act

“It's like you're surfing… The same wave that can be a source of pain can be a beautiful flowing grace and source of power. It's all a matter of how you respond to it” (Anastasio, T, ND). Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT) is a construct that believes that human suffering is inevitable and that human language is the cause of joy and pain (Harris, 2006). ACT differs from most therapeutic interventions in that it does not attempt to control this pain or alleviate it, instead it suggests that we accept it. It asks that we accept what we cannot control and instead focus on what is meaningful and true in our lives. This paper will explore the life of Diane and her struggles with anxiety. The initial formulation is useful as it provides a framework and context for the work to come. Assessment and formulation help guide professionals in their work. It is important when planning interventions that the needs and experiences of clients are taken into consideration (Adamowich & Trotter, 2014). The paper will outline an intervention for Diane based on the principles of ACT. The process and constructs of ACT is properly suited for the presented case example, this will be thoroughly examined by the outline of the intervention plan.

Diane is a 26 year old woman. She lives in Richmond Hill, Ontario, a suburb of Toronto. Diane has one child Chloe, age 3. Diane was in a long term relationship with Tom, the father of her child. They are separated and have very limited contact. Diane has had lengthy, intermittent struggles with alcohol use. Diane currently lives with her parents and daughter. Her mother is the primary care giver for Chloe. Diane indicates that at one point she left for two weeks without indicating where she was going. Her mo...

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...hoice for Diane. She has indicated a degree of insight into her internal and external experiences which would co-relate well with the modalities of ACT; including acceptance, fusion, sense of self, mindfulness and value based work. Through her recent work in the 12 step program Diane has been able to work on the concepts of acceptance, commitment, values. The 12 step program can be comparable with the principles of ACT (Harris, 2009).

Following the six sessions it is recommended that Diane also engage with family therapy with her daughter, Chloe. Given Chloe’s age programming such as theraplay may be helpful in assisting Diane in her vision of successfully parenting Chloe. Diane displays the ability to access community supports and does seem to possess some basic life skills. She may not require services in this area but could benefit from appropriate referrals.