Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

AKA: ACT

A therapy that focuses on accepting difficult thoughts and feelings, clarifying values, and taking committed action.

In the context of addiction treatment:
Helps people stop fighting their internal experiences by using substances and instead build a life aligned with their values.

What to know:

  • Uses mindfulness and values-based exercises.

  • Emphasizes “I can have this feeling and still choose not to use.”

Example:
A client learns to notice anxiety and urge to drink, accepts its presence, and still chooses to attend a support group meeting.

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