Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT is a newer type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy that has been researched for a wide variety of problems (there are over 1000 randomized controlled trials). As an ACT therapist, I offer research backed, pragmatic solutions to help people build new patterns of behavior in order to reduce suffering and create a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Using ACT, I help people:
Become aware of and overcome painful and disruptive internal experiences (e.g. self critical thoughts, panic, anxiety, shame)
Open up to what you are experiencing
Live more closely aligned with chosen values/ life aims
Focus energies on taking positive actions that can alleviate suffering
Nurture greater awareness of the present moment
Foster flexibility to respond to the ups and downs in life
Cultivate compassion toward oneself and others
Develop the courage to connect more deeply in relationships
We all have pain, unwanted thoughts, and unpleasant feelings. ACT suggests that the process of trying to rid ourselves of internal discomfort can end up leading us to feel quite “off track” and actually cause even greater suffering. When we focus our energy on getting rid of discomfort, our lives can become more and more narrow and we may lose focus on family, friends, community or whatever is important to us. In short, ACT is designed to help people move in the direction of their chosen life aims (or values) even when unpleasant bodily sensations, feelings and thoughts are present.
“Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation. It means understanding that something is what it is and there’s got to be a way through it.”