Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?
ACT is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals accept difficult emotions and thoughts rather than trying to eliminate them. By focusing on acceptance, mindfulness, and behavioral change strategies, ACT empowers individuals to live a meaningful life in alignment with their values, even in the presence of distressing experiences.
How Does ACT Work?
ACT is grounded in the belief that emotional pain is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to dominate our decisions or behaviors. The goal of ACT is to increase psychological flexibility—the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, accept what’s beyond your control, and commit to actions that align with your core values.
ACT uses six core processes:
Acceptance: Learning to open up and make room for painful emotions rather than trying to avoid or suppress them.
Cognitive Defusion: Changing how you relate to your thoughts by recognizing that they are not facts but mental events.
Being Present: Practicing mindfulness to stay engaged in the present moment rather than being consumed by worries about the past or future.
Self-as-Context: Seeing yourself as more than your thoughts and feelings, and recognizing the part of you that observes them.
Values Clarification: Identifying what truly matters to you and using those values as a guide for decision-making.
Committed Action: Taking steps to live according to your values, even when it’s difficult or uncomfortable.
Who Can Benefit from ACT?
ACT has been shown to be effective for a variety of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, stress, chronic pain, and trauma. It’s especially useful for individuals who have tried other therapies without success or those who struggle with experiential avoidance—avoiding negative emotions at all costs.
ACT at the Mindfulness & Change Group
Several of our therapists are highly trained in ACT and work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan that helps you build acceptance and take committed action toward the life you want to lead. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, or emotional challenges, we’ll help you cultivate a new relationship with your thoughts and emotions.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to stop struggling with your thoughts and start living a more fulfilling life, ACT may be the right approach for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey toward psychological flexibility and well-being.