Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI

Photo of Victoria Cane - Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy, PhD, LP
Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy
PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49006  (Online Only)
Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy (KEBT) is an individually owned practice bringing together therapists trained in and practicing evidence based therapy including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, exposure-based therapies for anxiety, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and radically open DBT (RODBT) for issues of over-control. KEBT is founded by psychologist, Victoria Cane, who specializes in the treatment of emotion dysregulation disorder (a more accurate name for borderline personality disorder), eating disorders, and LGBTQIA-affirmative therapy.
Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy (KEBT) is an individually owned practice bringing together therapists trained in and practicing evidence based therapy including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, exposure-based therapies for anxiety, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and radically open DBT (RODBT) for issues of over-control. KEBT is founded by psychologist, Victoria Cane, who specializes in the treatment of emotion dysregulation disorder (a more accurate name for borderline personality disorder), eating disorders, and LGBTQIA-affirmative therapy.
(269) 430-2037 View (269) 430-2037
Photo of Shannon Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I lean into CBT, ACT, DBT, ERP, and play for children/young teens.
Do you ever wish life could be different but don't know how to make make changes? Do you wish you could have someone to confide to that isn't part of your daily life and maybe someone who will give you wisdom and help shed light on patterns of thinking that might not be helpful to you? Do you long for space to share your inner thoughts and feelings without judgement? Over the years, I have worked with a variety of individuals ages 4-50 something who long for these exact things!
I lean into CBT, ACT, DBT, ERP, and play for children/young teens.
Do you ever wish life could be different but don't know how to make make changes? Do you wish you could have someone to confide to that isn't part of your daily life and maybe someone who will give you wisdom and help shed light on patterns of thinking that might not be helpful to you? Do you long for space to share your inner thoughts and feelings without judgement? Over the years, I have worked with a variety of individuals ages 4-50 something who long for these exact things!
(269) 665-1064 View (269) 665-1064
Photo of Jennifer Austin, LMSW, ACSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
I use ACT, DBT, IFS and Brainspotting to help clients chart a path to wholeness.
My clients are adults who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism or serious mental illnesses. They are often facing major life transitions such as graduating from college, getting divorced or preparing for retirement. These times in life are often loaded with difficult questions, self-doubt, disappointment and frustration. My approach is never about making those things go away, as I feel that invalidates a person's internal experience. Instead, my clients learn to honor the reality of their present difficulties without fear while feeling empowered to still live life on their own yet healthier terms.
I use ACT, DBT, IFS and Brainspotting to help clients chart a path to wholeness.
My clients are adults who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism or serious mental illnesses. They are often facing major life transitions such as graduating from college, getting divorced or preparing for retirement. These times in life are often loaded with difficult questions, self-doubt, disappointment and frustration. My approach is never about making those things go away, as I feel that invalidates a person's internal experience. Instead, my clients learn to honor the reality of their present difficulties without fear while feeling empowered to still live life on their own yet healthier terms.
(269) 350-4143 View (269) 350-4143
Photo of Makenzie Edson, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Makenzie Edson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
In times of uncertainty or distress, reaching out for support is an act of courage.
Welcome to the therapy community, I’m so glad you’re here. In this safe and supportive space, we'll work together to explore your thoughts, emotions, and goals. I believe in a person centered approach where you are the expert. I’m here to assist you in navigating life's challenges, fostering growth, and achieving lasting well-being. Your journey towards healing and self-discovery begins here.
In times of uncertainty or distress, reaching out for support is an act of courage.
Welcome to the therapy community, I’m so glad you’re here. In this safe and supportive space, we'll work together to explore your thoughts, emotions, and goals. I believe in a person centered approach where you are the expert. I’m here to assist you in navigating life's challenges, fostering growth, and achieving lasting well-being. Your journey towards healing and self-discovery begins here.
(269) 520-7610 View (269) 520-7610
Photo of Marisa Kowalski, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Kowalski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
I also use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) and Mindfulness (MBCT).
I have experience working with people who are facing challenges in their lives. Whether it be mental health, adjusting to a difficult time or stressful life transition, chronic illness and/or chronic pain, processing trauma and grief, work stress, or caregiver stress/burnout I provide a safe and comfortable environment for you to explore and resolve the issues you are dealing with.
I also use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) and Mindfulness (MBCT).
I have experience working with people who are facing challenges in their lives. Whether it be mental health, adjusting to a difficult time or stressful life transition, chronic illness and/or chronic pain, processing trauma and grief, work stress, or caregiver stress/burnout I provide a safe and comfortable environment for you to explore and resolve the issues you are dealing with.
(269) 580-8281 View (269) 580-8281
Photo of Beth Hawver, LMSW, CAADC
Beth Hawver
Masters Social Worker, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I am here to help you find the healthiest, most whole part of you. I believe recovery is EVERYWHERE. My primary purpose is to help you heal your whole self. Working under a philosophy based in compassion, acceptance and mindfulness, I want to partner with you to bring out your strengths and help find the joy that's waiting for you.
I am here to help you find the healthiest, most whole part of you. I believe recovery is EVERYWHERE. My primary purpose is to help you heal your whole self. Working under a philosophy based in compassion, acceptance and mindfulness, I want to partner with you to bring out your strengths and help find the joy that's waiting for you.
(269) 247-6193 View (269) 247-6193
Photo of Jennifer E Ranalli, MA, LLPC, NCC, Counselor
Jennifer E Ranalli
Counselor, MA, LLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
I am also skilled in EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, experiential and exposure therapies.
Do you feel as if your life is unmanageable? Are you struggling to manage your life as is? It’s no secret that life doesn’t fight fair. At times, it can seem that nothing goes the way we really want it to, no matter how well we plan. Fortunately, we were built to adapt and recover quickly. It is our own resilience that dictates what happens next and not life’s quirkiness or unpredictability. I collaborate with adults 18 and older to successfully manage life using healthy responses and sustainable coping skills. I have assisted individuals with addictions, complex-trauma, and personality disorders for 5+ years.
I am also skilled in EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, experiential and exposure therapies.
Do you feel as if your life is unmanageable? Are you struggling to manage your life as is? It’s no secret that life doesn’t fight fair. At times, it can seem that nothing goes the way we really want it to, no matter how well we plan. Fortunately, we were built to adapt and recover quickly. It is our own resilience that dictates what happens next and not life’s quirkiness or unpredictability. I collaborate with adults 18 and older to successfully manage life using healthy responses and sustainable coping skills. I have assisted individuals with addictions, complex-trauma, and personality disorders for 5+ years.
(269) 256-2529 View (269) 256-2529
Photo of Michelle Colpean, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Colpean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
I utilize a psychoanalytic approach, incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, exposure and response prevention, and mindfulness to support you with your therapeutic goals.
I'm happy you're here! I hope to walk alongside you and provide the support you need to make changes in your life. I enjoy helping older adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, stress management, boundary setting, and difficult life transitions. I utilize a holistic approach, helping you explore your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health in a safe space. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where we can seek a deeper understanding of ourselves and find a path to healing.
I utilize a psychoanalytic approach, incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, exposure and response prevention, and mindfulness to support you with your therapeutic goals.
I'm happy you're here! I hope to walk alongside you and provide the support you need to make changes in your life. I enjoy helping older adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, stress management, boundary setting, and difficult life transitions. I utilize a holistic approach, helping you explore your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health in a safe space. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where we can seek a deeper understanding of ourselves and find a path to healing.
(269) 256-1663 View (269) 256-1663
Photo of Rachel M Cook, MA, TMLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Rachel M Cook
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TMLP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009  (Online Only)
In therapy, I tailor sessions to meet the needs of the client, often drawing upon approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief and talk-therapy to foster an open, reflective, and healing environment.
The relationship between the client and therapist is the foundation for any level of therapeutic healing. Creating a safe, comfortable, and honest environment for the client is of upmost importance to me. In this way, I strive to be non-judgmental and empathetic with my clients. I work with a wide range of clients including college students and adults who are dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma.
In therapy, I tailor sessions to meet the needs of the client, often drawing upon approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief and talk-therapy to foster an open, reflective, and healing environment.
The relationship between the client and therapist is the foundation for any level of therapeutic healing. Creating a safe, comfortable, and honest environment for the client is of upmost importance to me. In this way, I strive to be non-judgmental and empathetic with my clients. I work with a wide range of clients including college students and adults who are dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma.
(269) 215-2817 View (269) 215-2817
Photo of Bill Fitzgerald, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Bill Fitzgerald
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I incorporate ideas borrowed from cognitive behavioral therapy, self-compassion therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, and mindfulness to promote this growth.
We all want to live a life full of happiness, joy, and meaning. However, life can be difficult at times, making this a challenge to do. I strongly believe you have the skills and ability to successfully traverse through these tough times. However, sometimes this is very hard to do, but this is not indicative of your ability to cope with things. Over the course of my career in mental health I have had the honor of meeting many people who were able to do this. My role, working with them, has been to act as a companion, sometimes a guide, and sometimes a sounding board, to assist them in making this happen.
I incorporate ideas borrowed from cognitive behavioral therapy, self-compassion therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, and mindfulness to promote this growth.
We all want to live a life full of happiness, joy, and meaning. However, life can be difficult at times, making this a challenge to do. I strongly believe you have the skills and ability to successfully traverse through these tough times. However, sometimes this is very hard to do, but this is not indicative of your ability to cope with things. Over the course of my career in mental health I have had the honor of meeting many people who were able to do this. My role, working with them, has been to act as a companion, sometimes a guide, and sometimes a sounding board, to assist them in making this happen.
(269) 257-2124 View (269) 257-2124
Photo of Terri Ratliff, PhD, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Terri Ratliff
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008  (Online Only)
My therapy style can lead to a restorative mental health balance, heightened self-awareness, and self-acceptance, offering each client enriched relationships and an enhanced quality of life.
Life can change in a flash. Transitions are not always expected. Job loss, chronic illness, death of a loved one, a pandemic - not to mention those we do plan, such as moving, empty nest, retirement, and others. We often try to avoid transitions because change can be hard. Even a positive change can cause feelings of loss, anxiety, overwhelmed and often leads to anxiety or depression. The good news is those suffering from emotional instability, a trauma & loss, or other mental health illnesses can learn new tools and skills to maneuver their way to a new calm and peace.
My therapy style can lead to a restorative mental health balance, heightened self-awareness, and self-acceptance, offering each client enriched relationships and an enhanced quality of life.
Life can change in a flash. Transitions are not always expected. Job loss, chronic illness, death of a loved one, a pandemic - not to mention those we do plan, such as moving, empty nest, retirement, and others. We often try to avoid transitions because change can be hard. Even a positive change can cause feelings of loss, anxiety, overwhelmed and often leads to anxiety or depression. The good news is those suffering from emotional instability, a trauma & loss, or other mental health illnesses can learn new tools and skills to maneuver their way to a new calm and peace.
(800) 693-1916 View (800) 693-1916
Photo of Laura Trombley, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Laura Trombley
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I primarily employ aspects of ACT and EFT in my sessions based on the needs of my clients.
Now accepting couples for Emotionally Focused Therapy! Is it time to look within to address your needs, heal, and grow? In my practice, I work collaboratively with my clients to find the root cause of their issues. I treat my clients' holistically, making sure all their needs are addressed. I like to make sure each of my clients get what they are looking for out of counseling and that they feel heard. I work with adolescents (12 and up) and adults who have experienced anxiety, depression, significant trauma, attachment issues, autism spectrum disorder, interpersonal concerns, low self-esteem and social phobia.
I primarily employ aspects of ACT and EFT in my sessions based on the needs of my clients.
Now accepting couples for Emotionally Focused Therapy! Is it time to look within to address your needs, heal, and grow? In my practice, I work collaboratively with my clients to find the root cause of their issues. I treat my clients' holistically, making sure all their needs are addressed. I like to make sure each of my clients get what they are looking for out of counseling and that they feel heard. I work with adolescents (12 and up) and adults who have experienced anxiety, depression, significant trauma, attachment issues, autism spectrum disorder, interpersonal concerns, low self-esteem and social phobia.
(269) 247-6214 View (269) 247-6214
Photo of Jacob Crowell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacob Crowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidenced based therapy that helps people live their lives more meaningfully.
Opening up to another person can be tough and making the steps to start therapy can be difficult. Make the first step easier and schedule a free phone or in person fifteen-minute consultation.We all experience pain, and this can lead to suffering. We experience suffering when we react to pain, get stuck in unhelpful behaviors, thoughts, and emotions, and end up caught in a place we do not want to be. As a counselor I have had the honor of working with great individuals helping them help themselves work through pain and be able to discover and more deeply connect to what is important to them; living a life more fully.
I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidenced based therapy that helps people live their lives more meaningfully.
Opening up to another person can be tough and making the steps to start therapy can be difficult. Make the first step easier and schedule a free phone or in person fifteen-minute consultation.We all experience pain, and this can lead to suffering. We experience suffering when we react to pain, get stuck in unhelpful behaviors, thoughts, and emotions, and end up caught in a place we do not want to be. As a counselor I have had the honor of working with great individuals helping them help themselves work through pain and be able to discover and more deeply connect to what is important to them; living a life more fully.
(269) 743-3815 View (269) 743-3815
Photo of Bethany L Vinatieri, LMSW, CDP, NPT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany L Vinatieri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CDP, NPT-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Training: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing & Project Uplift (CBT & mindfulness program for individuals with Epilepsy).
Life is full of uncertainty, change, joy and tragedy. I feel uniquely privileged to bear witness to people's stories. I believe the most important aspect of therapy is creating a safe, compassionate space for people to explore, process and heal. I have special experiences and interests in working with adults with chronic medical illness, caregiver stress, grief, anxiety & depression. Available by referral only. I am also a registered telehealth provider in the state of Florida.
Training: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing & Project Uplift (CBT & mindfulness program for individuals with Epilepsy).
Life is full of uncertainty, change, joy and tragedy. I feel uniquely privileged to bear witness to people's stories. I believe the most important aspect of therapy is creating a safe, compassionate space for people to explore, process and heal. I have special experiences and interests in working with adults with chronic medical illness, caregiver stress, grief, anxiety & depression. Available by referral only. I am also a registered telehealth provider in the state of Florida.
(269) 389-9502 View (269) 389-9502
Photo of Kristin Zimmerman, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I use interventions based on your individual needs and life experience combining elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), compassion-focused therapy (CPT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I have been practicing clinical social work with children, adults and adolescents for twenty-five years. I strive to provide treatment that is supportive, accepting and one that encourages each individual's unique personal exploration and growth. I use a relaxed, interactive and educational approach to treating depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction and recovery, co-occurring disorders, parenting/family support and adjustment to life transitions.
I use interventions based on your individual needs and life experience combining elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), compassion-focused therapy (CPT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I have been practicing clinical social work with children, adults and adolescents for twenty-five years. I strive to provide treatment that is supportive, accepting and one that encourages each individual's unique personal exploration and growth. I use a relaxed, interactive and educational approach to treating depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction and recovery, co-occurring disorders, parenting/family support and adjustment to life transitions.
(269) 580-8159 View (269) 580-8159
Photo of Amy Names Wilson, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Names Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Professionally, I have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused Therapies.
When people have experienced loss, trauma, abuse, chronic stress, addiction or disconnection from others they may develop unhealthy patterns of responding. We can transform many of these patterns through increasing our own awareness. We all carry the answers to our own healing within us. I seek to make working with me accessible and welcoming to all. You are invited to come as you are. I'm here for you when you are feeling stuck, limited by stigma or shame, caught in past hurts, fearful, isolated, or in need of getting back to feeling like you.
Professionally, I have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused Therapies.
When people have experienced loss, trauma, abuse, chronic stress, addiction or disconnection from others they may develop unhealthy patterns of responding. We can transform many of these patterns through increasing our own awareness. We all carry the answers to our own healing within us. I seek to make working with me accessible and welcoming to all. You are invited to come as you are. I'm here for you when you are feeling stuck, limited by stigma or shame, caught in past hurts, fearful, isolated, or in need of getting back to feeling like you.
(269) 668-1013 View (269) 668-1013
Photo of Rhonda Overberger, MA, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rhonda Overberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I practice evidence-based treatment rooted in science. My goals are to help clients alter negative repetitive patterns, defuse from overwhelming destructive behaviors, and create movement toward what is really important in their lives. I use acceptance and mindfulness skills, combined with behavior-change strategies, to help clients increase psychological flexibility. I believe that psychological suffering is caused by avoiding emotions and life experiences, which results in psychological rigidity, and greater suffering.
I practice evidence-based treatment rooted in science. My goals are to help clients alter negative repetitive patterns, defuse from overwhelming destructive behaviors, and create movement toward what is really important in their lives. I use acceptance and mindfulness skills, combined with behavior-change strategies, to help clients increase psychological flexibility. I believe that psychological suffering is caused by avoiding emotions and life experiences, which results in psychological rigidity, and greater suffering.
(269) 205-6852 View (269) 205-6852
Photo of Sherri Nash - S.C. Nash Counseling & Consulting , Licensed Professional Counselor
S.C. Nash Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007  (Online Only)
Our therapeutic approach integrates the intersections of your experience so you can heal in wholeness through acceptance and authenticity.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stress, isolation, sadness, trauma, grief, ineffective communication, people-pleasing, and struggling with transitions in life? Do you find it challenging to connect with a therapist who truly comprehends the intricate facets of your identity, as a Black & Brown person, member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and advocate? Our practice bridges the gap between marginalized communities and the therapists best equipped to guide healing. We invite you to lean into your journey toward growth and healing by taking the first step & scheduling with us.
Our therapeutic approach integrates the intersections of your experience so you can heal in wholeness through acceptance and authenticity.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stress, isolation, sadness, trauma, grief, ineffective communication, people-pleasing, and struggling with transitions in life? Do you find it challenging to connect with a therapist who truly comprehends the intricate facets of your identity, as a Black & Brown person, member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and advocate? Our practice bridges the gap between marginalized communities and the therapists best equipped to guide healing. We invite you to lean into your journey toward growth and healing by taking the first step & scheduling with us.
(734) 548-9994 View (734) 548-9994
Photo of Julie Carbajal, MA, LLP, LPC, NCC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Carbajal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLP, LPC, NCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
With almost all clients, I integrate the behavioral approaches of acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT) and compassion-focused therapy (CFT) to help you discover what's important, take meaningful action in that direction, and use mindfulness skills to relate more compassionately, rather than judgmentally, to painful thoughts and emotions.
Most of my clients come to me with anxiety, obsessive compulsive, or trauma disorders. They find their worlds shrinking as a result and aren't sure how to break the cycle. For clients with anxiety and trauma disorders, I use exposure therapy to break cycles of fear, anxiety, and avoidance. I also see clients troubled by marginalization due to identity, relationship struggles, substance use, and psychotic disorders, and they too deal with pain that gets in the way of what's important in their lives. They often feel trapped or stuck and want to find a way through the barriers keeping them from meaning and purpose in their lives.
With almost all clients, I integrate the behavioral approaches of acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT) and compassion-focused therapy (CFT) to help you discover what's important, take meaningful action in that direction, and use mindfulness skills to relate more compassionately, rather than judgmentally, to painful thoughts and emotions.
Most of my clients come to me with anxiety, obsessive compulsive, or trauma disorders. They find their worlds shrinking as a result and aren't sure how to break the cycle. For clients with anxiety and trauma disorders, I use exposure therapy to break cycles of fear, anxiety, and avoidance. I also see clients troubled by marginalization due to identity, relationship struggles, substance use, and psychotic disorders, and they too deal with pain that gets in the way of what's important in their lives. They often feel trapped or stuck and want to find a way through the barriers keeping them from meaning and purpose in their lives.
(269) 366-4595 View (269) 366-4595
Photo of David Lawrence, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
David Lawrence
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
I currently work with a team of clinicians at Kalamazoo ACT.
I focus on using evidenced based therapies in order to provide my clients with effective treatments for a variety of problems. My aim is to help clients to understand their personal values in life, to achieve their personal goals, and to overcome the barriers that interfere with living a values-based life. I personally believe that we are all doing the best we can, and that we can all benefit from having someone support us in making meaningful changes in our lives. I specialize in treatments for trauma, perfectionism, and treatment resistant anxiety and depression.
I currently work with a team of clinicians at Kalamazoo ACT.
I focus on using evidenced based therapies in order to provide my clients with effective treatments for a variety of problems. My aim is to help clients to understand their personal values in life, to achieve their personal goals, and to overcome the barriers that interfere with living a values-based life. I personally believe that we are all doing the best we can, and that we can all benefit from having someone support us in making meaningful changes in our lives. I specialize in treatments for trauma, perfectionism, and treatment resistant anxiety and depression.
(616) 226-5762 View (616) 226-5762
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.