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ACT for Substance Use (ACT-SUD)

A values-based approach to recovery that reduces cravings, prevents relapse, and builds a meaningful sober life.

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Quick Overview

Best for

Alcohol and drug use disorders, behavioral addictions, relapse prevention, dual diagnosis

Session format

Individual or Group · In person or Virtual

Typical cadence

Weekly · Session length: 45–60 minutes

Duration

8–16 weeks, often extended for relapse prevention support

Often combined with

CBT, DBT-SUD, MAT (medication-assisted treatment), peer recovery groups, holistic therapies

Evidence base

Strong research support showing ACT improves recovery outcomes by promoting values-based living

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What Is ACT-SUD?

ACT for Substance Use Disorders (ACT-SUD) is a specialized adaptation of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. It teaches individuals to accept cravings and painful emotions without acting on them, while focusing on building a life that reflects personal values and long-term goals.

Instead of fighting urges or avoiding triggers, ACT-SUD helps people “make room” for difficult thoughts and feelings, then commit to behaviors that move them closer to sobriety, health, and purpose. This approach reduces shame and builds resilience by aligning recovery with what matters most such as family, health, or freedom.

How ACT-SUD Helps in Recovery

Empowering Individuals to Overcome Cravings and Build Lasting Change

Reduces cravings power

Reduces cravings power

Teaches acceptance strategies to manage urges without relapse

Supports relapse prevention

Supports relapse prevention

Builds long-term coping strategies based on values and mindfulness

Reframes recovery

Reframes recovery

Focuses on meaning and purpose, not just abstinence

Strengthens resilience

Strengthens resilience

Helps individuals bounce back from setbacks without shame or avoidance

What to Expect in Sessions

ACT-SUD sessions focus on mindfulness, values, and acceptance practices alongside recovery goals. A typical session may include:

  • Mindfulness exercises to reduce cravings’ intensity.
  • Defusion techniques to step back from “I need to use” thoughts.
  • Values work to clarify what motivates lasting sobriety.
  • Committed action planning for building healthy routines and relapse prevention strategies.

Homework often includes tracking cravings, practicing mindfulness, and setting small, values-based goals between sessions.

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Who Benefits from ACT-SUD?

Individuals Seeking Recovery Through Mindfulness and Values-Based Action

Alcohol & Drug Addiction Support

Alcohol & Drug Addiction Support

Individuals struggling with alcohol or drug addiction

Relapse Prevention Tools

Relapse Prevention Tools

People in recovery seeking tools for relapse prevention

Dual Diagnosis Care

Dual Diagnosis Care

Those with dual diagnosis (substance use + mental health conditions)

Family Support & Understanding

Family Support & Understanding

Families wanting a non-judgmental approach to support loved ones

Values-Based Sober Living

Values-Based Sober Living

Anyone ready to live a sober life guided by values and purpose

Why TruPaths Highlights ACT-SUD

Supporting Lasting Recovery Through Acceptance, Commitment, and Action

TruPaths highlights ACT-SUD because it goes beyond symptom control. By focusing on values and meaning, it helps individuals build lives they want to stay sober for. Programs on TruPaths integrate ACT-SUD with detox, MAT, residential rehab, outpatient therapy, and sober living for a complete recovery journey.

FAQs about ACT-SUD

ACT-SUD applies ACT principles specifically to cravings, relapse prevention, and addiction recovery.
ACT-SUD typically lasts 8 to 16 sessions but may vary depending on individual goals and severity.
No, ACT-SUD supports harm reduction and values-based goals, whether that includes abstinence or not.
Many insurance plans cover ACT-SUD under behavioral health services—check with your provider for details.
Yes, ACT-SUD works well alongside MAT and can enhance outcomes by addressing thoughts and behaviors.

Find Recovery Options Offering ACT-SUD

Sobriety with purpose. ACT-SUD helps individuals build meaningful, values-driven lives beyond addiction. Explore programs that offer ACT-SUD within comprehensive recovery care.

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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.