Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Renton, WA

Photo of Kent Bezzio - Bezzio Counseling, PLLC, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor
Bezzio Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055
My approach to Mental Health Counseling is to view the client as expert in their own life. I do not play the role of expert in my client's lives. I do, however act as a guide, advocate, educator, and support person. What I will do is attempt to see your issues from your perspective and your view of the world. I work within the framework of Person-Centered Therapy, which focuses on the client being the expert, Existential Therapy, which focuses on behavior and looks at how the client thinks, feels, and behaves and the impact they have on others.
My approach to Mental Health Counseling is to view the client as expert in their own life. I do not play the role of expert in my client's lives. I do, however act as a guide, advocate, educator, and support person. What I will do is attempt to see your issues from your perspective and your view of the world. I work within the framework of Person-Centered Therapy, which focuses on the client being the expert, Existential Therapy, which focuses on behavior and looks at how the client thinks, feels, and behaves and the impact they have on others.
(206) 743-9867 View (206) 743-9867
Photo of Katie Ament, MAED, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Katie Ament
Counselor, MAED, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98059
I'm a Seattle-based counselor, working primarily with adult individuals and couples of all kinds. I believe counseling is a resource that can help people live more meaningful and authentic lives. I offer a non-judgmental, candid, and curious approach as I support you in your process of healing, self discovery and acceptance. I particularly enjoy working with issues of anxiety, relational conflict, intimacy and sexuality, substance misuse, meaning making, and the effects of trauma.
I'm a Seattle-based counselor, working primarily with adult individuals and couples of all kinds. I believe counseling is a resource that can help people live more meaningful and authentic lives. I offer a non-judgmental, candid, and curious approach as I support you in your process of healing, self discovery and acceptance. I particularly enjoy working with issues of anxiety, relational conflict, intimacy and sexuality, substance misuse, meaning making, and the effects of trauma.
(206) 309-8167 View (206) 309-8167
Photo of Belen Martinez (Enlighten Psychology), PsyD, Psychologist
Belen Martinez (Enlighten Psychology)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
Belen Martinez, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist who has extensive experience providing English and Spanish individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults of all ages. She works with individuals from diverse populations and cultures, with a wide range of concerns. Dr. Martinez’ approach to therapy is collaborative, authentic, empathic, active and caring. She integrates empirically driven methods, including dynamic psychotherapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) , cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and relational frameworks, with a highly personalized approach.
Belen Martinez, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist who has extensive experience providing English and Spanish individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults of all ages. She works with individuals from diverse populations and cultures, with a wide range of concerns. Dr. Martinez’ approach to therapy is collaborative, authentic, empathic, active and caring. She integrates empirically driven methods, including dynamic psychotherapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) , cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and relational frameworks, with a highly personalized approach.
(425) 357-7928 View (425) 357-7928
Photo of Sydney Benton, MSW, LSWAIC, SUDPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydney Benton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, SUDPT
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055
I will provide a safe space for you to express all of who you are, without fear of judgement. The therapeutic relationship is important in helping you feel safe, and I enjoy taking time to build this relationship. My style allows you to lead the way and focus on whatever may be holding you back from living your most authentic life. My work is guided by the belief that everything you need is already within yourself, and our work together can help you uncover your inner strength and peace. I utilize a trauma-informed approach and my therapeutic method focuses on radical acceptance, self-compassion and distress tolerance skills.
I will provide a safe space for you to express all of who you are, without fear of judgement. The therapeutic relationship is important in helping you feel safe, and I enjoy taking time to build this relationship. My style allows you to lead the way and focus on whatever may be holding you back from living your most authentic life. My work is guided by the belief that everything you need is already within yourself, and our work together can help you uncover your inner strength and peace. I utilize a trauma-informed approach and my therapeutic method focuses on radical acceptance, self-compassion and distress tolerance skills.
(206) 539-1303 View (206) 539-1303
Photo of Caroline White, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Caroline White
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with individuals and families, and offer skill building and process oriented sessions. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders, and those struggling with body image/self acceptance. I also specialize in the treatment of anxiety, anger management, ADHD, OCD, depression, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. My hope is for each of my clients to leave our session feeling heard and knowing that their experience and struggle is valid.
I have experience working with individuals and families, and offer skill building and process oriented sessions. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders, and those struggling with body image/self acceptance. I also specialize in the treatment of anxiety, anger management, ADHD, OCD, depression, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. My hope is for each of my clients to leave our session feeling heard and knowing that their experience and struggle is valid.
(206) 408-1408 View (206) 408-1408
Photo of Dr. Nicholaus Erber-LaPierre, PhD, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Dr. Nicholaus Erber-LaPierre
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055
I specialize in trauma work and 2S-LGBTQIA+ folks, particularly trans-identified individuals and people in polyamorous relationships. As a sex-positive therapist, I don’t shy away from discussing all aspects of someone’s life. I have nearly 20 years of experience in providing therapy services to many people from varying backgrounds. I specialized in treating all types of trauma, depression, anxiety, and healthy lifestyle choices. Additionally, I have trained in several therapeutic areas, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and parts work in Internal Family Systems therapy.
I specialize in trauma work and 2S-LGBTQIA+ folks, particularly trans-identified individuals and people in polyamorous relationships. As a sex-positive therapist, I don’t shy away from discussing all aspects of someone’s life. I have nearly 20 years of experience in providing therapy services to many people from varying backgrounds. I specialized in treating all types of trauma, depression, anxiety, and healthy lifestyle choices. Additionally, I have trained in several therapeutic areas, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and parts work in Internal Family Systems therapy.
(425) 686-9509 View (425) 686-9509
Photo of Alyssa Adwell, MSW, LICSW, SUDPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Adwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDPT
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98058  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people mitigate mental health, addiction, and systemic traumas through radical acceptance and creative solutions.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington State. I have expertise in working with adolescents and adults experiencing change, behavioral health concerns, grief, chronic illness, pain, and disabilities.
I specialize in helping people mitigate mental health, addiction, and systemic traumas through radical acceptance and creative solutions.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington State. I have expertise in working with adolescents and adults experiencing change, behavioral health concerns, grief, chronic illness, pain, and disabilities.
(206) 278-3430 View (206) 278-3430
Photo of Chris Tatsumi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Tatsumi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
I used a combination of DBT, CBT and ACT.
Hello! I enjoy working with people of all ages. From teens/young adults struggling with relationships and school to adults managing the struggle of day to day life. I use a client-centered approach and believe each person is unique. I do not believe one size fits all in therapy. Whether you need support in healing from past trauma, dealing with relationships or work stress, or you simply feel stuck in life, I am here to help you heal and reach your life goals.
I used a combination of DBT, CBT and ACT.
Hello! I enjoy working with people of all ages. From teens/young adults struggling with relationships and school to adults managing the struggle of day to day life. I use a client-centered approach and believe each person is unique. I do not believe one size fits all in therapy. Whether you need support in healing from past trauma, dealing with relationships or work stress, or you simply feel stuck in life, I am here to help you heal and reach your life goals.
(602) 878-6734 View (602) 878-6734
Photo of Carly Palady Klee, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Palady Klee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and currently completing certification through EMDRIA for EMDR.
I have approximately 2-3 openings at this time due to Summer Vacations and Military Deployments of clients! Please message your name, best contact information, and insurance type and I will respond after leave. Thank you! I am professionally trained in trauma-focused EMDR, CBT, CPT, and ACT therapy protocols for PTSD, Anxiety, Depression and Chronic Health/Disabilities. As well, I privately coach high-performing women to go from burnout to breakthrough in their careers, with less stress while better juggling family and work-life balance!
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and currently completing certification through EMDRIA for EMDR.
I have approximately 2-3 openings at this time due to Summer Vacations and Military Deployments of clients! Please message your name, best contact information, and insurance type and I will respond after leave. Thank you! I am professionally trained in trauma-focused EMDR, CBT, CPT, and ACT therapy protocols for PTSD, Anxiety, Depression and Chronic Health/Disabilities. As well, I privately coach high-performing women to go from burnout to breakthrough in their careers, with less stress while better juggling family and work-life balance!
(360) 516-4489 View (360) 516-4489
Photo of Larkita Demps, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Larkita Demps
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
My therapeutic orientation includes a variety of integrated techniques grounded in, person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed care, acceptance commitment, strength-based, and culturally sensitive therapies.
I am a trauma therapist who understands the stigmas surrounding mental health and how it often prevents individuals from seeking assistance. My goal is to provide a safe counseling space for you to filter through your journey while equipping you with support and resources to guide you on the path to overall wellness. I work with people facing challenges such as life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Therapy is not always easy, but healing is achievable through a non-judgmental and compassionate environment.
My therapeutic orientation includes a variety of integrated techniques grounded in, person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed care, acceptance commitment, strength-based, and culturally sensitive therapies.
I am a trauma therapist who understands the stigmas surrounding mental health and how it often prevents individuals from seeking assistance. My goal is to provide a safe counseling space for you to filter through your journey while equipping you with support and resources to guide you on the path to overall wellness. I work with people facing challenges such as life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Therapy is not always easy, but healing is achievable through a non-judgmental and compassionate environment.
(206) 350-5301 View (206) 350-5301
Photo of Milena Gordillo - Milena Gordillo Psychotherapy PLLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Milena Gordillo Psychotherapy PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055  (Online Only)
I advocate for my clients to practice self-love, self-care, acceptance, and gratitude.
Accepting new clients and I am in-network with Kaiser. Are current events triggering feelings of worry, frustration, and confusion? Perhaps, past traumas are affecting your life and holding you back from the happiness you know you deserve. I would like to help you reflect, clear up, and heal. I offer telehealth sessions to couples and individuals (13+) located in Washington State.
I advocate for my clients to practice self-love, self-care, acceptance, and gratitude.
Accepting new clients and I am in-network with Kaiser. Are current events triggering feelings of worry, frustration, and confusion? Perhaps, past traumas are affecting your life and holding you back from the happiness you know you deserve. I would like to help you reflect, clear up, and heal. I offer telehealth sessions to couples and individuals (13+) located in Washington State.
(206) 752-3699 View (206) 752-3699
Photo of Nicole Ruston - Ruston Therapy Group PLLC, MS, LMHC, LMFT, LMFTA, EdD, Counselor
Ruston Therapy Group PLLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LMFT, LMFTA, EdD
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055
Ruston Therapy Group is devoted to helping individuals rediscover their true purpose through transformative approaches. We offer unwavering support and guidance as clients tap into their innate strengths and wisdom. Our emphasis is on enhancing emotional well-being and overall wellness, empowering individuals to take charge of their healing journey. We advocate for radical self-acceptance and self-care, fostering deep connections with humanity and the world. Whatever has led you to seek help now, choosing your path with the support of our therapists, makes the journey of self discovery much more clear and fulfilling.
Ruston Therapy Group is devoted to helping individuals rediscover their true purpose through transformative approaches. We offer unwavering support and guidance as clients tap into their innate strengths and wisdom. Our emphasis is on enhancing emotional well-being and overall wellness, empowering individuals to take charge of their healing journey. We advocate for radical self-acceptance and self-care, fostering deep connections with humanity and the world. Whatever has led you to seek help now, choosing your path with the support of our therapists, makes the journey of self discovery much more clear and fulfilling.
(206) 944-6885 View (206) 944-6885
Photo of Antonia Marie Eberhart, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antonia Marie Eberhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems, both of which I see as caring and respectful interventions that help people live their lives according to their values and from a place of self-leadership.
I love working with people to help them better understand themselves and others, to move from feeling disempowered and defeated to finding agency, connection, and direction. I serve individuals and couples struggling with painful experiences, challenging symptoms, and confusion and fears about what to do next. I treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, trauma-related disorders, and relational discord.
I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems, both of which I see as caring and respectful interventions that help people live their lives according to their values and from a place of self-leadership.
I love working with people to help them better understand themselves and others, to move from feeling disempowered and defeated to finding agency, connection, and direction. I serve individuals and couples struggling with painful experiences, challenging symptoms, and confusion and fears about what to do next. I treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, trauma-related disorders, and relational discord.
(206) 800-8506 View (206) 800-8506
Photo of Angela Lim, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Lim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98056
As a trauma-informed and solution-focused practitioner, I center my practice around Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Perhaps you are navigating life transitions, grappling with grief and loss, or facing the complexities of serious illness or disability? Maybe you are a care provider who faces this with their loved one or with your patients? I am dedicated to walking beside you, through these challenges and facilitating growth. With extensive training and certification in grief counseling for all ages, I understand there are many losses in life, including when there has been a death. Loss permeates various aspects of our lives, and my practice acknowledges and addresses the profound impact it can have.
As a trauma-informed and solution-focused practitioner, I center my practice around Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Perhaps you are navigating life transitions, grappling with grief and loss, or facing the complexities of serious illness or disability? Maybe you are a care provider who faces this with their loved one or with your patients? I am dedicated to walking beside you, through these challenges and facilitating growth. With extensive training and certification in grief counseling for all ages, I understand there are many losses in life, including when there has been a death. Loss permeates various aspects of our lives, and my practice acknowledges and addresses the profound impact it can have.
(253) 364-7709 View (253) 364-7709
Photo of Michelle Kusterman, Counselor
Michelle Kusterman
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
The interventions that I use include but are not limited to the following: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, Restorative Practices, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I believe in the importance of celebrating diversity and empowering individuals through a personalized therapeutic process. Having commitment and compassion at the forefront of services, to achieve best results and outcomes. I have provided services in the mental health field for eight years, serving children, adults, and families through individual, family, and group counseling settings. I am dedicated to helping identify the strengths and unique gifts of every individual, to help you reach your personal goals in therapy and beyond.
The interventions that I use include but are not limited to the following: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, Restorative Practices, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I believe in the importance of celebrating diversity and empowering individuals through a personalized therapeutic process. Having commitment and compassion at the forefront of services, to achieve best results and outcomes. I have provided services in the mental health field for eight years, serving children, adults, and families through individual, family, and group counseling settings. I am dedicated to helping identify the strengths and unique gifts of every individual, to help you reach your personal goals in therapy and beyond.
(360) 964-3498 View (360) 964-3498
Photo of Nathan Feuerborn, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Nathan Feuerborn
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98056
My relational therapy employs Mindfulness meditation, Somatic (body based) therapy, ACT, DBT .
Life can be difficult and painful at times but it doesn't have to involve so much suffering. How may we find the calm stillness in the eye of our storm so as to relate to our mind and our present experience compassionately and even learn and grow from it? I invite you to open to your life in a new way: a way that relieves your suffering and promotes your health and expands your awareness. Through mindfully listening to the body and courageously opening and relating to the uncomfortable/painful, somatic therapy provides a practice of gentle self-exploration toward discovering your connection to your truth, purpose and life.
My relational therapy employs Mindfulness meditation, Somatic (body based) therapy, ACT, DBT .
Life can be difficult and painful at times but it doesn't have to involve so much suffering. How may we find the calm stillness in the eye of our storm so as to relate to our mind and our present experience compassionately and even learn and grow from it? I invite you to open to your life in a new way: a way that relieves your suffering and promotes your health and expands your awareness. Through mindfully listening to the body and courageously opening and relating to the uncomfortable/painful, somatic therapy provides a practice of gentle self-exploration toward discovering your connection to your truth, purpose and life.
(206) 866-7522 View (206) 866-7522
Photo of Savpreet Bhandal, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Savpreet Bhandal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055
Anand, coined in Eastern Philosophies, embodies human happiness or bliss. Our past experiences can act as barriers to this experience. In therapy, a journey of self-discovery, we co-create a space to unwind your narrative and find healing. I invite you to explore a heightened self-awareness to guide your everyday expierencing. As a guide, I assist with individuals facing grief and loss, anxiety, OCD, depression, life transitions, bipoc/immigrant issues, and trauma/attachment concerns. Together, let’s seek out to discover your definition of Anand—an essence of contentment.
Anand, coined in Eastern Philosophies, embodies human happiness or bliss. Our past experiences can act as barriers to this experience. In therapy, a journey of self-discovery, we co-create a space to unwind your narrative and find healing. I invite you to explore a heightened self-awareness to guide your everyday expierencing. As a guide, I assist with individuals facing grief and loss, anxiety, OCD, depression, life transitions, bipoc/immigrant issues, and trauma/attachment concerns. Together, let’s seek out to discover your definition of Anand—an essence of contentment.
(206) 312-4922 View (206) 312-4922
Photo of Mei-Ling Vargas-Johnson, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Mei-Ling Vargas-Johnson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98056  (Online Only)
My approach is integrative with elements of acceptance and commitment therapy, relational cultural theory, interpersonal process, narrative practice, and guided by intersectional feminism, social & transformative justice models, anti-racism, and body liberation frameworks.
PEAK Psychological Wellness is a group practice that provides culturally responsive individual therapy and psychological evaluation. As a Latina counselor, I wholeheartedly value identity, intersectionality, and autonomy as fundamental to the therapeutic process. I believe that therapy provides us with the opportunity to express ourselves to the fullest extent without fear of judgment or retaliation. My goal as a therapist is to create an affirming space for you to explore difficult feelings by harnessing your strengths and honoring your boundaries, all while providing and receiving constructive feedback along the way.
My approach is integrative with elements of acceptance and commitment therapy, relational cultural theory, interpersonal process, narrative practice, and guided by intersectional feminism, social & transformative justice models, anti-racism, and body liberation frameworks.
PEAK Psychological Wellness is a group practice that provides culturally responsive individual therapy and psychological evaluation. As a Latina counselor, I wholeheartedly value identity, intersectionality, and autonomy as fundamental to the therapeutic process. I believe that therapy provides us with the opportunity to express ourselves to the fullest extent without fear of judgment or retaliation. My goal as a therapist is to create an affirming space for you to explore difficult feelings by harnessing your strengths and honoring your boundaries, all while providing and receiving constructive feedback along the way.
(206) 502-0951 View (206) 502-0951
Photo of Anna Nakamura, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Anna Nakamura
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98056  (Online Only)
Thank you for stopping by. I like to make people feel safe, heard, validated, and better. You might be needing alternative thoughts to have less anxiety at work or quick tools for emotional regulation at home with your children, but I would like to take time and explore your past so that you can understand why your mind and body are reacting the way they are now. Self-awareness and mindfulness can be a powerful catalysis for your growth. I practice under cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) framework.
Thank you for stopping by. I like to make people feel safe, heard, validated, and better. You might be needing alternative thoughts to have less anxiety at work or quick tools for emotional regulation at home with your children, but I would like to take time and explore your past so that you can understand why your mind and body are reacting the way they are now. Self-awareness and mindfulness can be a powerful catalysis for your growth. I practice under cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) framework.
(206) 672-9175 View (206) 672-9175
Photo of Dr. LauraMaery Gold - Allied Family Therapy, PhD, LMFT, MA-MFT, CC(Cert, Couns), Marriage & Family Therapist
Allied Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MA-MFT, CC(Cert, Couns)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055
Currently accepting new clients. Arguing over money? Communication? Unmotivated teenager? Infidelity? We've got your back. We help you communicate and resolve conflict in kind, loving ways that build your relationship. We help couples find their love again, and teach teenagers adult life skills, with humor and sensitivity. Dr. LauraMaery Gold is a marriage and family therapist, certified counselor, and best-selling author with degrees in law, finance, and family counseling. She provides proven communication and financial planning tools, and helps couples focus on the big picture.
Currently accepting new clients. Arguing over money? Communication? Unmotivated teenager? Infidelity? We've got your back. We help you communicate and resolve conflict in kind, loving ways that build your relationship. We help couples find their love again, and teach teenagers adult life skills, with humor and sensitivity. Dr. LauraMaery Gold is a marriage and family therapist, certified counselor, and best-selling author with degrees in law, finance, and family counseling. She provides proven communication and financial planning tools, and helps couples focus on the big picture.
(253) 259-3104 View (253) 259-3104
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.