Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an approach to counseling that helps people handle painful thoughts and feelings in a new way. ACT is a modern form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy that helps you accept what you cannot control and commit to actions aligned with your values. Instead of trying to get rid of difficult emotions or force ourselves to “think positive,” ACT encourages people to notice their thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them. The idea is to learn to accept what we can’t control and take meaningful actions that align with what truly matters to us. Through mindfulness, values exploration, and goal setting, ACT helps people build a more flexible and purposeful way of living
ACT is used to help with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, chronic pain, and even conditions like OCD or substance use. It’s not about fixing what’s “wrong,” but about changing the way people relate to their inner experiences so they can move forward in life. For example, someone struggling with anxiety might learn to notice their anxious thoughts without letting those thoughts control their actions, allowing them to engage more fully in work, relationships, or hobbies.
One of the biggest benefits of ACT is that it helps people reconnect with what gives their life meaning, even in the presence of emotional pain. It’s a good fit for people who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or are tired of trying to “fight” their feelings. ACT is especially helpful for those who are open to self-reflection and willing to try new ways of dealing with old problems. It can be used in individual therapy, groups, or even in self-help formats, making it a flexible and widely accessible treatment option.
