Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Sydney
Seeking acceptance and commitment therapy in Sydney? At The Balmain Practice, we offer evidence-based ACT to help individuals manage difficult thoughts and feelings and work towards their personal goals.
Our psychologists understand that everyone’s experience is different, so we tailor our approach to each person’s needs, using practical strategies that can be applied in everyday life.
What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?
Acceptance and commitment therapy, commonly known as ACT, is a mindfulness-based approach that helps individuals relate to their thoughts and feelings in a healthier way.
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Rather than trying to eliminate unwanted emotions, ACT teaches people to accept these experiences while still taking meaningful action in line with what matters to them.
How Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Works
Acceptance and commitment therapy uses six interconnected processes to help people develop psychological flexibility. Our kind and supportive team will guide you through each process with patience and expertise:
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Acceptance: Learning to make room for uncomfortable emotions rather than pushing them away or fighting against them.
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Cognitive Defusion: Learning to notice thoughts without becoming consumed by them, creating distance from unhelpful thinking patterns.
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Present Moment Awareness: Using mindfulness techniques to focus on the present moment rather than getting caught up in thoughts about the past or future.
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Values Clarification: Exploring what matters most to you and how your values can guide your choices and behaviour.
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Committed Action: Taking small, manageable steps towards goals that reflect your values, even when those steps feel difficult.
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Self-as-Context: Recognising that your thoughts and feelings are only part of your experience, allowing you to view them from a broader perspective.
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Each of these processes is explored gradually, with our psychologists using practical examples and exercises to explain how to apply them in everyday life.
What ACT Can Help With
People can face a range of challenges throughout life, and ACT therapy in Sydney offers practical strategies to help manage these experiences. Our psychologists work with people experiencing:​​​
Stress and anxiety
Including generalised anxiety and obsessive-compulsive patterns
Low mood or difficulty regulating emotions
Social difficulties
Including trouble forming or maintaining relationships
Challenges with self-esteem and self-confidence
Difficulties coping with change or transitions
Academic or work-related pressures
Grief and loss
If some of these challenges are affecting you, speaking with one of our psychologists can help you explore whether ACT may be a suitable approach for your needs.
The Balmain Practice Approach to ACT
We believe therapy works best when people feel respected, heard, and supported throughout the process. At The Balmain Practice, we offer:
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An evidence-based approach guides our work. We select strategies suited to each person’s concerns.
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A collaborative process: Our psychologists work alongside you, taking the time to understand your perspective, goals, and concerns.
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Warm, professional care: Our supportive team offers a calm environment where you can express your thoughts and feelings openly. We recognise that everyone’s experiences are different and approach them with openness and understanding.
What To Expect When Starting Therapy
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and we aim to make the process as clear as possible.
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Enquiry: Get in touch by phone or through our online form.
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Booking: We’ll arrange your first appointment at a time that suits you and send you a Welcome Pack with information on what to expect.
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Preparation: You can use the Welcome Pack to prepare for your session. If your appointment is in person, arriving a little earlier can give you time to settle in. For online sessions, allow a few minutes to get set up before your appointment.
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First Appointment: You’ll discuss what’s brought you to therapy and what you’re hoping to work on. It’s also an opportunity to get to know your psychologist and begin to feel comfortable working together.
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When you contact us, we’ll match you with a psychologist whose experience and approach suit your needs well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ACT and CBT?
Both ACT and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are evidence-based approaches, but they focus on different ways of managing difficult thoughts and feelings. CBT often involves identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours, while ACT focuses on accepting thoughts and feelings while developing healthier ways to respond to them. Both approaches aim to help people manage challenges and improve their daily lives.
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How effective is ACT therapy?
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ACT can be an effective approach for helping people manage anxiety, stress, low mood, and other emotional challenges. It helps people develop practical skills for responding to difficult thoughts and feelings, build psychological flexibility, and make choices that reflect their personal values.
How long does ACT therapy take?
How long therapy takes to work depends on your circumstances, concerns, and goals. Your psychologist can discuss your goals with you and review your progress as therapy continues.
Is ACT suitable for everyone?
ACT can address a range of concerns, but its suitability depends on your individual circumstances and goals. Your psychologist can discuss whether this approach may be appropriate for you.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist at The Balmain Practice?
No, you do not need a referral to make an appointment. You can contact the practice directly to enquire about an appointment.