Guest blog post by James Noon
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) asks a deceptively simple question: What if the goal isn’t to feel better, but to FEEL better?
Developed by psychologist Steven Hayes and popularised by authors such as Russ Harris, ACT turns the traditional pursuit of happiness on its head. Rather than fighting uncomfortable thoughts and emotions, ACT teaches us to make room for them while choosing actions that align with our deepest values.
The central idea is psychological flexibility: the ability to stay present, accept life’s inevitable discomforts, and keep moving towards what matters. Instead of getting caught in worry, self-doubt or painful memories, ACT helps us “unhook” from unhelpful thinking patterns and reconnect with the life we want to create.
Consider Emma, who feels deeply self-conscious about her body and avoids going to the beach, family gatherings, and even dinner with friends because she worries about how others will judge her appearance. ACT doesn’t try to convince Emma that she is beautiful or persuade her to stop having critical thoughts about her body. Instead, she learns to notice those thoughts with compassion, make space for the discomfort they create, and choose actions guided by her values of connection, family and friendship. Over time, she discovers that she can attend the barbecue, laugh with friends, and create meaningful memories, even while the critical inner voice is still present.
Research has shown ACT to be effective for anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress, trauma, and workplace wellbeing. Pain is unavoidable; suffering often comes from struggling against it. ACT reminds us that courage is not the absence of discomfort it is taking valued action while discomfort comes along for the ride.
Many of our therapists including myself James Noon have special training in ACT and incorporate it into their therapeutic approach. Call us today on (07) 3726 5595 to find out which therapists can help you learn from this powerful framework.