acceptance and commitment therapy
Pronunciation: ay-see-tee (ACT pronounced as word, not letters)
A behavioral therapy approach that uses mindfulness and acceptance strategies combined with commitment and behavior change tactics to increase psychological flexibility.
Full Definition
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of behavioral therapy that uses acceptance and mindfulness strategies, together with commitment and behavior change strategies, to increase psychological flexibility. ACT is based on Relational Frame Theory and focuses on six core processes: contact with the present moment, acceptance, cognitive defusion, self-as-context, values, and committed action. Rather than attempting to eliminate difficult thoughts and emotions, ACT teaches clients to accept them while committing to actions that are consistent with their personal values. This approach has been applied to a wide range of psychological conditions including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and substance abuse.
Usage
Usage note: ACT is pronounced as a word, not as individual letters. Emphasize the acceptance component to distinguish from traditional CBT approaches.
In Context
- "The acceptance and commitment therapy protocol emphasized values clarification exercises in the initial treatment phase." — treatment manual
- "Participants in the acceptance and commitment therapy group showed greater improvements in psychological flexibility compared to controls." — randomized controlled trial