At New Horizons Therapy NY, our therapists utilize ACT to help you develop a new relationship with anxiety. Instead of struggling to eliminate anxious thoughts and feelings, you'll learn to accept them as a natural part of human experience and focus on living a life that aligns with your values.

 

How ACT Helps with Anxiety:

• Mindful Awareness: ACT helps you develop mindful awareness of your anxious thoughts and feelings without judgment. This allows you to observe them without getting caught up in their story or letting them dictate your actions.

• Cognitive Defusion: You'll learn techniques to "defuse" from your thoughts, recognizing them as just thoughts, not truths. This creates distance between you and your anxiety, reducing its power over you.

• Acceptance: ACT encourages you to accept anxiety as a natural human experience rather than fighting or avoiding it. This reduces the struggle and frees up energy to focus on what matters.

• Values Clarification: You'll explore your core values – what truly matters to you in life – and use them as a compass to guide your actions.

• Committed Action: ACT empowers you to take actions that align with your values, even in the presence of anxiety. This helps you break free from avoidance and move towards a fulfilling life.

 

ACT and Different Anxiety Disorders:

ACT can be particularly helpful for various anxiety disorders, including:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Reduce excessive worry and rumination by accepting anxious thoughts and focusing on valued actions.

• Panic Disorder: Learn to accept the physical sensations of panic without fear, reducing the intensity and frequency of panic attacks.

• Social Anxiety Disorder: Identify your values around social connection and take gradual steps to engage in social situations, even with anxiety present.

• Specific Phobias: Develop willingness to approach feared situations while practicing mindfulness and acceptance of anxiety.

 

Benefits of ACT for Anxiety:

• Reduced anxiety and worry: Gain greater control over your anxiety and experience more peace and calm.

• Increased psychological flexibility: Respond to challenges with greater adaptability and resilience.

• Improved quality of life: Engage in activities you enjoy and pursue your goals with greater confidence.

• Enhanced self-awareness: Develop a deeper understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

• Greater self-acceptance: Cultivate a more compassionate and accepting relationship with yourself.

 

Take the First Step Towards a Calmer Life:

If you're ready to break free from the grip of anxiety, contact New Horizons Therapy NY to learn more about how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help you. Our experienced therapists will guide you on a journey towards greater peace, freedom, and a life aligned with your values.