Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based behavioral treatment developed to improve emotional and cognitive flexibility as well as engagement in valued activities. Through experiential exercises, metaphors, and skill building, ACT focuses on six core principles: increasing one’s awareness of the present moment, practicing willingness to experience emotions and sensations (acceptance), unhooking from unhelpful repetitive thoughts (cognitive defusion), learning to separate the self from one’s life experiences and circumstances (self-as-context), identifying life values, and increasing commitment to engaging in activities consistent with one’s values (committed action). ACT is a transdiagnostic treatment, meaning that it can be helpful for a wide range of mental health problems, including anxiety, OCD and related disorders, mood disorders, and chronic pain.
