Blog: Latest insights into ACT


Mastering the moves: What chess can teach us about therapy

Can chess teach us how to master therapy? During therapy sessions, the therapist and client engage in a strategic display of understanding, support, and growth. In this intricate dance, therapists strive to be steps ahead of their clients, anticipating their needs, reactions, and concerns. This makes our own experiences easier to navigate but also the […]

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ACT for chronic pain – systematic review

Key findings 25 randomised controlled trials of ACT for chronic pain were identified. ACT showed favourable effect sizes for key outcomes such as pain interference, disability, depression, and quality of life. Some evidence supports the cost effectiveness of ACT for chronic pain based on three studies. Theoretical processes of change, specifically psychological flexibility, played a […]

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ACT in the workplace randomised controlled trial study

Background to the study Mindfulness interventions in the workplace have gained interest over the past two decades, aiming to reduce stress, improve mental health, and potentially enhance job performance. Most research focuses on mindfulness training programs like MBSR, involving mindfulness meditation practice. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) has also become popular, targeting mindful self-regulation. While […]

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Neurodiversity celebration week – Supporting the mental health of people with neurodivergence

Neurodiversity celebration week is a global initiative that seeks to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding neurological differences. The campaign aims to transform the perception and support of neurodivergent individuals by providing educational institutions and organisations with the chance to acknowledge the numerous talents and advantages that come with being neurodivergent. By encouraging inclusive and equitable […]

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Exploring the dual nature of perfectionism and how ACT therapy can support

Superpower or supervillain? Perfectionism, often seen as a hallmark of high achievers, has long been praised for its ability to drive individuals towards excellence. However, beneath its shiny exterior lies a complex psychological trait that can be both a blessing and a curse, so we decided to explore the dichotomy of perfectionism, exploring both its […]

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Exploring the effectiveness of ACT in easing stress among adolescents – a meta analytic review

The power of acceptance In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become increasingly prevalent among children and adolescents, posing significant risks to their mental and physical well-being. In the quest to combat this rising issue, Binder et al. (2023) turned their attention to acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). In a recent systematic review and meta-analysis titled […]

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ACT as a workplace intervention: A path to employee well-being and performance

The importance of well-being at work At long last, many organisations are finally beginning to recognise the importance of employee well-being and performance. When employees are well taken care of, they experience higher job satisfaction and engagement, which can lead to increased productivity and efficiency. Satisfied employees are more likely to go the extra mile, […]

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The challenge of implementing ACT as a brief therapy: Navigating complexity when time is limited.

Finding an approach to therapy that suits both therapists and clients can be a daunting task. When using acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) this can present its own set of challenges as the intricate concepts and relatively unstructured nature means applying ACT principles in real-time situations can prove to be demanding. This blog post explores […]

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Supervision: Meet the speaker (and an introduction to SEED)

At Contextual Consulting we’re proud to offer a full service for acceptance and commitment therapy, including therapy sessions, training and supervision. We firmly believe that supervision is an essential component of your ACT practice, enabling you to excel as an ACT practitioner. In our on-demand schedule we are pleased to host a workshop with Sally […]

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ACT for adolescent anxiety: a systematic research review

Anxiety in young people is both incredibly common and can be incredibly debilitating. It can interrupt key developmental tasks related to establishing social connections, undertaking academic requirements, and developing a healthy sense of self. Although many young people report experiencing anxiety, a subgroup describes their anxiety as very restrictive. They need some help and assistance […]

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Meet our speaker: Tobyn Bell

Chairwork has been used for over 100 years, with many therapists regarding it as one of their most powerful and exciting ways of working. Matthew Pugh and Tobyn Bell, founded their company Chairwork, specifically with the aim of promoting the application, research, and dissemination of chairwork in psychotherapy, supervision, and coaching. We sat down with […]

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