Arthur Dalton, PsyD

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a proven approach that links thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, helping people improve well-being by identifying and reframing unhelpful thinking patterns.

Third-wave CBT builds on this foundation, placing greater emphasis on mindfulness and acceptance. Rather than trying to eliminate difficult thoughts and emotions, it teaches new ways to relate to them—so you can be more present and engaged with what matters most. Approaches in this category include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).

Third-wave CBT also highlights the importance of a supportive, collaborative therapeutic relationship as a key part of effective treatment..

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of psychotherapy that builds psychological flexibility—the ability to stay present, act in line with your values, and handle difficult thoughts and emotions more effectively. ACT is grounded in the idea that struggling to avoid or control inner experiences often traps us in greater distress.

Using tools like mindfulness, cognitive defusion, and values clarification, ACT helps clients shift their relationship with thoughts and feelings. Mindfulness fosters present-moment awareness and reduces judgment. Cognitive defusion teaches you to see thoughts as temporary mental events, not absolute truths. Values clarification helps identify what matters most so decisions and actions align with those priorities.

ACT is effective for a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, stress, work-life balance, and relationship concerns.

Existential-humanistic therapy emphasizes your unique perspective and supports you in exploring meaning, purpose, and how to live authentically. It’s grounded in the belief that we are each responsible for our own lives, with the freedom to make choices and create meaning.

The therapist’s role is not to give answers, but to create a safe, supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and values. This work often involves cultivating present-moment awareness—through practices like mindful breathing or meditation—to deepen self-understanding.

By examining your beliefs, values, and goals, existential-humanistic therapy fosters self-discovery and personal growth, helping you make intentional choices and create a life that feels fulfilling and true to you.