One of the most counterintuitive truths about cognitive behavioral therapy: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of cognitive behavioral therapy
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking cognitive behavioral therapy is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging cognitive behavioral therapy without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing cognitive behavioral therapy to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for cognitive behavioral therapy while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting cognitive behavioral therapy, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Many people find that when they stop fighting cognitive behavioral therapy and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of cognitive behavioral therapy is partly the struggle against it.