ACT Treatment Interventions for PTSD with Dr. Matthew Tull, by Psychotherapy Academy

ACT for Trauma: Witnessing Death

In this clinical case, Dr. Matthew Tull guides you through a comprehensive exploration of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Gain insights into assessing PTSD from an ACT perspective and discover the fusion of ACT principles with established trauma techniques, such as acceptance-based exposure. Learn strategies for navigating the emotional impacts of trauma and explore values-driven actions, embracing the effectiveness of mindfulness, defusion, and acceptance. Foster resilience and purpose in clients by merging proven trauma methods with ACT’s transformative power.

<> ACT-Based Exposure and Cognitive Defusion for PTSD (link to video)

ACT exposure includes cognitive defusion and emotional willingness techniques. Learn practical strategies for applying acceptance-based exposure for PTSD.

1. During exposure exercises, connecting Mark with his emotions nonjudgmentally was prioritized to prevent secondary emotional responses, especially shame.
2. Prior to prolonged exposure exercises, he was trained in cognitive defusion and emotional willingness, using mindfulness and acceptance-based emotion regulation strategies.
3. Skills employed during therapy included redefining judgments as thoughts, practicing mindfulness, and using repetition to defuse the emotional impact of judgmental thoughts.

<> From Avoidance to Action: Promoting Willingness in ACT for PTSD (link to video)

Shifting from avoidance to willingness in ACT for PTSD: learn how metaphors, willingness, and emotional management foster recovery effectively.

1. The paradoxical consequences of avoidance behavior show that, while providing short-term relief, it ultimately intensifies emotional distress and aggravates symptoms.
2. The metaphor of a tug-of-war with unwanted internal experiences illustrates the futility of emotional avoidance and the value of focusing energy on effective living.
3. Emotions serve as valuable communication channels between the environment and the brain, and recognizing this can help in managing emotional intensity and developing self-efficacy.

<> ACT for PTSD: Identifying Values (link to video)

Explore ACT-based values work in PTSD therapy through exercises, committed action, and emotions. Values play an essential role in overcoming avoidance.

1. Values clarification exercises played a crucial role in helping the client to identify what truly mattered to him, influencing his choices and serving as a guide for his behavior.
2. Emotional responses such as shame and guilt were used as tools to further clarify the client’s values, revealing what was important to him and guiding the selection of valued actions.
3. In vivo exposure exercises based on valued actions were used to simultaneously expose the client to his fears and increase his engagement in meaningful activities.

Ready to enhance your clinical skills in mental health? Join Therapy Pro: Plus now and earn 1 CE credit for the activity ACT for Trauma: Witnessing Death while gaining invaluable insights and practical tools. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your career and make even more positive impacts on the mental health world!