Acceptance & Commitment Therapy in NYC
What Is Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)?
ACT is a form of CBT that helps us learn a different way of relating to our thoughts and emotions, so they don’t have as much power over us. Through ACT techniques such as cognitive defusion, anchoring, and observing mindfully, you can learn to handle difficult thoughts and emotions more effectively. Over time, and with practice, your improved reactions to distressing thoughts allows you to engage in more productive and fulfilling behaviors. ACT has been shown effective not only for anxiety and depression but for many emotional and behavioral conditions.
How Does ACT Therapy Work?
When our minds get hooked by negative thoughts and emotions it can take control of our actions, leading to unhealthy behaviors like avoidance, procrastination, addictions, or poor decision making. Through a process called cognitive diffusion, ACT teaches us how to create a healthy distance between ourselves and our distressing thoughts. This allows our minds to become unhooked, freeing us to take positive actions consistent with our life goals and values.
What Does Acceptance & Commitment Therapy Treat?
Anxiety
ACT therapy is very powerful for people who struggle with anxiety. Anxiety is often characterized by negative thoughts and feelings of fear, dread, and concern. People with anxiety can begin experiencing anxiety about their anxiety, resulting in a spiral of emotions. ACT therapy helps people with anxiety learn to pause and notice their anxious feelings without passing judgment, allowing them to move more quickly through them and enact positive behaviors to improve their condition.
Social Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Depression
Phobias
What Is It Like Doing ACT Therapy?
Acceptance and commitment therapy is a “third wave” form of cognitive behavioral therapy. Sessions focus on teaching you skills and tools to tolerate difficult thoughts and emotions, so you don’t get hooked by them. You’ll practice these skills outside sessions in real life situations. Over time you can learn to take positive action (ACT) despite having very uncomfortable feelings, allowing you to live life according to your true values.
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy at Behavioral Health of New York
1. Contact Our Office
Call us or fill out our contact form to get started.
2. Consultation with Dr. Levy
All new clients receive an initial consultation with Dr. Mitchell S. Levy, our practice director.
3. Schedule Your Sessions
Behavioral Health of New York will set up sessions at times that are most convenient for you.
Feel Better with ACT Therapy
Schedule a consultation for acceptance and commitment therapy at Behavioral Health of New York today.
Find BHNY ACT Therapy Near You
Serving NYC, Westchester, and Long Island
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Sessions Does Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Take?
Depending on your individual circumstances and goals, acceptance and commitment therapy can take anywhere from just a few sessions to longer-term treatment. We’ll help you decide the best route to take to reach your mental health goals.