Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, commonly known as ACT, is an evidence-based psychotherapy that uses acceptance and mindfulness strategies together with commitment and behavior-change strategies. This approach helps people increase psychological flexibility and effectively deal with difficult emotions and thoughts. At D’Amore, we incorporate ACT into our diverse range of therapeutic modalities.
Our therapists at D’Amore utilize ACT to help clients embrace their thoughts and feelings rather than fight them, all while committing to actions that align with their values.
ACT has been successfully applied to treat a range of mental health disorders at D’Amore. It’s an integral part of our treatment plan, addressing conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and dual diagnoses.
Anxiety often arises from the struggle against unwanted feelings and thoughts. At D’Amore, our therapists use ACT to assist clients in accepting these feelings rather than fighting them. By teaching mindfulness and cognitive defusion, clients learn to observe their thoughts without being dominated by them, leading to a reduction in anxiety symptoms.
Depression often stems from a disconnection from one’s core values and an entanglement with negative self-narratives. ACT therapists at D’Amore guide clients in reconnecting with their core values and committing to actions that align with them. Through techniques like cognitive defusion, clients learn to distance themselves from harmful narratives.
Substance abuse often results from attempts to avoid or numb unwanted emotions. At D’Amore, we harness ACT to teach clients to accept their feelings and commit to healthier actions. By recognizing the transient nature of their thoughts and feelings, clients can navigate away from substance use.
Individuals with trauma often engage in avoidance strategies. ACT at D’Amore assists these individuals in facing their traumatic memories with acceptance and compassion. By anchoring themselves to their values, clients can pave a way forward that’s both healing and empowering.
ACT rests on the principle that fighting unwanted thoughts and emotions is often counterproductive. Instead, ACT techniques focus on accepting these feelings and committing to value-driven actions.
At D’Amore, our therapists teach clients cognitive defusion techniques to help them detach from their thoughts. This process assists clients in seeing their thoughts as transient and separate from themselves, reducing their influence.
A core component of ACT is identifying and clarifying one’s values. At D’Amore, we assist clients in defining what truly matters to them, guiding them to align their actions with these values.
Following values clarification, therapists guide clients in setting actionable goals aligned with their values. Committed action promotes a sense of purpose and direction.
At D’Amore, we utilize mindfulness techniques to foster present-moment awareness. Clients are taught to accept their feelings and thoughts as they come, grounding themselves in the present.
At D’Amore Mental Health, we’re committed to helping individuals embrace their journey with an acceptance-based approach. Our team is dedicated to guiding you or your loved ones every step of the way through our specialized mental health program, designed to cater to individual needs and challenges.
We aren’t just here to treat symptoms – at D’Amore, our goal is life transformation. Let’s embark on this journey towards mental wellness together. Contact us today.
