An Introduction to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Three Exercises

Marcus Rodriguez, PhD and Daniel P. Johnson, PhD

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the limits of experiential control and assess how ineffective control strategies
   contribute to psychopathology and human suffering.
2. Discuss how to intervene using experiential exercises to mobilize the “three pillars” of
   psychological flexibility (Aware, Open, Engage) in interactions with clients.
3. Implement exercises that enlist ACT processes (present moment awareness, defusion,
   acceptance) to help clients undermine ineffective behaviors and promote willingness
   to experience thoughts and feelings.