Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Some people notice that thoughts or emotions continue to shape their actions in ways they do not find easy to shift.
Attempts to control or avoid these inner experiences can sometimes make them more persistent. Over time this can lead to feeling stuck between wanting things to be different and feeling uncertain about how to move forward.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a psychotherapy approach that focuses on how people relate to their thoughts and emotions, and how they move toward what matters to them in life.
When ACT may be helpful
ACT is often explored when someone notices patterns such as:
getting caught in cycles of overthinking or self-criticism
avoiding situations because of anxiety or discomfort
feeling stuck between competing expectations or responsibilities
losing connection with what feels meaningful or important
Rather than trying to eliminate difficult thoughts or emotions, ACT focuses on developing greater flexibility in how these experiences are understood and responded to.
How ACT works
ACT draws on behavioural science and mindfulness-based practices to help people observe their inner experiences with more space and clarity.
Instead of trying to control every thought or feeling, attention is placed on recognising these experiences while choosing actions that reflect personal values.
Over time this process can help people respond to difficult situations with greater flexibility.
Key ideas in ACT
ACT is often described through several core processes that support psychological flexibility. These include:
- noticing thoughts without becoming overly caught up in them
- allowing uncomfortable emotions to be present without needing to avoid them
- bringing attention to the present moment
- clarifying what matters most in life
- taking small actions that move life in those directions
These ideas are usually explored gradually within counselling rather than taught as a set of techniques.
ACT within counselling
ACT may be used as one approach within counselling when it fits the concerns being explored.
In practice, this can include examining patterns of avoidance, understanding how certain thoughts influence behaviour, and clarifying the values that guide important decisions.
The aim is to help people relate to their experiences in a way that creates more space for meaningful choices.
Starting counselling
Beginning counselling can feel like a significant step. You are welcome to arrange a short, complimentary 10-minute consultation to ask questions and explore whether this approach may feel like a good fit.
Therapy Location:
12 Middle Road,
#06-02C Midland House
Singapore 188970
By Appointment Only
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