When control is the problem: Facilitating change through
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
As one of the fastest growing evidence-based therapy modalities ,and with more than 1000
Randomised Controlled Trials demonstrating its efficacy, ACT is a supported model for the treatment of various conditions such as Chronic Pain, Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-
Compulsive Disorder and Psychosis.
ACT forms part of the “Third wave” cognitive behavioural therapies, which prioritise the holistic promotion of psychological and behavioural processes associated with health and well-being over the reduction or elimination of psychological and emotional symptoms, although this is typically a “side-benefit.”
After the workshop, you will be more able to:
• Describe and work with the problem of experiential avoidance in clinical work.
• Describe how to utilise mindfulness from an ACT framework and in your therapy.
• Describe how acceptance can promote positive, adaptive functioning for your clients.
• Enhanced Skills in Facilitating Psychological Flexibility. Participants will learn to help
clients increase their ability to stay present and adapt to changing circumstances
through acceptance and mindful awareness.
• Improved Ability to Guide Clients in Letting Go of Control: Therapists will develop
techniques to assist clients in releasing the need for control, reducing experiential
avoidance, and fostering openness to change.
• Mastery of ACT Core Processes: Participants will gain proficiency in applying ACT’s
six core processes—acceptance, cognitive defusion, being present, self-as-context,
values clarification, and committed action—to promote meaningful change.
• Increased Confidence in Incorporating ACT Interventions: Therapists will feel more
competent in integrating ACT strategies into their existing therapeutic approaches to
enhance client outcomes.
• Greater Understanding of Change as a Process. Participants will acquire a deeper
understanding of how acceptance and committed action facilitate ongoing personal
growth and resilient adaptation in their clients.
HPCSA: 5 points accredited for Clinical-, Counselling- and Educational Psychologists as well as
Registered Counsellors.
Presenters: Bertus Swanepoel (Counselling Psychologist)
Dates: 26 September 2025
Venue: Lorenzo Marx Function Venue, Somerset West
Cost: R1200 for professionals (Early Bird R1000 before 31 August 2025
Register your ineterest here: