Understanding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a talking therapy that forms part of the wider family of cognitive and behavioural therapies.
The therapy encourages individuals to develop skills that help them respond differently to difficult thoughts, emotions and experiences. Instead of attempting to control or avoid unpleasant feelings, ACT focuses on recognising these experiences while continuing to engage in meaningful activities that reflect personal values.
ACT is based on principles including mindfulness, acceptance and values-based behaviour. Therapy is tailored to the individual's circumstances and goals.
What to Expect During an ACT Session
The structure of therapy sessions may vary between healthcare professionals.
An initial appointment will usually involve discussing your concerns, personal circumstances and goals for therapy. The healthcare professional may explain how ACT works and develop a treatment plan appropriate to your needs.
During therapy, sessions may include discussions, practical exercises, mindfulness techniques and activities designed to help you develop new ways of responding to difficult thoughts and emotions. Some healthcare professionals may also suggest exercises to practise between appointments.
The number and frequency of sessions will depend on your individual circumstances and the recommendations of your healthcare professional.
Who May Provide Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy may be provided by appropriately qualified mental health professionals, including:
- Clinical psychologists
- Counselling psychologists
- Psychotherapists
- Counsellors trained in ACT
- Cognitive behavioural therapists with ACT training
- Other appropriately qualified mental health practitioners
Professional qualifications, registration and areas of expertise may vary between providers.
Who May Consider Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy may be considered by individuals seeking psychological support for a range of emotional or behavioural challenges.
Healthcare professionals may incorporate ACT into support for people experiencing:
- Anxiety.
- Depression.
- Stress.
- Chronic pain.
- Long-term health conditions.
- Workplace or educational pressures.
- Difficult life changes.
- Low mood.
- Obsessive or intrusive thoughts.
- Other emotional or psychological concerns.
The suitability of ACT will depend on an individual assessment by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
How Does ACT Differ from Other Talking Therapies?
ACT differs from some other therapeutic approaches by focusing less on changing the content of thoughts and more on changing an individual's relationship with those thoughts.
The therapy aims to help individuals:
- Develop mindfulness skills.
- Accept uncomfortable thoughts and emotions without unnecessary avoidance.
- Identify personal values.
- Take practical actions that align with those values.
- Build psychological flexibility.
The techniques used will depend on each person's individual circumstances and therapeutic goals.
Considerations
Before beginning Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, you may wish to consider:
- The healthcare professional's qualifications and experience.
- Their training in ACT.
- Whether sessions are available in person or online.
- The proposed frequency and duration of therapy.
- Fees, appointment availability and cancellation policies.
It may also be helpful to discuss your goals and expectations during your initial consultation.
Choosing a Healthcare Professional
When selecting a healthcare professional offering ACT, you may wish to consider:
- Their professional qualifications and registration.
- Their experience using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
- Whether they have experience supporting individuals with concerns similar to yours.
- Session format, availability and location.
- The opportunity to discuss your needs before beginning therapy.
You may also wish to contact the provider directly if you have questions about their approach or the services they offer.
Summary
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a talking therapy that aims to help individuals develop psychological flexibility by learning new ways of responding to difficult thoughts, emotions and life experiences while focusing on actions that reflect their personal values.
If you are considering ACT, understanding how the therapy works and discussing your individual circumstances with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional can help you decide whether it may be suitable for your needs.
Find a Healthcare Professional
Use My Health Assistant to search and compare healthcare professionals offering Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). View professional profiles, compare available services and contact providers directly to help you make an informed decision.
Health Information Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Always seek the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical condition or before making decisions about your healthcare.
My Health Assistant is an online platform that helps people search for and compare independent healthcare professionals and healthcare services. We do not provide healthcare services, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Healthcare professionals listed on the platform are independent providers who are solely responsible for the services they provide. Inclusion on the platform does not constitute a recommendation, endorsement or guarantee by My Health Assistant.
If you are experiencing severe psychological distress or believe that you or someone else may be at immediate risk of harm, seek urgent assistance from your local emergency services or appropriate crisis support services.
