Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based psychological therapy used to support people experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and ongoing emotional difficulties. It is widely recognised in Australia and internationally as an effective approach to improving psychological wellbeing.

ACT is based on the understanding that painful thoughts and feelings are a normal part of being human. Difficulties often arise not from the presence of distress itself, but from the struggle to avoid, control, or eliminate uncomfortable internal experiences. Over time, this struggle can narrow a person’s life and pull them away from what matters most to them.

In ACT, therapy focuses on helping people develop a different relationship with their thoughts and emotions. Rather than trying to “get rid of” difficult experiences, ACT supports people to notice them with greater openness, reduce their impact, and respond in more flexible ways.

ACT helps people:

• recognise unhelpful patterns of avoidance or struggle

• develop skills to step back from distressing thoughts

• increase emotional flexibility and resilience

• clarify personal values

• take meaningful action, even when things feel difficult

ACT is practical, compassionate, and future-focused. It aims to help people build a richer, more meaningful life while learning to respond more effectively to emotional challenges.