CONTENTS
(1) An overview of ACT
(2) ACT Processes
(3) Recommended book
(1) An overview of ACT
Russ Harris provides a good introduction when he writes:
"Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) gets its name from one of its core messages: Accept what is out of your control and commit to taking action that enriches your life. The aim of ACT is to help us create a rich, full, and meaningful life, while accepting the pain that life inevitably brings. ACT does this by:
- Helping us to learn psychological skills to handle painful thoughts and feelings effectively, in such a way that they have much less impact and influence - these are known as mindfulness skills.
- Helping us to clarify what is truly important and meaningful to us - that is, clarify our values - and use that knowledge to guide, inspire, and motivate us to set goals and take action that enriches our life.
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) identifies 6 core therapeutic processes: Defusion, expansion, contact with the present moment, the observing self, values, and committed action. The first four processes involve the development of mindfulness skills, and the remaining two involve clarifying values and taking action."
Harris provides more detailed information at his website at: https://www.actmindfully.com.au/free-stuff/articles-papers. For example, see his overview of ACT article.
Note: The abbreviation "ACT" is pronounced like the word "act" (rhymes with fact) and not "ay-cee-tee."
(2) ACT Processes
Mindfulness
The observing self
Contact with the present moment
Defusion
Expansion
Values-guided committed action
(3) Recommended book
The best overall introduction to ACT for the general public that I am aware of is listed below. This book is widely applicable to many issues, and is potentially helpful to anyone.
Harris, Russ. (2022). The Happiness Trap, 2nd edition: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living (A Guide to Acceptance & Commitment Therapy). Shambala. https://www.shambhala.com/the-happiness-trap-1631726130.html; Chapter 1: https://www.actmindfully.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2nd-edition-of-The-Happiness-Trap-chapter-1.pdf
The title of the book is referring to the idea that trying to achieve happiness by avoiding pain leads to suffering. Associated website: www.thehappinesstrap.com
(4) For professionals
Praxis Continuing Education and Training
I'm Learning ACT with Dr. Russ Harris
Videos