perinatal mental health concerns, at any stage of their journey. In addition to working broadly in perinatal mental health, my focus is supporting new moms and parents experiencing mood and anxiety disorders who also have ADHD. I recognize that the feelings of shame, anxiety, and guilt that accompany this period can feel intensified for people who are also managing ADHD. My hope is that our work together will help reframe the shame, guilt, and anxiety toward realizing the inherent strength and assets that you already have.
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating perinatal mental health concerns, at any stage of their journey. In addition to working broadly in perinatal mental health, my focus is supporting new moms and parents experiencing mood and anxiety disorders who also have ADHD. I recognize that the feelings of shame, anxiety, and guilt that accompany this period can feel intensified for people who are also managing ADHD. My hope is that our work together will help reframe the shame, guilt, and anxiety toward realizing the inherent strength and assets that you already have.
(608) 736-8877 View (608) 736-8877
Photo of Sydney Vix, Counselor, MS, SAC, LPC-T
Sydney Vix
Counselor, MS, SAC, LPC-T
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am committed to affirming care that supports body positivity, self- acceptance, and empowered personal narratives.
My approach is person-centered and integrative, drawing from CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I emphasize the importance of individuality & bring my relatable personality to each session. Therapy with me is collaborative, practical, FUN, and grounded in respect — I’m always focused on helping you move toward meaningful, sustainable change.
I am committed to affirming care that supports body positivity, self- acceptance, and empowered personal narratives.
My approach is person-centered and integrative, drawing from CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I emphasize the importance of individuality & bring my relatable personality to each session. Therapy with me is collaborative, practical, FUN, and grounded in respect — I’m always focused on helping you move toward meaningful, sustainable change.
(608) 459-1335 View (608) 459-1335
Photo of Lora I Hudson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Lora I Hudson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am certified in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Trauma Focused Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Care, Internal Family Systems, Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Welcome and thank you for your interested in therapy. I'm Lora Hudson, a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment. My drive is fueled by personal experiences, and a passion to help people succeed in their own personal mental health journey. I have a master degree in Clinical Social Work with a focus in mental health from Aurora University. I specialize in helping with Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Trauma and Mood Disorders. I am very dedicated to the field of mental health and look forward to helping you become the best version of you.
I am certified in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Trauma Focused Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Care, Internal Family Systems, Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Welcome and thank you for your interested in therapy. I'm Lora Hudson, a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment. My drive is fueled by personal experiences, and a passion to help people succeed in their own personal mental health journey. I have a master degree in Clinical Social Work with a focus in mental health from Aurora University. I specialize in helping with Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Trauma and Mood Disorders. I am very dedicated to the field of mental health and look forward to helping you become the best version of you.
(928) 384-3805 View (928) 384-3805
Photo of Tim Fredrickson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Tim Fredrickson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approach, commonly known as " ACT".
We don’t have to have something “wrong” with us to come to therapy; instead, we can explore ways for you to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Sometimes we just need space to show up as ourselves and have the support to explore some of life’s difficulties. I take time to understand your unique experiences, identities, and life context. I approach our relationship with an open and accepting mindset, understanding that your feeling of comfort and safety in the therapy room is essential to creating a trusting bond and healing atmosphere.
I use an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approach, commonly known as " ACT".
We don’t have to have something “wrong” with us to come to therapy; instead, we can explore ways for you to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Sometimes we just need space to show up as ourselves and have the support to explore some of life’s difficulties. I take time to understand your unique experiences, identities, and life context. I approach our relationship with an open and accepting mindset, understanding that your feeling of comfort and safety in the therapy room is essential to creating a trusting bond and healing atmosphere.
(608) 546-9319 View (608) 546-9319

See more therapy options for Sun Prairie

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.