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Abstract
Background
Although a growing number of studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for the treatment of psychological disorders, the effectiveness of transdiagnostic group ACT programmes in an applied clinical setting requires further evaluation.
Methods
The current study examined the effectiveness of a 10‐week ACT transdiagnostic group programme delivered in a private psychiatric hospital. Pre‐ and post‐treatment outcomes were measured in 55 adults presenting with various psychiatric diagnoses. Treatment processes were also analysed.
Results
At post‐intervention, participants demonstrated significantly greater valued living, cognitive defusion, and acceptance. No significant differences were evident in participants' mindfulness. Significant improvements were also evident on depression, anxiety, stress, functional disability, satisfaction with life, and personal well‐being. Reliable change indices were also calculated and revealed reliable improvements in a range of outcomes for 27% to 46% of participants. Participant attendance rates, clinician adherence to the manualised ACT content, and patient satisfaction were all high.
Conclusions
Collectively, results provided support for the effectiveness of ACT in increasing psychological flexibility and improving psychological symptoms in a transdiagnostic population. However, the current study also showed that many patients did not respond to the intervention and further research is recommended to ascertain predictors of treatment response.
Abstract
Funding: None.
Conflict of interest: Ms Annie Sloss is employed by The Melbourne Clinic and is the team leader for the ACT programme.
Funding: None.
Conflict of interest: Ms Annie Sloss is employed by The Melbourne Clinic and is the team leader for the ACT programme.
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge the patients of The Melbourne Clinic ACT programme, for taking the time to complete questionnaires. Sharing their valuable opinions and experiences has made this project possible. Also thank you to Lily Shatkhin and The Melbourne Clinic ACT programme clinicians, who generously offered their time and support throughout the planning and data collection stages of this project.
Notes
Funding: None.
Conflict of interest: Ms Annie Sloss is employed by The Melbourne Clinic and is the team leader for the ACT programme.