Acceptance and
Commitment
Therapy
(ACT)

What is ACT?

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a third wave cognitive-behavioural therapy that uses acceptance and mindfulness strategies together with commitment and behaviour strategies to help increase your psychological flexibility.

How does ACT work?

ACT is an action-oriented therapeutic approach that helps individuals live and behave in ways consistent with personal values. It is often our struggle with our internal experience, such as avoiding and denying difficult thought and feelings or being completely caught up by them, that can lead to problems. ACT teaches psychological and mindfulness skills to respond to them more effectively so that they have less of an impact. The core message of ACT is to accept what is out of your personal control while committing to action guided by your values that will improve the quality of your life.

Who is it for?

ACT has a growing evidence base and is effective in the treatment of chronic pain, depression, anxiety disorders and substance misuse. This approach is effective in helping people embrace their difficulties, difficult thoughts, and feelings instead of avoiding them, whilst committing to actions that will improve their life.