Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT is a mindfulness-based therapy that encourages emotional acceptance while fostering actions aligned with personal values, ideal for anxiety, depression, and identity challenges.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based approach that emphasises psychological flexibility — the ability to accept one’s internal experiences while committing to actions aligned with core values. Instead of avoiding or suppressing unpleasant emotions, ACT encourages individuals to observe and accept these emotions as natural parts of life. By fostering acceptance, clients can reduce emotional distress and create meaningful, value-driven lives.
ACT is effective for treating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance use. It is also helpful for individuals struggling with identity issues, perfectionism, and life transitions.
ACT consists of six core processes:
Acceptance: Embracing emotions rather than avoiding them.
Cognitive Defusion: Distancing oneself from unhelpful thoughts.
Present-Moment Awareness: Staying grounded in the current moment.
Self-as-Context: Viewing oneself as an observer rather than being defined by emotions or thoughts.
Values Clarification: Identifying what truly matters.
Committed Action: Taking steps aligned with personal values.
For LGBT clients, ACT offers tools to navigate the unique challenges they may face, such as:
Identity Exploration: Clients can clarify and affirm their values while building self-compassion.
Coping with Discrimination: By accepting difficult emotions, clients can build resilience against societal prejudice.
Reducing Internalised Shame: ACT helps clients defuse from harmful beliefs about themselves and embrace their identity with authenticity.
Improving Relationships: Mindfulness and value-based action can strengthen connections with partners, family, and community.
Through ACT, clients develop a deeper connection to themselves and their values, empowering them to live authentically and resiliently.