Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) stems from traditional behavior therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. ACT is an action-oriented approach to psychotherapy.

ACT acknowledges that there is inherent pain in human life. In this treatment approach, we will practice acknowledging life’s difficulties and creating space for discomfort. We will practice letting go of the unhelpful strategies you may use to manage pain (avoidance, catastrophizing, engaging in disordered eating, self-harm, substance use, etc.)

In ACT, there is a strong emphasis on values and living life in a way that feels meaningful to you in spite of difficult emotions. Together, we will practice skills that assist you in allowing discomfort. The skills in ACT will help you to stay focused on the present moment and accept thoughts and feelings without judgment so that you can engage in your life.

Sessions may include some mindfulness practice. Mindfulness is designed to allow nonjudgmental awareness of thoughts, feelings, sensations, and memories that you have otherwise avoided or coped with in an unhealthy manner. I may help you to recognize times when your actions didn't fit your values. We will work together to identify alternative actions or behaviors that would be more effective.

I pair ACT into all of my work with clients, regardless of diagnosis. It is an excellent compliment to both ERP and CBT.

To read more about ACT, please visit https://contextualscience.org/act