top of page
Parents and Daughter

6 Core Processes of ACT (Hexaflex Model)

These six interrelated processes aim to enhance psychological

flexibility—the ability to be present, open up, and do what matters.

1. Cognitive Defusion

  • Goal: Reduce the power of thoughts.
     

  • Practice: Learn to observe thoughts as just thoughts, not truths or commands.

​

  • Example Technique: Saying “I’m having the thought that…” to distance from unhelpful thinking.

​

2. Acceptance

  • Goal: Open up to unpleasant thoughts, emotions, and sensations without trying to change them.
     

  • Practice: Allow inner experiences instead of fighting or avoiding them.

​

  • Example: “Making space” for anxiety rather then resisting it.

​

3. Contact with the Present Moment (Mindfulness)

  • Goal: Be fully here and now with openness and curiosity.
     

  • Practice: Attend to the present moment, with awareness and without judgment.

​

  • Example: Noticing the breath, surroundings, or bodily sensations.

4. Self-as-Context

  • Goal: Recognize that you are more than your thoughts, emotions, or roles.
     

  • Practice: See yourself as the observing self or witness to experience.

​

  • Example: “I notice I’m having the thought…” rather than identifying with the thought.

​

5. Values

  • Goal: Clarify what truly matters to you in life.
     

  • Practice: Identify deeply held personal values to guide actions.​

​

  • Example:Valuing compassion, honesty, creativity, etc.

​

6. Committed Action

  • Goal: Take meaningful action guided by values, even in the face of obstacles.
     

  • Practice: Set goals and persist in the face of discomfort.
     

  • Example: Having a difficult conversation because you value connection.

Mother and Son
My Approach
bottom of page