A new approach to building psychological flexibility across settings and populations

Kevin L. Polk, PhD and Benjamin Schoendorf MA, MSc

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based therapy that has been successful in treating a variety of psychological issues, such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, eating disorders and more.  ACT has been proven effective in helping clients who are “stuck” in unhealthy thought patterns.  However, the ACT model is complex, and not always easy to use.  This is the first book to utilize the ACT Matrix model, which streamlines the therapeutic approach.

Traditionally, ACT is delivered with a focus around six core processes, referred to as the hexaflex:

1. Cognitive defusion
2. Acceptance
3. Contact with the present moment
4. Observing the self
5. Values
6. Committed action

Each of these core processes serves a specific function, but is often made more complex than needed.  The ACT Matrix fuses the six core principles into a simplified, easy-to-apply approach, focusing on client actions and behaviors as “workable” or “unworkable”, rather than good or bad.  It guides the clinician through this innovative approach, to deliver ACT more effectively, in a variety of setting and contexts, even when clients are resistant or unmotivated to participate.