How to find a qualified ACT therapist?

1. Search online therapy directories
   
   Many professional directories allow you to search specifically for therapists who practice ACT.

These are some reliable options:

• • Psychology Today therapist directory

• • • Enter your location.
    • Use the filter to search for therapists specializing in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).

• • Association for Contextual Behavioral Science (ACBS)

• • • ACBS is the professional organization behind ACT.
    • Their therapist directory lists ACT-trained professionals worldwide.

• • GoodTherapy

• • • Search for ACT-based therapy by filtering for “Types of Therapy” and selecting “Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).”

• • BetterHelp or Talkspace

• • • These platforms offer online ACT therapy with licensed professionals.

2. Look for ACT-certified therapists
   
   Not all therapists are trained in ACT, so you’ll want to ask about their experience.
   Consider asking the following questions when reaching out:

• • Do you specialize in ACT?
  • What training or certifications do you have in ACT?
  • How do you integrate ACT into therapy?

3. Consider teletherapy or online ACT programs

Think about virtual therapy if you don’t have an ACT therapist nearby:

• • Online ACT therapy

Platforms like BetterHelp, Talkspace, or Thriveworks offer ACT-trained therapists for video sessions.

• • ACT-based apps

Some apps, like ACT Companion or Happify, provide self-guided ACT exercises.

4. Check with your insurance provider
   
   If you’re looking for an ACT therapist covered by insurance:

• • Contact your insurance company and ask for a list of covered mental health providers.
  • Search their database for therapists trained in ACT.
  • Ask the counselor directly if they accept your insurance.

5. Ask for recommendations
   

You can also find an ACT therapist through:

• • Your primary care doctor

They might refer you to a specialist.

• • Local mental health clinics

Many suggest ACT-based services.

• • Community groups or support forums

Online groups such as Reddit’s r/ACTtherapy can share personal recommendations.

Final tips

• Try a few sessions to see if the therapist is a good fit.
• Look for a psychotherapist who makes you feel comfortable and understands your needs.
• Consider the cost and accessibility: Many therapists offer sliding scale fees or online options.

My comprehensive ACT guide can be found here.

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