Special issue on Process Based Therapy (PBT); Guest Edited by Clarissa One, Joseph Ciarrochi, Stefan Hofmann, Steven Hayes, and Ross Menzies

Special issue on Process Based Therapy (PBT); Guest Edited by Clarissa One, Joseph Ciarrochi, Stefan Hofmann, Steven Hayes, and Ross Menzies

Can we use the extended evolutionary meta-model (EEMM) and process-based therapy (PBT) to build bridges across psychotherapeutic islands? Can we make steps toward a coherent science unified by a common language and set of overarching principles and theory?

This PBT special issue introduces the EEMM as a tool all therapeutic approaches can use to describe the evidence-based procedures and processes within their therapy. It provides a common language and common set of scientifically validated evolutionary processes. The function is to obviate semantic disagreement and emphasize shared efficacious methods for assessment and intervention, keeping clinical psychology focused on doing what works for our clients, rather than the name of treatments.

In progress

ms.marissadonahue

Applying a process-based therapy approach to compassion focused therapy: A synergetic alliance

Applying a process-based therapy approach to compassion focused therapy: A synergetic alliance ms.marissadonahue

Attachment, emotion, and change: Emotionally focused individual therapy (EFIT) within a process-based therapy (PBT) framework

Attachment, emotion, and change: Emotionally focused individual therapy (EFIT) within a process-based therapy (PBT) framework ms.marissadonahue

Elucidating the process-based emphasis in cognitive behavioral therapy

Elucidating the process-based emphasis in cognitive behavioral therapy ms.marissadonahue

The extended evolutionary meta-model and process-based therapy: Contemporary lenses for understanding functional analytic psychotherapy

The extended evolutionary meta-model and process-based therapy: Contemporary lenses for understanding functional analytic psychotherapy ms.marissadonahue

Through the extended evolutionary meta-model, and what ACT found there: ACT as a process-based therapy

Through the extended evolutionary meta-model, and what ACT found there: ACT as a process-based therapy

Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science (JCBS)
Special Issue on Process Based Therapy (PBT)
Volume 32, April 2024

Author

Clarissa W. Ong, Joseph Ciarrochi, Stefan G. Hofmann, Maria Karekla, Steven C. Hayes

Abstract

This article is part of a special issue in the Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science devoted to process-based therapy (PBT) or a process-based approach to therapy and the role it plays in harmonizing existing evidence-based treatments. In the present discussion, we focus on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and how it fits into the PBT framework. We describe how viewing ACT through a PBT framework and its organizing rubric—the extended evolutionary meta-model (EEMM)—provides fertile ground to expand the ACT and psychological flexibility models, transforming ACT into a more inclusive and flexible version of itself and giving clinicians wider berth with respect to delivering ACT. The PBT approach allows ACT to incorporate therapeutic elements that are not traditionally part of the framework, including include cognitive reappraisal, interpersonal therapy dynamics, physiological downregulation, and the principle of nonattachment. Importantly, ACT maintains its foundational principles throughout this integration. We provide a case example of how to use PBT methods to conceptualize an ACT case, to illustrate PBT-infused ACT in practice. Finally, we outline possible future directions for ACT as it continues to evolve inside of PBT.

ms.marissadonahue