Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioural approach that emphasises psychological flexibility and values-based action. Rather than focusing on symptom reduction, ACT encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings while taking committed action towards living a meaningful life.

ACT is based on the premise that suffering is a normal part of the human experience and attempts to control or avoid painful thoughts and emotions often lead to further distress. Instead, ACT teaches clients to develop acceptance skills, allowing them to be present with their experiences without judgment or avoidance.

Central to ACT is the concept of the "hexaflex," which consists of six core processes:

1. Acceptance: Learning to make room for difficult thoughts and emotions rather than trying to control or suppress them.

2. Cognitive Diffusion: Recognizing that thoughts are just thoughts, rather than literal truths, and learning to relate to them differently.

3. Present Moment Awareness: Cultivating mindfulness skills to connect with the present moment and disengage from unhelpful rumination or worry.

4. Self-as-Context: Developing a perspective that allows individuals to observe their thoughts and emotions without getting caught up in them, fostering a sense of psychological flexibility.

5. Values Clarification: Identifying core values and goals that give life meaning and direction.

6. Committed Action: Taking purposeful action aligned with one's values, even in the presence of discomfort or difficult thoughts and emotions.

Through experiential exercises, metaphors, and mindfulness practices, clients learn to develop psychological flexibility and build a rich, meaningful life based on their values. ACT has been found to be effective in treating a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and trauma.