What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

As a therapist, one of the most common things I hear from people is this: “I just want to feel better.” And it makes perfect sense. When we’re hurting—whether from anxiety, grief, trauma, or stress—our instinct is to try to reduce or eliminate those painful feelings as quickly as possible.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offers a different, and often deeply relieving, perspective. Rather than focusing solely on feeling better, ACT helps us learn how to live better—even when difficult thoughts and emotions are present.