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Our Psychology Team Offers

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Calgary

Looking for Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Calgary? Flourish Psychological Services offers compassionate, evidence-based therapy to help you move forward with confidence.

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Move Beyond emotional struggles with ACT Therapy in Calgary

At Flourish Psychological Services, we offer Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Calgary to help individuals move beyond emotional struggles and build a more meaningful, values-driven life. ACT is an action-oriented therapy that encourages you to accept your thoughts and feelings rather than fight against them, helping you develop resilience, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose.

 

Our experienced ACT therapists—McKenzie Henderson, Laurissa Knight, Bailey Charrois, Kathlyn Zales, Japneet Kamboj, Jessy Mix, and Ellen Lester—provide ACT-informed care in a structured, supportive, and personalized way. At Flourish Psychological Services, we are committed to helping you build the tools and confidence to navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and resilience.

What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

ACT is a mindfulness-based therapy designed to help individuals accept their thoughts and emotions rather than fight against them. Instead of focusing on eliminating distress, ACT encourages you to develop psychological flexibility—allowing you to respond to challenges with greater clarity and resilience. ACT has been shown to help with anxiety, depression, trauma, and other emotional challenges. This approach helps you:

 

  • Accept what is outside your control while focusing on what you can change.

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  • Recognize and process emotions in a healthy way. Identify core values and adjust behaviours to align with them.

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  • Develop mindfulness skills to stay present and engaged in life.

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​How Does ACT Work?

ACT is built on six core principles that support emotional growth and behavioural change. Through guided therapy, you’ll develop the skills to break free from unhelpful thought patterns and take action in alignment with your values.

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  1. Cognitive Defusion: Learning to observe thoughts without becoming entangled in them.

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   2. Acceptance: Making space for difficult emotions rather           than avoiding or suppressing them.

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   3. Being Present: Cultivating mindfulness to engage fully in         the present moment.

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   4. Self-as-Context: Understanding that your thoughts and           emotions do not define who you are.

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   5. Values Clarification: Identifying what truly matters to you         and using it as a guide for decision-making.

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   6. Committed Action: Taking purposeful steps toward a               meaningful life, even in the presence of discomfort.

Benefits of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Calgary

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps with a variety of mental health concerns, including:

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  • Anxiety, Depression, and Stress

  • Trauma Recovery

  • Emotional Regulation

  • Chronic Pain and Illness Management

  • Workplace and Relationship Challenges

Who Can Benefit from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?

ACT is particularly effective for individuals who feel stuck in negative thought patterns, struggle with emotional distress, or face ongoing life challenges. This therapy is well-suited for:

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  • Individuals Struggling with Negative Thoughts: If persistent self-doubt, anxiety, or distressing thoughts are affecting daily life, ACT helps you detach from these thoughts and focus on actions that align with your values.

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  • ​People Living with Chronic Pain or Illness: ACT teaches strategies to accept discomfort without letting it define your quality of life, providing emotional relief alongside physical health challenges.​

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  • Those Facing Workplace and Relationship Difficulties: Whether dealing with work-related stress, personal conflicts, or boundary-setting, ACT helps individuals navigate these challenges with greater awareness and confidence.

 

ACT is a flexible, personalized therapy that adapts to each person’s unique needs, making it an effective approach for anyone seeking emotional growth, resilience, and lasting change.

What to Expect During an ACT Session

Your first Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) session begins with an initial consultation, where you’ll meet with one of our licensed ACT therapists in Calgary. This session is an opportunity to discuss your concerns, explore your goals, and determine how ACT can support your mental well-being. Our therapists provide a welcoming and non-judgmental space where you can openly share your experiences and begin developing a personalized approach to therapy.

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Following your consultation, your therapist will help you identify thought patterns, emotions, and behaviours contributing to distress. You’ll learn mindfulness and acceptance techniques to navigate difficult emotions, clarify your core values, and explore how to take meaningful action aligned with them. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which focuses on changing thoughts, ACT helps you shift how you relate to them—allowing you to respond to challenges with greater flexibility and resilience. This first session lays the groundwork for an action-oriented approach that supports long-term emotional well-being.

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​Why Choose ACT for Mental Health Support?

At Flourish Psychological Services, we take a compassionate and personalized approach to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Our goal is to help clients manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress while building the skills necessary for lasting emotional well-being. ACT is a research-backed therapy that has been proven highly effective in fostering psychological flexibility, allowing individuals to navigate challenges with greater clarity and resilience.

 

Our therapists integrate this evidence-based approach to support clients in developing healthier relationships with their thoughts and emotions, leading to meaningful and lasting change. Rather than just providing symptom relief, ACT focuses on helping clients build lifelong coping strategies. Through a structured yet flexible approach, our therapists guide individuals to accept difficult emotions, break free from negative thought patterns, and take purposeful action that aligns with their values. We are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, gain new perspectives, and develop the tools needed for long-term emotional well-being.

​ACT vs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and restructuring negative thought patterns to reduce emotional distress. In contrast, ACT helps individuals accept thoughts and emotions without judgment, focusing instead on developing flexibility in how they respond to these experiences. Rather than challenging or changing thoughts, ACT encourages cognitive defusion, allowing individuals to create distance from unhelpful thinking patterns. ACT also places a stronger emphasis on mindfulness and values-driven action, helping individuals make meaningful choices even when distress is present.

ACT vs. Mindfulness-Based Therapy

While Mindfulness-Based Therapy focuses on increasing present-moment awareness, ACT extends beyond mindfulness by incorporating values-driven behavioural change. ACT helps individuals not only accept their emotions but also take committed steps toward a fulfilling life. Additionally, ACT introduces cognitive defusion techniques, which help individuals separate themselves from unhelpful thought patterns rather than becoming overwhelmed by them.

 

Mindfulness-based therapy promotes present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance of thoughts and emotions, but it does not emphasize behavioural change. ACT integrates mindfulness while also focusing on values-driven action, helping individuals not only accept their emotions but also take committed steps toward a fulfilling life. Additionally, ACT incorporates cognitive defusion techniques, enabling individuals to separate themselves from unhelpful thought patterns rather than becoming entangled in them.

Calgary-Based ACT Specialists You Can Trust

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and restructuring negative thought patterns to reduce emotional distress. In contrast, ACT helps individuals accept thoughts and emotions without judgment, focusing instead on developing flexibility in how they respond to these experiences. Rather than challenging or changing thoughts, ACT encourages cognitive defusion, allowing individuals to create distance from unhelpful thinking patterns. ACT also places a stronger emphasis on mindfulness and values-driven action, helping individuals make meaningful choices even when distress is present.

  • Why don't Psychologists actively seek reviews?
    For the best answer to this question visit our dedicated page on the matter: https://www.flourishpsychology.ca/why-psychologists-do-not-actively-seek-reviews
  • How much does therapy cost?
    Therapy ranges from 200-300 dollars per hour, depending on your provider, level of education, and training. Total cost will depend on the severity of difficulties you are experiencing, and the length of treatment required. Pricing is set by the Psychologist's Association of Alberta
  • Is counselling covered by my health insurance?
    Yes! Typically your private health insurance such as Blue Cross, SunLife, Manulife will cover the cost of qualified registered therapist such as Psychologist. Check with your insurance to see what benefits you are entitled to. Benefits typically reset at the end of the year or in April. Make the most of your benefits! Read our blog: "Are Calgary Psychological Services Covered By Benefits?"
  • Do you offer direct billing?
    At this time we can direct bill Blue Cross, and Green shield. We hope other insurance providers will soon offer this convenient option as well. If you are with a different company because we do all invoices and subsequent receipts electronically, you can submit your claims and most clients report to us that they are reimbursed quite quickly.
  • How do I know which therapist to pick?
    There is good research to suggest that a good "fit" between you and your therapist is a prime driver in whether you will get the most out of therapy. We recommend you browse the therapist's profiles and choose someone who resonates with you, and specializes in what you are most concerned about.
  • What form of payment do you accept?
    We accept all major credit cards, e-transfers, cheque or cash. Payment is due the day services are rendered.
  • What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
    ART incorporates a combination of techniques used in many other traditional psychotherapies. ARTworks directly to reprogram the way in which distressing memories and images are stored in the brain so that they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions. ART accomplishes this through the use of rapid eye movements similar to eye movements that occur during dreaming. Although techniques similar to these are used in other types of therapies. ART’s very specific and directive approach can achieve rapid recovery from symptoms and reactions that may have been present for many years. ART combines long respected, sound treatment practices with safe and effective methods validated by current scientific research studies conducted by the University of South Florida.
  • What types of trauma does therapy help with?
    Trauma therapy can help with a variety of experiences, including childhood trauma, PTSD, emotional abuse, physical abuse, accidents, loss, and other distressing events.
  • How do I know if I need trauma therapy?
    Signs you may need trauma therapy include recurring flashbacks, difficulty managing emotions, trouble sleeping, or feeling disconnected from others. A professional can help determine if therapy is right for you.
  • Is trauma therapy effective for PTSD?
    Yes, trauma therapy is highly effective for treating PTSD. Techniques like EMDR and ART are particularly successful in helping individuals process and reduce the intensity of traumatic memories.
  • How long does trauma therapy take?
    The duration of trauma therapy depends on the individual and the complexity of their trauma. Some people may see progress in a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing support.
  • Can trauma therapy help with physical symptoms?
    Yes, trauma therapy can address physical symptoms caused by stress, such as headaches, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances, by helping to reduce the underlying emotional distress.
  • How much does EMDR cost in Calgary?
    The cost of EMDR therapy typically ranges from $220 to $250 per 60-minute session, as set by the Psychology Association of Alberta. Many insurance plans, like Blue Cross and Green Shield, cover services by registered therapists, and we offer direct billing for these providers. Check your insurance details to see your coverage. You can find additional details summarized here.
  • What disorder is EMDR most commonly used to treat?
    EMDR is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating PTSD. It is also used to address anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related conditions.
  • Who is EMDR not appropriate for?
    While EMDR is highly effective for many, it may not be suitable for individuals who are currently experiencing severe dissociation or unstable mental health conditions. Your therapist will assess your readiness for EMDR during the initial consultation.
  • Why is there controversy with EMDR?
    Some skepticism around EMDR stems from misconceptions about its methods. However, decades of research support its efficacy as a trauma-focused therapy.
  • Will therapy work for me?
    While individual therapy can be highly beneficial for many people, its effectiveness depends on your willingness to engage in the process and work collaboratively with your therapist. If you go in with an open mind and a real dedication to self-improvement, chances are very good that you’ll see positive results.
  • How do I find the right therapist for me?
    Your free 15-minute consultation allows you to connect with potential therapists and determine the best fit for you. It seems unnecessary but this is a vital step in establishing a strong relationship of trust and healing.
  • Can I get free individual counselling?
    We currently do not offer free counselling services. However, many health insurance plans cover our services, and we strive to provide affordable and accessible therapy options to accommodate various financial situations. Read more on our main FAQ page.
  • How do I know if I need individual therapy?
    If you find yourself facing personal challenges, emotional distress, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking personal growth, individual therapy can be a valuable resource to help you navigate these concerns and foster positive changes in your life.
  • What is individual counselling?
    Individual counselling is one form of therapy where a skilled and educated therapist meets with you one-on-one to explore your experiences and your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs in a safe and confidential space. The goal of individual therapy is to help you gain insight and new perspectives into your challenges, develop adaptive coping skills, and make positive lasting changes in your life.
  • How long does personal counselling take?
    The length of personal counselling varies based on your needs and goals that you want to achieve. Some people may only need a small amount of sessions to address a specific issue, while other people may require more extensive treatment over a longer period of time. Your therapist will work with you to figure out a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
  • What types of issues can individual counselling help with?
    Individual counseling can help with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, self-esteem, grief and loss, trauma, and addiction. It can also be helpful for those facing major life transitions, ie., divorce or retirement. Most everyone benefits from having a neutral party listen to their experiences and help gain new perspectives.
  • What can I expect during my own session?
    During an individual counselling session in Calgary, you can expect to have an open and honest conversation with your therapist about your concerns. Your therapist will ask additional questions to gain a better understanding of your situation. Your therapist may recommend resources such as books, articles, or videos for you to look at in between sessions. Sessions are typically 50-60 minutes long and are held on a regular basis, usually weekly or bi-weekly or monthly.
  • How do I know if individual counselling is right for me?
    Individual counselling can be a very beneficial form of therapy for anyone who is looking to improve their mental health and wellbeing. If you are struggling with a certain issue or are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, individual counselling could be a good option for you to look into. It is important to find yourself a therapist who you feel comfortable talking to and who has significant experience in treating your specific concerns.
  • What's your couples counselling strategy based on?
    Our couples counseling therapy is based on the world-renowned Gottman Institute methodology of marriage and relationship therapy. This service begins with a thorough assessment; including interviews both together and individually, as well as a number of online assessments. The assessment takes 4-6 hours. After you have received feedback from the assessment we will work together to overcome weaknesses in the relationship. Treatment length varies depending on your unique relationship needs.
  • How much does couples counselling cost in Calgary?
    Prices range due to a variety of factors, and is set at a provincial level by the Psychology Association of Alberta. The usual price is between $220-$300 per 50-minute session. However, the actual cost to you might be substantially lower or even zero, since nearly all benefits plans cover services delivered by a registered therapist. We can even direct bill several of them, such as Blue Cross and Green Shield. Check your insurance documentation to see what you are entitled to, and you can find more specific information summarized here.
  • Do you also offer marriage counselling?
    Yes. Marriage counselling and couples counselling are very similar. All marriages are couples but not all couples are married. Many of the same methods used to help couples in common law or longterm relationships are also used for couples who are married. Learn All About Marriage Counselling in our blog!
  • Is marriage counselling covered by insurance?
    Yes! As we’ve mentioned before, we are registered professionals – which means most insurance plans cover our services. Depending on the company, you can direct bill (as we do), but otherwise you can submit the receipts to your insurance provider.
  • Is marriage counselling free?
    Unfortunately it is not, but the costs are usually covered by insurance. Read more on our blog about benefits.
  • Is marriage counselling tax deductible?
    This is a bit of a grey area, as it depends on what province you live in. In Alberta, psychologist services are considered a tax-deductible medical expense, but someone who is solely a marriage and family therapist is not. Follow the information on the Government of Canada site for more information.
  • How many marriage counselling sessions will be needed?
    This varies quite a bit from one couple to another. If the sessions are in response to a big crisis, they will need more than if it is simply some maintenance issues. It’s very difficult to give even a ballpark figure.
  • Will marriage counselling help save my marriage?
    The key word here is “help”. Counselling is just one part of a marriage success strategy that involves additional effort on the part of both spouses. If you are willing to put the work in, take the counsellor’s advice, and make things better, you will have much different results than if you have already made up your mind beforehand about ending the relationship. We do good work, but we can’t perform miracles!
  • Why does marriage counselling fail?
    The biggest reason that people don’t get the results they want is that they don’t put in the necessary effort, but it may also come down to a lack of financial resources, or a complete disconnection of goals and communication on one side of the relationship. Mutual respect and motivation are minimum requirements for success. You can read more about getting the most out of therapy sessions here.
  • What is Family Counselling and how does it work?
    Family counselling is a form of therapy that aims to help families improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships. It typically involves all members of a family meeting with a trained therapist to discuss their issues and work toward solutions. Family counselling at our offices here in Calgary may include individual sessions as well as joint sessions with the entire family.
  • How can Family Counselling benefit my family?
    Family counselling can benefit your family in several ways. It can help you communicate more effectively, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships. Family counselling can also help you learn new coping skills, how to manage stress, and how to deal with difficult emotions. By working with a therapist here in Calgary, your family can develop a deeper understanding of each other and learn how to support each other in a healthy way.
  • What kinds of issues can Family Counselling address?
    Family counselling can address a wide range of issues that affect families here in Calgary, including communication problems, parenting issues, divorce, blended family challenges, sibling rivalry, behavioural problems in children, mental health issues, substance abuse, and domestic violence. A trained family therapist can work with your family to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
  • How long does family therapy usually take?
    The length of family counseling varies depending on the specific issues being addressed and the progress made during therapy. Some people's families may see improvement after just a few quick sessions, while others may require several months or even longer to achieve their goals. Your therapist in our Calgary office can work with you to determine a treatment plan that fits your needs and schedule.
  • How do I know if my family even needs counselling?
    If your family is experiencing conflicts, communication problems, or other issues that are affecting your relationships and well-being, family counselling in Calgary may be a helpful option. You may also consider counselling if you are facing a major life transition or dealing with a mental health issue that is affecting your family. If you are unsure whether your family could benefit from counselling, you can speak with a therapist here in southeast Calgary to learn more about the services they offer and how they may be able to help your family.
  • What types of psychological services are available for children and teens?
    Services for children and teens differ widely from that which is offered to adults. Depending on age, play therapy may be appropriate for the youngest children who are still working on finding their voice. Teenagers usually need an extra, kind and supportive listener who is non-judgemental and willing to think”outside the box” with them. Both children and teens are attached to their family systems so it is important that they are seen as connected and treated within their family system.
  • How do I know if my child needs psychological services?
    You know your child best. If you notice that your child is struggling, either with their emotions, behaviour, or relationships, it may be time to reach out to external support. Signs that a child may benefit from therapy include sadness or anxiety that is not better explained by day to day events, difficulty sleeping or eating, frequent tantrums or outbursts, and a rapid decline or acceleration in academic or social functioning.
  • Will my child be able to participate in the therapy process?
    This depends! All therapy is meant to be client-centered, so your therapist will work to be interactive and engaging for children and teens. Therapists use a variety of techniques, such as play therapy and art therapy, to help young clients express themselves and work through their feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
  • How long will my child need to attend therapy?
    The length of therapy varies depending on the individual needs of each individual and their respective family situation. Some children may only need a few sessions to work through a specific issue, while others may benefit from ongoing therapy over a period of several months or even years.
  • How can I support my child's mental health outside of therapy?
    There are several ways that parents can support their child's mental health outside of therapy, including practicing good self-care, encouraging healthy lifestyle habits, fostering positive relationships, and seeking support from other parents or professionals when needed. In fact, the happiest children resist in the homes of the happiest adults, so it is critical that you take care of your own stressors to be able to guide your little through their hard times.
  • How can therapy benefit my child or teenager?
    Therapy can provide valuable support for children and teenagers by helping them develop coping skills, improve communication, manage emotions, and address specific concerns. It offers a safe and non-judgmental space for self-expression and fosters personal growth.
  • How often do therapy sessions typically occur?
    The frequency of therapy sessions depends on the individual needs and goals of your child or teenager. Sessions can range from weekly to bi-weekly or as determined in collaboration with the therapist.
  • Is therapy confidential?
    Yes, therapy is confidential within the limits defined by law. However, therapists may have a duty to report if there are concerns about the safety and well-being of the child or teenager or others.
  • What is the success rate of ART?
    Studies show that ART has a high success rate for reducing PTSD, anxiety, and depression symptoms, often within 1-5 sessions.
  • How many sessions are typically required?
    Many clients experience significant relief in just 1-3 sessions, though some may benefit from additional sessions based on their needs.
  • Is ART effective for children and teens?
    Yes, ART can be adapted for children and adolescents, making it an excellent option for young individuals dealing with trauma or anxiety.
  • How is ART different from EMDR?
    ART allows for intentional image replacement, giving clients more control over how they process and reframe their memories.
  • Are there side effects to Accelerated Resolution Therapy?
    Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is generally well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. Some clients may experience temporary emotional shifts after a session, which usually pass quickly. Others have reported having vivid—but not distressing—dreams within the first 72 hours following treatment.

Take the Next Step Toward Healing with ACT in Calgary

At Flourish Psychological Services, we believe that you deserve a life that aligns with your values and aspirations. Begin your journey toward a more fulfilling life with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy at Flourish Psychological Services. Our experienced therapists are here to support you in building resilience and making meaningful changes. Book a free consultation today!

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