Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is an effective and evidence-based approach to helping adolescent boys achieve recovery from substance use and mental health conditions. The multidisciplinary team at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® uses ACT therapy as part of our adolescent therapy programs to help your teen recover.
To get your teen started with ACT therapy services, reach out to the team at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® today by calling 828.519.5047. Our team can help guide you toward the treatment options best suited to your needs and start your teen on the path to recovery.
Understanding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
ACT therapy is a common therapeutic modality for use in the treatment of substance use and mental health disorders since the 1980s. It is a style of talk therapy where clients meet one-on-one or in therapeutic groups to talk about their mental health challenges and learn new strategies for overcoming them.
ACT is somewhat different from the standard cognitive models of therapy. Rather than focusing on changing patterns of thinking and behavior, ACT emphasizes learning to accept difficult thoughts or situations and not act impulsively. This approach emphasizes psychological flexibility, or the ability to adapt to ever-changing challenges.
Particularly for teens with a substance use disorder, this difference can be incredibly impactful. Symptoms such as cravings can be invasive and difficult to control. However, learning to accept them mindfully without action can be a powerful force for recovery.
Core Components of ACT Therapy Services
ACT therapy has six primary components, all of which are taught in session by an ACT therapist. The six core components of ACT include:
- Acceptance – Learning to experience emotions or thoughts without fighting them
- Cognitive Defusion – Learning that all thoughts don’t require action and that you are not attached to internal events
- Being Present – Learning to become more mindful and in tune with the present environment
- Self as Context – Learning the difference between the observing self and the conceptualized self
- Values – Identifying what values and goals are important to you and how they can guide your recovery process
- Committed Action – Starting to take action that aligns with your identified values
Utilizing these components is what makes ACT not only effective but incredibly versatile. Working with an ACT therapist can improve outcomes in various mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, process addictions, and much more.
How ACT Therapy Services Integrate Into a Comprehensive Care Plan
Starting treatment at a dedicated mental health and substance use treatment program typically involves a multi-component approach to recovery. As effective as ACT therapy is, combining this therapeutic modality with other evidence-based interventions can further enhance its effect.
ACT is typically appropriate in individual or group therapy settings. However, it can be paired with different treatment options, such as:
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Equine therapy
- 12-step facilitation
- Trauma therapy
- Relapse prevention therapy
- Family therapy
- Motivational interviewing
Choosing a comprehensive program ensures your teen can build the skills for recovery to last a lifetime.
Start Treatment for Your Teen at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery®
We know that taking the steps to enter your adolescent boy into treatment can be nerve-racking. In fact, this critical developmental period often presents many challenges. However, taking action now is the surest path to helping your child recover and thrive for years to come.
Is your adolescent son struggling with a substance use disorder or mental health challenge? If so, reach out to the team at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® today. Call us 828.519.5047 or use our online contact form. Our team of experts has the knowledge and experience to help him overcome his challenges and build a happier and healthier life in recovery.
