ACT
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Are you seeking a transformative therapy approach that can help you break free from emotional struggles and move in the direction of a more fulfilling life?
At New Directions Psychiatry PLLC, we offer Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a powerful and evidence-based approach designed to promote psychological flexibility and help empower you in embracing a meaningful life. ACT is rooted in many of the basic principles of CBT. However, it also offers newer approaches and techniques for a very adaptable approach to treatment. Dr. Whitney Gilley is here to guide you on your path towards emotional well-being, providing compassionate care tailored to your unique needs.
What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that emphasizes mindfulness, acceptance, and the importance of taking committed action in line with one's personal values.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is one of the newer forms of therapy, though it scientifically studied and in use since the 1980s. ACT helps individuals develop psychological flexibility, which involves being present in the moment, accepting internal experiences (thoughts, emotions, sensations), and taking action that aligns with personal values.
In ACT, individuals learn to observe and accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment, rather than trying to eliminate or suppress them. The focus is on building the ability to experience the present moment and take purposeful action, even in the presence of challenging thoughts and emotions.
ACT utilizes a range of techniques, including mindfulness exercises, metaphors, and experiential exercises to help individuals develop psychological flexibility. It encourages individuals to clarify their own personal values and take committed action that aligns with those values, even when faced with difficult thoughts or emotions. For more about ACT, the Association for Contextual Behavioral Science (ACBS) is a valuable resource. Visit their website at ACBS Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Some Key Features of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
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ACT aims to enhance psychological flexibility - the ability to adapt and respond effectively to life's challenges. By developing this skill, you can navigate difficult thoughts, emotions, and situations with greater resilience and make choices that lead to a richer and more satisfying life.
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ACT incorporates techniques to help you re-connect with the world around you. By developing a mindful presence, you can create space for greater self-awareness and cultivate a compassionate relationship with your inner experiences.
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ACT helps you develop a non-judgmental and accepting stance towards thoughts and emotions. You can reduce the impact of challenging thoughts and emotions on your well-being and make room for more meaningful experiences.
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ACT encourages you to identify and clarify your core values—the qualities and pursuits that matter most to you. By aligning your actions with these values, you can create a sense of purpose and meaning in your life, even in the face of difficulties. Connecting with what matters most to you in life can help you move towards a more fulfilling life.
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ACT teaches techniques to help you distance yourself from unhelpful thoughts and beliefs. By recognizing that thoughts are not necessarily facts, you can reduce their impact and engage more fully in the present moment.
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ACT emphasizes taking purposeful steps toward a meaningful life. Through the identification of specific goals and taking small, achievable steps, you can work towards building a life that aligns with what is truly important to you.
If you are ready to try a new perspective and increase psychological flexibility, contact New Directions Psychiatry PLLC to request an appointment.
Dr. Gilley is dedicated to helping support you in your journey towards a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help with:
Depression
ACT provides the skills and perspective to help patients recover from mild to severe symptoms of depression. ACT helps individuals acknowledge and observe depressive thoughts and feelings in way that reduces their impact, empowering patients to actively engage in actions that align with their values and promotes meaning and fulfillment in life. More about Depression.
Anxiety
ACT assists individuals in developing skills to work with anxious thoughts and sensations without letting them control their lives. It promotes active engagement in meaningful actions, reducing anxiety's impact and fostering resilience. More about Anxiety.
Trauma
Trauma-focused ACT, like many CBT-based trauma-focused therapies, can be used to address symptoms of trauma and trauma-related disorders. ACT provides practical skills for working with difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences to facilitate healing. More about Trauma.
Grief
ACT can help individuals experiencing grief and complicated grief or prolonged grief disorder process their experience and loss. ACT helps foster psychological flexibility so patients can work through difficult thoughts, feelings, and experience.
Chronic Pain
ACT helps individuals manage chronic pain by teaching skills to work with pain sensations without struggling against them. Many patients find that ACT skills help with improving function. ACT emphasizes taking actions that enhance quality of life and supports individuals in pursuing valued activities even when they have chronic pain.
Substance Use
ACT addresses the underlying psychological factors that contribute to substance abuse by fostering connection with the present moment and other important skills that aid in recovery. Please note that ACT is best used in conjunction with a more comprehensive substance use treatment and recovery plan that is beyond the scope of what New Directions Psychiatry PLLC currently can provide. Please see FAQs for more information.
Psychosis
ACT can be used as part of a treatment plan for some patients with symptoms of psychosis. Please note that New Directions Psychiatry PLLC does not provide the level of service designed to best treat active psychosis. Please see FAQs for more information.
Why Choose New Directions Psychiatry PLLC for Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?
Compassionate Specialty Care:
As a psychiatrist and physician, Dr. Gilley is highly trained in providing care for a wide variety of concerns. Her experience includes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for conditions including acute stress and trauma, life transitions, depression, grief, and overwhelming anxiety. She is empathetic and committed to staying updated with the latest research and techniques to ensure you receive the most effective treatment.
An Individualized Approach:
Dr. Gilley understands that each person's needs and goals are unique. She tailors CBT interventions to your specific circumstances, creating a personalized treatment plan that addresses your concerns and promotes your well-being.
A Collaborative and Supportive Environment:
New Directions Psychiatry PLLC provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly discuss your thoughts and emotions. Dr. Gilley fosters a collaborative approach to care, supporting you in your journey of change and growth. She works with you to determine the best treatment options so you can decide on treatment that fits your needs and personal goals.
Option for weekly therapy with your Dr.:
All appointments at New Directions Psychiatry PLLC are directly with your doctor. This includes the option for weekly therapy appointments. To help accommodate the schedules for working professionals, we also offer Saturday appointments.
Comprehensive Care:
As a psychiatry practice, New Directions Psychiatry PLLC offers a wide range of treatment options including counseling, therapy, medication, and integrative options to support your mental health and provide a holistic approach to your treatment. Our goal is that you receive the most appropriate and effective care to help you meet your wellness goals.