Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Chicago, Illinois

Expert ACT Therapists Helping You Live a Meaningful, Values-Driven Life

Proudly serving Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Loop, River North, Wicker Park, Andersonville, Gold Coast, Old Town, and all Chicago neighborhoods

Find Freedom from Anxiety, Depression, and Emotional Struggle in Chicago

Are you tired of battling anxious thoughts that won’t quiet down? Feeling stuck in patterns of avoidance that keep you from living the life you truly want? Struggling with depression, chronic pain, or overwhelming emotions that seem to control your every move?

At Anxiety Therapist Chicago, our specialized team of ACT therapists understands the exhausting cycle of trying to control, suppress, or eliminate difficult thoughts and feelings—only to find they become more powerful. Located in the heart of Chicago, we offer a different approach: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

ACT is not about positive thinking or fighting your inner experiences. Instead, it’s a proven, evidence-based therapy that teaches you to change your relationship with difficult thoughts and feelings while taking meaningful action toward the life you want to live—right here in Chicago.

What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT, pronounced as the word “act”) is a scientifically-supported form of psychotherapy that falls under the umbrella of cognitive-behavioral therapies. Developed by psychologist Steven Hayes in the 1980s, ACT has since become one of the most researched and effective approaches for treating a wide range of mental health conditions.

The Core Philosophy of ACT

Unlike traditional therapy approaches that focus on reducing or eliminating symptoms, ACT is based on a powerful premise: suffering is a normal part of human life, and the struggle to avoid or control it often makes things worse.

Think about it: How much time have you spent in Chicago trying to avoid anxiety before a big presentation at work? Or attempting to push away sad thoughts about a relationship? Or fighting chronic pain that just won’t go away? The more energy you put into avoiding these experiences, the more they seem to dominate your life.

ACT teaches psychological flexibility—the ability to be present with your experiences (even difficult ones), to see your thoughts as just thoughts (not facts), and to take action guided by your deepest values rather than by fear, avoidance, or the need to feel comfortable.

The Six Core Processes of ACT

Our Chicago ACT therapists guide you through six interconnected therapeutic processes:

1. Acceptance: Opening up and making room for difficult feelings, sensations, and urges instead of fighting them
2. Cognitive Defusion: Learning to observe your thoughts without getting tangled up in them or believing they define reality
3. Present Moment Awareness: Developing mindfulness skills to be fully present in the here and now
4. Self-as-Context: Connecting with a transcendent sense of self that is separate from your thoughts, feelings, and experiences
5. Values Clarification: Identifying what truly matters to you—what you want your life to stand for
6. Committed Action: Taking effective, values-based action even in the presence of difficult thoughts and feelings

These processes work together to help you develop psychological flexibility—the ability to stay present, open up to your experiences, and do what matters even when it’s difficult.

What to Expect in ACT Therapy at Our Chicago Practice

When you begin ACT therapy with us in Chicago, you’re not just getting a therapist—you’re getting a partner in your journey toward a more meaningful life.

Your First Session

During your initial consultation at our Chicago office, your ACT therapist will take time to understand your unique struggles, what brings you to therapy, and what you hope to achieve. We’ll explore:

• The specific challenges you’re facing (anxiety, depression, relationship issues, etc.)
• How you’ve been coping with these difficulties
• What avoidance patterns might be keeping you stuck
• Your values and what matters most to you in life
• How ACT can specifically help your situation

Ongoing ACT Sessions

ACT therapy is highly experiential and practical. In our Chicago sessions, you won’t just talk about problems—you’ll actively practice new skills through:

• Mindfulness exercises: Learning to observe thoughts and feelings without judgment
• Metaphors and experiential exercises: Using creative techniques to understand ACT concepts at a deep level
• Values clarification activities: Identifying what truly matters to you in domains like relationships, career, health, and personal growth
• Behavioral experiments: Taking small, values-based actions between sessions
• Cognitive defusion techniques: Learning to unhook from unhelpful thoughts
• Acceptance practices: Developing willingness to experience difficult emotions in service of your values

Conditions Our Chicago ACT Therapists Treat

Research demonstrates that ACT is highly effective for a wide range of mental health and medical conditions. Our Chicago-based ACT therapists have extensive experience helping clients with:

Anxiety Disorders

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Health Anxiety
• Phobias
• Agoraphobia

Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (hair pulling, skin picking)
• Health Anxiety/Hypochondria
• Intrusive Thoughts

Mood Disorders

• Depression and Major Depressive Disorder
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
• Adjustment Disorders
• Bipolar Disorder (as adjunct treatment)

Trauma and Stress-Related Conditions

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Complex Trauma
• Acute Stress Disorder
• Work-Related Stress and Burnout

Chronic Pain and Medical Conditions

• Chronic Pain Management
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Adjustment to chronic illness
• Cancer-related distress

Substance Use and Addictive Behaviors

• Substance Use Disorders
• Alcohol Dependence
• Behavioral Addictions
• Relapse Prevention

Relationship and Life Transitions

• Relationship Difficulties
• Divorce and Separation
• Career Transitions
• Life Purpose and Meaning
• Grief and Loss

Real-World Example from Chicago

One of our clients, a Chicago marketing executive, came to us struggling with severe social anxiety that prevented her from attending networking events and speaking in meetings—essential parts of her job.

Through ACT therapy, she learned that she didn’t need to eliminate her anxiety to be effective. Instead, she practiced acceptance of the anxious sensations while committing to actions aligned with her values of professional growth and authentic connection.

Within three months, she was regularly attending industry events throughout Chicago, speaking up in meetings, and even volunteered to present at a major conference downtown.

Who Benefits Most from ACT Therapy in Chicago?

ACT therapy is particularly helpful for Chicago residents who:

• Feel stuck in avoidance patterns: You find yourself constantly avoiding situations, people, or experiences because of anxiety, fear, or discomfort
• Are tired of “fighting” their thoughts and feelings: You’ve spent years trying to control, suppress, or eliminate difficult emotions without lasting success
• Want more than symptom relief: You’re not just looking to feel better—you want to live a richer, more meaningful life
• Feel disconnected from their values: You’ve lost touch with what truly matters to you, and your daily choices don’t reflect your deeper priorities
• Struggle with chronic conditions: You’re dealing with ongoing physical or mental health challenges that can’t be “cured” but need to be managed
• Are highly self-critical: You get caught up in harsh self-judgment and struggle with self-compassion
• Want a practical, action-oriented approach: You prefer therapy that focuses on doing rather than just talking
• Haven’t found success with other therapies: Traditional approaches haven’t worked, or the benefits didn’t last

ACT is suitable for teens, adults, and older adults. Our Chicago therapists adapt the approach to meet each client’s unique needs, cultural background, and life circumstances.

Why Choose Our Chicago Practice for ACT Therapy?

Specialized ACT Training and Expertise

Our therapists have completed training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, including:

• ACT training programs
• Ongoing continuing education in ACT and contextual behavioral science
• Supervision and consultation with leading ACT practitioners
• Years of experience applying ACT with diverse populations in Chicago

Evidence-Based, Results-Oriented Care

We’re committed to using therapeutic approaches supported by scientific research. ACT has been validated in hundreds of clinical trials and has strong empirical support for treating anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, and many other conditions.

Personalized Treatment Plans

While we use the ACT framework, we recognize that every Chicago client is unique. We tailor our approach to your specific struggles, cultural background, personality, and goals.

Warm, Compassionate Environment

Our Chicago office provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges and work toward growth. We believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and strive to create a genuine human connection with every client.

Convenient Chicago Location

Our office is centrally located in Chicago with:

• Easy access from the Loop, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and surrounding neighborhoods
• Multiple public transit options (CTA Red, Brown, Purple lines nearby)
• Street parking and nearby parking garages
• See our Chicago areas served page

Flexible Scheduling Options

We understand that Chicago professionals and families have busy schedules. We offer:

• Early morning, evening, and weekend appointments
• In-person and secure telehealth options
• Prompt response times to inquiries

Insurance and Payment Options

We accept most major insurance plans and offer:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
• The ability to pay with your HSA or personal credit card
• Superbills for reimbursement from your plan

The Science Behind ACT: Evidence-Based Treatment

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is backed by extensive scientific research. Here’s what the evidence shows:

• Over 330 randomized controlled trials have been published on ACT
• ACT is recognized as an empirically supported treatment by the American Psychological Association
• Research shows ACT is effective for over 50 different conditions
• Meta-analyses demonstrate moderate to large effect sizes for ACT across various mental health conditions
• Studies show ACT produces lasting improvements that are maintained at follow-up
• ACT has been validated across diverse populations and cultures worldwide

Key Research Findings:

• Anxiety: ACT shows comparable or superior outcomes to traditional CBT for anxiety disorders
• Depression: Multiple studies demonstrate ACT’s effectiveness for depression, with relapse rates lower than standard care
• Chronic Pain: ACT significantly improves functioning and quality of life for people with chronic pain, even when pain levels remain unchanged
• Workplace Stress: ACT-based interventions reduce work burnout and increase job satisfaction
• OCD: Research supports ACT as an effective treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder, particularly when combined with exposure techniques

Getting Started with ACT Therapy in Chicago

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but we’ve made the process as simple as possible:

Step 1: Reach Out

Contact us via our our online contact form. We typically respond within one business day.

Step 2: Free Consultation

We offer a complimentary 15-20 minute phone consultation to discuss your needs, answer questions about ACT therapy, and determine if we’re a good fit.

Step 3: Schedule Your First Appointment

Once we’ve connected, we’ll find a convenient time for your initial session—either in our Chicago office or via secure telehealth.

Step 4: Complete Intake Paperwork

Before your first session, you’ll complete brief paperwork that helps us understand your background and what brings you to therapy.

Step 5: Attend Your First Session

Come as you are. Your first session is a collaborative conversation where we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan together.

Insurance Verification

If you’re using insurance, we’ll verify your benefits before your first appointment so you know what to expect regarding costs and coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions About ACT Therapy in Chicago

What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps you develop psychological flexibility through mindfulness, acceptance, and values-based action. Rather than trying to eliminate difficult thoughts and feelings, ACT teaches you to change your relationship with them while taking meaningful action aligned with your values.

How is ACT different from traditional CBT or talk therapy?

While traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on changing or challenging negative thoughts, ACT teaches you to observe thoughts without getting caught up in them. Instead of asking “Is this thought true?” ACT asks “Is this thought helpful? Does believing this thought help me move toward what matters?” ACT is also more experiential than traditional talk therapy, incorporating mindfulness, metaphors, and behavioral experiments.

How long does ACT therapy take?

ACT therapy typically ranges from 8-20 sessions, though the exact duration depends on your individual needs and goals. Many clients in our Chicago practice notice improvements within the first few sessions, with significant progress typically occurring within 3-6 months of consistent weekly sessions. Some clients choose to continue therapy longer for deeper work or maintenance.

Does insurance cover ACT therapy in Chicago?

Many insurance plans cover ACT therapy as it is an evidence-based treatment. Our Chicago practice accepts most major insurance providers including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United Healthcare, and Cigna. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to verify your specific coverage and benefits. We can also provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement.

What conditions does ACT therapy treat?

ACT therapy effectively treats anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, substance abuse, stress, relationship issues, eating disorders, and many other mental health challenges. Research shows ACT is particularly effective for conditions where avoidance and experiential struggles are central to the problem.

Is ACT therapy right for me?

ACT may be a good fit if you: find yourself avoiding difficult situations or emotions, struggle with harsh self-criticism, feel stuck despite trying to “think positively,” want to live more in line with your values, or haven’t found lasting relief with other therapeutic approaches. The best way to know is to schedule a free consultation with one of our Chicago ACT therapists.

Do you offer virtual/telehealth ACT therapy?

Yes! We offer secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth sessions for clients throughout Chicago and Illinois. Many clients find virtual ACT therapy to be just as effective as in-person sessions, with the added convenience of attending from home.

What should I expect in my first ACT session?

Your first session will be a warm, conversational exploration of what brings you to therapy. We’ll discuss your current struggles, previous attempts to cope, and what you hope to gain from therapy. Your therapist will explain how ACT works and may introduce some initial concepts or exercises. There’s no pressure—we’ll move at your pace.

Will I have homework between sessions?

ACT therapy often includes practice exercises between sessions, but these aren’t traditional “homework.” Instead, they’re opportunities to experiment with new ways of relating to your thoughts and feelings in your daily life in Chicago—whether that’s practicing mindfulness on your commute, taking a values-based action, or trying a new response to anxiety.

Do I need to believe in mindfulness or meditation for ACT to work?

No special beliefs are required! While ACT uses mindfulness techniques, we present them as practical psychological skills rather than spiritual practices. You don’t need to meditate for hours or adopt any particular worldview. We’ll find approaches that work for you and your lifestyle.

Can ACT help with chronic pain or medical conditions?

Yes. ACT has strong research support for helping people cope with chronic pain, chronic illness, and other ongoing medical conditions. Rather than focusing solely on pain reduction, ACT helps you live a full, meaningful life even in the presence of pain or health challenges.

How do I know if my therapist is qualified to provide ACT?

All of our Chicago therapists have completed extensive training in ACT, including specialized certification programs, workshops with leading ACT trainers, and ongoing supervision. We’re transparent about our training and are happy to discuss our qualifications during your free consultation.

What if I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t work?

Many of our Chicago clients come to us after previous therapy experiences that didn’t produce lasting change. ACT offers a fundamentally different approach—rather than trying harder to control your thoughts and feelings, ACT teaches you to change your relationship with them. Many clients find this shift in perspective to be transformative.

Where is your Chicago office located?

Our office is located at 3354 N. Paulina St, STE 209, Chicago, IL, 60657, easily accessible from Lincoln Park, Lakeview, the Loop, River North, Wicker Park, and other Chicago neighborhoods. We’re near the Paulina Brown Line stop  with convenient public transit access and parking options.

ACT Resources for Chicago Residents

Want to learn more about Acceptance and Commitment Therapy? Here are some excellent resources:

Recommended Books

• The Happiness Trap by Russ Harris – An accessible introduction to ACT principles
• Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life by Steven Hayes – Written by the founder of ACT
• The Mindful Way Through Anxiety by Susan Orsillo and Lizabeth Roemer – ACT for anxiety
• ACT Made Simple by Russ Harris – For those who want a deeper dive
• The Reality Slap by Russ Harris – ACT for grief, loss, and difficult life transitions

Chicago-Specific Resources

• Chicago Mental Health Resources: Chicago Department of Public Health
• Community Support Groups: NAMI Chicago Support Groups
• Mindfulness Events in Chicago: Mindful Events in Chicago

Related Services at Our Practice

• Anxiety Therapy in Chicago
• OCD Treatment in Chicago
• Depression Therapy in Chicago
• EMDR Therapy for Trauma
• LGBTQ Therapy in Chicago, IL

Serving These Chicago Neighborhoods:

Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Loop, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, Wicker Park, Bucktown, Lincoln Square, Andersonville, Ravenswood, North Center, Roscoe Village, Ukrainian Village, West Town, Near North Side, Streeterville, and all surrounding Chicago areas.

Ready to Start Your ACT Journey in Chicago?

You don’t have to keep struggling with anxiety, depression, or feeling stuck. ACT offers a proven path toward psychological flexibility, meaningful living, and the life you truly want.

Our experienced Chicago ACT therapists are here to support you every step of the way.