Everything we do is about mental health. These articles explore specific issues, approaches and research that can be useful to understand from a mental health perspective when implementing ACT.
Do you really need your inner critic to stay motivated? Expert tip from Russell Kolts Part of helping clients work with shame and self-criticism involves getting curious about the functions the client ascribes to their self-critic. Clients can sometimes have real resistance to addressing self-criticism: “I need my self-critic to keep myself on track and […]
For elite athletes, coaches and managers participating in high-stakes tournaments, the pressure to perform is immense. Not only are they representing their teams and countries, but competitors, teammates and passionate fans watch their every move. In this environment, it’s obviously crucial that athletes have all been taught the mental fortitude and psychological skills to thrive […]
By Natalie Littlehales, Contextual Consulting Marketing Manager The Rik Mayall Comedy festival might not be the obvious place to do some experiential learning but there was a new piece of theatre on the line-up at the end of May, that had plenty of potential for discussion and education, so we thought it was worth a […]
One of the most powerful aspects of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) lies in the therapeutic relationship. In fact, many of us find that the relationship itself can play as significant a role as any specific technique or intervention. However, in ACT, the therapeutic relationship takes on a unique meaning, shaping both the practitioner and […]
Metaphors help our clients understand and apply ACT principles like acceptance, defusion, values, and committed action within their daily lives. While the best metaphors are created with the individual in mind, to be both relevant and personal, there are so many useful ones that already exist that can be easily adapted for many different audiences. […]
Guest blog from Jennifer Kemp Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) is a physiological reaction to painful rejection that can happen in close relationships, friendships, families, communities, healthcare, and workplaces. Autistic people and ADHDers experience frequent rejection and criticism throughout our lives, which can make us more sensitive to rejection. Our nervous systems learn to expect rejection, […]
A focused review of Capel & Twohig’s case study Why this paper matters While outcome studies have established that acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) performs comparably to traditional CBT and ERP for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), fewer papers show how ACT-informed exposure is actually implemented in clinical work. This case study by Capel and Twohig provides a detailed, session-by-session […]
ACT isn’t just for the therapy room; its principles and guidance are scattered through our everyday lives and cultures. Relatable examples and metaphors can be so helpful in communicating the essence of what we mean in therapy when we talk about acceptance, defusion, and values-based living. As self-certified ACT nerds we are always excited when […]
Menopause is not simply a collection of symptoms. It is a biopsychosocial transition involving fluctuating hormones, disrupted sleep, shifts in cognition, changing identity, and powerful cultural narratives about ageing and worth. For many, this period interacts with longstanding patterns of self-criticism, anxiety, or striving. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) does not aim to eliminate menopausal […]
In the world of sports, anxiety is a familiar companion. Whether you’re an athlete facing the pressure of competition or someone navigating challenges in leadership, managing discomfort is crucial. Alison Maitland, a sports psychologist who hosted a ‘Thriving in Sport’ training session alongside Jenna Ashford, joined us to share a metaphor that she loves to […]
We recently ran a poll on Instagram: “Your client says, ‘I feel anxious for no reason.’ As an ACT therapist you say…” And the response that came out on top, by a long way, was: “Let’s notice what’s showing up right now.” Nearly 60% of 267 responses chose it. I love that, because it captures […]
In psychological practice, especially within an ACT framework, “end of life” refers to the period leading up to death, often involving terminal illness or limited life expectancy. People in this phase may experience fear, sadness, regret, isolation, or a search for meaning, and often seek therapy to process these emotions, strengthen relationships, and come to […]
Practical suggestions from ACT to help with grief The festive season is often portrayed as a time of joy, connection, and celebration. However, for those experiencing grief, the lead-up to Christmas can feel particularly heavy. Grief doesn’t take a holiday, and the contrast between the external festivities and internal pain can feel overwhelming. Christmas can […]
For practitioners working with autistic clients, particularly those who are autistic, it’s vital to understand the profound impact of autistic burnout and how acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) principles can be applied effectively to support recovery. What is autistic burnout? Autistic burnout is not simply an extension of depression or anxiety, although these may be […]
written by Joe Oliver I have a soft spot for self-help. Like many psychologists, I sometimes joke about the industry: the endless promises of transformation, the catchy titles that sound like life hacks, and the fact that it is a multi-billion pound business projected to double again by 2030. If self-help really worked, you might […]
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