How Does ACT Work?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is one of the ‘new wave’ Cognitive Behavioural Therapies. It combines aspects of traditional CBT based treatment with a range of other psychological techniques including: acceptance, mindfulness, commitment and behavioural change. There are six processes central to the effectiveness of ACT these are diffusion, acceptance, attention to the present, self-awareness, individual values, and committed action.
The principle goal of this treatment approach is to increase psychological flexibility; instead of teaching strategies to facilitate the control of thoughts, feelings and behaviours, individuals learn to develop a different relationship with their experience whereby they notice and accept what occurs and then step back or distance themselves from it. This creates space in the mind between the individual and their immediate experience which can be used to explore options that were not visible before.
Faced with a range of alternatives the individual is much better equipped to manage their experiences and if they choose, change their responses to them.
How Stress Affects You
I had a course of CBT Counselling with The Harley Psychology & Therapy Group (Richmond) and although it didn’t provide me with the quick fix miracle solution I was hoping for, it has made my problems feel more manageable.
Client Testimonial
Fees
Prices can be found on our Fees page.
If you have any questions then please do not hesitate to call 0203 504 9300 or fill out a contact form.
Locations
We have clinics in Richmond, Liverpool Street, Clapham, Marylebone, Fulham, Islington, Twickenham, Chiswick, and East Dulwich.
We also offer Online Counselling via Video.
Therapists
All of our Therapists offer Counselling, click here to view the team.
What the Research into ACT Says
Research into Acceptance & Commitment Therapy has a developing evidence base with over 20 randomised controlled trials across a variety of problems and this research suggests consistent support for ACT for a broad range of problems including: chronic pain, addictions, smoking cessation, depression, anxiety, psychosis, stress, diabetes management, weight management, epilepsy control, self-harm, body dissatisfaction, eating disorders and burn out.
More Reading on this Subject
For further information, see The Counselling Directory – Acceptance & Commitment Therapy
Recommended Books:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: The Process and Practice of Mindful Change by Steven C. Hayes, Kirk D. Strosahl & Kelly G. Wilson
Contact us to see how we can help.