actMadeSimple2d_epub

If the client is overwhelmed, dissociated, or extremely fused, we start up top with being present: grounding and dropping anchor.
If we want to help the client get moving, we shift to the right side of the triflex: doing what matters (values and committed action). We clarify values, set goals, create action plans, and teach skills.
If the client is deeply stuck, going nowhere, paralyzed by fusion and experiential avoidance, we shift to the left side: opening up (defusion and acceptance).
If we run into barriers at either the left or right side (or both), we come back to center: being present (grounding, dropping anchor).
If the client is successfully doing what matters, we return to being present: we help the client to engage fully in her experience and focus on what she’s doing. And if she’s doing something potentially enjoyable, we help her learn how to appreciate and savor it.

When clients are overwhelmed by their feelings, extremely fused, dissociated, emotionally dysregulated, or highly impulsive: begin with mindful grounding exercises such as dropping anchor (chapter 10).
When clients are experiencing major grief or loss: begin with self-compassion (chapter 18) and/or dropping anchor (chapter 10).
For the poorly motivated or those fused with hopelessness: begin with values (chapter 19) and defusion from hopelessness (chapter 14).
For clients fixated on feeling good and getting rid of painful feelings: begin with creative hopelessness (chapter 8).

ACT is a very active form of therapy/coaching. It’s not just talking about your problems and feelings.
The idea is that we work together as a team, to help you build the sort of life you want to live.
One big part of this approach involves learning skills to unhook yourself from difficult thoughts and feelings—learning how to reduce their impact and take away their power, so they can’t jerk you around or hold you back or bring you down.
It also involves clarifying your values: finding out what matters to you, what you want to stand for in life, what strengths and qualities you want to develop and how you want to treat yourself and others. And taking action to solve your problems, face your challenges, and do things that make life better.
I want you to leave here after each session with an action plan: something practical to take away and use to actively make a difference in your life.
I will ask you at times to try new things that may pull you out of your comfort zone—like learning new skills to handle difficult thoughts and feelings—but you never have to do them. You are always free to say no to anything I suggest.