Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, an advanced form of cognitive behavior therapy, was developed in the late 1980s by American psychologists Steven Hayes, Kelly  Wilson, and Kirk Strosahl. It is a type of psychotherapy that helps people to accept their thoughts and feelings and to commit to living a values-based life. 

ACT is based on the idea that our thoughts and feelings are not always accurate or helpful and that trying to control them can make them worse. Instead, ACT teaches people to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment and focus on taking actions consistent with their values.

How does ACT work?

ACT therapy works by helping people:
Understand the nature of thoughts and feelings: ACT teaches people that thoughts and feelings are not facts and can be changed.

Develop mindfulness skills: Mindfulness skills help people to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment and to focus on the present moment.

Identify their values: Values are the most important things to us. ACT helps people identify their values and live their lives according to them.

Make commitments: Commitments are actions we take to live our lives according to our values. ACT helps people make commitments and act on them, even when difficult.

Who can ACT help?

ACT treats various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and addiction. It is also a helpful therapy for people struggling with life transitions, such as job loss or divorce.

References: ACBS, Social Work Today

Marcus Berley is a Self Space Seattle therapist who works with high-achieving people who want to access the deeper areas of their lived experience, including individuals who struggle to fully enjoy their success and couples who struggle to address conflict and cultivate a more intimate connection.