Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a type of therapy that helps individuals increase psychological flexibility and reduce emotional distress. It is a well-established form of therapy that is used to help children and young people deal with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, and behavioral issues. This article will provide an overview of what ACT is and what a child or young person can expect in therapy, as well as tips for parents and carers to help their children accept difficult situations.

What is ACT?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that focuses on teaching individuals to focus on the present moment and accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment. The goal of ACT is to help individuals find meaning and purpose in life, even when faced with difficult situations. This is achieved by teaching individuals to accept their thoughts and emotions, instead of fighting against them, and to take action towards their personal values and goals.

What can a child or young person expect in ACT therapy?

In ACT therapy, children and young people can expect to engage in a variety of activities and exercises designed to help them increase their psychological flexibility and reduce their emotional distress. They may be asked to reflect on their thoughts and feelings and to engage in mindfulness exercises that help them focus on the present moment.

In therapy, children and young people may also engage in discussions about their personal values and goals, and how they can align their thoughts and actions with these values. They may also participate in behavioral experiments that help them explore their thoughts and emotions, and learn to accept and work through them.

Tips for parents and carers to help their children accept difficult situations

1. Be a good listener: It’s important for parents and carers to listen to their children’s thoughts and feelings, and to validate their experiences. This helps children feel heard and understood.
2. Practice mindfulness: Encourage your child to practice mindfulness by participating in activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing. This can help them develop the skills to stay present and focused in the moment.
3. Encourage goal-setting: Help your child set achievable goals and work towards them. This can help them develop a sense of purpose and direction, and increase their psychological flexibility.
4. Be patient: It’s important to be patient with your child as they work through difficult situations. Remember that change takes time and that everyone moves at their own pace.

Conclusion

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a form of therapy that helps individuals increase psychological flexibility and reduce emotional distress. Children and young people can expect to engage in a variety of activities and exercises designed to help them accept their thoughts and emotions and work towards their personal values and goals. Parents and carers can help their children accept difficult situations by being good listeners, practicing mindfulness, encouraging goal-setting, and being patient.

References

1. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). (2021). American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/acceptance-commitment-therapy
2. Harris, R. (2015). The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living. Robinson.
3. Hayes, S. C. (2018). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Second Edition: The Process and Practice of Mindful Change. Guilford Press.