Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT helps you stop fighting your own thoughts and feelings, and start putting your energy into the life you actually want. It’s a mindfulness-based, evidence-based approach offered in individual and group therapy.
No referral needed. Jump to common questions ↓
ACT (said like the word “act”) teaches you to accept what’s outside your control, choose what matters to you, and commit to actions that move your life in that direction.
Rather than trying to eliminate painful thoughts and feelings, ACT changes your relationship with them, so they have less power over what you do.
How ACT works
The six core skills of ACT
Together, these skills build psychological flexibility, the foundation of ACT.
Acceptance
Making room for uncomfortable thoughts, feelings, and sensations instead of fighting or avoiding them.
Cognitive defusion
Stepping back from thoughts so you see them as thoughts, not facts or orders you have to follow.
Being present
Bringing your attention to the here and now with openness and curiosity.
Self-as-context
Noticing that you are more than your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Values
Clarifying what truly matters to you, so it can guide your choices.
Committed action
Taking steps, big and small, toward a life that reflects your values, even when it’s hard.
Who ACT can help
ACT is used for a wide range of concerns
ACT is backed by a large body of research and works well on its own or alongside CBT and DBT.
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Stress & burnout
- Chronic pain
- Substance use
- Trauma & PTSD
- OCD
- Grief & loss
- Life transitions
- Perfectionism
What you can expect
What sessions look like
ACT at Wisconsin Wellness
Start with an assessment
Your clinician learns what’s going on and confirms whether ACT is a good fit.
Clarify your values
You identify what matters most and where avoidance is getting in the way.
Practice the skills
In session and between sessions, you practice mindfulness, defusion, and acceptance.
Take committed action
You set meaningful goals and take steps toward them, with support along the way.
ACT vs. CBT
How ACT is different
Both are evidence-based, and many people benefit from a blend of the two.
Our clinicians
Clinicians who use ACT
Tap a name to read their bio, or call and we’ll match you with the right clinician.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
What does ACT stand for?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. It’s pronounced like the word “act,” because the heart of the approach is taking action toward what matters to you.
How is ACT different from CBT?
CBT often focuses on examining and changing unhelpful thoughts. ACT focuses on changing your relationship with those thoughts, so they have less influence over your choices. Many clinicians blend the two.
Can ACT help with anxiety?
Yes. ACT is widely used for anxiety. It helps you stop getting caught in worry and avoidance, so anxiety takes up less room in your life.
Is ACT offered in groups?
ACT skills are used in both individual and group therapy at Wisconsin Wellness. Ask us which option fits you best.
How long does ACT take?
It varies. Many people notice changes within a few months of regular sessions, and your clinician will review progress with you along the way.
Can I do ACT by telehealth?
Yes. ACT works well by secure video, and we offer telehealth anywhere in Wisconsin.
In crisis right now?
Please don’t wait for an appointment. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911 if there is immediate danger. Both are available 24/7.
Ready to stop fighting and start living?
Tell us what’s going on and we’ll connect you with a clinician who uses ACT, in Appleton or by telehealth anywhere in Wisconsin.
Get started today
Please contact our Appleton, WI office with any specific questions you may have or to schedule an appointment
