Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based therapy that aims to change the relationship we have with our own thoughts, feelings, memories, and physical sensations that we may be fearful of or avoiding. Acceptance and mindfulness strategies are taught which will help us to decrease avoidance, attachment to our thoughts, and increase our focus on the present. We can learn how to clarify our goals and values and to commit to behavioral change strategies in line with our broader life values.

Acceptance of one’s experience, rather than change or control of symptoms, is emphasized. ACT helps people to be intensely present-focused. With respect to chronic pain, the expressed goal of ACT is not to reduce symptoms or pain, but to improve functioning by increasing psychological flexibility, or the ability to act effectively according to personal values, even in the presence of negative experiences such as pain.