ACT: A Mindful Approach to Problem-Solving

In this week's edition of Practitioner's Digest, we discuss various methods for applying ACT in practice.

1. Food for Thought A common way to help clients grasp the concept of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is through relatable metaphors. I particularly like the Hero's Journey (the basis of the plot for almost all Hollywood films). In short, someone gets a calling to rise to a challenge, which they initially reject. Once they understand how it aligns with their values, they accept the challenge and commit to a series of actions to overcome it, resulting in significant personal growth. This easily relatable metaphor can encourage clients to engage with the ACT process and commit to the actions that lead to desirable change. If you use this metaphor with any of your clients, I'd love to hear how it went.
2. Inspiring Quote "Acceptance of what has happened is the first step to overcoming the consequences of any misfortune." — William James
3. Free Science-based Tool Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (Revised). This ten-point questionnaire gives you a simple way to measure someone's psychological flexibility—a vital component of the ACT approach. [Link ]
4. Book Recommendation Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: The Process and Practice of Mindful Change — Steven C. Hayes, Kirk D. Strosahl, Kelly G. Wilson.?If you'd like to learn more about ACT and potentially integrate it into your practice, this is an essential practitioner guide. It covers the scientific theory behind the approach in detail and includes therapeutic exercises and sample dialogues you can use as the basis for your sessions. [Link ]
5. A Question For Your Clients "Knowing what's important to you, what action can you commit to taking today, even if it feels uncomfortable?".?This prompts the client to think about their values and focus on solutions rather than problems. It also acknowledges the potential for discomfort and encourages them to embrace it rather than use it as a reason to avoid change.
6. Free Infographic

Thanks for reading. I'm curious, how do you incorporate ACT principles into your practice or daily life?

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