About this book
Psychological research suggests that cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), used alone or in combination with medical therapy, is the most effective treatment for depression. Recent finding, though, suggest that CBT for depression may work through different processes than we had previously suspected. The stated goal of therapeutic work in CBT is the challenging and restructuring of irrational thoughts that can lead to feelings of depression. But the results of recent studies suggest that two other side effects of CBT may actually have a greater impact that thought restructuring on client progress: Distancing and decentering work that helps clients stop identifying with depression and behavior activation, a technique that helps him or her to reengage with naturally pleasurable and rewarding activities. These two components of conventional CBT are central in the treatment approach of the new acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). This book develops the techniques of ACT into a session-by-session approach that therapists can use to treat clients suffering from depression.
The research-proven program outlined in ACT for Depression introduces therapists to the ACT model on theoretical and case-conceptual levels. Then it delves into the specifics of structuring interventions for clients with depression using the ACT method of acceptance and values-based behavior change. Written by one of the pioneering researchers into the effectiveness of ACT for the treatment of depression, this book is a much-needed professional resource for the tens of thousand of therapists who are becoming ever more interested in ACT.
Frequently asked questions
- Essential is ideal for learners and professionals who enjoy exploring a wide range of subjects. Access the Essential Library with 800,000+ trusted titles and best-sellers across business, personal growth, and the humanities. Includes unlimited reading time and Standard Read Aloud voice.
- Complete: Perfect for advanced learners and researchers needing full, unrestricted access. Unlock 1.4M+ books across hundreds of subjects, including academic and specialized titles. The Complete Plan also includes advanced features like Premium Read Aloud and Research Assistant.
Please note we cannot support devices running on iOS 13 and Android 7 or earlier. Learn more about using the app.
Information
Table of contents
- Contents
- Acknowledgments
- 1 What Is ACT for Depression and What Makes It Unique?
- 2 What Makes Depression So Depressing?
- 3 Pathogenic Processes in Depression
- 4 Assessment of Core Processes
- 5 Case Formulation and Conceptualization
- 6 Interventions for Promoting Defusion and Acceptance
- 7 Interventions for Promoting Commitment and Behavior Change
- 8 Interventions for Promoting Contact with the Present Moment and Self as Context
- 9 Putting It All Together: A Sample Twelve-Session Protocol
- 10 Additional Issues and Concerns
- 11 Wrapping It Up
- Appendix A ACT Initial Case Conceptualization Form
- Appendix B Taking Inventory
- Appendix C Reasons for Depression Exercise
- Appendix D Writing Your Life Story
- Appendix E Personal Values Questionnaire (PVQ)
- Appendix F Valued Living Questionnaire (VLQ)
- Appendix G Goals-Action Form
- Appendix H Mindfulness Exercise Diary
- Appendix I Breathing Mindfully Exercise
- Appendix J Watching Your Thoughts Exercise
- Appendix K What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?
- Appendix L Mood Regulation Diary
- References