Introduction to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

This course will introduce the theory and practice of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as its goals and  techniques. This course is intended as an introduction to ACT that may help therapists decide whether or not to pursue further  training and experiences.
 

Objective 1
Describe the theoretical framework of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), including the fundamentals of Relational Frame Theory.
Objective 2
Explain to a patient how ACT differs from theoretical orientations like CBT, DBT, or psychodynamic orientations, including the focus that ACT places on acceptance and not symptom reduction.
Objective 3
Describe to a colleague or patient the role of values in ACT, and be able to guide a patient through an appropriate values exploration exercise.
Objective 4
Explain to a patient or colleague the role of exposure in ACT treatment, and how the goals of that exposure only partially overlaps with exposure’s use in other theoretical domains.
Objective 5
Discuss, in a thoughtful manner, the participant’s own experience with some of the processes and exercises associated with ACT, and explain the value of ‘doing ACT’ to ourselves.

The VPA Psychological Association is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The VPA Psychological Association maintains responsibility for this program and its content.