Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Dundalk, MD

Photo of Erin Meyer - Mindful Healing Works Wellness Center, LCPC
Mindful Healing Works Wellness Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dundalk, MD 21222
Many of our clients grew up experiencing secrecy, addiction, guilt, blame and shame. It doesn’t have to be this way. Even if things have gone a certain way in your family, you can do it differently. You’re the creator of your story and the CEO of your life. It’s not easy, but it’s possible to become the best version of you. If you can see it in your mind, it can become your reality. Personal responsibility is the key to creating healthy patterns. You can’t change your past, but you can change your future. ​ My name is Erin Meyer, LCPC and I was inspired to go into therapy because I wanted to completely revolutionize the world of
Many of our clients grew up experiencing secrecy, addiction, guilt, blame and shame. It doesn’t have to be this way. Even if things have gone a certain way in your family, you can do it differently. You’re the creator of your story and the CEO of your life. It’s not easy, but it’s possible to become the best version of you. If you can see it in your mind, it can become your reality. Personal responsibility is the key to creating healthy patterns. You can’t change your past, but you can change your future. ​ My name is Erin Meyer, LCPC and I was inspired to go into therapy because I wanted to completely revolutionize the world of
(443) 879-7501 View (443) 879-7501
Photo of Joseph Kim, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Joseph Kim
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dundalk, MD 21222
Life can present us with dark days and many different challenges, and at times it may seem like there is no way out. Perhaps you are trying to manage anxiety or mood swings, coping with a loss, or struggling with relationship issues. At Sure Anchor, we provide you with a safe and supportive environment to identify problems, explore their root cause, and move towards healing and wholeness, all through the lens of the Gospel. I practice from a Biblical perspective, utilizing clinically sound interventions such as CBT and psychodynamic theory.
Life can present us with dark days and many different challenges, and at times it may seem like there is no way out. Perhaps you are trying to manage anxiety or mood swings, coping with a loss, or struggling with relationship issues. At Sure Anchor, we provide you with a safe and supportive environment to identify problems, explore their root cause, and move towards healing and wholeness, all through the lens of the Gospel. I practice from a Biblical perspective, utilizing clinically sound interventions such as CBT and psychodynamic theory.
(410) 204-2386 View (410) 204-2386
Photo of Paige Dillon, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Dillon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Dundalk, MD 21222  (Online Only)
In our sessions, my primary goal is to honor your time and make each hour we spend together impactful. I believe therapy should be a journey of growth, self-reflection, and empowerment. I strive to challenge and empower you to be comfortable with discomfort. Growth often comes from confronting aspects of ourselves and our lives that we may have avoided. I provide direct yet kind support, encouraging you to embrace vulnerability and explore your patterns, understanding those that once served you but may no longer be beneficial.
In our sessions, my primary goal is to honor your time and make each hour we spend together impactful. I believe therapy should be a journey of growth, self-reflection, and empowerment. I strive to challenge and empower you to be comfortable with discomfort. Growth often comes from confronting aspects of ourselves and our lives that we may have avoided. I provide direct yet kind support, encouraging you to embrace vulnerability and explore your patterns, understanding those that once served you but may no longer be beneficial.
(443) 440-5026 View (443) 440-5026
Photo of William Nation, PhD, Psychologist
William Nation
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dundalk, MD 21222  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks a unique path to recovery, traditional but new. They grapple with the weight of mental health challenges and desire not just relief but a journey towards self-discovery. Their issues are nuanced, requiring a therapist who understands the complexities of mental health but also recognizes the healing potential in unconventional avenues. They aim to intertwine their passions with therapy, using the familiar landscapes of virtual realms and beloved narratives to fuel meaningful change. In this fusion, they see not only a therapeutic process but a transformative adventure tailored to their needs and aspirations.
My ideal client seeks a unique path to recovery, traditional but new. They grapple with the weight of mental health challenges and desire not just relief but a journey towards self-discovery. Their issues are nuanced, requiring a therapist who understands the complexities of mental health but also recognizes the healing potential in unconventional avenues. They aim to intertwine their passions with therapy, using the familiar landscapes of virtual realms and beloved narratives to fuel meaningful change. In this fusion, they see not only a therapeutic process but a transformative adventure tailored to their needs and aspirations.
(410) 888-0798 View (410) 888-0798

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shari Cain, LCPC, Counselor
Shari Cain
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middle River, MD 21220
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, Strength-based solution-focused therapy, Mindfulness, Gestalt.
You are seeking guidance on how to become your most authentic self and be able to help improve your life. We all have traumas, everyday stressors, familial and relationship conflicts that have affected us in various ways. If you're feeling anxious, depressed, conflicted or a combination of many emotions; learning how to manage and cope with those emotions can help significantly in reaching goals you set for yourself.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, Strength-based solution-focused therapy, Mindfulness, Gestalt.
You are seeking guidance on how to become your most authentic self and be able to help improve your life. We all have traumas, everyday stressors, familial and relationship conflicts that have affected us in various ways. If you're feeling anxious, depressed, conflicted or a combination of many emotions; learning how to manage and cope with those emotions can help significantly in reaching goals you set for yourself.
(443) 399-2931 View (443) 399-2931
Photo of Rebecca Maria Schaffner Board Approved Supervisor, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Rebecca Maria Schaffner Board Approved Supervisor
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Parkville, MD 21234
With over 6 yrs of experience, I'm all about Overall Well- Being! I can teach you new and effective ways to cope, relax or act differently towards your struggles and to take a closer look at your thoughts/ feelings/ behaviours that no longer serve you.
You have experienced trauma as a First Responder (EMT, Firefighter, Military, Law Enforcement etc), witnessed a terrible accident, struggle to cope with stress and anxiety, mood or adjustment due to immigration, racial discrimination, refugee status or identity concerns (LGBTQ, African-American). If these issues are affecting your social, home, family or work life too much, therapy with me can help in several ways!
With over 6 yrs of experience, I'm all about Overall Well- Being! I can teach you new and effective ways to cope, relax or act differently towards your struggles and to take a closer look at your thoughts/ feelings/ behaviours that no longer serve you.
You have experienced trauma as a First Responder (EMT, Firefighter, Military, Law Enforcement etc), witnessed a terrible accident, struggle to cope with stress and anxiety, mood or adjustment due to immigration, racial discrimination, refugee status or identity concerns (LGBTQ, African-American). If these issues are affecting your social, home, family or work life too much, therapy with me can help in several ways!
(240) 623-2637 View (240) 623-2637
Photo of Caitlin Rhodes, MA, LCPC
Caitlin Rhodes
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236
Some of the tools and counseling techniques I use are influenced by Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and play therapy.
I value utilizing a strengths-based approach to counseling that caters to each person's unique identity while helping them to reach their wellness goals. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and conflict in interpersonal relationships.
Some of the tools and counseling techniques I use are influenced by Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and play therapy.
I value utilizing a strengths-based approach to counseling that caters to each person's unique identity while helping them to reach their wellness goals. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and conflict in interpersonal relationships.
(443) 526-7478 View (443) 526-7478
Photo of Katie Cashin, LCPC, Counselor
Katie Cashin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21212
My approach combines Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy to help people who are stuck in their relationships, identities, sex lives, religious beliefs, and behavioral patterns, grow into new, sustainable ways of being.
What makes the biggest impact on your experience of therapy? Connecting with a good-fit therapist. I work with folks who have invested in therapy for years, sometimes decades, but who haven't experienced significant change in their relationships, their ways of operating, their stress levels, etc... So if you're motivated to gain insight into your stuck places, experiment with new ways of thinking, acting, and relating, and experience real growth, let's connect.
My approach combines Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy to help people who are stuck in their relationships, identities, sex lives, religious beliefs, and behavioral patterns, grow into new, sustainable ways of being.
What makes the biggest impact on your experience of therapy? Connecting with a good-fit therapist. I work with folks who have invested in therapy for years, sometimes decades, but who haven't experienced significant change in their relationships, their ways of operating, their stress levels, etc... So if you're motivated to gain insight into your stuck places, experiment with new ways of thinking, acting, and relating, and experience real growth, let's connect.
(410) 498-6706 View (410) 498-6706
Photo of Tasheka Cox,  LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tasheka Cox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
To do this, I utilize my specialty areas of cognitive behavior therapy, acceptance, and commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.
My ideal clients are driven to achieve their goals but grapple with stress, anxiety, and depression. They need guidance to break free from debilitating automatic negative thoughts, limiting beliefs, and the inner critic that hinders their progress. They want to break free from the mental health challenges that are holding them back so that they can live the life they want to live.
To do this, I utilize my specialty areas of cognitive behavior therapy, acceptance, and commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.
My ideal clients are driven to achieve their goals but grapple with stress, anxiety, and depression. They need guidance to break free from debilitating automatic negative thoughts, limiting beliefs, and the inner critic that hinders their progress. They want to break free from the mental health challenges that are holding them back so that they can live the life they want to live.
(443) 785-4645 View (443) 785-4645
Photo of Rebecca Falter, LCPC, CCTP
Rebecca Falter
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Middle River, MD 21220
Taking a person-centered approach, I work to learn about your needs and meet you where you are in your therapeutic journey allowing us to open a new door to emotional and self expression and healing. Everyone needs a safe space to be your most authentic self without judgment as well as grow and develop into the person you want to be and I offer a space for you to be heard. I engage in therapeutic techniques drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and mindfulness based practices.
Taking a person-centered approach, I work to learn about your needs and meet you where you are in your therapeutic journey allowing us to open a new door to emotional and self expression and healing. Everyone needs a safe space to be your most authentic self without judgment as well as grow and develop into the person you want to be and I offer a space for you to be heard. I engage in therapeutic techniques drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and mindfulness based practices.
(443) 647-8085 View (443) 647-8085
Photo of Alana O'Neill, LGPC, CAC-AD, SAP, Registered Psychotherapist
Alana O'Neill
Registered Psychotherapist, LGPC, CAC-AD, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21202
My therapeutic compass points towards ACT and DBT.
Welcome to a therapeutic space where the focus is not on what's "wrong" with you, but rather on celebrating your journey towards emotional health & wellness. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist committed to fostering acceptance, self-discovery, and emotional well-being. In my practice, I believe in embracing the concept of mental health as an integral part of our overall wellness. Just as we prioritize our physical health through primary care services, I advocate for the recognition and celebration of strategies that promote emotional health. It's about exploring the depths of self-discovery, resiliency and healing.
My therapeutic compass points towards ACT and DBT.
Welcome to a therapeutic space where the focus is not on what's "wrong" with you, but rather on celebrating your journey towards emotional health & wellness. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist committed to fostering acceptance, self-discovery, and emotional well-being. In my practice, I believe in embracing the concept of mental health as an integral part of our overall wellness. Just as we prioritize our physical health through primary care services, I advocate for the recognition and celebration of strategies that promote emotional health. It's about exploring the depths of self-discovery, resiliency and healing.
(410) 261-4073 View (410) 261-4073
Photo of Janet Peña - Janet Peña, BCBA, LBA, LGPC, EMDR, Counselor
Janet Peña
Counselor, BCBA, LBA, LGPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224  (Online Only)
I use various evidence based techniques and strategies including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and mindfulness techniques to provide clients from diverse backgrounds with the care they need.
I specialize in working with individuals to make lifestyle and behavior changes. My unique approach to working with clients is based on my clinical training in behavior analysis, psychotherapy and integrative nutrition. As a Counselor and Board Certified and Licensed Behavior Analyst we will examine prior conditioning, learn adaptive behaviors and implement systems to help you feel your best, while working from a holistic client centered perspective. As an integrative health coach we will focus on areas of life that are out of balance. IOften we get stuck in a certain area of life (relationships, career, parenting) andneed support.
I use various evidence based techniques and strategies including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and mindfulness techniques to provide clients from diverse backgrounds with the care they need.
I specialize in working with individuals to make lifestyle and behavior changes. My unique approach to working with clients is based on my clinical training in behavior analysis, psychotherapy and integrative nutrition. As a Counselor and Board Certified and Licensed Behavior Analyst we will examine prior conditioning, learn adaptive behaviors and implement systems to help you feel your best, while working from a holistic client centered perspective. As an integrative health coach we will focus on areas of life that are out of balance. IOften we get stuck in a certain area of life (relationships, career, parenting) andneed support.
(410) 656-6393 View (410) 656-6393
Photo of Brenda B. Wilson, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Brenda B. Wilson
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21233  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in my practice.
“Feeling nervous about crowds?” “Checking behaviors?” “No motivation to do anything.” Life experiences come with a myriad of emotions including negative ones. Sometimes, when we experience these negative emotions, we get stuck. Emotional states such as, anxiety and depression, can usher in moments of uncertainty and discomfort. As your therapist, I am committed to helping you, the client, navigate those uncomfortable moments. Perhaps your goal is to change unwanted behaviors, learn coping skills, or become more aware of your authentic self. My endeavor is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore those goals.
I utilize evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in my practice.
“Feeling nervous about crowds?” “Checking behaviors?” “No motivation to do anything.” Life experiences come with a myriad of emotions including negative ones. Sometimes, when we experience these negative emotions, we get stuck. Emotional states such as, anxiety and depression, can usher in moments of uncertainty and discomfort. As your therapist, I am committed to helping you, the client, navigate those uncomfortable moments. Perhaps your goal is to change unwanted behaviors, learn coping skills, or become more aware of your authentic self. My endeavor is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore those goals.
(443) 241-6759 View (443) 241-6759
Photo of Lida Bates, LCSW-C, MS, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lida Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MS, MSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
I use an integrated approach that draws from several different methodologies, including ACT, CBT, mindfulness and trauma focused.
The decision to begin therapy and the process of finding a therapist can be challenging, but ultimately extremely rewarding. I am an experienced therapist who understands that the most powerful things in life are often the simplest: to listen attentively, whole-heartedly, and with openness and compassion. I am committed to creating a safe, comforting space where you feel free to be yourself.
I use an integrated approach that draws from several different methodologies, including ACT, CBT, mindfulness and trauma focused.
The decision to begin therapy and the process of finding a therapist can be challenging, but ultimately extremely rewarding. I am an experienced therapist who understands that the most powerful things in life are often the simplest: to listen attentively, whole-heartedly, and with openness and compassion. I am committed to creating a safe, comforting space where you feel free to be yourself.
(410) 559-9629 View (410) 559-9629
Photo of Kimberly W. Zahm, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Kimberly W. Zahm
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
Welcome! It takes energy and courage to search for a therapist who is a good fit for you. Therapy can help you feel more connected, further develop your purpose, reduce your self-doubt, and develop more effective ways of coping. At times it can be helpful to develop insight and awareness into thought patterns, stuck emotions, or relational patterns from your past, so you can work through them toward acceptance *and* action toward change. Insight alone isn't always enough, so it's important for us to work toward helping you translate that insight into the change & growth you hope for. I strive to create a non-judgmental, safe space.
Welcome! It takes energy and courage to search for a therapist who is a good fit for you. Therapy can help you feel more connected, further develop your purpose, reduce your self-doubt, and develop more effective ways of coping. At times it can be helpful to develop insight and awareness into thought patterns, stuck emotions, or relational patterns from your past, so you can work through them toward acceptance *and* action toward change. Insight alone isn't always enough, so it's important for us to work toward helping you translate that insight into the change & growth you hope for. I strive to create a non-judgmental, safe space.
(443) 232-0905 View (443) 232-0905
Photo of Michael Heady, MA, LCPC
Michael Heady
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I specialize in the most effective forms of treatment for OCD and anxiety disorders; exposure and response prevention (ERP), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Inference-based CBT, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
My goal as a counselor is to provide support and guidance for people who want to make positive changes in their life. I provide counseling for a variety of life's problems including anxiety, depression, relationship issues and general life stressors. I have specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of OCD, panic, agoraphobia, social anxiety, and specific phobias. I approach treatment as a collaborative process between the client and myself; utilizing integrative, evidence-based interventions like ERP, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness. I also offer inference-based CBT, a evidence-based, non-exposure treatment for OCD.
I specialize in the most effective forms of treatment for OCD and anxiety disorders; exposure and response prevention (ERP), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Inference-based CBT, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
My goal as a counselor is to provide support and guidance for people who want to make positive changes in their life. I provide counseling for a variety of life's problems including anxiety, depression, relationship issues and general life stressors. I have specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of OCD, panic, agoraphobia, social anxiety, and specific phobias. I approach treatment as a collaborative process between the client and myself; utilizing integrative, evidence-based interventions like ERP, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness. I also offer inference-based CBT, a evidence-based, non-exposure treatment for OCD.
(443) 333-9570 View (443) 333-9570
Photo of Candice Hendrix, LMSW, CTRP-C
Candice Hendrix
LMSW, CTRP-C
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
In treatment, I use a combination of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Hi I'm Candice! I provide Comprehensive Autism Evaluations and ADHD Assessments for adults and adolescents age 16 and older. I also provide Individual Therapy and Couples/Family Therapy. In therapy, I specialize in helping clients with executive functioning and and managing intense emotions. Many of my clients experience burnout, come from invalidating environments, or struggle with maintaining social relationships.
In treatment, I use a combination of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Hi I'm Candice! I provide Comprehensive Autism Evaluations and ADHD Assessments for adults and adolescents age 16 and older. I also provide Individual Therapy and Couples/Family Therapy. In therapy, I specialize in helping clients with executive functioning and and managing intense emotions. Many of my clients experience burnout, come from invalidating environments, or struggle with maintaining social relationships.
(410) 973-6593 View (410) 973-6593
Photo of Yisroel Tenenbaum, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yisroel Tenenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roland Park, MD 21210
I draw heavily from the research-backed therapy styles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
Whether it's a major challenge or an interest in going from good to great, having someone in your corner can make a big difference. I work with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, trauma, and grief. I also have particular experience working with sleep difficulties (insomnia), ADHD, anger, and chronic pain.
I draw heavily from the research-backed therapy styles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
Whether it's a major challenge or an interest in going from good to great, having someone in your corner can make a big difference. I work with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, trauma, and grief. I also have particular experience working with sleep difficulties (insomnia), ADHD, anger, and chronic pain.
(410) 343-9756 View (410) 343-9756
Photo of Jonathan R Helwig, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan R Helwig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21252  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Jonathan Helwig, LCSW-C, is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical who approaches therapy from an integrative and holistic perspective. Jonathan is an Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) and Mindfulness based therapist who believes therapeutic goals should be collaborative and self-determined by the client. He aims to empower his clients to feel confident sitting in the “driver seat” of their own lives. Jonathan has expertise in working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Jonathan Helwig, LCSW-C, is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical who approaches therapy from an integrative and holistic perspective. Jonathan is an Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) and Mindfulness based therapist who believes therapeutic goals should be collaborative and self-determined by the client. He aims to empower his clients to feel confident sitting in the “driver seat” of their own lives. Jonathan has expertise in working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
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Photo of Marielle McIntyre, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marielle McIntyre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21230  (Online Only)
Marielle has experience seeing clients with a wide range of mental health challenges including difficulty regulating emotions, stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms, and difficulty within relationships. She has a strong passion for working with individuals who are struggling to cope with different life transitions, experiencing low self-esteem, and turmoil in their relationships. Her goal is to help individuals identify and change problematic thoughts and behaviors while using acceptance strategies to validate their past and present emotional experiences.
Marielle has experience seeing clients with a wide range of mental health challenges including difficulty regulating emotions, stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms, and difficulty within relationships. She has a strong passion for working with individuals who are struggling to cope with different life transitions, experiencing low self-esteem, and turmoil in their relationships. Her goal is to help individuals identify and change problematic thoughts and behaviors while using acceptance strategies to validate their past and present emotional experiences.
(667) 200-0730 View (667) 200-0730
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.