Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of cognitive behavioural therapy which guides clients to alter their relationship with negative thoughts and feelings. ACT helps clients to get in touch with what is important to them personally and take steps towards meaningful living, rather than spending time and effort struggling with uncomfortable internal experiences like worry, fear and sadness. ACT uses a blend of mindfulness and behavioural techniques to help clients break out of cycles that are counter-productive or self-destructive. ACT has a strong foundation of empirical research, with over 100 randomised control trials supporting its use. These studies indicate that ACT is an effective treatment for a wide range of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder and chronic pain. ACT can be adapted for use with school-aged children or with adults. 

Further information regarding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy research can be found on the website of the Association for Contextual Behavioural Science: www.contextualpsychology.org