Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Calgary
Evidence-based ACT therapy to help you relate differently to difficult thoughts and build a meaningful, values-driven life
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Calgary is an evidence-based approach that combines mindfulness with practical behavioural strategies. Rather than trying to eliminate difficult thoughts or emotions, ACT helps you change your relationship with them so you can focus on what matters most.
At Clear Minds Psychology, ACT is used to support adults and seniors in managing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and life transitions, while building resilience and psychological flexibility.
If you’re considering ACT therapy, a brief consultation can help you determine whether this approach feels like the right fit.
What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is part of the cognitive behavioural therapy family, but it takes a different approach to change.
Instead of focusing on challenging or reducing thoughts, ACT helps you:
- Accept difficult internal experiences
- Step back from unhelpful thinking patterns
- Stay present and engaged in the moment
- Take action guided by your values
A central goal of ACT is to develop psychological flexibility — the ability to remain present, open, and engaged, even when facing discomfort.
ACT vs Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Both ACT and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy are effective, evidence-based approaches, but they differ in focus:
While ACT is part of the CBT family and both treatments are effective. However, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Calgary uses a unique, values-based approach.
- CBT works to identify and change unhelpful thoughts
- ACT focuses on accepting thoughts while choosing meaningful actions
Many people naturally experience symptom relief as they practice the principles of ACT described below.
How ACT Therapy Works
The Six Core Principles of ACT
ACT is built around six core processes that support psychological flexibility:
- Acceptance – Allowing uncomfortable thoughts and emotions without avoiding them
- Cognitive Defusion – Stepping back from unhelpful thoughts
- Being Present – Focusing on the here and now
- Self-as-Context – Recognising that you are more than your thoughts
- Values – Clarifying what matters most to you
- Committed Action – Taking steps aligned with your values
These skills work together to help you respond more effectively to life’s challenges.
What ACT Can Help With
ACT therapy in Calgary is effective for a range of concerns, including:
- Anxiety and chronic worry
- Depression and low mood
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Stress and burnout
- Chronic pain or health conditions
- Life transitions and adjustment
ACT is particularly helpful when efforts to control or avoid thoughts and feelings are no longer working.
How ACT Supports Different Concerns
ACT for Anxiety
Helps you respond differently to worry and fear, so you can stay engaged in daily life rather than avoiding situations.
ACT for OCD Calgary
Often used alongside Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), ACT helps you relate differently to intrusive thoughts and reduce compulsive responses.
ACT for Trauma and PTSD Calgary
Supports you in acknowledging difficult memories without becoming overwhelmed, while reconnecting with your values and goals.
What to Expect from ACT Therapy
ACT therapy is collaborative, practical, and focused on real-life change. In early sessions, we will:
- Explore your current challenges and goals
- Identify patterns of avoidance or unhelpful thinking
- Begin developing skills to respond more flexibly
Over time, therapy focuses on building mindfulness skills, clarifying values, and taking meaningful action — even in the presence of difficult thoughts or emotions.
How Long Does ACT Therapy Take?
ACT is typically a short- to medium-term approach. Many people attend between 8–16 sessions, although this can vary depending on your goals and circumstances.
Progress often depends on practising skills between sessions and applying them in everyday life.
Considering ACT Therapy?
A brief consultation can help you understand how these approaches apply to your specific situation.
Benefits of ACT Therapy
ACT can help you:
- Build greater psychological flexibility
- Reduce the impact of difficult thoughts and emotions
- Improve emotional resilience and coping
- Strengthen connection to your values and goals
- Increase overall sense of meaning and well-being
Choosing ACT therapy in Calgary can help you navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, purpose, and self-compassion.
Who I Work With
I work primarily with:
- Adults (18+)
- Seniors
- Individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, and life transitions
- Clients across Calgary and Alberta
Sessions are available in person or online.
If this sounds like your situation, you’re welcome to reach out to explore whether life transitions therapy may be helpful.
Professional Credentials
- Registered Psychologist, Province of Alberta (College of Alberta Psychologists)
- Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology (MACP), Yorkville University
- Advanced training in ACT, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and ERP
- Member of Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) and IS-ART
- Contributor, Alberta Senior Living Magazine — Spring Mental Health Check-In: Managing Anxiety, SAD Transitions & Light Exposure
About the Psychologist
Michelle Fox is a Registered Psychologist in Calgary with over 30 years of experience supporting adults and seniors. She integrates ACT with other evidence-based approaches to help clients build resilience, develop practical coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Learn more about Michelle Fox, Registered Psychologist in Calgary.
FAQ: ACT Therapy in Calgary
Is ACT therapy effective?
Yes. ACT is an evidence-based approach shown to be effective for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Is ACT similar to mindfulness?
ACT includes mindfulness as a core component, but also focuses on behaviour change and values-based action.
Can ACT be combined with other therapies?
Yes. ACT is often used alongside approaches such as CBT, EMDR, or ERP, depending on your needs.
Start Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Calgary Today
If you’re ready to create lasting change and live more fully in alignment with your values, ACT therapy at Clear Minds Psychology in Calgary can help you take that next step. I offer in-person and online ACT therapy in Calgary for anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.
Contact Clear Minds Psychology today to start your journey with ACT Calgary and build a life that truly matters.