Acceptance and commitment therapy

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a psychological intervention that has its origins in cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness. It focuses on the acceptance of difficult thoughts and emotions that are an inevitable part of life, as well as a commitment towards living life according to values. Acceptance and commitment therapy involves a range of strategies to assist the patient to manage distressing emotions (eg acceptance strategies) and thoughts (eg cognitive defusion techniques), as well as mindful exploration of values and plans for achieving goals.