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ACTaide is a mobile app designed to enhance the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy by supporting clients in practicing experiential exercises between sessions. The app delivers 25 carefully selected ACT exercises in a visual, step-by-step format that mirrors how these exercises are often introduced in therapy. By reinforcing key ACT processes through structured repetition and reflection, ACTaide helps clients build psychological flexibility and extend therapeutic gains beyond the session.
Therapists can recommend specific exercises within ACTaide that align with the processes or metaphors introduced during sessions. You might assign an exercise for practice between sessions, use the app together in-session to reinforce a concept, or encourage clients to revisit exercises as needed. The image-based format makes it easy for clients to recognize and recall key elements of the exercise when practicing independently.
Yes. ACTaide is designed as a transdiagnostic tool based on ACT's focus on psychological flexibility rather than symptom reduction alone. This makes it appropriate for clients experiencing a range of concerns, from mild distress to more complex or chronic conditions. Because the app emphasizes experiential learning, clients can engage at their own pace and focus on what is most personally relevant.
ACTaide collects no personally identifiable information. All data is stored locally on the user's device and is not transmitted to external servers. The app does not track usage, require login credentials, or connect to third-party platforms. This ensures that client use remains private and secure.
ACTaide is grounded in empirically supported ACT principles and was co-developed with therapists and clients. In two proof-of-concept studies, participants using early versions of the app (RAIN and dropping anchor prototypes) reported high engagement, satisfaction, and symptoms reductions. Ongoing studies are evaluating its feasibility and effectiveness. The app builds on established research showing that between-session practice enhances therapy outcomes.
While ACTaide includes 25 core exercises, therapists and clients are free to choose those most relevant to the client's needs. Exercises are grouped by process, making it easy to tailor practice. Future updates may allow for therapist-suggested customizations based on user feedback.
ACTaide is primarily experiential, guiding users through visual, step-by-step exercises and metaphors that foster reflection, active engagement, and skill-building, in line with ACT's focus on experiential rather than didactic learning. Short optional descriptions are also provided to remind clients of the main purpose and key aspects of each exercise, offering just enough psychoeducation to gently support learning.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a modern, evidence-based approach to mental well-being that helps people respond more flexibly to life's challenges. Instead of trying to eliminate difficult thoughts or feelings, ACT teaches you how to relate to them differently—so they no longer hold you back from the life you want. ACT includes six core skills: acceptance, defusion, being present, self-as-context, values, and committed action. It has been shown to be effective for anxiety, depression, stress, chronic pain, and more.
No. ACTaide is a companion tool designed to support—not replace—therapy. It can help you apply what you've learned in sessions, practice exercises on your own, and build skills between meetings with your therapist. If you're not currently in therapy, the app may still be helpful, but it should not be used as a substitute for professional mental health care.
Absolutely. You don't need a diagnosis to benefit from ACTaide. ACT principles are helpful for anyone looking to handle difficult emotions more skillfully, clarify their values, or take action in meaningful areas of life. Whether you're experiencing stress, navigating a life change, or simply working on personal growth, ACTaide can support you.
The app includes 25 of the most widely used experiential and metaphor-based exercises from ACT. These cover processes such as acceptance, defusion, values clarification, and committed action. Exercises are presented in an easy-to-follow image sequence format that supports reflection and practice.
No. There's no set schedule. You can use the app at your own pace—daily, weekly, or whenever you feel the need to reconnect with a particular skill or concept. Some people find a regular rhythm helpful, while others use ACTaide in response to specific challenges as they arise.
Not at all. ACTaide was designed to be simple and intuitive. The interface is minimal, and exercises are presented visually with clear guidance at each step. A short tutorial is available if you'd like extra help getting started, and no account setup is required.
Yes. ACTaide does not collect or store any personal or identifying information. Everything stays on your device, and there's no login, tracking, or data sharing. Your use of the app is completely private.