Australian Catholic University - Joseph Ciarrochi (ACT; MA, PhD; Australia)

Leadership in ACT and Process-Based Therapy

Joseph Ciarrochi, PhD, is an internationally recognized psychologist known for his leadership in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and innovations in process-based therapy. He is a professor at the Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University.  Ciarrochi has served as President of the Association for Contextual Behavioral Science (ACBS) and was the founding editor of the Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science (JCBS). In these roles, he has championed an integrative, process-driven approach that unites therapeutic modalities around core mechanisms of change.

Unified Approach and Innovative Models

Ciarrochi’s work emphasizes psychological flexibility – what he terms “flexible strength” – as a unifying framework for personal growth. He co-created the DNA-v model with Louise Hayes, an evidence-based approach that helps people (especially youth) develop skills for resilience, vitality, and values-driven action. This process-based model exemplifies Ciarrochi’s ability to bridge traditional therapeutic silos by focusing on fundamental processes (like mindfulness, emotional awareness, and values) that underpin well-being across different interventions. His approach encourages a unifying focus on evidence-based processes of change rather than any single school of therapy, thereby aligning ACT with positive psychology and other modalities in pursuit of optimal human functioning.

Research and Publications

Ciarrochi has published more than 190 peer-reviewed scientific articles.  His research spans character strengths, emotional intelligence, resilience, social connection, and values-based living – all crucial components of psychological health. He has authored or co-authored numerous influential books, including Emotional Intelligence in Everyday Life, The Weight Escape, and What Makes You Stronger. These works translate scientific insights into practical strategies for building emotional resilience, enhancing well-being, and living in alignment with one’s values. Ciarrochi’s writing and teaching are known for their clarity and scientific rigor yet remain accessible to general audiences and practitioners alike.

Impact and Recognition

Ciarrochi’s contributions have earned him broad recognition in the scientific community. He has attracted over $4 million in competitive research funding to date. A recent analysis of global citation data ranked him among the top 1% of scientists worldwide for scholarly impact. His work has an international reach: he regularly delivers science-based workshops and keynotes around the world. His publications have been translated into multiple languages. Through his leadership in ACT and process-based therapy, Ciarrochi continues to bridge science and practice – empowering researchers, clinicians, and the public to foster flexibility, resilience, and meaningful change in their lives.

Learn more:

https://josephciarrochi.com/

https://rpubs.com/Ozziejoe/vita

(This webpage was last update on October 21, 2025)