Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the thoroughly researched, and well-established therapeutic model of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). (ACT) is a type of psychotherapy that helps people accept their thoughts and feelings, even when they are difficult, and to commit to living a life that is guided by their values.

ACT is based on the idea that trying to avoid or control difficult thoughts and feelings can actually make them worse. Instead, ACT teaches people to accept their thoughts and feelings, and to mindfully focus on the present moment.

ACT also helps people to identify their values, and to take action in their lives that is consistent with those values. This can help people to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life, even in the face of challenges.

ACT has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. ACT can also be helpful for people who are going through life transitions, such as divorce, job loss, or bereavement.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is another foundational aspect of my therapeutic work. Mindfulness is based on ancient eastern and Buddhist philosophies originating around 2,500 years ago. Mindfulness is a way to frame and filter our everyday, existing experience. Simply put, mindfulness is the nonjudgmental awareness of the present moment. It sounds very simple, but it is also very complex. Try sitting still for five minutes and not judge or analyze your experience and you will see how challenging this can be. The techniques understood in mindfulness not only have been practiced and affirmed by human experience for millennia in Buddhist traditions, we also have established scientific research to back up and inform our current understanding and application.

Additionally...

Other therapeutic modalities that are often incorporated to a lesser extent into my work include Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). A slight more emphasis on basic problem solving and future planning can be useful in therapy. There can be times were diving into historical contexts or cognitive schemas are not necessary for solutions. SFBT can be used for a more pragmatic and step-by-step approach. MI can also be very helpful when there is uncertainty about where to fall on an issue or navigating through competing priorities.