Acceptance and commitment therapy
(ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based therapy that supports people in managing a wide range of psychological difficulties and life challenges. ACT is based on the idea that struggling to eliminate painful thoughts and feelings can sometimes make things worse. Instead, ACT helps people build psychological flexibility - the ability to be present, open up to difficult experiences, and take action guided by their values.

At the heart of ACT is the understanding that discomfort is a natural part of life. Rather than avoiding or fighting unwanted emotions and thoughts, ACT encourages mindful acceptance of these experiences, allowing individuals to shift their energy toward what truly matters to them. This might involve reconnecting with meaningful relationships, engaging in valued activities, or pursuing long-term goals even when life feels difficult.

  • ACT can be effective for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, stress, OCD, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life changes. It’s also helpful for improving general well-being and emotional resilience.

  • While ACT technically falls under the CBT umbrella, it is different to traditional CBT in that it focuses more on accepting thoughts rather than challenging or changing them. It emphasises mindfulness, values, and psychological flexibility, rather than symptom reduction alone.

  • The length of therapy varies depending on your goals and the nature of the concerns you're addressing. Some people benefit from short-term work (6–12 sessions), while others may engage in longer-term therapy for ongoing support and growth.

  • Sessions may include discussions about current challenges, mindfulness exercises, values clarification, and exploring new ways of responding to difficult thoughts and emotions. You’ll also learn practical strategies to apply between sessions.