Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

A number of psychologists at Ahead Psychology use Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), a “third wave” behavioural therapy which places importance on living in the present, and uses various skills to promote mindfulness.

Aims of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

ACT aims to teach people psychological skills (mindfulness skills) to handle painful thoughts and feelings so that they have much less impact and influence; help them clarify their values and find what’s truly important and meaningful to them and to use that knowledge to guide, inspire, and motivate them to set goals and take action that enriches their life.

Many therapuetic models  focus on symptom reduction on the assumption that clients need to reduce their symptoms before they can lead a better life. While studies show that significant symptom reduction invariably occurs with ACT, although sometimes more slowly than with other therapeutic models,  the aim of ACT is not to reduce symptoms but to fundamentally change peoples relationship with their symptoms so that they no longer hold them back from valued living.

Core processes of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

The six core therapeutic processes in ACT (as shown in the diagram below) are:

  1. being present in the moment,
  2. defusion,
  3. acceptance,
  4. self-as-context,
  5. values, and
  6. committed action.

ACT Hexaflex

 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Uses

ACT therapy can be used to address:

  • Anxiety
  • Chronic pain
  • Depression
  • Performance anxiety
  • Phobias
  • PTSD and other trauma and stress-related issues
  • Substance abuse and addiction

Think Acceptance and Commitment Therapy may be useful for you?

If you think ACT may be of benefit to you call us on 07 3352 3577 or or fill out our Request a Booking form