Clearfork Academy logo
(888) 594-8699open 24/7

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Plus signs

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT therapy) is based on a psychological theory of human language. A 2015 review found that ACT techniques worked better than either a placebo or typical treatment for anxiety, depression, and addiction. Developed to address the challenges of mental health issues, ACT techniques focus on reducing avoidant coping styles.

What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT therapy) is a type of psychotherapy to help people accept the difficulties in life. In addition, it is a form of mindfulness-based therapy. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy proposes that individual well-being can be attained by overcoming negative thoughts and feelings. Moreover, ACT reveals how language can trap people in futile cycles of undermining their own inner lives. Through both language and experiential exercises, clients learn how to make healthy contact with thoughts and feelings that have been avoided. Hence, the goal is to reframe negativity.

As part of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, the techniques focus on the acceptance of reactions by letting go of negative feelings. Thus, ACT emphasizes the goal of being present. Through presence, a person can choose a valued direction and take positive action. Therefore, this fosters long-term coping skills.

Furthermore, techniques developed in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy also include defusion. Based on acceptance theory, defusion involves recognizing negative thoughts and feelings for what they are. Hence, this is in order to reduce their power over one’s behavior. Ultimately, the goal of defusion in ACT therapy is to help make a negative experience more manageable.

Sources: Association for Contextual Behavioral Science, US National Library of Medicine (National Institutes of Health)

It's Time to Make a Change

We Can Help You on Your Path to Mental Wellness

Call Today (888) 594-8699

Blog

Read More
Mental Health

Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Teens

It’s normal for teens to worry sometimes. The teenage years are filled with several biological changes, transitions, and new responsibilities that put added pressure on teens.

February 21, 2025

Why Do Teens Resort to Drug Use?

February 21, 2025

Teen drug use is often influenced by a mix of biological, social, and psychological factors. From peer pressure to unresolved trauma and academic stress, many teens turn to substances as a way to cope. Recognizing the warning signs and addressing

Do Students With Mental Health Problems Have Lower Academic Performance?

February 20, 2025

Mental health challenges significantly impact students’ academic performance, leading to decreased motivation, concentration issues, and increased absences. Anxiety, depression, and chronic stress are common barriers to learning, affecting over 50% of students. Schools and parents play a crucial role in

Copyright © 2025 Clearfork Academy | All Rights Reserved | Sitemap