Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for People Living with Chronic Pain

Launching in 2026

Why This Group?

Living with chronic pain is more than dealing with physical symptoms. Pain can shape how you feel, how you move, how you connect with others, and how you see yourself. Many people find themselves caught in a cycle of frustration, sadness, and loss — struggling to keep doing what matters most to them.

While medical treatments can help, they often don’t fully restore quality of life. That’s where Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) comes in.

What is ACT?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is an evidence-based psychological approach that helps people live fuller, more meaningful lives, even when pain is still present.

Instead of trying to fight or eliminate pain at all costs, ACT teaches skills that build psychological flexibility:

• Acceptance — learning new ways to make space for difficult sensations, thoughts, and emotions.

• Mindfulness — being more present in the moment, rather than consumed by worries or regrets.

• Cognitive defusion — loosening the grip of unhelpful thoughts like “I can’t cope” or “I’ll never get better.”

• Values clarification — identifying what truly matters to you.

• Committed action — taking steps, guided by your values, even when pain is present.

How ACT Helps People with Chronic Pain

Research shows that ACT can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people living with pain:

• Improves functioning and daily life: ACT consistently helps reduce how much pain interferes with activities and independence.

• Reduces distress and low mood: Studies show ACT decreases depression, anxiety, and emotional suffering in people with chronic pain.

• Enhances quality of life: People often report a greater sense of purpose, connection, and well-being — even if pain itself doesn’t disappear.

• Evidence for groups: ACT has been shown to work well in group settings, making it cost-effective and supportive, with participants benefiting from shared experiences.

In short: ACT doesn’t promise a life without pain — but it does offer a way to stop pain from running your life.

What to Expect in This Group

• A safe, supportive space where you can connect with others who understand what living with pain is like.

• Practical skills and guided exercises to build acceptance, mindfulness, and resilience.

• Tools to help you clarify your values and take steps toward living the life you want.

• Focus on living well with pain — not just surviving it.

Launching in 2026

This will be my first ACT group for people with chronic pain, and I am excited to bring this powerful approach to our community.

More details will be released closer to the launch.

If you’d like to be the first to hear updates — or reserve your place — please sign up for the waiting list.

“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” — Jon Kabat-Zinn