Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Program

Finding the right therapeutic approach can make all the difference when it comes to addressing emotional challenges and improving overall well-being. At Inward Healthcare, we offer a specialized acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) program designed to help teens and adolescents manage difficult emotions, gain greater self-awareness, and improve their quality of life. If you’re looking for compassionate, evidence-based mental health therapy in Long Beach, CA, our team is here to support you every step of the way. 

How Does ACT Work? 

Acceptance and commitment therapy focuses on six core processes: acceptance, cognitive defusion, being present, self-as-context, values, and committed action. Each plays an essential role in helping individuals accept their experiences and commit to meaningful actions: 

1. Acceptance – The first step in ACT is learning to accept uncomfortable emotions and thoughts rather than trying to avoid or control them. By embracing emotions rather than resisting them, individuals can reduce their emotional struggle and increase emotional clarity. 
2. Cognitive defusion – This process helps individuals gain distance from their thoughts, reducing their impact and influence. By recognizing that thoughts are just thoughts—not necessarily reality—people can avoid being overly influenced by negative or unhelpful thinking patterns. 
3. Being present – Mindfulness plays a central role in ACT, teaching individuals to focus on the present moment rather than getting lost in past regrets or future worries. By staying grounded in the present, people can make more intentional and value-driven decisions. 
4. Self-as-context – In ACT, individuals are encouraged to see themselves from a broader perspective, recognizing that their thoughts or emotions do not define them. This helps young people develop a more flexible sense of identity and encourages self-compassion. 
5. Values – A key component of ACT is helping individuals clarify their values—what truly matters to them in life. Once these values are identified, therapy focuses on aligning behaviors and actions with them. 
6. Committed action – The final process in ACT involves taking meaningful steps toward living a life that reflects one’s values. Even when faced with difficult emotions or experiences, ACT encourages individuals to commit to actions that move them closer to the life they want to lead. 

At Inward Healthcare, we integrate all six processes into our acceptance and commitment therapy program, creating a holistic and comprehensive approach to treatment for teens and adolescents. 

Benefits of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Teens and Adolescents 

Adolescents and adolescents are often dealing with a range of emotional and behavioral challenges, including anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, and identity formation. ACT is especially well-suited for young people, as it teaches them valuable coping skills, encourages emotional acceptance, and helps them build resilience during this critical period of development. 

Adolescent ACT can be particularly powerful for adolescents because it helps them navigate the intense emotions that often arise during the teenage years. The ability to accept difficult feelings rather than avoid them gives teens greater control over their emotional experiences. Inward Healthcare’s adolescent ACT in Long Beach, CA, is designed to support young people in embracing their thoughts and emotions while also guiding them toward positive action. 

Adolescents and teens, who are often transitioning into new phases of life—such as college, careers, or independent living—can also greatly benefit from ACT. By helping them clarify their values and commit to actions that align with those values, ACT empowers teens and adolescents to build a life of purpose and meaning. 

Call Today to Find Out How Inward Healthcare Can Help 

At Inward Healthcare, we believe in the power of acceptance and committed action. Reach out today at 888.576.1875 or online to begin your journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth. You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone—we’re here to help you thrive.