Parent Press

a Goally Publication

Get

Goally

What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

Home>>Neurodiversopedia>>A Terms

Summary

summary

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a way of helping kids with special needs by focusing on accepting their unique selves and committing to meaningful actions. It encourages them to embrace their strengths and challenges while taking steps towards their goals.

Frequently Asked Question

donut

Is ACT suitable for children and adolescents?

Yes, ACT can be adapted to be age-appropriate and beneficial for children and adolescents, helping them navigate challenges, build resilience, and enhance their well-being.

How is ACT different from other types of therapy?

ACT focuses on accepting and embracing thoughts and emotions rather than trying to eliminate them, emphasizing the importance of values-driven action and mindful presence in the present moment.

Is ACT effective for different mental health conditions?

Yes, ACT has shown effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and chronic pain, by promoting psychological flexibility and resilience.

Scientific Definition

scientist

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a form of therapy that can be beneficial for kids with special needs. It aims to enhance psychological flexibility by promoting acceptance of difficult thoughts and emotions and encouraging individuals to commit to their values and goals. ACT emphasizes the importance of accepting oneself and the present moment while recognizing that intentional actions make change possible. By developing greater acceptance and committing to purposeful behaviors, kids with special needs can cultivate resilience, improve their well-being, and progress in various areas of their lives.

Video Explanation

video-explanation

Real World Example of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Susie, a bright and imaginative girl with autism, finds support and growth through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Let’s explore Susie’s ACT journey:

  1. Mindfulness Magic: In a group session, Susie learns mindfulness techniques to find moments of calm and become more aware of her surroundings.
  2. Discovering Core Values: Through an engaging activity, Susie discovers her core values (kindness, creativity, curiosity) and learns to align her actions with them.
  3. Thought Bubbles Burst: Susie tackles worries by visualizing them as bubbles and realizing she has control over her thoughts.
  4. The Wise Acceptance: When faced with unexpected changes, Susie practices acceptance, understanding that resisting only prolongs suffering.

Through ACT, Susie embraces her uniqueness, overcomes challenges, and takes meaningful steps towards her goals. She develops resilience and confidence to navigate life’s twists and turns.

How Does Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Work?

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) works by helping kids with special needs develop psychological flexibility and resilience. It involves several key components and techniques that empower them to embrace challenges and take meaningful action toward their goals. Here are some examples of how ACT is applied in practice:

  • Mindfulness: Kids are taught to be present at the moment, observing their thoughts and emotions without judgment.
  • Values Clarification: They identify their core values and align their actions with what truly matters to them.
  • Cognitive Defusion: Techniques are used to help kids detach from unhelpful thoughts and see them as passing mental events.
  • Acceptance: They learn to accept difficult emotions and experiences, recognizing that resistance can intensify suffering.
  • Committed Action: Kids set specific goals and take consistent steps towards achieving them, even in the face of challenges.

By incorporating these principles, kids with special needs can cultivate psychological flexibility, enhance their well-being, and navigate life’s obstacles with resilience. Goally, a tablet with life and language skills apps, can complement Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) by offering interactive tools for visual schedules, AAC, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills training.

 

This post was originally published on June 14, 2023. It was updated on July 19, 2023.