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ACT for Trauma & PTSD

A mindfulness and values-based therapy to reduce avoidance, process trauma safely, and restore balance.

Quick Overview

Best for

PTSD, complex trauma, abuse recovery, grief, anxiety, depression

Session format

Individual or Group · In person or Virtual

Typical cadence

Weekly · Session length: 45–60 minutes

Duration

Often 8–16 weeks, sometimes longer depending on trauma history

Often combined with

 DBT-PE, TF-CBT, EMDR, mindfulness practices, family therapy

Evidence base

ACT has growing evidence as a trauma-informed therapy, effective for reducing PTSD symptoms and avoidance

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What Is ACT for Trauma & PTSD?

ACT for Trauma and PTSD is an adaptation of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy designed to help individuals who have experienced trauma. Unlike some therapies that focus heavily on retelling traumatic events, ACT emphasizes reducing avoidance, building mindfulness skills, and committing to values-based actions even when painful memories or emotions arise.

This approach helps individuals accept their experiences without judgment, defuse from overwhelming thoughts, and take practical steps toward healing. By focusing on values and present moment awareness, ACT for Trauma creates a safe, steady path forward for survivors of trauma.

How ACT for Trauma & PTSD Helps in Recovery

Fostering Healing, Resilience, and Emotional Regulation

Reduces avoidance

Reduces avoidance

Supports facing memories and triggers with acceptance

Improves balance

Improves balance

Teaches mindfulness to manage fear, grief, and hyperarousal

Restores meaning

Restores meaning

Encourages living according to values, not past trauma

Strengthens resilience

Strengthens resilience

Helps survivors reclaim agency and build hope for the future

What to Expect in Sessions

Sessions often begin with mindfulness exercises to create calm and safety. Clients learn techniques to step back from intrusive thoughts, shift how they relate to painful memories, and clarify personal values that can guide healing.

Instead of forcing trauma retelling, ACT for Trauma allows clients to move at their own pace, with the option to process difficult experiences while maintaining emotional stability. Homework often includes mindfulness practice and small, values-based action steps.

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Who Benefits from ACT for Trauma & PTSD?

Individuals Seeking Relief from Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress

Abuse & Violence Survivors

Abuse & Violence Survivors

Survivors of abuse, violence, or accidents

PTSD & Complex Trauma Support

PTSD & Complex Trauma Support

Individuals with PTSD or complex trauma

Grief, Loss & Medical Trauma

Grief, Loss & Medical Trauma

People experiencing grief, loss, or medical trauma

Addiction & Trauma Recovery

Addiction & Trauma Recovery

Those in recovery from addiction and trauma combined

Structured Healing Path

Structured Healing Path

Anyone who wants a safe, structured path to healing

Why TruPaths Highlights ACT for Trauma & PTSD

Providing Compassionate, Structured Support for Lasting Healing

TruPaths highlights ACT for Trauma & PTSD because many trauma survivors benefit from an approach that is gentle, flexible, and values-driven. ACT offers skills to reduce avoidance, stabilize emotions, and focus on building meaningful lives, even while healing from painful experiences.

FAQs about ACT for Trauma & PTSD

No. ACT for Trauma focuses on reducing avoidance and increasing acceptance. Clients share experiences at their own pace.
ACT for Trauma typically involves 8 to 12 weekly sessions, but the duration can vary based on individual needs and progress.
Yes, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) is supported by research showing it effectively helps reduce trauma symptoms and improves psychological flexibility.
Coverage varies by insurer and policy; some cover therapy sessions while others don’t. It’s best to check your specific plan’s mental health benefits.
ACT focuses on accepting feelings and committing to values-based actions, while trauma-focused CBT targets changing trauma-related thoughts, and EMDR uses eye movements to process traumatic memories.

Find Recovery Options Offering ACT for Trauma & PTSD

Healing is possible. ACT for Trauma & PTSD provides a safe, compassionate approach for processing trauma while focusing on building a meaningful life.

About TruPath's Recommendations

Recommendations are based on your location and recovery needs, including the programs you've explored, the services you've saved, and the filters you've used. We use this information to highlight similar treatment options so you never miss a trusted path forward.