ABSTRACT
The initial assessment process helps the ACT therapist understand what the client wants and expects from therapy. Client expectations often consist of a mixture of ``process'' goals (e.g. the removal or reduction of dif®cult thoughts and emotions) and ``outcome'' goals (e.g. re-engagement with valued life roles and activities). From the outset, ACT therapists look out for information concerning the form and extent of the client's experiential avoidance repertoire. As the initial conversations unfold, the therapist explores the client's avoidance/control strategies in more detail, and begins contacting the client's experience of how these strategies have worked.
