ACT: An overview of acceptance and commitment therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an innovative approach to psychotherapy. Currently, the American Psychological Association lists it as an empirically supported treatment for depression. ACT can be adopted to be applicable to various populations and settings. Typically ACT utilizes six core principles: cognitive defusion, acceptance, contact with the present moment, observing the self, values and committed action. A description of ACT and these core principles is provided. A review of the research on ACT is then discussed.