Acceptance and commitment therapy for depression and anxiety : an interpretative phenomenological analysis of clients’ experiences in a group context

Rationale: There is accumulating evidence supporting the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in a group context for individuals with depression and/or anxiety. However, there is limited qualitative research in this area. Aim: This thesis aimed to address this gap by exploring individuals’ experiences of an ACT group for depression and/or anxiety. This may provide an insight into how individuals understand ACT processes and the mechanisms for therapeutic change within ACT. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six participants. Transcripts were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Findings: Three master superordinate themes emerged; Group Dynamics; The Journey of Therapy; Usefulness of Therapy. A description of these superordinate themes and the seven related subordinate themes are discussed. The findings highlighted the benefits and challenges of ACT tools and concepts as well as the group context. Recommendations for clinical practice and future research are outlined