About RIACT

Science that changes lives.
Community that makes it possible.

RIACT is a regional institute dedicated to advancing the science of contextual behavioral science. We help clinicians learn, connect, publish, and grow so they can build meaningful lives for themselves and the people they serve.

Join the Community

Explore Our Work

OUR MISSION

To advance the science and practice of contextual therapies and support clinicians through learning, resources, community, and publications.

OUR VALUES

Science Grounded

Clinician Focused

Community Driven

Integrity in practice

Compassion in action

Growth through connection

OUR VISION

A world where contextual behavioral science is accessible, applied with excellence, and used to create lives and communities rooted in meaning and purpose.

Who We Are

RIACT was founded to create a professional home for clinicians who practice contextually and relationally. We provide high-quality education, practical tools, consultation, and a supportive community that reduces isolation and strengthens our collective impact.

Our members include clinicians, supervisors, students, and researchers who share a commitment to psychological flexibility, compassionate care, and the ongoing advancement of our field.

Our Foundation

Everything we do is grounded in Functional Contextualism and Relational Frame Theory, with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as one applied extension of that foundation.

This keeps our work useful across a wide range of clinical settings and over time - because the science we build on outlasts and single model built on top of it.

We Don't chase trends

We build on science

We invest in people

We grow together

What We Do

Advance Knowledg

Through research, writing, podcasts, and publications that move the field forward.

Develop

Clinicians

Through training, supervision, consultation, and practical tools that build real skills.

Strengthen

Community

By connecting clinicians, supporting one another, and growing through shared purpose.

Support

Practices

With resources, AI tools,

and guidance that improve

outcomes in everyday work.

Make An

Impact

By translating science into practice that creates lasting change in peoples lives.

Why RIACT Exists

Clinicians deserve more than isolated practice and outdates approaches. RIACT exists to create a professional home - one that is scientifically grounded, practically useful, and built on connection.

Better Practice. Stronger Communities.

A Field That Grows Together

Founded and Lead By Todd Schmenk, M.S., M.Ed.

ACBS Peer Reviewed ACT Trainer

Todd is one of the few Peer Reviewed ACT Trainers in the country and the only active trainer in Rhode Island. He brings over two decades of clinical experience, academic leadership, and a deep commitment to functional contextual science.

Adjunct faculty

Johnson and Wales University

Clinical Director Rhode Island ACT group practice.

Supervisor & Consultant

Supervising clinicians and shaping the next generation of leaders.

Author & Speaker

Podcast host, writer, and national presenter on ACT, RFT, and FC.

What Makes RIACT Unique

Only ACT-focused group practice in RI
Grounded in Functional Contextualism and RFT
Bridging research and real-world practice
Peer reviewed publishing through RIACT Journal and RIACT Press
AI-powered clinical tools built for busy clinicians
Strong university and community partnerships

You Belong Here

Whether you're here to learn, get support, publish your work, or connect with others - you belong here.