Case Conceptualization Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Abstract

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) uses acceptance and mindfulness methods along with commitment and behavioral change methods to produce greater psychological flexibility. ACT organizes therapeutic procedures and processes of change under the umbrella of psychological flexibility. This consists of six interlinked, overlapping yet distinct processes that form the conceptual road map for intervention. The six processes include: acceptance; defusion; present moment; self-as-context; values; and committed action. In the ACT approach to case conceptualization, the therapist should focus on making hypotheses about the functions driving client behaviors—given the client's specific history and context—and then testing those hypotheses with the client. Delivering ACT in an effective manner entails delivering interventions that are sensible in context with the client's identity and its components. ACT draws directly from a client's experience of their values and embodied sense of self to promote growth, valued living, and overall well-being. ACT's relative philosophical and theoretical clarity makes it a good candidate as a culturally adaptable intervention. ACT is used in a variety of settings, from the traditional psychotherapy setting with structured interviews to integrated care settings in which clinicians may have 15 minutes to assess and intervene with a client. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved) (Source: chapter)