In a weekly series designed to help parents navigate middle school mental health challenges, Shoreline school psychologist Mrs. Rollins is exploring various evidence-based therapy approaches. The series examines methods used by licensed professionals to assist clients in processing challenges and building coping strategies.
Tailoring therapy to individual needs
While specific frameworks vary, the appropriate approach for an individual is determined by their personal goals, preferences, and mental health requirements.
Origins of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, known as ACT, is derived from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Created by Steven Hayes, a psychology professor at the University of Nevada, ACT was originally developed as a method for managing panic attacks.
Core principles of ACT approach
Unlike CBT, which focuses on reframing harmful thought patterns, ACT emphasizes accepting all feelings as natural responses to situations. The theory suggests that attempting to suppress or control emotions can lead to increased distress, whereas ACT teaches that experiencing negative thoughts and emotions is a normal part of life.
Key components of the ACT process
The ACT process involves several main components, including mindfulness to increase awareness without judgment, identifying personal values to guide choices, and committed action toward meaningful change. Other processes include cognitive defusion, which changes how one relates to thoughts, being present in the moment, and self-as-context, which is the understanding that an individual is more than their thoughts or emotions.
Identifying patterns for behavioral change
Therapy may involve examining self-talk regarding relationships or challenges to determine if a situation requires acceptance or immediate change. A therapist helps identify patterns of behavior that have not worked to prevent repetition.
Achieving goals through emotional openness
The ultimate objective of ACT is to foster emotional openness and align thoughts and behaviors with personal goals and values. While the goal in CBT is symptom reduction, in ACT, symptom reduction is viewed as a side benefit of changing behavior and accepting internal experiences.
