Learning Objectives
- To gain a broad understanding of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness
- To be able to identify the application of the ACT and Mindfulness in the practice setting
Background
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness are approaches to living that can be used for working with consumers, their families and service providers in the Mental Health setting. These approaches focus on the ‘Here and Now’, being present and providing 100% attention to what is current. Dwelling on the past and anxieties about the future are put aside, and the individual accepts feelings that are occurring regardless of whether they are negative or positive. It is recommended that in order to practice Mindfulness and ACT formal training be undertaken. This tutorial is a basic introduction to the principles so the student will have awareness when observing its use in the practice setting.
An operational definition of ‘What is Mindfulness?’, provided by its founder Jon Kabat-Zinn, will help you get started.
Dr Russ Harris, a medical practitioner who has completed further training in ACT and now trains and researches in the area, has a recording introducing ‘Acceptance & Commitment Therapy’ in an online interview.
The Happiness Trap is a website devoted to Dr Russ’ ACT and Mindfulness training, and provides a simple yet holistic definition of ACT and mindfulness.
Reflection Activity
Read the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy resources described in the science section Happiness Trap website.
How can you see this practice working in your placement setting?
Consider consumer needs, organisational culture, team involvement, service delivery models.
Consider one of the consumers you have seen – how does their treatment fit within the context of the ACT and Mindfulness?
Consider client, family, treating team, environmental factors, care plan.
You may also be interested in...
Student Tutorial - Mental Health Diagnoses
Tutorial outlining diagnosis of mental health disorders
(read more...)
Student Tutorial - Professional Boundaries
A tutorial aimed to better equip students to maintain...
(read more...)
