Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a type of therapy that falls under the broader umbrella of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Research has shown that ACT is effective with many mental health conditions.
…it’s the struggle, not the symptoms
This might sound weird at first but Acceptance and Commitment Therapy does not aim to reduce negative thoughts and emotions. That’s because ACT proposes that what causes the most suffering to people isn’t these “symptoms” in themselves. Of course, negative emotions and thoughts are painful. However, it is the struggle with these unwanted experiences which creates the most suffering. Trying hard to avoid or get rid of negative thoughts and emotions is completely natural and human… but it can become a trap. Controlling thoughts and feelings can become so energy-draining and so time-consuming that it pulls people away from living the life they want.
The only way out is through
Robert Frost
The ACT philosophy is refreshingly non-pathologising compared to other therapy approaches. Other therapies assume that a state of health should be reached by “getting rid of symptoms”. Whereas, in ACT, our negative thoughts, feelings or physical sensations are all seen as a normal part of the human condition. The aim in ACT is not to remove these “symptoms”, but for these experiences to become accepted. By dropping the control agenda, you become free! With this freedom, you can then commit to living your life in the way that you personally find is most meaningful.
ACT treatment goals
There are three major ACT treatment goals:
- Acceptance of unwanted experiences (e.g., emotions, thoughts and bodily sensations)
- Becoming more present in the here and now, and
- Committed action towards living a life according to one’s values.
ACT works towards increasing psychological flexibility in order to create a rich, full and meaningful life, while accepting the pain that inevitably goes with a life fully lived.
Links about ACT:
Other treatments I offer: