Find answers to frequently asked questions below, or feel free to contact us with your question at [email protected].
What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?
ACT is an evidence-based therapy that helps you build psychological flexibility — the ability to stay present, make space for difficult thoughts and emotions, and take meaningful action based on what matters most to you.
How is ACT different from other types of therapy?
ACT doesn’t focus on getting rid of difficult thoughts or feelings. Instead, it helps you change how you relate to them so they don’t control your actions. The goal is to help you move forward in your life, even when things feel hard.
What does “acceptance” mean in ACT?
Acceptance means learning how to make space for thoughts and emotions without fighting them or avoiding them. It doesn’t mean liking them — it means allowing them to be there without letting them take over.
What does “commitment” mean in ACT?
Commitment refers to taking intentional steps toward the kind of life you want to live, based on your values — even when it feels uncomfortable or challenging.
What kinds of concerns can ACT help with?
ACT can be helpful for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, burnout, grief, life transitions, chronic pain, and patterns of avoidance or overthinking. It’s especially helpful when you feel stuck or disconnected from what matters.
What are “values” in ACT?
Values are what matter most to you — how you want to show up in your life, relationships, and decisions. ACT helps you clarify these and use them as a guide for your actions.
What happens during ACT sessions?
ACT sessions are practical and experiential. They may include mindfulness exercises, identifying patterns in thoughts and behavior, values-based goal setting, and practicing ways to respond differently in real-life situations.
Will I have things to practice outside of sessions?
Yes. ACT is most effective when you apply skills in everyday life. You may be encouraged to take small, meaningful steps between sessions that align with your values.
How long does ACT take?
ACT can be used as a brief intervention (often around 6–12 sessions) or as a longer-term approach depending on your goals and needs.
Is ACT effective?
Yes. ACT is supported by decades of research and is widely used for a variety of mental health concerns. It has been recognized by organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
Is ACT appropriate for teens or parents?
Yes. ACT can be adapted for teens and parents to support emotional awareness, reduce avoidance, and improve how they respond to stress, relationships, and everyday challenges.
ACT is especially helpful for patterns shaped by past experiences, including trauma-related thoughts and emotional responses.
👉 Learn more about our approach to trauma therapy [here/ Link to Trauma therapy section].
Recommended ACT Videos:
Curious to see ACT in action? Here are a few helpful videos:
Note: These videos are for educational support only. ACT is most effective when guided by a licensed therapist trained in this approach.
1. What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?
A clear, easy-to-understand explanation of ACT’s core principles.
Watch on YouTube
2. The Struggle Switch
Dr. Russ Harris, Acceptance & Commitment Therapist, explains the struggle switch metaphor through this entertaining and educational clip.
3. How to Practice Acceptance: ACT Core Process
Learn how to sit with difficult thoughts, feelings, memories, and sensations in life.
At WellHome Psychology, we believe you can live a rich, full, and meaningful life—even in the presence of pain. ACT gives you the tools to stop fighting your thoughts and start building a life you truly care about—one intentional step at a time.
