form of counselling and clinical behaviour analysis.

core focus: acceptance of difficult thoughts and emotions that are an inevitable part of life, as well as a commitment towards living life according to values. Identify core values and commit to acting on these. Combination of acceptance and mindfulness strategies with commitment and behaviour strategies, to increase psychological flexibility.

Main Strategies

• managing distressing emotions (eg acceptance strategies)
• managing thoughts (eg cognitive defusion techniques)
• mindful exploration of values and plans for achieving goals

Indications

• mood disorders, anxiety disorders, chronic pain, addiction, personality disorders, disease prevention and health promotion

Core principles

• cognitive diffusion - realise thoughts emotions and memories not necessarily true or definitive
• acceptance of thoughts and feelings
• present moment - experience here and now with openness, interest and receptiveness
• observing self - transcendent self
• values - what is personally important
• committed action - set and act on goals according to values