Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT is one of the so-called third-wave CBT therapies, which retain core aspects of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. This approach focuses on increasing psychological flexibility using a combination of behavioural, commitment, acceptance and mindfulness strategies. This approach is effective in helping people embrace their difficulties, difficult thoughts, and feelings instead of running away or avoiding them, committing to actions that will facilitate their experience.
ACT involves learning strategies and skills that will help you live in a way that is consistent with your core values, no longer restricted by the presence of negative thoughts and emotions.
How does Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) work?
One of ACT’s core principles is that painful experiences are an unavoidable part of life and that our efforts to escape, avoid or control such experiences lead to suffering. ACT involves learning skills and strategies to effectively handle difficult thoughts and feelings in the service of living a full, rich, and meaningful life.
ACT can help you work on accepting what is out of your control and develop strategies to handle difficult emotions and thoughts. This will help you move towards achieving your goals, live in the present moment, understand what is important and meaningful for you, and take committed action to improve your quality of life, which also includes engaging in or changing present behaviours to align with your core values.
Benefits of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is proven effective and helpful in treating difficulties such as living with medical conditions and people struggling with negative thoughts, symptoms, feelings, and difficult circumstances, thus helping individuals with the following difficulties:
Psychosis
Please get in touch with us to learn more about Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) or schedule an appointment for a free initial consultation.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?
ACT is a mindfulness-based therapy that helps you accept what’s beyond your control and commit to actions that align with your values. It promotes psychological flexibility and emotional balance.
What issues can ACT help with?
ACT can be helpful for anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, OCD, and other emotional or behavioural challenges. It supports people in living meaningfully even when difficulties arise.
How does ACT differ from CBT?
While CBT focuses on changing thoughts, ACT helps you relate differently to them—by observing thoughts without letting them control your actions. Both approaches are evidence-based and complementary.
Is ACT available online?
Yes. ACT sessions can be delivered effectively online, providing the same evidence-based support and flexibility as in-person therapy.
How long does ACT take?
ACT is typically a short- to medium-term therapy, with session length and frequency tailored to your individual goals and progress.
How do I start?
You can start with a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your needs and the best therapeutic fit for you.