Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a type of third-wave Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) that focuses on increasing psychological flexibility. ACT acknowledges that uncomfortable thoughts and feelings are natural and unavoidable and trying to control or eliminate difficult experiences can lead to increased suffering. Instead of focusing on changing internal experiences, ACT teaches clients to notice and accept uncomfortable experiences with less judgment and distress.

ACT helps clients identify core values (what matters), such as honesty, kindness, or creativity, and then take steps to live in accordance with these values. By learning skills to better accept uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, clients can free up mental energy to focus more on living in line with values and working towards meaningful long-term goals.

ACT involves six core processes, often described in a model called the hexaflex:

  • Illustration of a clock face with an arrow circling around it, indicating time or a cycle.

    1. Contact with the Present Moment:

    Improving the ability to be present in one’s life, paying attention to what’s happening right in front of us

  • Simple line art of a heart and brain combined, depicting the concept of love and logic.

    2. Acceptance:

    Learning to accept thoughts and feelings with less judgment and fewer attempts to control discomfort

  • Two blue curved arrows forming a circle on a black background, symbolizing synchronization or refresh.

    3. Defusion:

    Creating greater psychological distance from oneself and uncomfortable thoughts and related experiences

  • Outline of a human profile with a heart and plant inside, symbolizing mental growth and love.

    4. Self-As-Context:

    Recognizing that ‘we’ are more than the sum of our thoughts and experiences

  • Line drawing of a raised fist with lines indicating power or strength.

    5. Values:

    Identifying and clarifying personal values helps guide behaviour and decision-making

  • Blue circle with a checkmark inside on a transparent background.

    6. Committed Action:

    Taking action in line with one's values, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable

Seeking ACT Therapy In Toronto?

WG Psychology is a mental health clinic dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based assessment and psychotherapy services for adults. Our Toronto ACT psychologists are ready to help you work on a range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, anger management, substance use, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, and more. WG Psychology’s skilled ACT therapists ready to help you either in-person at our downtown location or virtually for everyone across Ontario. Connect with us to book an appointment!

Animation of multiple hands doing a group fist bump, symbolizing teamwork and unity, on a black background.

Toronto ACT Treatment Team