What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is an evidence-based methodology used by mental health professionals to treat a wide range of mental health concerns.
ACT emerged as a ‘third wave’ cognitive behavioural therapy, following Behaviourism and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Often credited to Steven Hayes as the founder in the mid-to-late 20th century, this psychological therapy’s core aim is to help clients live meaningfully while managing their difficult thoughts and emotions.
With all our approaches grounded in evidence-based methodologies, Fortitude Wellbeing uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help reframe what is challenging you and process these painful thoughts and feelings.
How ACT Works: Core Principles at Fortitude Wellbeing
ACT isn’t about forcing yourself to ‘think positive’ or pushing away uncomfortable feelings. Instead, it’s mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for symptom reduction, based on building practical skills to relate to your thoughts and emotions more healthily.
This means you can focus on what truly matters to you. Here are the core processes you’ll explore with your psychologist:
Instead of fighting sadness, anxiety, or self-doubt, you’ll learn how to make room for these feelings without letting them control you. Acceptance means giving yourself the freedom to move forward amongst tough emotions.
Cognitive defusion to reduce the impact of negative thoughts.
Our minds can be filled with unhelpful thoughts that diminish our self-worth. In ACT, you’ll practice seeing these thoughts for what they are, just thoughts rather than facts.
Mindfulness skills to be present and grounded.
By learning simple, practical mindfulness techniques, you’ll strengthen your ability to stay in the moment rather than being pulled into troubling thoughts of the past or future anxieties.
Observing Self to develop self-awareness and perspective.
ACT helps you connect with a deeper sense of self, the part of you that notices thoughts and feelings without being defined by them. This perspective creates space for growth and resilience.
Values identification to discover and live by your core values.
Together, we’ll identify the core values that shape your life and sense of identity. This could be around family, growth, connection, or creativity. Wherever your personal values lie, your choices are guided by what gives your life meaning.
Commitment to taking meaningful steps toward change.
With your values as the guide, you’ll set short-term and long-term goals, helping you step toward the life you want to build, despite obstacles or unhelpful thought patterns.
Start Today To Help Overcome Difficult Emotions and Move Forward With Happiness.
Conditions ACT Therapists Can Help With
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy is known for its effectiveness when treating a range of mental health conditions. ACT interventions have proven effectiveness when treating:
- Anxiety disorders and social anxiety disorder.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
- Chronic pain and physical health challenges.
- Eating disorders and disordered eating.
- Workplace stress and burnout.
- Stress disorder.
- Substance use disorder (substance abuse) and smoking cessation.
- Stress management and emotion regulation.
At Fortitude Wellbeing, ACT doesn’t necessarily need to be practised in isolation. We identify the best treatment plan for your needs, which may utilise more than one therapeutic approach. We can combine ACT with other types of therapy, such as CBT or Schema Therapy.
Benefits of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Fortitude Wellbeing
Reduction in Symptoms and Emotional Distress
Many people notice a decrease in anxiety, low mood, or stress as they learn to stop battling with their inner thoughts.
Increased Self-Awareness and Resilience
By tuning into your thoughts and emotions in new ways, you’ll develop a stronger sense of self and greater ability to bounce back when life feels overwhelming.
Improved Relationships and Communications Skills
ACT teaches you to become more present and authentic with the people around you, leading to deeper connections and healthier communication.
Long-Term Strategies for Managing Life’s Challenges
Rather than quick fixes, ACT provides practical, lasting tools you can use to handle future challenges with confidence.
Research-Supported Outcomes
ACT is backed by decades of scientific research and systematic reviews showing its effectiveness across a range of concerns, from anxiety and depression to chronic pain and stress.
What to Expect in Your ACT Sessions
Your First Session
- During your first session, we'll discuss your background, challenges, goals and preferences. This is your opportunity to share what's been going on for you in our safe space.
- Melissa will ensure she understands your unique situation.
- From here, she'll create a tailored treatment plan based on your needs. This will be relevant to your goals, so you always feel guided by a clear direction.
Ongoing Sessions
- You can continue sessions in-person at our South Yarra clinic or online.
- We'll practice mindfulness exercises, defusion strategies, and committed action planning to help you progress.
- We regularly review your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Why Choose Fortitude Wellbeing for ACT
Highly Experienced Psychologist
Our principal psychologist, Melissa Bell, brings over 18 years of experience working in Australia and internationally as a registered psychologist.
Supportive Environment
We provide a warm, empathetic space where you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and emotions.
Evidence-Based Care
All therapies are grounded in research-backed methodologies to give you lasting results.
Personalised Approach
Our treatment plans are tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Convenient Location
Easily accessible South Yarra clinic with online therapy options.
Start Your ACT Journey Today
If you’re ready to achieve a transcendent sense of self with an experienced psychologist, book your appointment with Fortitude Wellbeing. We welcome new clients to our South Yarra practice. In a comfortable and supportive environment, you can experience meaningful change with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.