Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based behavioral therapy that helps clients build psychological flexibility—the capacity to stay present, open up to inner experience, and take action guided by personal values. ACT combines elements of mindfulness, behavior analysis, and relational frame theory to reduce avoidance and increase meaningful engagement with life.

Rather than targeting symptom reduction directly, ACT teaches clients to shift their relationship with thoughts and emotions. The goal is not to “feel better,” but to “feel better at feeling”—to approach painful experiences with willingness while still moving toward valued directions.