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My approach

My work is based on methods of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT is an innovative approach in coachingand psychotherapy that is grounded in scientific research and has proven effective in hundreds of studies worldwide for decades, often surpassing the efficacy of traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy. ACT promotes psychological flexibility by encouraging clients to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting against them or being overwhelmed by them. Additionally, awareness and flexible mindfulness are trained through targeted exercises to create the foundation for values-oriented behavior. This approach has been found helpful by many clients in developing a mindset towards life’s challenges and stressors that allows for courageous decision-making and focuses on enhancing skills that maximize goal achievement.Finding fulfillment is the overarching goal.

Studies show that ACT is effective in managing stress, anxiety, and depression. A meta-analysis by Hayes et al. (2006) demonstrates that ACT can lead to significant improvements in mental health. Furthermore, ACT helps clients identify andpursue their values, leading to greater life satisfaction. In the coaching context, ACT enables individuals to clearly define their goals and overcome obstacles. By combining acceptance with committed action, clients can achieve sustainable changes in their lives. I look forward to supporting you in your personal or professional development!

About Me

After completing my studies and further training

as a psychological psychotherapist, I initially returned to science.

My fascination with the neural foundations of mental processes

had accompanied me since my studies in neuropsychology,

but I soon discovered that my path led me elsewhere.

I decided to focus on psychotherapy first and gained experience

in clinics until I established my own private practice. Over time,

the desire grew in me to develop further in other areas and to

engage with topics traditionally associated with the coaching field.

These include, for example, strengthening mental health in terms of

prevention, professional development, embarking on new life paths,

and dealing with challenges. ACT also offers tools in competitive

sports to help athletes perform at their best in competitive situations

and focus on what is necessary for success.

Accompanying people in unfolding what is within them and discovering what is truly important to them in life is a true enrichment for me and my life. For this, I continue to educate myself regularly. For about six years, my focus has been on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and I regularly attend further training sessions with the founder of ACT, Steven Hayes, as well as ACT experts like Robyn Walser and Kelly G. Wilson. I have also been practicing mindfulness intensively for about 15 years, as it is one of the six core processes of ACT. In addition to my yoga practice, I have completed training in MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) at Brown University, Providence, and have attended numerous workshops with experts in mindfulness and mindful movement.

I have expanded my expertise in sports psychology through further training at the Milton Erickson Institute (Hypnotherapy for Mental Strength in Sports and Performance) and at the Kunhardt Academy (Training as a Sports Mental Coach).

Additionally, I work as a lecturer at the PSP of the University Hospital in Basel, Switzerland, where I teach ACT and MBSR to aspiring psychotherapists.

Since 2025, I also offer retreats for private individuals who want to strengthen their resilience and learn healthy ways of dealing with stress and pressure at the Baltic Sea, Neustadt. In addition to numerous techniques and insights into ACT and MBSR, I aim to create an opportunity for relaxation and community for the participants at a beautiful former estate.

A heartfelt wish <3

In my practice in Hamburg - Rotherbaum, there will soon be the opportunity to attend regular ACT and MBSR courses for better stress management.

My entire offer is also available in English.

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Imprint     data protection     ©2025 Anabel Spiess

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