ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

ACT is known as one of the 'third wave' approaches of CBT, in other words, an evolution of CBT.  Just as with the core CBT approach, ACT is focused on the role of thoughts and actions. However ACT uses a different framework to help people move forward in their lives towards what matters most to them. 

Within ACT, there is a focus on being able to be in the present moment, rather than spending all of our time worrying or ruminating about the past or the future. The work on thoughts is largely about accepting, and also learning ways of detaching from our thoughts. 

The therapy focuses on helping identify behaviours that help them move ‘towards’ rather than ‘away’ from what matters in their lives. ACT is particularly helpful for treating anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, and stress-related disorders.