What is ACT?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a modern, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps people accept life’s challenges while staying committed to living a life aligned with their values.

ACT is considered a new or “third wave” form of CBT and has both similarities and differences with traditional CBT approaches. ACT teaches individuals to embrace their thoughts and emotions—whether pleasant or difficult—without letting them dictate their actions. Instead of trying to eliminate uncomfortable feelings or thoughts, ACT encourages acceptance and mindfulness, helping people to focus on what truly matters to them.

At the heart of ACT is the development of psychological flexibility, which enables us to adapt to changing circumstances and maintain our well-being, even in the face of adversity. ACT integrates mindfulness practices and behavioural change strategies to help clients move forward, even when they are experiencing discomfort, anxiety, or pain.

The Benefits of ACT

ACT has a wide range of benefits, particularly for those looking to break free from
patterns of avoidance and develop a more meaningful, values-driven life. Some key benefits include:

Increased Psychological Flexibility: ACT helps individuals become more flexible in their thinking and behaviour, enabling them to handle life’s ups and downs with greater resilience.
Acceptance of Thoughts and Emotions: Instead of struggling against difficult thoughts or emotions, ACT teaches us how to acknowledge them without judgment, reducing emotional distress.
Values-Based Living: ACT helps individuals identify their core values and make decisions based on what’s most important to them, leading to more meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Mindfulness Practice: ACT incorporates mindfulness techniques that promote present-moment awareness, helping individuals reduce stress and improve emotional regulation.

Who Can Benefit from ACT?

ACT is particularly useful for anyone who feels stuck or overwhelmed by their
thoughts and emotions, and for those who want to align their actions more closely
with their personal values.

Whether you are facing mental health challenges or simply seeking a more mindful, purposeful approach to life, using ACT can provide the tools to help you move forward.