The application of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for the treatment of many problems where craving is a core feature is growing (e.g. substance use, tobacco use, overeating, gambling, compulsive sexual behavior). Individuals presenting with such difficulties often have difficulty managing cravings, although this is an inevitable aspect of experiencing substance use and other addictive and compulsive behaviors. Difficulties involving cravings are associated with substantial distress, functional impairment, and low quality of life. This workshop will present the latest developments in ACT for the treatment of difficulties where craving is an important component. The workshop will also present the latest developments in ACT for dealing and overcoming cravings, and examine the efficacy, the mechanisms, and processes of change of ACT for the treatment of craving-related problems. Concepts will be illustrated using live demonstrations, experiential exercises, metaphors, and worksheets.
This workshop is designed to teach skills needed to explore ACT as an assessment model and intervention method for addressing craving. It will be mostly experiential and will balance an understanding of the model with a personal connection with the issues raised in ACT, and with skills development.
Cravings are commonly reported reasons for why individuals engage in many unhealthy behaviors (e.g. substance use, tobacco use, overeating, gambling, compulsive sexual behavior). This workshop will help participants learn how to deal with cravings and the health-related problems with which they are associated, utilizing an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approach.