The Six Core Processes of ACT

ACT focuses on six core processes that work together to increase psychological flexibility. These processes include acceptance, cognitive defusion, connection to the present moment, self as context, values clarification, and committed action. Acceptance doesn't mean approving of pain or struggle, but rather opening up and making room to experience unpleasant thoughts, emotions, and events without fighting them. Cognitive defusion involves recognizing thoughts as just thoughts rather than objective truths that must be believed. This principle helps create distance between an individual and their thoughts, allowing them to step back from being consumed by them.

Connection to the present moment focuses on "being in the now," paying attention to what is happening in the moment rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Self as context refers to "the observing self," the part that can step back and watch what is happening within, enabling individuals to recognize they are thinking and experiencing physical or emotional sensations. Values represent what people care about most in life, guiding behavior toward what is meaningful. Committed action involves taking effective steps guided by one's values to create a fulfilling and satisfying quality of life.