Guest blog from Robyn Walser After nearly three decades of practicing and teaching ACT, one of the most important lessons I have learned is that the heart of ACT is not found in its techniques, metaphors, or protocols. Rather, it is found in a way of being with another human being. Many clinicians first encounter […]
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 […]
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 […]
with Mavis Tsai Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP), founded by Mavis Tsai, alongside the late Robert Kohlenberg, PhD, ABPP. is a transformative approach that fosters deep, meaningful relationships between therapists and clients. What makes FAP truly unique is its focus on understanding and addressing the client’s real-life struggles as they manifest during therapy. In this blog, […]
Highly skilled ACT practitioners bring creativity, nuance, and a deep understanding of psychological flexibility to their therapeutic work. Beyond the foundational ACT processes, advanced practitioners refine their skills to address complex and rigid client patterns, using subtle yet powerful techniques that help clients move toward meaningful, values-guided lives. These therapists artfully blend metaphors, mindfulness, values, […]
In the therapeutic space, the relationship between therapist and client is central to healing and growth. Functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP) emphasises this relationship, offering a powerful behavioural framework built on awareness, courage, and love. Crucially, FAP recognises the dual responsibility of the therapist: to provide a safe and nurturing connection while also challenging and disrupting […]
Anyone that already uses ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) will understand that it is a powerful approach, emphasising psychological flexibility and the ability to engage with the present moment. However, while many practitioners will know of, and start with these basics, the journey to mastering ACT can sometimes stagnate. For example, we might use the […]
You don’t necessarily need to know emotional efficacy therapy (EET) to do ACT, but understanding EET can enhance your application of ACT, especially when working with clients who struggle with emotional regulation. Here’s why: 1. ACT addresses emotions broadly; EET addresses emotions in a specific, detailed and structured manner ACT helps clients change their relationship […]
It is key when learning and later applying ACT to ensure that there is good fidelity to the model. For those newer to ACT, by fidelity we mean the degree to which the intervention is ACT consistent. This can encompass both the techniques, as well as any underlying philosophy of science. The ability to deliver […]
Ahead of our intermediary workshop ACT for anxiety and depression with Russ Harris, we are looking at these so called ‘common disorders’. We might call them our bread and butter, as therapists. Whether we label them diagnostically or view them as symptoms of anxiety or low mood, we frequently engage with individuals facing these issues. […]
When learning acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), many practitioners begin with the key concept of promoting psychological flexibility, which is the ability to adapt to life’s challenges while staying connected to what matters most. A natural starting point for beginners is to learn each of the six core ACT processes individually and then apply them […]
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 […]
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 […]
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