Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
(ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a data-driven approach that emerged from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The ACT model aims to support the development of psychological flexibility through six core, non-linear processes: the acceptance of our experience; a view of the self as the context of our experience, not as the resulting content of our history; contact with the present moment; the deconstruction of thoughts as without substance rather than fused to their content; a commitment to take steps toward achievable goals; and, the identification of the core values that we want our life to be about that can help guide the direction of therapist-client collaboration.
With psychological flexibility as the central measure of mental health and emotional functioning, different technical paradigms can be readily assimilated within the ACT model. I emphasize mindfulness and our experience in the present moment, somatic practices, and my clients deeply held values or spiritual purpose. Additionally, I hold a deeply felt intersubjective perspective to fully embody the widely accepted principle that it is our relationship with our patients that is the most critical factor in their healing.
Watch this video about psychological flexibility with Steven Hayes, Ph.D., a founder of ACT.
Views: 132