The loop is a simple yet profound analogy in process based behavioural therapy (PBBT) that helps us navigate complex emotional landscapes and can be transformative for clients in therapy. What is the loop? The loop is an analogy that illustrates how our feelings and situations can often trap us in a repetitive cycle. When someone […]
Written by Joe Oliver If I’m completely honest, I often feel disheartened when I receive a referral for problematic anger. The stereotype usually involves working with someone deeply entrenched in their anger, viewing themselves as a victim, and attending therapy only because they’ve been mandated or pressured by others, such as a partner, to address […]
Here’s Dr Joe Oliver’s take of Inside Out 2, from a clinical psychologist and ACT therapist perspective: As a fan of the first movie and its powerful message about embracing difficult emotions, I was keen to check out how this sequel might tackle adolescence and the challenges of puberty. As a reminder, in the first […]
Exploring the history of ACBS UK/ROI: A journey of community, belonging, and purpose For those who couldn’t attend the association of contextual behavioural science (ACBS) conference. Here is a brief summary of the presentation that our founder Dr Joe Oliver gave to attendees, exploring the past, present and future of ACT and the importance of […]
As we celebrate World Kindness Day (observed annually on November 13th) we are reminded of the power of kindness in our lives and our communities. In ACT terms, we are focusing on the value of kindness, and the role this can play in our own lives, as well as our family, friends and the wider […]
As the psychology world embraces online therapy as a convenient and accessible mental health resource, therapists are continually required to adapt their therapeutic approaches. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a widely recognised and effective form of therapy that can be seamlessly integrated into online sessions but at Contextual Consulting we love to understand how […]
by Joe Oliver, Clinical psychologist, founder of Contextual Consulting. If you ask me whether you need to know relational frame theory, I almost always say yes. Understanding and unpacking this theory can significantly enhance and develop your clinical practice. That said, it’s akin to learning to read sheet music – is it necessary to be […]
World Mental Health Day was created with the aim of raising awareness across the world about critical mental health agendas. As World Mental Health Day 2024 approaches, we were pleased to hear that this year’s theme is: “It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace” Recent statistics reveal that 20% of UK employees […]
Procrastination – the act of delaying tasks despite knowing the potential negative consequences – is a common struggle that many of us face at some point in our lives. A recent study titled “Optimal and sub-optimal temporal decisions can explain procrastination in a real-world task” by Sahiti Chebolu and Peter Dayan at the Max Planck Institute […]
Navigating difficult conversations is a reality we all face, whether in personal relationships, professional settings, or therapeutic environments. Having the right approach can make all the difference in how these conversations unfold. In this short video taken from our expert tips for ACT series, Dr Ray Owen shares a technique that he uses, particularly during […]
In the field of psychotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) are two prominent approaches that have gained recognition for their effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions. While CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours to improve emotional well-being, ACT emphasises acceptance of thoughts and feelings while committing […]
Psychological flexibility is a vital skill that allows our clients to adapt to changing circumstances and respond effectively to their internal experiences, thoughts and emotions. It is akin to being both strong and mentally supple; essential for navigating the complexities of modern life. Whether you’re looking to improve your own mental health, enhance your performance, […]
As schools in the UK begin returning to the classrooms and we all start getting back into those ‘normal’ routines we thought it would be a fun idea to challenge ourselves to create the A-Z of ACT, 26 key concepts and phrases that we can all use to enhance our therapy outcomes, using the core […]
THIS PRIZE DRAW IS NOW CLOSED. WE WILL BE CONTACTING THE WINNER SHORTLY This week is your last chance to win over £6000 of ACT training! We are giving one lucky person the chance to win a 12 month access pass to our ENTIRE acceptance and commitment (ACT) course library including: All live workshops Over […]
For people with neurodivergence, ACT promotes the acceptance of one’s unique neurology and cognitive functioning, helping clients to recognise and embrace their neurological differences as valid aspects of their identity. A top tip when working with neurodivergent clients is to address the idea of their neurodivergent identity. We want our clients to develop a greater […]
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