Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN

Photo of Kate Herrington, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Herrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
In my practice I bring compassion, humor, insight, and a sincere dedication to my clients. My practice is grounded in attachment theory, play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), exposure and response prevention (E/RP), and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). With my warm and welcoming nature, I strive to create a safe space for children, teens and adults to explore their concerns. In collaboration with you, I will support you in taking steps toward an improved sense of well-being and a life path that aligns with your deepest values. I work with individuals of all ages, families, and provide parent coaching.
In my practice I bring compassion, humor, insight, and a sincere dedication to my clients. My practice is grounded in attachment theory, play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), exposure and response prevention (E/RP), and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). With my warm and welcoming nature, I strive to create a safe space for children, teens and adults to explore their concerns. In collaboration with you, I will support you in taking steps toward an improved sense of well-being and a life path that aligns with your deepest values. I work with individuals of all ages, families, and provide parent coaching.
(952) 260-7797 View (952) 260-7797
Photo of Erin Venker - OCD and Anxiety Center of Minnesota, MA , LPCC
OCD and Anxiety Center of Minnesota
MA , LPCC
Verified Verified
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
Cont act us and take the first step towards reclaiming your life from OCD and anxiety.
Welcome to OCD and Anxiety Treatment Center of Minnesota, where we provide top-quality, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with OCD and anxiety disorders. Our center is dedicated to helping our clients achieve lasting relief and regain control over their lives. At our center, we offer a comprehensive range of specialized treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), inference-based CBT (I-CBT), mindfulness techniques, and other proven therapeutic modalities.
Cont act us and take the first step towards reclaiming your life from OCD and anxiety.
Welcome to OCD and Anxiety Treatment Center of Minnesota, where we provide top-quality, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with OCD and anxiety disorders. Our center is dedicated to helping our clients achieve lasting relief and regain control over their lives. At our center, we offer a comprehensive range of specialized treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), inference-based CBT (I-CBT), mindfulness techniques, and other proven therapeutic modalities.
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Photo of Katelyn Schwartz, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Katelyn Schwartz
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping clients develop insight and self-awareness so they better understand how to improve their overall wellbeing. I utilize an integrative, non-judgmental approach to psychotherapy focusing on the collaboration of the counselor and the client. I use a variety of models including person-centered therapy, attachment-focused, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma-informed therapies.
I am passionate about helping clients develop insight and self-awareness so they better understand how to improve their overall wellbeing. I utilize an integrative, non-judgmental approach to psychotherapy focusing on the collaboration of the counselor and the client. I use a variety of models including person-centered therapy, attachment-focused, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma-informed therapies.
(612) 400-8396 View (612) 400-8396
Photo of Colleen Clarke, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Colleen Clarke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
My approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy ACT, solutions-focused, & strengths-based.
Hi! I am open-minded, curious, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I believe in community and reaching out to others for support. Having raised three young adults, I am drawn to conversations about life transition, identity and career exploration, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues affecting young adults and adults of all ages. I seek to listen to and support adults in their process of healing and self-exploration. As a cis-gendered, white woman who has lived in many different communities around the US, I continue to strive to learn about others’ culture and experiences with humility and curiosity.
My approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy ACT, solutions-focused, & strengths-based.
Hi! I am open-minded, curious, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I believe in community and reaching out to others for support. Having raised three young adults, I am drawn to conversations about life transition, identity and career exploration, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues affecting young adults and adults of all ages. I seek to listen to and support adults in their process of healing and self-exploration. As a cis-gendered, white woman who has lived in many different communities around the US, I continue to strive to learn about others’ culture and experiences with humility and curiosity.
(612) 662-4227 View (612) 662-4227
Photo of Jayna Lundgren, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jayna Lundgren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
Currently accepting clients for in-person or virtual appointments! My favorite part about this work is building trusting relationships which can promote growth and healing. My goal is to create a collaborative and empowering environment that provides acceptance and compassion while taking strides towards one’s own desired change. I value your personal experiences, perspectives and knowledge in your therapeutic journey. I strive to provide an inclusive space that is accepting of individuality and reinforces living in accordance with your values.
Currently accepting clients for in-person or virtual appointments! My favorite part about this work is building trusting relationships which can promote growth and healing. My goal is to create a collaborative and empowering environment that provides acceptance and compassion while taking strides towards one’s own desired change. I value your personal experiences, perspectives and knowledge in your therapeutic journey. I strive to provide an inclusive space that is accepting of individuality and reinforces living in accordance with your values.
(952) 333-4955 View (952) 333-4955
Photo of Nikita Tavares, MPS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nikita Tavares
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
My therapy practice is relational and integrative, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Existential Therapy, EMDR Therapy, and mindfulness practices.
You may feel like you are stuck or moving through life without purpose or meaning, like your brain is on autopilot, reacting to the world instead of responding mindfully or with meaning. My role as a therapist is to foster a calming and compassionate environment that will allow you to tap into your inner healing system. The goal being to turn down the volume of incessant thoughts, soften the rough edges of the past, and overall feel empowered in approaching life with greater clarity, ease, flexibility, and confidence. I am here to help support and guide you towards a more peaceful and values-oriented life.
My therapy practice is relational and integrative, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Existential Therapy, EMDR Therapy, and mindfulness practices.
You may feel like you are stuck or moving through life without purpose or meaning, like your brain is on autopilot, reacting to the world instead of responding mindfully or with meaning. My role as a therapist is to foster a calming and compassionate environment that will allow you to tap into your inner healing system. The goal being to turn down the volume of incessant thoughts, soften the rough edges of the past, and overall feel empowered in approaching life with greater clarity, ease, flexibility, and confidence. I am here to help support and guide you towards a more peaceful and values-oriented life.
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Photo of Emily (Emy) Horsey, MS, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily (Emy) Horsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LICSW
Verified Verified
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105  (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 Elizabeth Hayes, PsyD, MS, LP, Psychologist
Elizabeth Hayes
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, LP
Verified Verified
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
I am experienced in many therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, DBT, ACT, and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
You feel shut down, trapped by negative feelings and memories. Unhappiness and worry are familiar companions. Negative emotions and thoughts interrupt the ability to be your full self. Unsatisfying relationships with friends and family sap your energy. You’d like to change the patterns in your life that don't seem to be working, but can’t find a way to do so. You want a therapist who accepts, understands and validates you, while offering real skills and strategies for dealing with your distress.
I am experienced in many therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, DBT, ACT, and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
You feel shut down, trapped by negative feelings and memories. Unhappiness and worry are familiar companions. Negative emotions and thoughts interrupt the ability to be your full self. Unsatisfying relationships with friends and family sap your energy. You’d like to change the patterns in your life that don't seem to be working, but can’t find a way to do so. You want a therapist who accepts, understands and validates you, while offering real skills and strategies for dealing with your distress.
(651) 321-9638 View (651) 321-9638
Photo of Tyler Ahrens, MSc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tyler Ahrens
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm Tyler! As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, specializing in religious trauma recovery, inclusivity and acceptance are central to my entire practice. Exploring religious trauma requires a delicate balance of empathy and understanding. And as someone with over 30 years of lived experience in a high-control environment, I am committed to helping others heal from traumatic religious experiences, knowing that these can leave lasting scars on their mental and emotional well-being. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges you face and work towards a path of healing and self-discovery.
Hello there, I'm Tyler! As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, specializing in religious trauma recovery, inclusivity and acceptance are central to my entire practice. Exploring religious trauma requires a delicate balance of empathy and understanding. And as someone with over 30 years of lived experience in a high-control environment, I am committed to helping others heal from traumatic religious experiences, knowing that these can leave lasting scars on their mental and emotional well-being. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges you face and work towards a path of healing and self-discovery.
(952) 900-3415 View (952) 900-3415
Photo of Dr. Joan Chemarum, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Joan Chemarum
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
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 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 that reflect their interests, values, culture, and needs.
(651) 427-1595 View (651) 427-1595
Photo of Mikke Papes, MSW, LGSW, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mikke Papes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
My services cover a wide range of areas including anxiety, depression, systemic issues, addiction, emotional navigation, women's issues, anger management, stress relief, self-esteem, men's issues, values and purpose, breaking free from the shackles of perfectionism, and fostering 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.
My services cover a wide range of areas including anxiety, depression, systemic issues, addiction, emotional navigation, women's issues, anger management, stress relief, self-esteem, men's issues, values and purpose, breaking free from the shackles of perfectionism, and fostering 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.
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Photo of Kelly Jordan, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Kelly Jordan
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
Feel purposeful, energized, and balanced in your life and career. If you have found yourself disconnected from your values, stressed, and overwhelmed, I will work with you to forge a path forward with reflection and intention. I enjoy working with people during times of stress and burnout, transition, grieving, and decision-making. I employ an eclectic approach with practical tools to meet individuals' personal and career counseling needs. Our sessions may be focused on self-assessment, goal-setting, processing difficulties, or concrete skill development. You may choose to complete a more comprehensive assessment process.
Feel purposeful, energized, and balanced in your life and career. If you have found yourself disconnected from your values, stressed, and overwhelmed, I will work with you to forge a path forward with reflection and intention. I enjoy working with people during times of stress and burnout, transition, grieving, and decision-making. I employ an eclectic approach with practical tools to meet individuals' personal and career counseling needs. Our sessions may be focused on self-assessment, goal-setting, processing difficulties, or concrete skill development. You may choose to complete a more comprehensive assessment process.
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Photo of Vanessa Rempel, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Vanessa Rempel
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
If you're interested in learning more about how I can work with you to find a path through challenges you are currently facing I'd invite you to cont act me.
Life can be challenging. Sometimes these challenges come from outside of us (hurts others have caused us through their actions) and other times our challenges come from within (frustrating behavior patterns we just can't seem to shake, patterns of thinking about ourselves and the world around us that cause us needless suffering). When these challenges become too great and leave us feeling afraid, angry, confused or overwhelmed, therapy can be helpful. In my work with clients I strive to instill hope, foster resiliency, and nurture a sense of empowerment and personal agency.
If you're interested in learning more about how I can work with you to find a path through challenges you are currently facing I'd invite you to cont act me.
Life can be challenging. Sometimes these challenges come from outside of us (hurts others have caused us through their actions) and other times our challenges come from within (frustrating behavior patterns we just can't seem to shake, patterns of thinking about ourselves and the world around us that cause us needless suffering). When these challenges become too great and leave us feeling afraid, angry, confused or overwhelmed, therapy can be helpful. In my work with clients I strive to instill hope, foster resiliency, and nurture a sense of empowerment and personal agency.
(651) 504-6062 View (651) 504-6062
Photo of Denise M Hein, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise M Hein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
Outwardly your life appears good. You’re accomplished, educated, and successful. You’ve mastered the art of presentation, the illusion of perfection. But inside, you aren’t happy, never feeling good enough with that internal voice reminding you where you fall short. You are irritable, flat, tearful and hanging on by a thread. Recently, it's gotten worse. The years of keeping it together have left you exhausted, overwhelmed, stressed, and not even recognizing yourself. Feeling disappointed, disillusioned and dissatisfied, you’re desperate for a change. Should you get divorced, change careers, or drive away in the middle of the night?
Outwardly your life appears good. You’re accomplished, educated, and successful. You’ve mastered the art of presentation, the illusion of perfection. But inside, you aren’t happy, never feeling good enough with that internal voice reminding you where you fall short. You are irritable, flat, tearful and hanging on by a thread. Recently, it's gotten worse. The years of keeping it together have left you exhausted, overwhelmed, stressed, and not even recognizing yourself. Feeling disappointed, disillusioned and dissatisfied, you’re desperate for a change. Should you get divorced, change careers, or drive away in the middle of the night?
(651) 564-9943 View (651) 564-9943
Photo of Terri Bly - LynLake Centers for Wellbeing, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
LynLake Centers for Wellbeing
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, we believe all people deserve to lead empowered, creative, authentic lives. We’re here for you, no matter where you’re at. We’re a large, diverse group of experienced psychotherapists, counselors, dietitians, psychiatric nurse practitioners, acupuncturists, neuro/psychological testing psychologists, yoga therapists, wellness coaches, trauma specialists, and more. We are united by our passion for helping to create a healthy, resilient, and fulfilled community. We offer both online and in-person services at over a dozen locations throughout the Twin Cities. We are accepting new clients of all ages!
At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, we believe all people deserve to lead empowered, creative, authentic lives. We’re here for you, no matter where you’re at. We’re a large, diverse group of experienced psychotherapists, counselors, dietitians, psychiatric nurse practitioners, acupuncturists, neuro/psychological testing psychologists, yoga therapists, wellness coaches, trauma specialists, and more. We are united by our passion for helping to create a healthy, resilient, and fulfilled community. We offer both online and in-person services at over a dozen locations throughout the Twin Cities. We are accepting new clients of all ages!
(952) 800-3161 View (952) 800-3161
Photo of Marcus Scott Manning, MA, LPCC
Marcus Scott Manning
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
I have an intense curiosity about human behavior and why people make the decisions they do. As a therapist I use that as a way to help people gain insight and understanding about their lives, ultimately finding greater contentment, happiness and fulfillment.  I'm committed to helping my clients live their best lives. My specialties are counseling with Adult Adoptees, Adult ADHD/ADD, Couples /Interracial Couples. I also work with individuals to help them navigate their way through Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Stress Management.
I have an intense curiosity about human behavior and why people make the decisions they do. As a therapist I use that as a way to help people gain insight and understanding about their lives, ultimately finding greater contentment, happiness and fulfillment.  I'm committed to helping my clients live their best lives. My specialties are counseling with Adult Adoptees, Adult ADHD/ADD, Couples /Interracial Couples. I also work with individuals to help them navigate their way through Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Stress Management.
(651) 401-8483 View (651) 401-8483
Photo of Amy Lokensgard, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Amy Lokensgard
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
Finding a therapist with whom you feel safe and comfortable is essential for a successful outcome. Clients have told me that I am easy to connect with and tend to put people at ease quickly. Creating a warm, respectful and non-judgmental atmosphere is my first priority. I also feel that laughter/humor can be very therapeutic when appropriate!
Finding a therapist with whom you feel safe and comfortable is essential for a successful outcome. Clients have told me that I am easy to connect with and tend to put people at ease quickly. Creating a warm, respectful and non-judgmental atmosphere is my first priority. I also feel that laughter/humor can be very therapeutic when appropriate!
(651) 504-1741 View (651) 504-1741
Photo of Carlin Anderson - Premier Sport Psychology, PLLC, PhD, LP, CMPC, Psychologist
Premier Sport Psychology, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, LP, CMPC
Verified Verified
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
Premier Sport Psychology provides mental skills training and psychological counseling to athletes & performers of all ages and levels. We also work with business professionals. We provide sport psychology services to Olympic, professional, collegiate, high school and amateur athletes. We work to improve performance, mental health and overall well-being. Premier Sport Psychologists are all former collegiate athletes and have specialized training in performance psychology.
Premier Sport Psychology provides mental skills training and psychological counseling to athletes & performers of all ages and levels. We also work with business professionals. We provide sport psychology services to Olympic, professional, collegiate, high school and amateur athletes. We work to improve performance, mental health and overall well-being. Premier Sport Psychologists are all former collegiate athletes and have specialized training in performance psychology.
(952) 679-7124 View (952) 679-7124
Photo of Nancy A McLean, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy A McLean
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
I believe that every person has an emotional, mental, physical and spiritual life that needs to be supported and nurtured. In a setting that is caring, supportive and ethical, I work to empower individuals, couples and families to manage their own well-being.
I believe that every person has an emotional, mental, physical and spiritual life that needs to be supported and nurtured. In a setting that is caring, supportive and ethical, I work to empower individuals, couples and families to manage their own well-being.
(651) 968-3896 View (651) 968-3896
Photo of Dr. Jackie Henry, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Jackie Henry
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Macalester-Groveland, Saint Paul, MN 55105
Are you overwhelmed? Not sure where to turn or what to do next? Going through life transitions can bring many different emotions. We can talk about this together, finding a way forward in uncertain times. Perhaps you feel disconnected from yourself, from your friends and family or from the values you hold. Let's rediscover what is important to you and how to emerge from difficulty with a clear sense of self and purpose.
Are you overwhelmed? Not sure where to turn or what to do next? Going through life transitions can bring many different emotions. We can talk about this together, finding a way forward in uncertain times. Perhaps you feel disconnected from yourself, from your friends and family or from the values you hold. Let's rediscover what is important to you and how to emerge from difficulty with a clear sense of self and purpose.
(612) 324-0707 View (612) 324-0707
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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.