At Contextual Consulting we are passionate about ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) as a unique and dynamic approach to creating meaningful change. Have you noticed though, that over time, we tend to develop some distinctive habits and sayings, plus own a collection of props and tools that reflect the approach too. Our team listed a few of the things that we agreed we all tend to do, say or own, so whether you’re an expert ACT practitioner or just getting started, see if you recognise yourself in our list!
1. We practise mindfulness regularly
As ACT therapists, we need to walk the talk. Therapy is a demanding job, and mindfulness helps us stay grounded and present. Whether it’s through formal meditation, mindful eating, or simply pausing to breathe between sessions, mindfulness often weaves its way into our daily routines. It’s not just a tool for clients but it’s essential self-care for us too. Who else has found themselves engaging their five senses while making a cup of coffee?
2. We say, “Notice that…” a lot
If you’ve practised ACT for even a short while, you’ve probably caught yourself saying this phrase in nearly every session. Encouraging clients to “notice” their thoughts, emotions, and sensations rather than getting caught up in them, is a fundamental part of ACT. It’s a simple yet powerful way to help clients step back from their inner struggles.
3. We own a copy of “Get out of your mind and into your life”
This classic book by Steven C. Hayes is a must-have for any ACT therapist. It’s not just a valuable resource for clients, it’s often the first book practitioners turn to for their own understanding of ACT principles. If you don’t already own a copy, maybe it’s time to add it to your bookshelf! (Of course we’d also recommend you take a look at ACTivate your life or 100 key points and techniques in ACT by our founder Joe too!)
4. We use metaphors constantly
ACT therapists know the value of a good metaphor. Whether it’s the “passengers on the bus,” the “Chinese finger trap,” or “tug-of-war with a monster,” metaphors help simplify complex psychological concepts and make them more relatable. You might even find yourself creating your own metaphors to tailor the message to each client’s unique experience. You can read more about the value of metaphors in our knowledge hub and explore some of our favourite metaphors in our resources. We also have an on-demand course from Niklas Törneke – Using metaphor in psychotherapy which will sharpen your skills in using metaphors, helping you to use them to build co-operation, create observational distance and clarify direction and new strategies.
5. We love the phrase “workability”
ACT isn’t about judging behaviours as good or bad, it’s about asking, “Is this behaviour working for you in the long run?” This focus on workability helps clients explore whether their actions are aligned with their values and whether those actions are leading them toward a meaningful life. Explore our knowledge hub articles on workability and creative hopelessness if you’d like to understand a bit more about this.
6. We talk about values like they’re the holy grail
Values are at the heart of ACT, and we treat them like the compass that guides everything. You’ll often hear ACT therapists ask, “What matters most to you?” or “What kind of person do you want to be?” These questions help clients connect with their deeper purpose, which becomes a powerful motivator for change.
Our ACT values cards are a fantastic therapeutic tool for working with values in line with ACT and can help you build connection with your clients through conversations that matter. We also have a free video on our resource hub where Joe talks you through how he might use ACT values cards in session.
Joe is also hosting a short workshop this December; Bringing values to life in therapy, that will introduce practical tools to deepen and enhance your therapeutic work when working with values.7. We have an unhealthy love of caffeine
Let’s be honest, therapy can be demanding, and when you’re juggling sessions, training, supervision, and admin, sometimes a comforting mug of tea or coffee is the only thing keeping you going. For many ACT therapists, a warm cup of caffeine is an essential companion.
8. We scribble diagrams during sessions
ACT therapists are known for grabbing whatever’s nearby; a whiteboard, a notepad, the back of a tissue box, to sketch something out. Whether it’s a quick drawing of a tug-of-war, a matrix, a values compass, or a stick figure caught in a storm of thoughts, we use visuals to bring ideas to life. These sketches aren’t works of art, but they help make abstract concepts feel real, personal, and memorable.
9. We practise what we preach!
ACT isn’t just something we use for our clients but it’s something we live and breathe. As therapists, we often have to remind ourselves to use the same skills and techniques that we champion in our own lives. Whether it’s “making space” for a difficult feeling, taking five minutes for mindfulness between back-to-back sessions, or doing a values exercise to reconnect with what matters, we know that practising what we preach helps us stay grounded and effective in both our work and our personal lives.
ACT therapists are a passionate and mindful bunch, so hopefully we always strive to embody the principles we teach. Whether that’s a quirky metaphor or our beloved hexaflex, these habits and tools reflect the essence of ACT.
Which of these did you identify with most and are there any that we’ve missed? We’d love to hear from you over on our Instagram with your thoughts and share your “ACT therapist bingo” board so we can see how many you already tick off!