Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Melbourne
Are you stuck in a cycle of avoiding or feeling overwhelmed by unpleasant thoughts and feelings? Do you feel you've lost touch with the things that truly matter to you? Have you tried CBT but prefer to incorporate mindfulness principles in your therapy? Then Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) might be right for you.
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If you struggle with unhooking from unpleasant thoughts and feelings, our skilled therapists can help you develop skills in mindfulness and acceptance, and help you move toward a life that is deeply meaningful and purposeful to you.
What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a type of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) that incorporates mindfulness principles. ACT can help increase cognitive flexibility and coping in the face of difficulties, such as:
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chronic pain
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relationship issues
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substance use
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disordered eating
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psychosis
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and more
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ACT works by helping you to accept difficult thoughts and feelings, develop psychological flexibility, and commit to actions aligned with personal values.​
How ACT differs from CBT
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a type of CBT, but has some important differences
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CBT aims to change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours to reduce distress. ACT aims to change the relationships with thoughts and feelings, to promote acceptance and psychological flexibility
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CBT is goal-oriented. ACT is values-oriented
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CBT focuses on cognitive restructuring such as challenging and reframing, as well as behavioural changes. ACT focuses on mindfulness, acceptance, and commitment to values-based actions.
It's time to reach out for help if:
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You've tried standard CBT with little success
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You prefer mindfulness-based approaches
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You're interested in practicing acceptance of distressing situations rather than reducing distress
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You're ready to go explore your purpose and values
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Cognitive challenges, restructures, and reframes don't work for you
You and your ACT Therapist will spend time identifying your values so that you can build a life that is more in alignment with them--because when you do this, you improve your wellbeing. Examples of some common values include:
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Adventure
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Connection
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Fairness
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Honesty
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Independence
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Kindness
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Open-mindedness
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Respect
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Trust
Our Locations
We offer face-to-face Acceptance and Commitment Therapy across two convenient locations in Melbourne and online therapy via telehealth Australia-wide
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy FAQs
We're here to answer any questions you have about Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
If you have a question that is not answered below, shoot us an email
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Who is ACT suitable for?
ACT is suitable for individuals dealing with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship concerns. It's particularly helpful for people who dislike cognitive reframes, or who prefer to incorporate mindfulness principles in their therapy
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How long does ACT take?
It’s hard to say exactly how long ACT takes, as everyone is different. The number of sessions will depend on a range of factors, including whether you have something else you’re struggling with (e.g., another diagnosis or history of trauma), and how well your environment supports you to change
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When is ACT helpful?
ACT is a great option to consider if you:
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found standard CBT to be insufficient or unhelpful
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don't want to change, but want to learn to accept circumstances
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feel unclear on your purpose or path in life
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enjoy mindfulness principles​
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Do I need a referral for ACT?
You don’t need a referral to do ACT. However, if you wish to receive Medicare rebates (with eligible clinicians), you should speak to your GP about getting a Mental Health Treatment Plan