ABSTRACT
CBT has evolved and continues to evolve rapidly. This chapter covers the integration of Socratic Strategies with newer developments in the field involving Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Previous barriers to integrating these strategies into ACT have been perceptions that traditional cognitive restructuring is incompatible with Relational Frame Theory (RFT), the theory underlying the contextual behavioral therapies. We present Socratic strategies that are consistent with an RFT perspective and the implications for ACT-consistent applications discussed. These include using Socratic strategies to aid in ACT processes like clarifying values, facilitating creative hopelessness, defusion, taking committed action, and acceptance-based strategies. Specific examples and suggestions are made to the ACT practitioner for the seamless integration of these procedures into their work. Traditionally, concerns of ACT therapists about Socratic questioning is that if you are evaluating the truthfulness of a thought, you will unintentionally strengthen the relational frame of the thought. To be consistent with the ACT model, this chapter focuses on using Socratic strategies to facilitate the practice of psychological flexibility as opposed to traditional cognitive modification. We reviewed the hexaflex model of psychological flexibility and demonstrated how Socratic questioning can be used to help facilitate the practice of ACT.
