Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Santa Cruz County, CA
![Photo of Lisa Woffington, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a40f507e-4dad-4bbd-b40a-f36ee110286c/1/320x400.png)
I believe in the power of change and the positive impact a supportive therapeutic connection can have in promoting growth and transformation. As a holistic therapist, I will utilize a blend of cognitive and somatic approaches, paying particular attention to breath and mindfulness. I can assist you in self discovery, teach you new tools for self acceptance, and help you build stronger self-esteem, and resiliency. I offer compassionate caring to clients seeking tools for increased coping, greater self-understanding and relief from emotional distress.
I believe in the power of change and the positive impact a supportive therapeutic connection can have in promoting growth and transformation. As a holistic therapist, I will utilize a blend of cognitive and somatic approaches, paying particular attention to breath and mindfulness. I can assist you in self discovery, teach you new tools for self acceptance, and help you build stronger self-esteem, and resiliency. I offer compassionate caring to clients seeking tools for increased coping, greater self-understanding and relief from emotional distress.
![Photo of Melinda Marie Martindale, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d00524e-9df4-47a3-b3f8-b8cdd6593c81/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda Marie Martindale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Hi and welcome! A key component to successful therapy and personal change starts with a strong connection between therapist and client. I work with adults in ALL areas of relationships, including your relationship with yourself. I walk with people on the journey to their natural, authentic self with a professional and individual tx plan. I use an integrative model; including humanistic, holistic, CBT, ACT, somatic work and supportive psychotherapy-meeting a person where they are on any specific day. I am a mother, was a single mother, now a step mother, a grandmother, a lover of nature and a survivor of this 'human condition.'
Hi and welcome! A key component to successful therapy and personal change starts with a strong connection between therapist and client. I work with adults in ALL areas of relationships, including your relationship with yourself. I walk with people on the journey to their natural, authentic self with a professional and individual tx plan. I use an integrative model; including humanistic, holistic, CBT, ACT, somatic work and supportive psychotherapy-meeting a person where they are on any specific day. I am a mother, was a single mother, now a step mother, a grandmother, a lover of nature and a survivor of this 'human condition.'
![Photo of Katrina Tattenham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/053f2743-1731-41dd-b590-56bb6b1ae836/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katrina Tattenham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
My approach varies for each individual or family, but is always rooted in compassion and acceptance.
Have you ever wondered, "why did I just do that?" or felt conflicted with different sides of yourself? Have you ever felt completely confused why others seem to live easy lives and you don't? We can work together to understand what's important to you and how you want to live your best life. I offer a safe space for people of all ages (3-103!) to be understood and cared for without judgement or pressure. Sometimes this is working through stress within a family and it's affect on family members. Sometimes this work looks like learning new ways to cope with anxiety or improve how we talk to ourselves.
My approach varies for each individual or family, but is always rooted in compassion and acceptance.
Have you ever wondered, "why did I just do that?" or felt conflicted with different sides of yourself? Have you ever felt completely confused why others seem to live easy lives and you don't? We can work together to understand what's important to you and how you want to live your best life. I offer a safe space for people of all ages (3-103!) to be understood and cared for without judgement or pressure. Sometimes this is working through stress within a family and it's affect on family members. Sometimes this work looks like learning new ways to cope with anxiety or improve how we talk to ourselves.
![Photo of Haruna Matsusaka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a018f707-4255-4bb8-ae02-73ccf041b531/2/320x400.jpeg)
Haruna Matsusaka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from mindfulness-based approaches like DBT, ACT, MBSR, MBCT, and Mindful Self-Compassion that allow me to incorporate my personal connection to Buddhism into my work.
If you're feeling out of alignment with your true self, my hope is to be a guiding light for your journey back home. We're constantly inundated with messages about who we should be and what we should prioritize, but what others expect of us doesn't always align with our desires. In fact, some people prefer that we neglect our inner experiences, emotions, and needs. Particularly for those of us who have been silenced or marginalized, we've faced powerful obstacles to connecting, loving, and honoring our true selves. My aspiration is to help you become a loving protector and nurturer for you and rekindle your relationship with you.
I draw from mindfulness-based approaches like DBT, ACT, MBSR, MBCT, and Mindful Self-Compassion that allow me to incorporate my personal connection to Buddhism into my work.
If you're feeling out of alignment with your true self, my hope is to be a guiding light for your journey back home. We're constantly inundated with messages about who we should be and what we should prioritize, but what others expect of us doesn't always align with our desires. In fact, some people prefer that we neglect our inner experiences, emotions, and needs. Particularly for those of us who have been silenced or marginalized, we've faced powerful obstacles to connecting, loving, and honoring our true selves. My aspiration is to help you become a loving protector and nurturer for you and rekindle your relationship with you.
![Photo of Ashwini Gupta - LifeCoach/Shamanic Practioner;Animal Communicator, MA, LMFT, Reiki, Shaman, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a793c36d-e8d3-4486-a989-c02cb7974fd0/1/320x400.jpeg)
LifeCoach/Shamanic Practioner;Animal Communicator
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, Reiki, Shaman
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (Online Only)
I practice from a perspective of Vedanta, Peruvian Shamanism & Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
Namaste! My goal is to collaboratively explore your unique circumstances and help you develop practical strategies to overcome self-limiting beliefs and unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. Through compassionate listening, empathic understanding, and evidence-based techniques, I aim to facilitate increased self-awareness, resilience, and a greater sense of well-being. Whether you're facing challenges in your personal or professional life, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds and orientations. Together, we can explore your inner experiences, clarify your values, and work towards a more satisfying and meaningful life.
I practice from a perspective of Vedanta, Peruvian Shamanism & Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
Namaste! My goal is to collaboratively explore your unique circumstances and help you develop practical strategies to overcome self-limiting beliefs and unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. Through compassionate listening, empathic understanding, and evidence-based techniques, I aim to facilitate increased self-awareness, resilience, and a greater sense of well-being. Whether you're facing challenges in your personal or professional life, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds and orientations. Together, we can explore your inner experiences, clarify your values, and work towards a more satisfying and meaningful life.
![Photo of Yvette Arroyo, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a300792a-375c-4675-89ca-77026c3fa425/2/320x400.png)
Yvette Arroyo
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Watsonville, CA 95076
My name is Yvette Angelina Arroyo and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Los Angeles, California and working with client's statewide via telehealth. I work with young adults and adults, and specialize in Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, Grief and Loss, Low Self-Esteem, and with Addictions. I use a variety of therapeutic methods including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy, with a focus to provide my client's an individualized treatment based on their specific needs.
My name is Yvette Angelina Arroyo and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Los Angeles, California and working with client's statewide via telehealth. I work with young adults and adults, and specialize in Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, Grief and Loss, Low Self-Esteem, and with Addictions. I use a variety of therapeutic methods including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy, with a focus to provide my client's an individualized treatment based on their specific needs.
![Photo of Dr. Sean Senechal, PhD, MA, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb8f1d3a-1d9f-4fb6-a241-cc2564c3935d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use compassionate ethical ABA, ACT, CBT, Functional Psychotherapy, & more.
Are you experiencing challenges that make life hard and impact your achieving your goals? Are you wanting to improve: life experiences (career, academic, partner, identity, etc.); anxiety, depression, organization, attention, learning; social, relationship, communication with your partners, friends, children, animals (see book: Dogs Can Sign, Too)? Are you in a minority or diverse group and dealing with personal or social issues? If you are open to face, overcome, grow from these challenges, and ready to start your growth journey where you will gain information, skill, and support, contact me today for a free intro session.
I use compassionate ethical ABA, ACT, CBT, Functional Psychotherapy, & more.
Are you experiencing challenges that make life hard and impact your achieving your goals? Are you wanting to improve: life experiences (career, academic, partner, identity, etc.); anxiety, depression, organization, attention, learning; social, relationship, communication with your partners, friends, children, animals (see book: Dogs Can Sign, Too)? Are you in a minority or diverse group and dealing with personal or social issues? If you are open to face, overcome, grow from these challenges, and ready to start your growth journey where you will gain information, skill, and support, contact me today for a free intro session.
![Photo of Patricia Gordan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/904a93ef-a33c-4b34-b9cf-335a6cfec5db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Gordan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watsonville, CA 95076
Tricia is well versed in Cognitive Behavioral as well as Acceptance Commitment therapy.
Tricia Gordan, LMFT Lic 85484, is a licensed marriage and family therapist who has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in various clinical settings for more than a decade. Because of her personal experience with a physical difference, Tricia has a uniquely empathetic way of relating to clients and helping them overcome adversity. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors, and parenting challenges. Tricia particularly enjoys sharing her knowledge about respectful parenting and supporting new parents in the many adjustments that come with welcoming new family members.
Tricia is well versed in Cognitive Behavioral as well as Acceptance Commitment therapy.
Tricia Gordan, LMFT Lic 85484, is a licensed marriage and family therapist who has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in various clinical settings for more than a decade. Because of her personal experience with a physical difference, Tricia has a uniquely empathetic way of relating to clients and helping them overcome adversity. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors, and parenting challenges. Tricia particularly enjoys sharing her knowledge about respectful parenting and supporting new parents in the many adjustments that come with welcoming new family members.
![Photo of Kristen Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfc56d7a-d333-4a6c-9f02-b5695c4f1187/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Kristen Johnson. I am an LCSW and have been licensed since 2000. I work with youth and adults who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational problems and phase of life problems. I work with youth, adults, and the Veteran population. I help people who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and phase of life problems. When working with someone, I individualize my approach to help them achieve their goal(s) for treatment. I draw from CBT, DBT, ACT and Interpersonal psychotherapy as my theoretical approaches to treatment.
My name is Kristen Johnson. I am an LCSW and have been licensed since 2000. I work with youth and adults who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational problems and phase of life problems. I work with youth, adults, and the Veteran population. I help people who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and phase of life problems. When working with someone, I individualize my approach to help them achieve their goal(s) for treatment. I draw from CBT, DBT, ACT and Interpersonal psychotherapy as my theoretical approaches to treatment.
![Photo of Lisa Black, PsyD, BCN, BCB, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da7e85a8-ae54-4fdb-893f-10da9c6ea09b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Black specializes in trauma, TBI/concussion, insomnia/sleep issues, anxiety, depression, and coping with chronic illness. The therapies Dr. Black specializes in are biofeedback, ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP), eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), existential therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I).
Dr. Black specializes in trauma, TBI/concussion, insomnia/sleep issues, anxiety, depression, and coping with chronic illness. The therapies Dr. Black specializes in are biofeedback, ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP), eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), existential therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I).
![Photo of Kirsten Juel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/765a922a-c9b7-4c7d-af60-83a76c157c6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
My extensive training in Compassionate Inquiry, IFS, ACT, somatic approaches, transpersonal psychology, and depth psychology allows me to tailor our sessions to your unique needs.
Are you tired of struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, or unresolved attachment wounds and trauma? I'm here to offer you a compassionate, safe, and transformative healing journey. As a therapist educated by the renowned Dr. Gabor Maté, I have gained invaluable insights into the deep roots of human suffering and the power of connection in the healing process. In my presence, you will feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. I create a nurturing space where you can explore your inner world without judgment or shame.
My extensive training in Compassionate Inquiry, IFS, ACT, somatic approaches, transpersonal psychology, and depth psychology allows me to tailor our sessions to your unique needs.
Are you tired of struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, or unresolved attachment wounds and trauma? I'm here to offer you a compassionate, safe, and transformative healing journey. As a therapist educated by the renowned Dr. Gabor Maté, I have gained invaluable insights into the deep roots of human suffering and the power of connection in the healing process. In my presence, you will feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. I create a nurturing space where you can explore your inner world without judgment or shame.
15 Second Videos
LifeCoach/Shamanic Practioner;Animal Communicator
Lisa Black
Kirsten Juel
Elisabeth Powell
Regina Lazarovich
Dennis Patton Couples Counseling
Silvi Integrative Health
G. Katie Dashtban
Roots of Resilience Therapy, Chelsea Moyer
Leah Adrian-Briggs
Jessica Brohmer
Katy Wann
Rami Vissell
Hope Therapy
Amanda Cortez
Catherine Hausman
Amanda Turull
Sage Swiatek
Cat Bilski
Linnae Ponte
Matianna Baldassari
Les Washburn
Patricia S Dolan
![Photo of Elisabeth Powell, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/592e5744-8368-44cc-931a-901aa674212c/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to therapy draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Attachment Theory.
Welcome! Are you struggling with getting stuck in your spiraling thoughts? Do you have a hard time concentrating because your mind can’t quiet? Or getting stuck in decision making paralysis? Does your mind continue to beat you up with thoughts about past experiences or worries about the future? If so, we should talk :) I specialize in working with folks with anxiety to better understand, manage, and navigate the way your mind works. Although anxiety can get in the way of living the life you want, that does not have to be the case! We can work together to develop the skills to overcome those patterns and show up fully in your life.
My approach to therapy draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Attachment Theory.
Welcome! Are you struggling with getting stuck in your spiraling thoughts? Do you have a hard time concentrating because your mind can’t quiet? Or getting stuck in decision making paralysis? Does your mind continue to beat you up with thoughts about past experiences or worries about the future? If so, we should talk :) I specialize in working with folks with anxiety to better understand, manage, and navigate the way your mind works. Although anxiety can get in the way of living the life you want, that does not have to be the case! We can work together to develop the skills to overcome those patterns and show up fully in your life.
![Photo of Charese Allen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4032d48e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charese Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I believe the purpose of therapy is to create a safe and validating environment where people can focus on creating a "life worth living". I help facilitate this journey by focusing on both acceptance and change in a warm, interactive and thoughtful fashion. If you are someone who is struggling to manage your emotions and behaviors because of anxiety, depression, or trauma we can work together to define the life you want and overcome the obstacles to it.
I believe the purpose of therapy is to create a safe and validating environment where people can focus on creating a "life worth living". I help facilitate this journey by focusing on both acceptance and change in a warm, interactive and thoughtful fashion. If you are someone who is struggling to manage your emotions and behaviors because of anxiety, depression, or trauma we can work together to define the life you want and overcome the obstacles to it.
![Photo of Craig Beeson, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f7161d9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
With over 20 years of experience, I draw from a variety of approaches including Narrative Therapy, Positive Psychology, CBT, ACT, Ecotherapy, Mindfulness, and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
Do you want to be more of an author of your own life story as you navigate problematic emotions, thoughts, and patterns? I focus on empowering you to find your voice and explore the stories that shape identity including culture, sexuality, gender, spirituality, loss, and other ways we make sense of our world. I enjoy creating a warm, supportive space focused on increasing positive emotions, improving relationship, finding flow, and seeking deeper personal meaning. I also specialize in innovative therapeutic approaches such as outdoor therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
With over 20 years of experience, I draw from a variety of approaches including Narrative Therapy, Positive Psychology, CBT, ACT, Ecotherapy, Mindfulness, and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
Do you want to be more of an author of your own life story as you navigate problematic emotions, thoughts, and patterns? I focus on empowering you to find your voice and explore the stories that shape identity including culture, sexuality, gender, spirituality, loss, and other ways we make sense of our world. I enjoy creating a warm, supportive space focused on increasing positive emotions, improving relationship, finding flow, and seeking deeper personal meaning. I also specialize in innovative therapeutic approaches such as outdoor therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
![Photo of Allyson Cumella, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/490883c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allyson Cumella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Not Verified Not Verified
La Selva Beach, CA 95076
Utilizing a plethora of approaches to best fit client needs, I pull from: mindfulness-based practices, EMDR therapy, solution-focused, CBT, DBT, & acceptance/commitment therapies.
Ever feel like you're not living your best life? Or struggle with the idea of what your life ‘should’ look like? It is the heart of my work to help create a space that will allow you to stop 'should-ing' yourself and encourage you to start truly living! With the use of a nonjudgmental, compassionate, affective approach, you can learn to refrain from judging yourself for what your life should look like, & instead, open up to the possibility of what your life could look like. By learning to live in the moment, you can increase your mental agility and learn to better regulate your emotions.
Utilizing a plethora of approaches to best fit client needs, I pull from: mindfulness-based practices, EMDR therapy, solution-focused, CBT, DBT, & acceptance/commitment therapies.
Ever feel like you're not living your best life? Or struggle with the idea of what your life ‘should’ look like? It is the heart of my work to help create a space that will allow you to stop 'should-ing' yourself and encourage you to start truly living! With the use of a nonjudgmental, compassionate, affective approach, you can learn to refrain from judging yourself for what your life should look like, & instead, open up to the possibility of what your life could look like. By learning to live in the moment, you can increase your mental agility and learn to better regulate your emotions.
![Photo of Lori Butterworth, PSYD(c), MEd, MA, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa45aea3-ebd4-40d9-8706-d94d9bb9df2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Butterworth
Psychological Associate, PSYD(c), MEd, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
If you’re a parent looking for mental health support for your child or teen, I'm here to help. My experience with youth mental health has spanned three decades. As a former high school teacher, founder of Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer, the Children's Hospice Coalition, and the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, I have worked with hundreds of youth and families. I use evidence-based, family-centered care and specialize in youth-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure response prevention (ERP), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
If you’re a parent looking for mental health support for your child or teen, I'm here to help. My experience with youth mental health has spanned three decades. As a former high school teacher, founder of Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer, the Children's Hospice Coalition, and the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, I have worked with hundreds of youth and families. I use evidence-based, family-centered care and specialize in youth-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure response prevention (ERP), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
![Photo of Vanessa Magee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69af2c50-9fc1-4a6c-9733-8dc7605f520d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Magee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
We believe that growth and sustained change happens when people experience genuineness (openness, self-disclosure), acceptance (being seen with unconditional positive regard), and empathy (being listened to and understood).
You or a loved one may be struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, loss, or life transitions (emphasis on the life part). Maybe you just need someone to ask you how you are really doing and be able to hold space for that. You may try talking yourself out of your pain or experience by telling yourself “someone else has it worse” or “I don’t deserve to be happy after everything I’ve done”. We often tell ourselves that our feelings, conflicts, or stories must look a certain way for them to deserve attention. I am committed to allowing you to show up to therapy exactly as you need to without making any changes.
We believe that growth and sustained change happens when people experience genuineness (openness, self-disclosure), acceptance (being seen with unconditional positive regard), and empathy (being listened to and understood).
You or a loved one may be struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, loss, or life transitions (emphasis on the life part). Maybe you just need someone to ask you how you are really doing and be able to hold space for that. You may try talking yourself out of your pain or experience by telling yourself “someone else has it worse” or “I don’t deserve to be happy after everything I’ve done”. We often tell ourselves that our feelings, conflicts, or stories must look a certain way for them to deserve attention. I am committed to allowing you to show up to therapy exactly as you need to without making any changes.
![Photo of Lance Johns, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca2a8575-3f47-4bfc-a39b-4e2907550cfe/1/320x400.jpeg)
So we will work on a movement towards fear and produce a meaningful life driven by courage and values via acceptance of both sides of the same coin.
Hi there, I'm Lance! Our behaviors have worked at some point in our lives, but they may now be obsolete. However, the deeply entrenched grooves of behavioral patterns have been established and we can't easily get out of them. And as we see through our behaviors, rather than looking at them, we are often so immersed in our lifestyle that we are unaware of its counterproductivity, we are self-deceived, unaware, unconscious. I believe the goal of therapy is to facilitate flexibility, adaptability, evolvability.
So we will work on a movement towards fear and produce a meaningful life driven by courage and values via acceptance of both sides of the same coin.
Hi there, I'm Lance! Our behaviors have worked at some point in our lives, but they may now be obsolete. However, the deeply entrenched grooves of behavioral patterns have been established and we can't easily get out of them. And as we see through our behaviors, rather than looking at them, we are often so immersed in our lifestyle that we are unaware of its counterproductivity, we are self-deceived, unaware, unconscious. I believe the goal of therapy is to facilitate flexibility, adaptability, evolvability.
![Photo of Dr. Regina Lazarovich, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82a26966-c64d-44bc-8d28-076e4054456a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Regina Lazarovich
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scotts Valley, CA 95066 (Online Only)
I'm skilled in several evidence-based approaches, including CBT, ERP, ACT, I-CBT, DBT, HAES, and MSC (see the types of therapy section at the bottom).
If you’re tired of fear, anxiety, and insecurity running your life, I can help you take charge! I'm uniquely equipped to help with anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), binge eating, negative body image, and perfectionism. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can be yourself. My style is active, compassionate, and encouraging. Together, we'll understand how fear and self-judgment are getting in the way of the life you want. I'll equip you with tools to change unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. As a result of our work together, you'll cultivate more peace, confidence, and joy.
I'm skilled in several evidence-based approaches, including CBT, ERP, ACT, I-CBT, DBT, HAES, and MSC (see the types of therapy section at the bottom).
If you’re tired of fear, anxiety, and insecurity running your life, I can help you take charge! I'm uniquely equipped to help with anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), binge eating, negative body image, and perfectionism. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can be yourself. My style is active, compassionate, and encouraging. Together, we'll understand how fear and self-judgment are getting in the way of the life you want. I'll equip you with tools to change unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. As a result of our work together, you'll cultivate more peace, confidence, and joy.
![Photo of Patrick Joseph Purcell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a92c108-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick Joseph Purcell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073 (Online Only)
This is my passion and my clients feel at ease with me quickly with my empathy and humor. I help relationship stress, anxiety, PTSD, neurodiversity, grief, recovery from child and narcissistic abuse, finding their true authentic self and passion. I use client-centered Rogers, Kohut, EMDR, Beck and Ellis CBT, DBT. ACT, Jung... I am a Christian and I also respect people with other faiths or no faith. I help therapists, interns too.I am 72 years old and I have been married for 48 years to my beautiful wife singer Christina Purcell and we did individual and couple therapy too. We write songs such as the songs on her CD "Love's Calling."
This is my passion and my clients feel at ease with me quickly with my empathy and humor. I help relationship stress, anxiety, PTSD, neurodiversity, grief, recovery from child and narcissistic abuse, finding their true authentic self and passion. I use client-centered Rogers, Kohut, EMDR, Beck and Ellis CBT, DBT. ACT, Jung... I am a Christian and I also respect people with other faiths or no faith. I help therapists, interns too.I am 72 years old and I have been married for 48 years to my beautiful wife singer Christina Purcell and we did individual and couple therapy too. We write songs such as the songs on her CD "Love's Calling."
See more therapy options for Santa Cruz County
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.