Last reviewed by Shannon Tarolli, LPCMH, NCC, CCATP — May 2026
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) takes a different approach from traditional CBT: rather than trying to change or eliminate difficult thoughts and feelings, ACT focuses on changing your relationship to them. The goal is psychological flexibility — the ability to feel what you feel, choose what matters, and move toward a meaningful life even when things are hard.
ACT draws on mindfulness principles and behavioral strategies, helping clients notice unhelpful thought patterns without getting caught in them, clarify their values, and take committed action toward what matters most.
Learning to observe thoughts as mental events rather than facts — creating distance between you and unhelpful thinking.
Opening up to difficult feelings and experiences rather than fighting or avoiding them.
Developing mindful attention to the here and now, rather than getting caught in past or future thinking.
Identifying what truly matters to you — the compass for meaningful action.
Taking steps toward your values even in the presence of discomfort, gradually expanding your life.
ACT is listed as an empirically supported treatment by APA Division 12 for anxiety, chronic pain, and OCD
APA Division 12 — Society of Clinical Psychology
Accepting Clients With over 11 years of experience, Shannon specializes in grief, OCD, trauma, and anxiety. She takes a client-centered approach, creating a safe and supportive space built on trust and compassion. Her goal is to help clients build resiliency, practice psychological flexibility, and develop a new, profound acceptance of their emotions.
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Waitlist Jen's expertise covers a range of concerns, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, family conflict, and grief. She is committed to a client-centered approach, working alongside each client to identify their unique needs and build a personalized path to healing.
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Waitlist Emily brings steadiness and genuine care to her work with clients, building a therapeutic relationship grounded in trust, honesty, and practical support. She works with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and the lasting effects of trauma or difficult life transitions.
Book a ConsultationACT incorporates mindfulness principles but goes further. Mindfulness is one of six core ACT processes — alongside acceptance, defusion, values, committed action, and self-as-context. ACT applies mindfulness in service of behavioral change and values-based living.
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