Observer self, also known as self as context in the ACT literature, is a very difficult concept for our minds to grasp. We spend most of our time caught up in what we might call our thinking self. In this short video, Ken Wilber gives us a good description of the always present observer self, which he calls the Big Mind.

How to carry your thoughts and feelings with you as you move towards your valued living.

Mindfulness of Yes

This is written from an excellent mindfulness exercise by Tara Brach on how to ’embrace’ your unpleasant feelings and say ‘yes’ to them in order to create space to move in the directions that really matter.

To make choices in the present moment, with full awareness of what we want to stand for. Here is a brief handout that will introduce you to helpful concepts in making choices, now. Counselling and Psychological Services, University of New South Wales. Written by Louise Shepherd. Shared with the consent of the Director of the service.

A guided mindfulness exercise which lasts 14 minutes. Courtesy of Ann Bailey. This exercise is guided exposure, and it can lead to the experience of difficult thoughts and feelings, as you move in the direction of the life you want to live by.

Swimming on a mountain lake

A metaphor to illustrate what happens to our valued directions when we struggle with our experiences.

Getting unhooked from our difficult thoughts

This brief handout, gives you an introduction to defusion and how to relate to your thoughts in a more helpful and flexible way. Counselling and Psychological Services University of New South Wales. Written by Louise Shepherd with acknowledgments to Dr. Russ Harris.

Monster in the mirror

Sesame Street you tube clip which helps illustrate the power of ‘defusing’ from our repetitive and unhelpful thinking.

Kindly created by Counselling and Psychological Services University of New South Wales. Written by Louise Shepherd with acknowledgments to Steve Hayes.

ACT for Depression: Taking charge of low mood/depression

Again created by Counselling and Psychological Services University of New South Wales. Written by Louise Shepherd with acknowledgments to Rob Zettle and Steve Hayes.

ACT for relationships: Improving your intimate relationships

Counselling and Psychological Services University of New South Wales. Written by Louise Shepherd with acknowledgments to Dr. Russ Harris.

Times Article by Hayes: Introducing the concept of ‘third wave therapies’

Steve Hayes founder of Acceptance Commitment Therapy describes how he came to developing this model.

Embracing Your Demons: An Overview of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy – By Dr. Russ Harris

A very helpful, non-technical article introducing ACT.

First Chapter of ‘The Happiness Trap’ – Courtesy of Dr. Russ Harris

First Chapter of ‘The Confidence Gap‘ – Courtesy of Dr. Russ Harris

Human Pain and Human Vitality – Prof. Steve Hayes

An introduction to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

Introduction on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy by one of its creators, Prof. Steve Hayes

Embracing Your Demons: An Overview of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy – By Dr. Russ Harris

A non-technical introduction to ACT. Really helpful.

ACT Introduction Trainings: Kindly created by the RMIT University

These are six podcasts, talking you through the key concepts in ACT. The podcasts are between 5 – 50 minutes long. These are not a substitute for formal counselling but will help you understand the concepts covered in ACT.

The National Autistic Society

A UK based charity which offers information, support and services for parents, children and adults with autistic spectrum disorders.

CHADD

A US based charity which specialises in support and treatment for individuals struggling with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Information for parents on treatment and support.

Depression Alliance

Useful information on depression and self help groups. You can order an information pack.

No Panic

A charity that specialises in helping those who suffer with anxiety. There is a 24 hour answer phone service and self help groups

Young Minds

A charity with information about mental health difficulties in young persons. It also has a parent helpline and has an interactive website for children and young persons.

Samaritans

A charity which offers a 24/7 helpline for those young and older who need someone to talk to.