Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):

Accptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a third-wave cognitive-behavioral therapy, utilizes the forefront of psychological science to better treat anxiety, depression, trauma, behavior issues, and the symptoms of personality disorders. Developed by Dr. Steven C. Hayes and his colleagues, ACT combines elements of mindfulness, acceptance, and behavioral change to foster psychological flexibility. This is a fancy way of saying that ACT helps us get untangled from the anxious or depressed traps of our mind, and back into our life!

Key Principles

• Acceptance: ACT encourages us to embrace our internal experiences—thoughts, emotions, and sensations—without judgment. Rather than battling against distressing thoughts, we learn to coexist with them, recognizing their transient nature. Imagine observing your thoughts as weather patterns passing through the vast sky of your consciousness.

• Values Clarification: Identifying our core values is pivotal. These values illuminate the path toward meaningful living. In therapy, we explore what truly matters to you—whether it’s connection, growth, compassion, or purpose.

• Committed Action: The heart of ACT lies in committed action. We move beyond mere insight and engage in purposeful behaviors aligned with our values. This commitment propels us toward a life rich in fulfillment and purpose.

Six Processes of ACT

1. Identifying Values: We delve into the domains that hold significance for you. What do you want your life to stand for? By recognizing these values, we ignite motivation for change.

2. Commitment to Action: Armed with values, we translate them into concrete actions. Whether it’s nurturing relationships, pursuing career aspirations, or practicing self-care, commitment fuels progress.

3. Self as Context or Self as Observer: Here, we disentangle our sense of self from our thoughts and emotions. Imagine being the sky—the unchanging backdrop—while thoughts and feelings drift like passing clouds. This perspective liberates us from emotional entanglement.

4. Defusion: ACT introduces techniques to distance ourselves from unhelpful thoughts. We learn to observe them without fusion, allowing space for alternative responses.

5. Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices anchor us in the present moment. By cultivating awareness, we navigate life’s challenges with equanimity, a blend of balance and peace.

6. Acceptance: Finally, we embrace our internal experiences. Acceptance does not imply resignation; rather, it empowers us to choose our responses consciously.

Clinical Efficacy
Research attests to ACT’s efficacy across various conditions, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, and personality disorders. By fostering psychological flexibility, ACT equips individuals to thrive amidst life’s complexities. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy invites us to acknowledge our thoughts, accept our emotions, and live a life of purpose. 

Contact Austin Hunter, LPC, if you would like to learn more about ACT.