This following exercise was from a training with Steve Hayes, Ph.D. I have personally found the following to be highly moving and useful in addressing all the processes within the ACT matrix.
It utilizes present moment, person, place, and time, defusion, acceptance, points to underlying personal values, and often results in the client discovering small steps that they can do to move in that valued direction with compassion.
It is a little longer exercise, but well worth the time invested.
The only word of caution here would be is using something like this with someone with trauma in their history connected to a parent. It can be done with careful attention paid to adjusting the script as needed.
ACT Child Exercise Script
If you’re willing, I’d like us to do an eyes-closed exercise that focuses on acceptance. This is going to last a little longer than some of the other exercises we’ve done, so you’ll want to sit in a position where you’re comfortable but alert. (Pause to allow adequate time for this to occur.) I’d like you to close your eyes and take just a moment to focus on your breathing, as we’ve done many times in the past. (Allow the client to focus on breathing for about a minute.)
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