Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Presented by Steven C. Hayes, PhD

Web Conference Description

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is based on the idea that psychological suffering is usually caused by experiential avoidance, cognitive entanglement, and the resulting failure to take needed behavioral steps in accord with core values. Buttressed by an extensive basic research program on a associated theory of language and cognition, Relational Frame Theory (RFT), ACT takes the view that trying to change difficult thoughts and feelings as a means of coping might can be relatively unhelpful, but new, powerful alternatives are available, including acceptance, mindfulness, cognitive defusion, values, and committed action.

Research seems to be showing that these methods are beneficial for a broad range of clients. ACT teaches clients and therapists alike how to alter the way difficult private experiences function mentally rather than having to eliminate them from occurring at all. This empowering message has been shown to help clients cope with a wide variety of clinical problems, including depression, anxiety, stress, pain, substance abuse, and even psychotic symptoms.