Acceptance and
Commitment
Therapy (ACT)
Presentation by
Nambi Racheal Sarah
Yiga Joshua
Introduction
ACT is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on
psychological flexibility.
It helps individuals accept thoughts and emotions
rather than fighting them.
• Uses mindfulness and behavior change strategies.
Core Principles of ACT
Cognitive Defusion – Observing thoughts without attachment.
Acceptance – Embracing emotions rather than avoiding them.
Present Moment Awareness – Staying mindful of the present
experience.
self-as-Context – Recognizing the distinction between self and thoughts.
Values – Identifying personal values for guidance.
Committed Action – Taking action aligned with values.
Cognitive defusion
Cognitive Defusion – Observing thoughts without attachment.
Definition: Cognitive defusion involves creating distance between oneself and their thoughts,
seeing them as just words or images rather than absolute truths.
Techniques:
Repeating a troubling thought out loud multiple times until it loses its meaning.
Labeling thoughts as "just thoughts" rather than treating them as facts.
Imagining thoughts floating away like leaves on a stream.
Example: A person experiencing self-doubt can learn to see thoughts like "I'm not good enough" as
passing mental events rather than absolute truths, reducing their emotional impact.
•
Acceptance
Definition: Acceptance is the process of allowing emotions, thoughts, and sensations to
exist without trying to suppress, change, or avoid them. This does not mean resigning to
suffering but rather acknowledging experiences without resistance.
Techniques:
Mindful awareness of emotions without judgment.
Observing emotions as temporary experiences that come and go.
Practicing self-compassion in response to distressing emotions.
• Example: Instead of suppressing anxiety before a presentation, an individual
acknowledges the nervousness and allows it to be present while still proceeding with
their speech.
Present moment
awareness
Definition: Engaging fully in the present moment without excessive focus on past
regrets or future anxieties.
Techniques:
Using breathing exercises to anchor awareness in the now.
Observing sensations, thoughts, and surroundings without distraction.
Engaging in mindful activities like walking, eating, or listening attentively.
• Example: Practicing deep breathing and mindful observation during stressful
situations rather than reacting impulsively.
Self as context
Definition: Understanding that thoughts and emotions are experiences we
have, but they do not define who we are.
Techniques:
Using metaphors such as "I am the sky, and my thoughts are the weather."
Practicing perspective-taking to see oneself beyond immediate thoughts
and emotions.
Example: Recognizing that having a negative thought like "I am a failure"
does not make a person a failure.
•
Committed action
Definition: Actively making choices that align with one's values, even
in the face of challenges.
Techniques:
Setting small, achievable goals that support long-term aspirations.
Practicing resilience by taking action despite fears and discomfort.
• Example: A person overcoming fear of failure applies for a dream
job despite self-doubt, as it aligns with their career goals.
Psychological Flexibility
The ability to adapt to situations with openness,
awareness, and commitment.
• Allows for healthier emotional regulation and goal-
oriented behavior.
Applications of ACT
Anxiety and Depression
Chronic Pain Management
Substance Use Disorders
PTSD and Trauma Therapy
• Workplace Stress and Burnout
References
Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (2016). Acceptance and
Commitment Therapy: The Process and Practice of Mindful Change.
Guilford Press.
Harris, R. (2019). ACT Made Simple: An Easy-to-Read Primer on
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. New Harbinger Publications.
Bond, F. W., & Flaxman, P. E. (2006). The Wiley Handbook of
Contextual Behavioral Science. Wiley-Blackwell.
• American Psychological Association (APA). (2021). Acceptance and
Commitment Therapy (ACT). Retrieved from www.apa.org
