Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a contemporary therapeutic approach grounded in the principles of acceptance, mindfulness, and behavior change. Developed by Steven Hayes, ACT aims to help individuals cultivate psychological flexibility and resilience in the face of life's challenges.
How it Works
In ACT therapy, clients learn to embrace acceptance of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations, rather than engaging in futile attempts to suppress or control them. Through mindfulness practices and experiential exercises, clients develop the ability to observe their internal experiences with openness and curiosity, allowing them to disengage from unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior.
If you’re wondering about therapy or ready to see if an MIP therapist is right for you, book a free 15 minute phone consultation.
Benefits of ACT
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Connect to your core values
Central to ACT is the concept of values clarification, wherein clients identify their core values and commit to actions aligned with those values, regardless of internal barriers or external obstacles. By connecting with their values and taking committed action, clients can move towards a more meaningful and fulfilling life, even in the presence of difficult thoughts and emotions.
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Cognitive Defusion
ACT therapy also emphasizes the importance of cognitive defusion, a process whereby clients learn to create psychological distance from their thoughts, recognizing them as transient events rather than absolute truths. By defusing from their thoughts, clients can free themselves from the grip of unhelpful cognitive patterns and create space for more adaptive responses.
Throughout the therapy process, clients are encouraged to develop a mindful and compassionate stance towards themselves, fostering self-acceptance and self-compassion. By cultivating a non-judgmental attitude towards their internal experiences, clients can reduce emotional suffering and increase psychological flexibility.
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Effective
ACT therapy has garnered empirical support for its effectiveness in treating a wide range of psychological difficulties, including anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, and substance use disorders. By integrating acceptance, mindfulness, and values-based action, ACT offers individuals a pathway to greater psychological well-being, resilience, and vitality.
