Therapy approaches
ACT and DBT: understanding the names
An introductory explanation of acceptance and commitment therapy and dialectical behaviour therapy.
AI-assisted educational content · Updated 2026-10-06 · Not independently clinically reviewed
Acceptance and commitment therapy
ACT is an approach associated with psychological flexibility: making room for difficult internal experiences while taking actions connected to values. Acceptance does not mean approving of harm or remaining in an unsafe situation. A trained professional can explain whether the approach fits your needs.
Dialectical behaviour therapy
DBT brings together acceptance and change. Skills often discussed include mindfulness, managing emotions, tolerating distress, and navigating relationships. A full DBT program involves a structured clinical approach; a chatbot skill prompt is not an equivalent substitute.
Choosing care
Ask a prospective therapist about their training, how treatment is organized, and how safety and between-session needs are handled. The assistant on this site offers general information only. It does not provide a DBT program, crisis monitoring, or a clinical treatment plan.
Sources and further reading
Original explanations and practical prompts informed by these resources. Regional services and professional requirements vary.