Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: An Introduction to Principles and Interventions (3 HR) Syllabus

I. Introduction to ACT

• Define ACT as a mindfulness-based psychotherapy
• Emphasize acceptance of the present moment and value-driven living
• Learn the foundational influences: Relational Frame Theory, Applied Behavioral Analysis, Functional Contextualism, and Buddhism
• Understand the primary goal: developing psychological flexibility

II. Determining Client Suitability for ACT

• Evaluate behavior based on “workability”
• Ask: “Is what you’re doing helping create a meaningful life?”
• Explore avoidance strategies and their effectiveness

III. The Six Core Principles of ACT (The Hexaflex)

• Contact with the Present Moment
• Values
• Committed Action
• Self-as-Context
• Cognitive Defusion
• Acceptance/Willingness

IV. Contact with the Present Moment

• Develop mindfulness skills
• Shift attention flexibly between internal and external events
• Practice mindfulness exercises such as broad-to-narrow focus and “Dropping Anchor”

V. Values and Meaningful Living

• Clarify personal values and their role in guiding behavior
• Explore how misalignment with values affects life satisfaction
• Practice exercises on core values and energy awareness

VI. Committed Action

• Translate values into concrete, consistent actions
• Identify and overcome barriers such as fear and lack of clarity or resources
  Develop action steps through reflection exercises

VII. Self-as-Context

• Differentiate between the “thinking self” and the “observing self”
• Cultivate a stable, centered identity beyond thoughts and emotions
  Use metaphors and perspective-taking exercises

VIII. Cognitive Defusion

• Learn to “unhook” from unhelpful thoughts and emotions
• Reduce the believability and impact of thoughts
• Use techniques like thought repetition, thanking the mind, and “leaves on a stream”

IX. Acceptance and Willingness

• Make space for uncomfortable internal experiences without avoidance
• Develop willingness to face discomfort in service of values
• Apply metaphors such as “the unwelcome party guest”

X. Applications of ACT Across Populations

• Review effectiveness of ACT for anxiety, depression, OCD, substance use, pain, stress, and terminal illness
• Explore emerging research for use with children and adolescents
• Adapt interventions to developmental stages and client needs

XI. Review and Reflection

• Revisit the ACT Hexaflex and core principles
• Discuss personal resonance with specific principles
• Share takeaways and questions from training

XII. Resources and Further Learning

• Recommended books including The Happiness Trap and ACT Made Simple
• Curated video resources for extended learning