Topher McMullin

I specialize in using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to empower individuals, committed relationships, and organizational leaders to live in a way that’s more adaptive, skillful, and purposeful. With couples, I also draw heavily on the Gottman Method. Our collaborative journey involves defining your goals and equipping you with evidence-based skills and concepts for real-life application. Furthermore, in addition to acquiring skills and managing current concerns, we'll utilize ACT as a catalyst for deeper, more transformative growth. What is ACT? "We as a culture seem to be dedicated to the idea that ‘negative’ human emotions need to be fixed, managed, or changed—not experienced as part of a whole life. We are treating our own lives as problems to be solved as if we can sort through our experiences for the ones we like and throw out the rest. Acceptance, mindfulness, and values are key psychological tools needed for that transformative shift.” -- Steve Hayes, Founder of ACT Who I Serve? -- Individuals -- As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I've found that ACT is a natural fit for supporting this community. Its client-centered approach empowers people to chart and pursue a course that's right for them. In particular, I provide targeted support for gay men as they address a diverse range of challenges. These include addressing issues like loneliness, anxiety, and depression; managing substance use; navigating a community where open relationships is often the norm; building community and chosen families; coming out to others; healing from past emotional wounds (especially those related to one’s identity); and issues pertaining to sexuality including identity, desire, communication, and sexual health. -- Committed Relationships -- I integrate The Gottman Method with ACT for Couples to assist my clients in cultivating more fulfilling and resilient relationships. Every relationship has the potential to deepen and improve. Many committed partnerships will at some point go through crisis and major hardship. Whether or not things are currently going well, there's an opportunity right now to learn better ways to communicate and to deepen a sense of connection. As your relationship therapist, I'll be your expert coach supporting that process. -- Organizational Leaders -- Leaders face unique challenges. In order to support their mission, they need to be highly attuned to a complex system, learning to think ecologically and having the capacity to hold multiple perspectives. Leaders also need to have a clear vision and direction and an ability to bring others on board. They also need to hold space outside of work, honoring their commitments to themselves and to others close to them. To do all of this while avoiding burnout is no easy task. In my work with organization leaders I draw on ACT as well as various texts and theories including systems theory. My clients learn valuable skills and tools that they can put into practice. At the same time, I support personal transformative growth and help each of my clients discover a path forward that's right for them.