Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

therapist writes notes during an acceptance and commitment therapy program in north carolina Addiction is not an easy journey, but it is a journey that is well worth taking. However, it requires effort, time, and commitment to achieve success. One of the most effective ways to manage addiction is through acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). ACT is a type of psychotherapy that promotes acceptance of difficult experiences and emotions while helping individuals focus on creating a rich and meaningful life.

As part of a treatment plan that includes holistic approaches like exercise therapy and community support, ACT can help those in addiction recovery make decisions that are consistent with their values and goals. If you’re looking for an effective and lasting program of addiction recovery in North Carolina, acceptance and commitment therapy can be a powerful tool.

Call Tree House Recovery at 910.812.1728 or reach out to our team online today to learn more about our holistic treatment programs and how they can support the addiction recovery process.

An Overview of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

ACT is a mindfulness-based behavioral therapy that aims to help individuals learn how to accept and respond to unwanted thoughts and feelings. The therapy helps individuals identify their values and use them to guide their behavior. In sessions, the therapist and individual work to distinguish between things that are within and outside of their control. They also work on developing mindfulness techniques to detach from negative self-talk and rumination.

A typical session will include the practitioner discussing the individual’s goals and values and helping them identify areas of their lives that could benefit from a change in perspective or behavior. The practitioner will then lead the individual through activities that foster acceptance and encourage commitment to positive behaviors.

How ACT Can Support Addiction Recovery

Addiction is often rooted in emotional pain and a sense of disconnection from oneself and others. Factors like past trauma and unresolved issues can keep individuals stuck in a cycle of pain and self-sabotaging behavior. Many of those who struggle with addiction also face co-occurring mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. These conditions can further complicate the addiction recovery process, making it difficult to break free from the cycle of substance abuse.

ACT can help individuals learn how to manage these difficult emotions and connect with their values. The therapy provides a safe space for individuals to express their emotions and explore their values. Through ACT, individuals can learn to differentiate between their values and addiction and to prioritize sustaining a healthy, meaningful life.

The Benefits of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

ACT has been shown to have several benefits for individuals struggling with addiction. These include:

  • Improved emotional regulation and self-compassion – In ACT, clients learn how to express strong emotions without being overwhelmed by them. This helps them develop self-compassion and better manage their emotions.
  • Increased awareness of values and personal goals – ACT helps patients identify their values and goals to guide their behavior in the direction of a meaningful life.
  • Enhanced engagement with positive activities – The therapy encourages individuals to prioritize activities and relationships that support their values and goals.
  • Improved problem-solving skills – ACT teaches participants how to recognize the difference between what they can and cannot control, helping them to develop problem-solving skills.

By helping individuals connect with their values and live a fulfilling and meaningful life, ACT fosters long-lasting recovery.

Call Tree House Recovery Today to Learn More

At Tree House Recovery, our team of experienced therapists can help you on your journey to lasting recovery using acceptance and commitment therapy. To learn more about how our addiction treatment programs can support your recovery, call us today at 910.812.1728. We are here to help you reclaim your life from addiction.