Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Astoria, NY

Photo of Frank Modica, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Frank Modica
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
Sometimes we may find ourselves feeling stuck in our lives or alone in our struggles. Perhaps we feel isolated when we share these difficulties with others, only to feel invalidated in our experiences or identity. It's even more challenging and isolating when we don't have those connections to reach out to. Carrying feelings such as shame in who we are, or discomfort being in our own skin, is a weight on us impacting everyday lives and our relationships. Through reflection and self-compassion we will embrace self- acceptance in knowing you're valid in who you are, and you can live your best and most authentic self.
Sometimes we may find ourselves feeling stuck in our lives or alone in our struggles. Perhaps we feel isolated when we share these difficulties with others, only to feel invalidated in our experiences or identity. It's even more challenging and isolating when we don't have those connections to reach out to. Carrying feelings such as shame in who we are, or discomfort being in our own skin, is a weight on us impacting everyday lives and our relationships. Through reflection and self-compassion we will embrace self- acceptance in knowing you're valid in who you are, and you can live your best and most authentic self.
(347) 464-0626 View (347) 464-0626
Photo of Jemaal Ian Alexander, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Jemaal Ian Alexander
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
Having developed a psychodynamic practice centered around increased mindfulness and acceptance, I utilize aspects of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and other modalities to help you gain the insight you need to develop better tools and strategies for living a happier, healthier life.
My ideal client is a fresh face to therapy, ready to take a leap of faith and invest in their wellness. They are the young adults transitioning through life, navigating adulthood, parenthood, breakups, intimacy, self worth, family pressures and much more. My clients are brave, genuine, and vulnerable as they show up with the goal of achieving a better understanding and acceptance of their emotions, identity and direction. Anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationships with self/others and support exploring emotional vulnerability are common areas of concerns with my clients.
Having developed a psychodynamic practice centered around increased mindfulness and acceptance, I utilize aspects of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and other modalities to help you gain the insight you need to develop better tools and strategies for living a happier, healthier life.
My ideal client is a fresh face to therapy, ready to take a leap of faith and invest in their wellness. They are the young adults transitioning through life, navigating adulthood, parenthood, breakups, intimacy, self worth, family pressures and much more. My clients are brave, genuine, and vulnerable as they show up with the goal of achieving a better understanding and acceptance of their emotions, identity and direction. Anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationships with self/others and support exploring emotional vulnerability are common areas of concerns with my clients.
(929) 209-4059 View (929) 209-4059
Photo of Rachel Valencia, LMHC, Counselor
Rachel Valencia
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
I also integrate skills from ACT, DBT, and polyvagal theory based on your needs.
Accepting new clients via telehealth! Struggling with your mental health can be difficult, but you don't have to do it alone. Whether it be depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, or other mental health issues, I am here to help you understand where your issues have stemmed from, work on healing them, and learn new ways to cope and interact with your world. In working with me, you can expect to have a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your innerworld. I work with clients of all ages, and in individual, couple, or family modality.
I also integrate skills from ACT, DBT, and polyvagal theory based on your needs.
Accepting new clients via telehealth! Struggling with your mental health can be difficult, but you don't have to do it alone. Whether it be depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, or other mental health issues, I am here to help you understand where your issues have stemmed from, work on healing them, and learn new ways to cope and interact with your world. In working with me, you can expect to have a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your innerworld. I work with clients of all ages, and in individual, couple, or family modality.
(718) 400-6205 View (718) 400-6205
Photo of Keirstin D Zahirovic, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keirstin D Zahirovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My therapy approach is integrative, pulling from different models to best suit your needs (CBT, ACT, MI, strength-based, emotions focused and evidenced based interventions).
I have been a therapist in New York for over 21 years, supporting wide range of diverse and marginalized populations. In my private practice I specialize in treating adults who are having difficulties due to trauma, addiction or mood disorders that impact their ability to fully engage in life. Substance abuse, gambling, food and sex addiction are part of my specialties. I believe that there is more than one approach in treating addiction. I am a strong believer in talk therapy and the therapeutic process.
My therapy approach is integrative, pulling from different models to best suit your needs (CBT, ACT, MI, strength-based, emotions focused and evidenced based interventions).
I have been a therapist in New York for over 21 years, supporting wide range of diverse and marginalized populations. In my private practice I specialize in treating adults who are having difficulties due to trauma, addiction or mood disorders that impact their ability to fully engage in life. Substance abuse, gambling, food and sex addiction are part of my specialties. I believe that there is more than one approach in treating addiction. I am a strong believer in talk therapy and the therapeutic process.
(646) 832-2492 View (646) 832-2492
Photo of Ambar Ortiz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ambar Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103
I employ experiential and somatic practices, as well as ACT, IFS, & other therapeutic models.
If you have made it this far, I commend you for your courage. Seeking support is a huge step! The longer I’ve lived, the more I’ve understood that life brings both joy and pain, success and failure, beginnings and endings, and this duality can often bring dissonance within us, as we work to make meaning of it all. Healing and wellness are deeply personal to everyone’s journey, and I aim to honor your diverse life experiences through this work. On this journey, we’ll co-create an environment where you can be free to explore who you are, your needs, your values, and the priorities for your life in a safe space.
I employ experiential and somatic practices, as well as ACT, IFS, & other therapeutic models.
If you have made it this far, I commend you for your courage. Seeking support is a huge step! The longer I’ve lived, the more I’ve understood that life brings both joy and pain, success and failure, beginnings and endings, and this duality can often bring dissonance within us, as we work to make meaning of it all. Healing and wellness are deeply personal to everyone’s journey, and I aim to honor your diverse life experiences through this work. On this journey, we’ll co-create an environment where you can be free to explore who you are, your needs, your values, and the priorities for your life in a safe space.
(718) 957-1949 View (718) 957-1949
Photo of Sebastian J Shaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sebastian J Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11102
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a strengths-based approach, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing.
"We're all just walking each other home" -Ram Dass. My therapeutic approach provides a safe, nonjudgmental environment that meets clients where they are at. As we work together clients are able to increase their internal awareness, accomplish goals, and improve their lives. I have a great deal of experience with clients who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, as well as those with substance use problems.
I utilize a strengths-based approach, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing.
"We're all just walking each other home" -Ram Dass. My therapeutic approach provides a safe, nonjudgmental environment that meets clients where they are at. As we work together clients are able to increase their internal awareness, accomplish goals, and improve their lives. I have a great deal of experience with clients who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, as well as those with substance use problems.
(347) 454-7472 View (347) 454-7472
Photo of Catherine Weinberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Weinberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11106  (Online Only)
Drawing from treatments that include EMDR, CBT, DBT and ACT, I tailor my approach to fit the needs and preferences of each individual client.
Are you seeking relief from sadness, anxiety, stress, or generally, just feeling stuck? Therapy can help you to make sense of what you are feeling and make meaningful changes in your life. In my practice, I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space, for you to feel supported and heard. I have over 5 years of experience working with a vast array of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
Drawing from treatments that include EMDR, CBT, DBT and ACT, I tailor my approach to fit the needs and preferences of each individual client.
Are you seeking relief from sadness, anxiety, stress, or generally, just feeling stuck? Therapy can help you to make sense of what you are feeling and make meaningful changes in your life. In my practice, I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space, for you to feel supported and heard. I have over 5 years of experience working with a vast array of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
(332) 286-4437 View (332) 286-4437
Photo of Jessica MacDonald, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica MacDonald
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11101  (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist, I specialize in helping adults make positive changes in their lives. Through the use of CBT, ACT, and compassion-focused therapy, I can help you address a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, imposter syndrome, work stress, challenges with dating, and challenges with wedding planning. Let's work together to help you achieve your goals and live a happier, more fulfilling life.
As a clinical psychologist, I specialize in helping adults make positive changes in their lives. Through the use of CBT, ACT, and compassion-focused therapy, I can help you address a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, imposter syndrome, work stress, challenges with dating, and challenges with wedding planning. Let's work together to help you achieve your goals and live a happier, more fulfilling life.
(704) 753-8669 View (704) 753-8669
Photo of Sarvin Azizgolshani, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Sarvin Azizgolshani
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11101  (Online Only)
I develop an individualized approach for each client and have been trained in psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Have you felt stuck in familiar patterns or felt unfulfilled in your relationships? I understand that starting therapy can be a difficult decision and I aim to provide a supportive environment to empower clients to be able to live a more meaningful life. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Each stage in life comes with own unique challenges, which can have a deep impact on how one views the world. I have experience working with adolescents and adults and work with clients to develop better ways to cope with their struggles.
I develop an individualized approach for each client and have been trained in psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Have you felt stuck in familiar patterns or felt unfulfilled in your relationships? I understand that starting therapy can be a difficult decision and I aim to provide a supportive environment to empower clients to be able to live a more meaningful life. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Each stage in life comes with own unique challenges, which can have a deep impact on how one views the world. I have experience working with adolescents and adults and work with clients to develop better ways to cope with their struggles.
(516) 518-9560 View (516) 518-9560
Photo of Matthew Sexton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Sexton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11101  (Online Only)
Utilizing short-term, skill-based interventions such as Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy,I make the transformative process feel like a seamless experience.
Hello there! As a licensed clinical social worker with dual licenses in New York and Maine, my experience extends to collaborating with high-level professionals, including Fortune 500 executives. My mission is to guide individuals on a journey of professional and personal growth while addressing stress management and anxiety.
Utilizing short-term, skill-based interventions such as Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy,I make the transformative process feel like a seamless experience.
Hello there! As a licensed clinical social worker with dual licenses in New York and Maine, my experience extends to collaborating with high-level professionals, including Fortune 500 executives. My mission is to guide individuals on a journey of professional and personal growth while addressing stress management and anxiety.
(646) 722-4542 View (646) 722-4542
Photo of Anne T. Rufrano, LMHC, Counselor
Anne T. Rufrano
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11105
My specialties are: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT); Acceptance Compassion Therapy ( ACT); Psychodynamic Therapy (PDT); Trauma Informed Therapy (TIT), and Loss and Grief Therapy (Bereavement).
You must be exhausted from life's many challenges and confusion about the state of your life. I am available to help you navigate and bring meaning to your life by listening and validating your feelings as well as providing compassion and support to do the hard work necessary for wellness. Each day is a new present, but traumas from our family origins may prevent us from moving forward. I will work patiently with you to set goals in therapy and work through loss and trauma.
My specialties are: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT); Acceptance Compassion Therapy ( ACT); Psychodynamic Therapy (PDT); Trauma Informed Therapy (TIT), and Loss and Grief Therapy (Bereavement).
You must be exhausted from life's many challenges and confusion about the state of your life. I am available to help you navigate and bring meaning to your life by listening and validating your feelings as well as providing compassion and support to do the hard work necessary for wellness. Each day is a new present, but traumas from our family origins may prevent us from moving forward. I will work patiently with you to set goals in therapy and work through loss and trauma.
(917) 809-5641 View (917) 809-5641
Photo of Lizzy Barna - Lizzy Barna - Expansive Therapy, MHC-LP
Lizzy Barna - Expansive Therapy
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11106
My counseling approach is eclectic and trauma-informed. A key focus of my practice is building a trusting relationship, creating a space where you feel comfortable to explore yourself and your emotions fully. I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS). Through IFS, we will explore the various parts of yourself that make you whole. I also incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness techniques to enhance emotional regulation and awareness.
My counseling approach is eclectic and trauma-informed. A key focus of my practice is building a trusting relationship, creating a space where you feel comfortable to explore yourself and your emotions fully. I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS). Through IFS, we will explore the various parts of yourself that make you whole. I also incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness techniques to enhance emotional regulation and awareness.
(213) 510-3232 View (213) 510-3232
Photo of Jessi Kupfer, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Jessi Kupfer
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11102
I am passionate about providing empathy, acceptance, and encouragement to meet your needs.
Are you ready to discover the best version of yourself? Together we can overcome obstacles, gain insight, and learn how to build and keep healthy relationships. Addressing unproductive and maladaptive thought patterns by yourself can be difficult, to near impossible. Many young adults experience difficulties with peers, relationships, sexual issues, family differences, school, or career challenges. All of these issues can feel overwhelming, but I am here to listen and help guide you through these stressful situations.
I am passionate about providing empathy, acceptance, and encouragement to meet your needs.
Are you ready to discover the best version of yourself? Together we can overcome obstacles, gain insight, and learn how to build and keep healthy relationships. Addressing unproductive and maladaptive thought patterns by yourself can be difficult, to near impossible. Many young adults experience difficulties with peers, relationships, sexual issues, family differences, school, or career challenges. All of these issues can feel overwhelming, but I am here to listen and help guide you through these stressful situations.
(646) 542-1087 View (646) 542-1087
Photo of Maggie Schweppe, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maggie Schweppe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105
I draw from CBT, ACT, DBT, Mindfulness, Gestalt, and Psychodynamic modalities depending on what you need.
Want to feel more confident while learning about yourself? Together, we can address the unhelpful thoughts that are getting in your way of your goals. My clients work with me on their anxiety, OCD, depression, questioning identity, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. As a bisexual/queer clinician, I have a focus working with the LGBTQ+ community and welcome adults of different experiences.
I draw from CBT, ACT, DBT, Mindfulness, Gestalt, and Psychodynamic modalities depending on what you need.
Want to feel more confident while learning about yourself? Together, we can address the unhelpful thoughts that are getting in your way of your goals. My clients work with me on their anxiety, OCD, depression, questioning identity, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. As a bisexual/queer clinician, I have a focus working with the LGBTQ+ community and welcome adults of different experiences.
(332) 286-1832 View (332) 286-1832
Photo of Marta Wlazlo, LMHC, Counselor
Marta Wlazlo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
Most importantly, I offer: a space of safety, a heart-centered connection, empathy, non-judgment and compassion, total acceptance of who and where you are, collaboration (acting as a guide, not any expert), humor and authenticity (I am a human first, therapist second).
There's nothing wrong with you. You’re not broken, though I honor if you feel this way. I am passionate about guiding clients to restore their sense of wholeness by exploring painful emotions/beliefs (some which are subconscious) that are contributing to issues such as anxiety/phobias, depression, harmful and limiting patterns/behaviors, emotional dysregulation, PTSD, feeling stuck/lost, low self-esteem, addiction, chronic pain/illness, etc etc.
Most importantly, I offer: a space of safety, a heart-centered connection, empathy, non-judgment and compassion, total acceptance of who and where you are, collaboration (acting as a guide, not any expert), humor and authenticity (I am a human first, therapist second).
There's nothing wrong with you. You’re not broken, though I honor if you feel this way. I am passionate about guiding clients to restore their sense of wholeness by exploring painful emotions/beliefs (some which are subconscious) that are contributing to issues such as anxiety/phobias, depression, harmful and limiting patterns/behaviors, emotional dysregulation, PTSD, feeling stuck/lost, low self-esteem, addiction, chronic pain/illness, etc etc.
(646) 941-8601 View (646) 941-8601
Photo of Amanda Wong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Wong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
Using ACT, CBT, Mindfulness, & Solution Focused Therapy, we explore and acknowledge your thoughts and feelings to bring greater self-awareness.
When life gets overwhelming and you are stuck in negative cycles, it may be difficult to manage your feelings. This could lead to undesirable responses and we forget what used to bring us joy. These situations may affect our abilities to manage work, connect with others, and feeling fulfilled. Whether it is struggling with anxiety, depression, self-doubts, or adjusting to life changes, we will discover new tools to overcome hurdles and future challenges.
Using ACT, CBT, Mindfulness, & Solution Focused Therapy, we explore and acknowledge your thoughts and feelings to bring greater self-awareness.
When life gets overwhelming and you are stuck in negative cycles, it may be difficult to manage your feelings. This could lead to undesirable responses and we forget what used to bring us joy. These situations may affect our abilities to manage work, connect with others, and feeling fulfilled. Whether it is struggling with anxiety, depression, self-doubts, or adjusting to life changes, we will discover new tools to overcome hurdles and future challenges.
(347) 338-6844 View (347) 338-6844
Photo of Marina Green, MS, MHC-LP
Marina Green
MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach integrates DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Rogerian therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
As a queer-identifying Asian American, I understand the importance of culturally competent care. I am dedicated to creating a safe and affirming space where we can openly explore and address mental health challenges as they intersect with your diverse identities without fear of judgment. I apply a trauma informed, HAES, and anti-oppressive/ anti-racist perspective to therapy. With my direct, but empathetic approach, we will work to process your unique lived experiences and identify skills to enhance your emotional insight.
My therapeutic approach integrates DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Rogerian therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
As a queer-identifying Asian American, I understand the importance of culturally competent care. I am dedicated to creating a safe and affirming space where we can openly explore and address mental health challenges as they intersect with your diverse identities without fear of judgment. I apply a trauma informed, HAES, and anti-oppressive/ anti-racist perspective to therapy. With my direct, but empathetic approach, we will work to process your unique lived experiences and identify skills to enhance your emotional insight.
(914) 601-1360 View (914) 601-1360
Photo of Daria S. Mokhnach - Daria Mokhnach - Anxiety, Depression, EMDR, & OCD , LMHC, MA, BS
Daria Mokhnach - Anxiety, Depression, EMDR, & OCD
LMHC, MA, BS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11101
My approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, ACT, psychodynamic approach, and EMDR.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, sad, stuck, or anxious? You do not have to face it alone. As a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist, I'm here to help you navigate life’s challenges, whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth. Through a safe and supportive space, we will work together to explore your thoughts and feelings, helping you gain clarity, heal emotional wounds, and build a path toward a more fulfilling life. Ready to take the first step toward well-being? Reach out today and let’s start your journey to healing and personal transformation.
My approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, ACT, psychodynamic approach, and EMDR.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, sad, stuck, or anxious? You do not have to face it alone. As a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist, I'm here to help you navigate life’s challenges, whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth. Through a safe and supportive space, we will work together to explore your thoughts and feelings, helping you gain clarity, heal emotional wounds, and build a path toward a more fulfilling life. Ready to take the first step toward well-being? Reach out today and let’s start your journey to healing and personal transformation.
(929) 209-8162 View (929) 209-8162
Photo of Dan Zuewski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dan Zuewski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
Do you need someone who is willing to listen and not judge? Feeling lost or confused? Unsure if therapy is even for you? Think that no one will ever “get” you? Please reach out to me. I'm here to help. I am a Clinical Social Worker who is licensed in New York State with over 15 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I work with the adult population and specialize in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, OCD, and many other issues. I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ Individuals and their concerns.
Do you need someone who is willing to listen and not judge? Feeling lost or confused? Unsure if therapy is even for you? Think that no one will ever “get” you? Please reach out to me. I'm here to help. I am a Clinical Social Worker who is licensed in New York State with over 15 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I work with the adult population and specialize in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, OCD, and many other issues. I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ Individuals and their concerns.
(516) 701-2463 View (516) 701-2463
Photo of Jessica Mazouer, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Mazouer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
“I need help”. That is probably what brought you on to this site. Now you find yourself in a sea of therapist profiles wondering what your insurance will cover and why no one is responding to you. Coming to terms that you need help is hard. Finding a therapist is hard. Whether it’s for yourself or someone else, you are struggling to know what to do. I may not be the therapist for you, but I am here to listen and help you sail through.
“I need help”. That is probably what brought you on to this site. Now you find yourself in a sea of therapist profiles wondering what your insurance will cover and why no one is responding to you. Coming to terms that you need help is hard. Finding a therapist is hard. Whether it’s for yourself or someone else, you are struggling to know what to do. I may not be the therapist for you, but I am here to listen and help you sail through.
(347) 727-1605 View (347) 727-1605
1
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.