Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Calgary | NU Psychology
Life in Calgary can feel like a constant balancing act—managing work, family, community, and the unpredictable pace of change. Many people find themselves stuck between wanting to feel better and struggling against difficult thoughts or emotions that seem impossible to control.
At NU Psychology, we understand how exhausting it can be to fight your own mind. That’s why we use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—a research-based approach designed to help you move toward a more meaningful, values-driven life.
What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a modern form of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) that emphasizes psychological flexibility—the ability to stay present, accept what you cannot change, and take action toward what matters most. Rather than trying to eliminate painful thoughts or emotions, ACT helps you develop a new relationship with them. You learn to respond with mindfulness and compassion, not avoidance or control.
ACT focuses on six key processes:
Acceptance: Allowing uncomfortable emotions to exist without judgment.
Cognitive De-fusion: Learning to see thoughts as experiences—not facts.
Being Present: Cultivating awareness of the here and now.
Self-as-Context: Viewing yourself as more than your thoughts or emotions.
Values: Identifying what truly matters to you.
Committed Action: Taking meaningful steps that align with your values.
Our ACT-trained therapists guide you through these processes using collaborative, practical strategies that fit your unique goals and pace.
Signs You Might Benefit from ACT Therapy
ACT can help if you’re struggling with:
Anxiety, perfectionism, or constant worry
Depression or low motivation
Difficulty coping with stress or uncertainty
Feelings of being “stuck” in life decisions
Overthinking and self-criticism
Chronic pain or health-related anxiety
Relationship challenges or disconnection from your values
Our Calgary therapy sessions, you’ll explore how avoidance patterns, self-judgment, and rigid thinking can keep you trapped in cycles of distress. Through ACT, we help you reconnect with what matters most, even when life feels uncertain or uncomfortable.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) was developed in the 1980s by psychologist Dr. Steven C. Hayes. Unlike traditional therapies that focus on reducing symptoms, ACT encourages people to make space for uncomfortable emotions — and take action based on their personal values, not avoidance.
How ACT Therapy Works at NU Psychology
Our therapists take a compassionate, strength-based approach to ACT. We understand that lasting change doesn’t come from fighting yourself—it comes from learning to live more flexibly and purposefully.
Here’s what you can expect in ACT therapy:
Collaborative Assessment: Together, we’ll identify your challenges, strengths, and the values you want to live by.
Mindfulness Training: You’ll learn grounding and awareness techniques to help you stay present in moments of distress.
Values Clarification: We’ll help you identify what truly matters—relationships, growth, creativity, balance—and explore how to make decisions aligned with those values.
Committed Action Planning: You’ll practice making small, meaningful changes that bring your life closer to the direction you want to go.
ACT isn’t about avoiding pain; it’s about building the tools to live a meaningful life even when challenges arise.
Why Choose NU Psychology for ACT in Calgary
At NU Psychology, our Calgary therapists integrate ACT with other evidence-based modalities like CBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care. We believe therapy should feel safe, empowering, and personalized. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, or relationship concerns, our clinicians will meet you with warmth and professionalism.
Our Calgary offices provide a calm, welcoming environment—both in person and online—to help you explore your goals and take steady steps toward change.
When to Seek Support
Therapy isn’t just for moments of crisis.
Many Calgarians come to NU Psychology because they want to:
Build self-awareness and confidence
Improve relationships and communication
Manage stress in healthier ways
Break free from avoidance or overthinking
Reconnect with meaning and direction
If you’ve been feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward, ACT therapy can offer a new way of relating to your inner world—with less struggle and more self-kindness.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but at NU Psychology, you’re not alone. We offer individual therapy sessions for adults, teens, and emerging adults—online or in person—designed to help you create meaningful, sustainable change. If you’re curious about how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy could support your growth, we invite you to reach out. Our Calgary therapists are here to help you navigate challenges with compassion and confidence.
One Foot in Front of the Other: Final Thoughts
At NU Psychology, we believe you already hold the potential for growth and healing. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy simply helps you access it. If you’re ready to begin your journey toward a more values-driven and fulfilling life, connect with our team today.
📍 2005 37 Street SW, Unit #4, Calgary, AB
📧 office@nupsychology.com
📞 403-217-4686
🌐 Book your counselling session in Calgary today—your turning point starts here.
Looking for support for children? Visit our sister clinic, Creative Sky Psychology in Calgary, where child psychologists help kids build resilience and thrive.
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While both approaches help people manage unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, CBT focuses on changing thought patterns, whereas ACT emphasizes accepting thoughts as part of the human experience and committing to value-based action. ACT helps you develop flexibility and resilience even when uncomfortable emotions arise.
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The process varies depending on your goals and situation. Many clients notice positive changes—such as increased self-awareness or reduced avoidance—within a few sessions. ACT focuses on building long-term coping skills rather than a quick “fix.”
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Yes. ACT is particularly effective for people who struggle with anxiety, overthinking, or high self-expectations. It helps you recognize when control strategies aren’t serving you and instead focus on living in alignment with your values.
