Personalized Parent
& Child Coaching

Trust, Patience
& Support

All of these skills take patience, timing, and often, an extra voice to help facilitate your parenting choices.

With almost 20 years of experience, our staff of specialists at The Nest Los Angeles is here to help you and your family find a path forward. Establishing the values and motivations of each of our families, we build trust, nurture healthy communication and witness the positive transformation of our community for the better.

If you think your child may need extra support in developing positive, values-based social and behavioral skills, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Join us and the many families who’ve found hope, support and transformation at The Nest Los Angeles. Consultations are available on-site at The Nest Los Angeles or via zoom.

What Is ACT?

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a unique, research- based psychological intervention that uses acceptance and mindfulness strategies, together with commitment and behavior change strategies, to increase psychological flexibility. Psychological flexibility means contacting the present moment fully as a conscious human being, and based on what the situation affords, changing or persisting in behavior by focusing on an individual’s or family-centered values.

Our Philosophy

What To Expect

Mindfulness Practice

Practice Exercises

Setting Goals and Developing Tiny Habits

Commitment to Action

Individualized Approach

Defining Values

Why ACT?

ACT focuses on acceptance. Instead of struggling to eliminate or control unpleasant thoughts, emotions, or sensations, ACT encourages individuals to acknowledge and accept them as normal human experiences. This acceptance creates a compassionate and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their inner world without being overwhelmed by self-criticism or avoidance.

ACT also highlights the importance of commitment to values-based actions. It helps individuals clarify what truly matters to them and guides them towards aligning their behaviors with their core values. By setting meaningful goals and taking committed action, individuals can lead purposeful lives despite the inevitable challenges and uncertainties they may encounter.

The ACT Process

During an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) session, you can expect a collaborative and supportive environment where you work closely with a trained therapist. Here are some elements you may encounter:

Exploration of Present Difficulties
The therapist will encourage you to discuss and explore the challenges or issues you’re currently facing. This may involve exploring thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that contribute to your distress.
Identification of Values
ACT emphasizes identifying and clarifying your personal values—what truly matters to you in life. The therapist will help you reflect on and define these values, which serve as a compass for your actions and decisions.
Goal Setting
Based on your identified values, you will collaboratively establish specific goals that align with those values. These goals should be meaningful and provide a sense of purpose and direction.
Mindfulness and Awareness
ACT incorporates mindfulness practices to enhance your present-moment awareness. The therapist may guide you through exercises to help you observe and accept your thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations without judgment.
Cognitive Defusion Techniques
You will learn techniques to distance yourself from unhelpful thoughts and beliefs. This involves recognizing that thoughts are mental events rather than absolute truths. Through cognitive defusion, you can develop a healthier relationship with your thoughts and reduce their impact on your well-being.
Acceptance and Commitment Exercises
Your therapist may introduce experiential exercises designed to promote acceptance and willingness to experience uncomfortable thoughts and emotions. These exercises can help you develop a more flexible and compassionate attitude towards yourself and your experiences.
Commitment to Action
ACT emphasizes taking committed action towards your identified goals and values. Your therapist will guide you in identifying small, achievable steps that align with your values and encourage you to take action even when discomfort or challenges arise.