Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a type of therapy that was developed by Russ Harris in the early 2000s. It is based on the idea that many people struggle with emotional pain and other issues because they are not fully accepting of their experiences or making meaningful commitments in their lives. The therapy involves helping people to develop greater psychological flexibility, which means learning to live in the present moment, letting go of unhelpful thoughts and feelings, and taking actions that are consistent with one’s values.
One key concept in ACT is the “Choice Point.” This is the moment when an individual must decide whether to continue down their current path or to choose a new direction. This choice can be difficult, as it often requires people to confront their fears and step outside their comfort zones. However, by making a conscious decision to choose a new path, individuals can break free from patterns of behavior that are holding them back and move towards a more fulfilling life.
The Choice Point is often represented as a fork in the road, with one path leading to the familiar and the other leading to the unknown. At this point, individuals may feel stuck or unsure about what to do. They may be afraid of making the wrong decision or worry about the potential consequences of their choice. However, by recognizing that they are at a Choice Point, individuals can begin to reflect on their values and priorities and use this information to guide their decision-making.