Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is adaption of traditional CBT that focuses on helping individuals develop psychological flexibility. This approach combines aspects of mindfulness and behavioural therapy to assist people in accepting difficult thoughts and emotions, committing to values-driven actions, and living a more fulfilling life. The goal of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is not to eliminate distressing thoughts or emotions, but rather to change how people relate to those experiences.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can be effective for individuals experiencing a wide variety of mental health challenges, anxiety disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder), depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic pain or illness, addiction or substance use disorders, stress management, eating disorders and relationship issues.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is also valuable for individuals who are struggling with existential concerns, seeking to live a life that aligns with their deeper values, and those who are facing life transitions.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is based on the premise that many psychological issues arise when individuals struggle against their thoughts and emotions, trying to avoid or suppress them. Instead of fighting against distressing internal experiences, ACT encourages people to accept them, while taking active steps in line with their core values and life goals. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is based on the core principles of:

• Cognitive defusion: learning how to detach from thoughts by recognising that thoughts are not necessarily facts.
• Acceptance: encourages individuals to allow difficult emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations to exist without trying to avoid, suppress, or change them.
• Mindfulness: focusing on the present moment and becoming more aware thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment.
• Self-as-Context: involves the concept of observing the self from a more flexible, objective perspective.
• Values clarification: identifying and clarifying one’s values—what truly matters to an individual. By understanding what is important, people can guide their decisions and actions in a way that aligns with their core values.
• Committed action: setting specific, concrete goals based on one’s values and taking active steps toward those goals, even in the face of difficult thoughts and emotions.

• Increased Psychological Flexibility
• Improved Emotional Resilience
• Reduction in Psychological Symptoms
• Better Stress Management
• Improved Quality of Life
• Stronger Sense of Purpose
• Reduced Avoidance Behaviours