In this video taken from our YouTube channel, Dr Joe Oliver introduces the concept of ‘creative hopelessness’. This is a key concept in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) that refers to understanding how our typical strategies to control or avoid difficult thoughts and emotions often backfire instead, consequentially leading to more suffering. Instead, we need to find adaptive and creative ways to make room for and coexist with thoughts and feelings, rather than engaging in an exhausting battle against them. This shift in perspective is how we open up new possibilities for growth, connection, and living a meaningful life.
DR JOE OLIVER is the founder of Contextual Consulting, and a consultant clinical psychologist, Associate Professor and program director of the University College London CBT for severe mental health problems Post-Graduate Program.
