Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (“ACT”) for Problem Gambling

Abstract

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a third wave approach to treating psychopathology. Recent studies have found support for ACT in treating mood, substance use, and impulsive disorders that appear commonly comorbid with PG. The six core processes of ACT that seek to promote psychological flexibility have been examined in an exploratory way for PG; however, large-scale randomly controlled trials have yet to be undertaken. Although similar to CBT in some respects, the unique character of acceptance rather than challenging to drive behavioural change has appeal to certain PG clients in our clinic. ACT is described below as is a case study of a PG client.