ACT Therapy in California

ACT therapy: more room for what matters.

Rachel Boyer, LMFT · Online therapy throughout California

You may know what you want to change and still feel caught in worry, self-criticism, or avoidance. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offers a way to relate differently to those experiences while taking steps toward a life that reflects your values. I integrate ACT into online therapy for adults throughout California.

What ACT means in everyday life

ACT combines acceptance, mindful awareness, and committed action. Acceptance means making space for inner experiences that are already here; it does not mean accepting mistreatment or abandoning your needs. We practice noticing a thought such as “I’ll never get this right” as a thought, rather than letting it automatically decide what you do next.

Values give our work direction. Together, we might explore what connection, honesty, creativity, or self-respect look like in your daily life. Rather than waiting until fear disappears, we can identify a small action that matters and approach it with support.

What sessions may look like

We begin with your concerns and goals. Sessions may include conversation, noticing patterns, brief grounding practices, or exploring how you respond to difficult thoughts and feelings. If useful, we agree on a manageable practice between appointments. There is no requirement to meditate or practice perfectly.

For example, before a difficult conversation, you might notice anxiety and the urge to withdraw. We can practice acknowledging that experience, returning to the present, and choosing words that reflect your wish for connection and honesty.

A collaborative approach

I adapt ACT to your pace and integrate mindfulness, compassion, communication skills, and trauma-informed care. We check in about what is useful and adjust together. You can also explore mindfulness in therapy or learn what to expect when starting therapy.