Understanding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Introduction to ACT

• ACT is a form of therapy that is neither CBT plus mindfulness nor mindfulness plus compassion.
• It is a unique, powerful, and research-backed therapy.
• Pronounced as a single word 'act', not as 'A-C-T'.

Presenter

• Dr. Jessica Borshok, Clinical Psychologist and ACT Trainer.
• Co-author of books on ACT, including an award-winning book "The ACT Approach".

History of ACT

• Conceptualized in the late 1970s.
• The first version, "Comprehensive Distancing," was released in the early 1980s.
• Developed from a basic science model focusing on behavior and language.

Philosophy and Framework

• Based on "Functional Contextualism" – focuses on what works in a given context.
• ACT is seen as a framework or approach to life rather than just a set of skills.
• It is transdiagnostic – applicable to the human condition and helps alleviate suffering.
• Not prescriptive; allows the integration of various practices and disciplines.

Application in Therapy

• Used with OCD, insomnia, panic disorder, etc.
• Combines with other therapies like ERP for OCD and CBTI for insomnia.

Core Principles of ACT

• Psychological Flexibility: Ability to be present and engage with life experiences meaningfully.
  • Involves acceptance of thoughts and feelings, not avoidance.
  • Moves towards a life aligned with personal values.
• Six Core Processes:
  1. Acceptance
  2. Cognitive Defusion
  3. Present Moment Awareness
  4. Self as Context
  5. Values
  6. Committed Action

Goals of ACT

• Emphasizes contact with full experience, including discomfort.
• Helps break patterns of experiential avoidance (avoiding pain/discomfort).
• Encourages meaningful living by increasing psychological flexibility.

Conclusion

• ACT is about learning to live a meaningful life despite discomfort and challenges.
• Future videos will cover the core processes of ACT in detail.

For those interested in therapy in California, Dr. Borshok offers consultations.