- Cognitive Diffusion
Learning to observe disordered thoughts (e.g., “I’m not thin enough”) without getting entangled in them or treating them as literal truths. - Acceptance
Allowing painful emotions—like anxiety, shame, or body dissatisfaction—to exist without trying to avoid or suppress them through disordered eating behaviours. - Present Moment Awareness
Developing mindfulness skills to stay connected to the here and now, rather than being stuck in past traumas or future worries about food or body image. - Self-as-Context
Seeing oneself as more than the eating disorder—cultivating a sense of identity that is stable and broad, not defined by appearance, weight, or food rules. - Values Clarification
Identifying what truly matters (e.g., relationships, health, creativity, integrity) beyond the eating disorder, and using those values to guide behaviour. - Committed Action
Taking purposeful steps toward valued goals, even in the presence of difficult thoughts or urges related to food or body image.
ACT may be helpful for a wide range of individuals, particularly those who:
- Struggle with rigid thinking, perfectionism, or avoidance behaviours
- Experience intense body image dissatisfaction
- Are resistant to traditional cognitive restructuring (e.g., challenging distorted beliefs)
- Need help tolerating emotional distress without resorting to disordered behaviours
- Want a more values-based, holistic approach to recovery
This therapy is designed for adolescents and adults, often combined with other modalities as well as nutritional rehabilitation and medical oversight. Enquire with us confidentially.
