Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Cottage Grove, MN

Photo of Kristin Turner, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Kristin Turner
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Waitlist for new clients
I practice from person-centered, trauma-informed, ACT, CBT, and DBT therapy approaches.
On parental leave until September 2024. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere for clients to explore their relationships, values, strengths, and changes they would like to make. I strongly believe that everyone is capable of persevering through life's challenges and making positive change, if given the proper tools and resources. I emphasize building upon underlying resilience I believe every person has, through education, skills, and evidence-based approaches. I am a direct communicator but have a casual approach, emphasize compassion, and appreciate humor in sessions.
I practice from person-centered, trauma-informed, ACT, CBT, and DBT therapy approaches.
On parental leave until September 2024. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere for clients to explore their relationships, values, strengths, and changes they would like to make. I strongly believe that everyone is capable of persevering through life's challenges and making positive change, if given the proper tools and resources. I emphasize building upon underlying resilience I believe every person has, through education, skills, and evidence-based approaches. I am a direct communicator but have a casual approach, emphasize compassion, and appreciate humor in sessions.
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Photo of Lindsay Shackelton, MA, LPCC, PMH-C, Counselor
Lindsay Shackelton
Counselor, MA, LPCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Spring 2024 - Accepting new clients. I provide an empathetic and encouraging environment to those struggling with mental health issues and the challenges that come with everyday life. I believe that therapy is a partnership, in which we join together to help you establish and work towards your goals of healing. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy incorporating elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Strengths Based Therapy.
Spring 2024 - Accepting new clients. I provide an empathetic and encouraging environment to those struggling with mental health issues and the challenges that come with everyday life. I believe that therapy is a partnership, in which we join together to help you establish and work towards your goals of healing. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy incorporating elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Strengths Based Therapy.
(612) 431-8951 View (612) 431-8951
Photo of Mikke Papes, MSW, LGSW, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mikke Papes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Immediate availability. You've carried the weight of your struggles alone for far too long. The mere thought of reaching out for help, expressing your needs, and acknowledging your worth as a person feels like an insurmountable hurdle! Anxiety and depression seem to have a firm grip, distorting your perspective. Navigating through emotions has become a labyrinth, and anger simmers beneath the surface. The pressures of life have left you seeking effective stress management strategies. Self-esteem feels elusive, and issues related to masculinity and femininity weigh heavily on your shoulders. Perfectionism has crushed self-acceptance.
Immediate availability. You've carried the weight of your struggles alone for far too long. The mere thought of reaching out for help, expressing your needs, and acknowledging your worth as a person feels like an insurmountable hurdle! Anxiety and depression seem to have a firm grip, distorting your perspective. Navigating through emotions has become a labyrinth, and anger simmers beneath the surface. The pressures of life have left you seeking effective stress management strategies. Self-esteem feels elusive, and issues related to masculinity and femininity weigh heavily on your shoulders. Perfectionism has crushed self-acceptance.
(763) 496-4895 View (763) 496-4895
Photo of Jay Theisen - Canvas Health, MSW, LICSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Canvas Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
We are accepting new clients! Canvas Health is celebrating more than 50 years of bringing hope, healing, and recovery to the lives of people we serve. Our compassionate clinicians help children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders through exceptional care.
We are accepting new clients! Canvas Health is celebrating more than 50 years of bringing hope, healing, and recovery to the lives of people we serve. Our compassionate clinicians help children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders through exceptional care.
(651) 412-7853 View (651) 412-7853
Photo of Kelly J Dauer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly J Dauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016  (Online Only)
Kelly has experience working with people from all backgrounds.
Kelly has experience working with people from all backgrounds.
(855) 910-9756 View (855) 910-9756
Photo of Peter Jason Meilahn - Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(612) 295-0844 View (612) 295-0844
Photo of Rachel Krieger, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Krieger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016  (Online Only)
I have range of therapeutic experiences from individual mental health to working with families in a variety of contexts. I enjoy working with young adults, moms, women, and people from all backgrounds. I have a laid back, nonjudgmental approach and know that people are doing the best that they can. I recognize the importance of finding a therapist who is a good fit and will work hard to develop a safe, supportive, respectful, and productive environment for all clients. I strive to meet clients where they are at and work together. I aim to help clients identify their strengths, develop coping skills, & live a healthier life.
I have range of therapeutic experiences from individual mental health to working with families in a variety of contexts. I enjoy working with young adults, moms, women, and people from all backgrounds. I have a laid back, nonjudgmental approach and know that people are doing the best that they can. I recognize the importance of finding a therapist who is a good fit and will work hard to develop a safe, supportive, respectful, and productive environment for all clients. I strive to meet clients where they are at and work together. I aim to help clients identify their strengths, develop coping skills, & live a healthier life.
(651) 371-9727 View (651) 371-9727
Photo of Jeff R Hoffman, MA, LPCC
Jeff R Hoffman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor https://www.rumrivercounseling.com/ ***Immediate Openings/Accepting New Clients*** Jeff is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), and completed his graduate degree program at St. Mary’s University School of Graduate Professional Psychology in Minneapolis, MN. He has 20+ years of working with diverse populations in multiple treatment and therapeutic settings. He has a clinical focus that draws from a variety of therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative therapy and solution focused therapy. He has experience working with very diverse pop
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor https://www.rumrivercounseling.com/ ***Immediate Openings/Accepting New Clients*** Jeff is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), and completed his graduate degree program at St. Mary’s University School of Graduate Professional Psychology in Minneapolis, MN. He has 20+ years of working with diverse populations in multiple treatment and therapeutic settings. He has a clinical focus that draws from a variety of therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative therapy and solution focused therapy. He has experience working with very diverse pop
(651) 383-1902 View (651) 383-1902
Photo of Catherine J Brightman, MA, LPCC, LADC, RYT, Counselor
Catherine J Brightman
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Not accepting new clients
If you've ever felt broken, lost, or disconnected I'm the kind of therapist that can support you through your journey of finding lasting change. The beliefs you hold about yourself and the world, your emotions, your memories, and your habits all can influence mental and physical health. When we learn to quiet the mind and unite with the body we learn how to break free from habitual and painful ways of thinking, feeling, and acting.
If you've ever felt broken, lost, or disconnected I'm the kind of therapist that can support you through your journey of finding lasting change. The beliefs you hold about yourself and the world, your emotions, your memories, and your habits all can influence mental and physical health. When we learn to quiet the mind and unite with the body we learn how to break free from habitual and painful ways of thinking, feeling, and acting.
(651) 401-8327 View (651) 401-8327

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Halaina Christensen, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Halaina Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I primarily incorporate tools from psychodynamic theory, attachment theory, CBT, ACT and DBT.
Welcome! I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I strive to develop a safe and trusting relationship as I believe it's the foundation of successful psychotherapy. I take a holistic approach to working with my clients in the therapy room. I practice from a strengths-based framework and believe that one cannot be treated in isolation, but rather within the family and environmental systems they engage with every day. I believe in the importance of meeting you exactly where you are at, and providing an empathic, non-judgmental space for you to process through your experiences.
I primarily incorporate tools from psychodynamic theory, attachment theory, CBT, ACT and DBT.
Welcome! I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I strive to develop a safe and trusting relationship as I believe it's the foundation of successful psychotherapy. I take a holistic approach to working with my clients in the therapy room. I practice from a strengths-based framework and believe that one cannot be treated in isolation, but rather within the family and environmental systems they engage with every day. I believe in the importance of meeting you exactly where you are at, and providing an empathic, non-judgmental space for you to process through your experiences.
(651) 661-5765 View (651) 661-5765
Photo of Ashley Hauffe, MA, LPCC
Ashley Hauffe
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125  (Online Only)
I have an eclectic approach utilizing concepts from CBT, ACT, DBT, positive psychology, Adlerian and psychoanalytic theories.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor for the State of Minnesota with over 10 years of experience. I believe each individual deserves to have a positive therapy experience; a place where you can be seen and heard without judgement. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to explore the difficulties that are creating barriers in your growth and movement forward. I do not believe in bandaids, but in finding the core of where the psychological injury first occurred so lasting healing can happen. You are worthy of love and belonging in this world and I would love to help get you there.
I have an eclectic approach utilizing concepts from CBT, ACT, DBT, positive psychology, Adlerian and psychoanalytic theories.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor for the State of Minnesota with over 10 years of experience. I believe each individual deserves to have a positive therapy experience; a place where you can be seen and heard without judgement. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to explore the difficulties that are creating barriers in your growth and movement forward. I do not believe in bandaids, but in finding the core of where the psychological injury first occurred so lasting healing can happen. You are worthy of love and belonging in this world and I would love to help get you there.
(651) 564-9171 View (651) 564-9171
Photo of Dr. Joan Chemarum, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Joan Chemarum
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Elmo, MN 55042
I use an integrative approach of evidence-based therapies including client-centered/relational, CBT, acceptance commitment therapy, strength-based, EMDR, TF-CBT, and multi-cultural.
There is a person behind that problem who desires to experience a more meaningful, satisfactory, and purposeful life despite past or current life experiences and challenges. I believe this goal can be achieved through a safe and non-judgmental space where I will listen to understand, acknowledge your strengths and experiences, support, empower, and collaborate with you during your recovery journey. It is my great and humble desire to provide my clients from diverse backgrounds with evidence-based interventions and assessments that reflect their interests, values, culture, and needs.
I use an integrative approach of evidence-based therapies including client-centered/relational, CBT, acceptance commitment therapy, strength-based, EMDR, TF-CBT, and multi-cultural.
There is a person behind that problem who desires to experience a more meaningful, satisfactory, and purposeful life despite past or current life experiences and challenges. I believe this goal can be achieved through a safe and non-judgmental space where I will listen to understand, acknowledge your strengths and experiences, support, empower, and collaborate with you during your recovery journey. It is my great and humble desire to provide my clients from diverse backgrounds with evidence-based interventions and assessments that reflect their interests, values, culture, and needs.
(651) 427-1595 View (651) 427-1595
Photo of Mollie Newhouse - Mollie Newhouse, PsyD, LP, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Mollie Newhouse, PsyD, LP
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I am trained in CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR and pre-surgical bariatric assessments I have an interest in health psychology, chronic pain, trauma, eating disorders, and psychological assessments.
Accepting residents of MN. Do you often feel misunderstood, scared, stuck, unheard, or like you don't matter? Sometimes life experiences have us feeling like we are constantly struggling or fighting to survive. Maybe you feel like it's difficult to connect with others or even find it difficult to love yourself. This can leave you feeling lonely and unsure of the future, possibly even unsure if you can trust anyone to understand your struggles. I have interest in helping those who struggle with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, and psychological trauma.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR and pre-surgical bariatric assessments I have an interest in health psychology, chronic pain, trauma, eating disorders, and psychological assessments.
Accepting residents of MN. Do you often feel misunderstood, scared, stuck, unheard, or like you don't matter? Sometimes life experiences have us feeling like we are constantly struggling or fighting to survive. Maybe you feel like it's difficult to connect with others or even find it difficult to love yourself. This can leave you feeling lonely and unsure of the future, possibly even unsure if you can trust anyone to understand your struggles. I have interest in helping those who struggle with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, and psychological trauma.
(651) 240-2660 View (651) 240-2660
Photo of Marissa Hodges, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marissa Hodges
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is informed by evidence-based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I work with adults seeking support in areas of anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem and relationship concerns. In our work together, my goal is to create an environment where you feel safe being you. I’m there to support you through the highs and lows and bumps along the way. Together, we’ll identify and navigate through the challenges in your life. I will help you learn new skills, gain insights into your thoughts and experiences, and guide you on a path towards achieving your goals.
My therapeutic approach is informed by evidence-based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I work with adults seeking support in areas of anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem and relationship concerns. In our work together, my goal is to create an environment where you feel safe being you. I’m there to support you through the highs and lows and bumps along the way. Together, we’ll identify and navigate through the challenges in your life. I will help you learn new skills, gain insights into your thoughts and experiences, and guide you on a path towards achieving your goals.
(651) 240-2796 View (651) 240-2796
Photo of Emily (Emy) Horsey, MS, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily (Emy) Horsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LICSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55129  (Online Only)
I have worked in mental health since 2000 in numerous settings and roles, and I have training and experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Dialectictal Behavior Therapy (DBT), Harm Reduction, and Mindfulness/Relaxation informed practices.
Sometimes in life we can feel like we have no control over what is happening, the paths our relationships are taking, or what the future might have in store for us. We can get to a place where we are stuck in a continuous cycle of negative thinking, gloomy feelings, and ineffective behaviors. I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship changes/separation, substance use issues, stress management, academic challenges, sports/performance concerns, chronic illness, sexuality/gender identity issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum, and life balance.
I have worked in mental health since 2000 in numerous settings and roles, and I have training and experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Dialectictal Behavior Therapy (DBT), Harm Reduction, and Mindfulness/Relaxation informed practices.
Sometimes in life we can feel like we have no control over what is happening, the paths our relationships are taking, or what the future might have in store for us. We can get to a place where we are stuck in a continuous cycle of negative thinking, gloomy feelings, and ineffective behaviors. I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship changes/separation, substance use issues, stress management, academic challenges, sports/performance concerns, chronic illness, sexuality/gender identity issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum, and life balance.
(651) 564-3597 View (651) 564-3597
Photo of Rachel Surratt, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Rachel Surratt
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
These aspects include radical empathy & acceptance, unconditional positive regard, and commitment to self.
Spring/Summer 2024: Accepting Clients to Waitlist — Do you struggle with anxiety, trauma, or are having difficulty in your interpersonal relationships? Has your sense of self been rocked by the recent years of hardship and strife? I want to help you carry the load of existing and healing with supportive tools and empathy. I work closely with folks that are actively interested in understanding themselves and the others in their lives. All I ask is that you come to therapy with a drive to improve and are ready to take a holistic look at your life!
These aspects include radical empathy & acceptance, unconditional positive regard, and commitment to self.
Spring/Summer 2024: Accepting Clients to Waitlist — Do you struggle with anxiety, trauma, or are having difficulty in your interpersonal relationships? Has your sense of self been rocked by the recent years of hardship and strife? I want to help you carry the load of existing and healing with supportive tools and empathy. I work closely with folks that are actively interested in understanding themselves and the others in their lives. All I ask is that you come to therapy with a drive to improve and are ready to take a holistic look at your life!
(651) 410-1822 View (651) 410-1822
Photo of Dr. Hannah L Flanery - Hannah Flanery, PhD , PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hannah Flanery, PhD
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I have experience providing CBT, ACT, and DBT for depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and psychological evaluations.
Life can be hard and throw numerous obstacles in our way. Individuals I work with tend to experience stress and other symptoms that are getting in the way of their ultimate happiness and other important goals. I help others by building a strong foundation in the relationship between the therapist and the client. I tailor treatment with the client's goals in mind. To do this, I use evidence-based treatments as well as a blend of evidence-informed practices.
I have experience providing CBT, ACT, and DBT for depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and psychological evaluations.
Life can be hard and throw numerous obstacles in our way. Individuals I work with tend to experience stress and other symptoms that are getting in the way of their ultimate happiness and other important goals. I help others by building a strong foundation in the relationship between the therapist and the client. I tailor treatment with the client's goals in mind. To do this, I use evidence-based treatments as well as a blend of evidence-informed practices.
(651) 800-9985 View (651) 800-9985
Photo of Zeynep Babali-Cicek, MA, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Zeynep Babali-Cicek
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LADC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
Navigating the modern world's stresses can be overwhelming. It's common to seek escape from difficult emotions and thoughts and to disconnect from oneself. My aim is to help clients feel their emotions, allow them to pass, and liberate their minds from destructive thinking patterns. In my sessions with clients, I pull from a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and other trauma-informed modalities.
Navigating the modern world's stresses can be overwhelming. It's common to seek escape from difficult emotions and thoughts and to disconnect from oneself. My aim is to help clients feel their emotions, allow them to pass, and liberate their minds from destructive thinking patterns. In my sessions with clients, I pull from a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and other trauma-informed modalities.
(651) 571-4232 View (651) 571-4232
Photo of Aura Chasteen - Aura Chasteen, PsyD, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aura Chasteen, PsyD
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I employ cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and skills training based in Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients navigate their presenting challenges.
Hello & welcome. Seeking therapy is a decision of courage and I’m so glad you are exploring this option. I provide therapy to residents of Minnesota, in person & via Telehealth. I love working with a variety of clients, including those struggling to adjust to major life changes, have experienced grief and loss, or are struggling with substance use issues and considering positive steps to improve their health and well-being. Therapy can be hard work, but when a client is motivated for change, I find it very inspiring and a privilege to work collaboratively with these individuals to reach the goals they have identified for themselves.
I employ cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and skills training based in Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients navigate their presenting challenges.
Hello & welcome. Seeking therapy is a decision of courage and I’m so glad you are exploring this option. I provide therapy to residents of Minnesota, in person & via Telehealth. I love working with a variety of clients, including those struggling to adjust to major life changes, have experienced grief and loss, or are struggling with substance use issues and considering positive steps to improve their health and well-being. Therapy can be hard work, but when a client is motivated for change, I find it very inspiring and a privilege to work collaboratively with these individuals to reach the goals they have identified for themselves.
(952) 522-4460 View (952) 522-4460
Photo of Summer Counseling, MA, LPCC, LPC, Counselor
Summer Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
Summer Counseling in Oakdale is accepting new clients for immediate appointments 9am-9pm. Inclusiveness and acceptance are important to us, and we're proud to have a variety of therapeutic specialties. We understand that finding a good therapist can be challenging, and we're confident one of our therapists will be a perfect fit, including non-binary and LGBTQ therapists, neurodivergent therapists, sports performance experts, and chronic illness therapists. At Summer Counseling, you'll find large offices, comfortable waiting spaces, easy access to paperwork and scheduling, and a fresh cup of coffee or tea waiting for you!
Summer Counseling in Oakdale is accepting new clients for immediate appointments 9am-9pm. Inclusiveness and acceptance are important to us, and we're proud to have a variety of therapeutic specialties. We understand that finding a good therapist can be challenging, and we're confident one of our therapists will be a perfect fit, including non-binary and LGBTQ therapists, neurodivergent therapists, sports performance experts, and chronic illness therapists. At Summer Counseling, you'll find large offices, comfortable waiting spaces, easy access to paperwork and scheduling, and a fresh cup of coffee or tea waiting for you!
(651) 967-7945 View (651) 967-7945

See more therapy options for Cottage Grove

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.