ABSTRACT
This chapter was written for clinicians who may feel limited using Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to target symptom reduction at the expense of valued living for their forensic clients. It draws from Dr. Brillhart's considerable forensic clinical experience using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with multiple populations of high-risk forensic clients, special needs and those with Serious Persistent Mental Illness. The chapter highlights new ways of understanding clients from a contextual behavioural perspective, and expands on creative ways of helping our clients promote valued living – even in the midst of this most restrictive environment. The goal of ACT is to increase purposeful living through psychological flexibility by engaging in 'values-based, positive behaviours while experiencing difficult thoughts, emotions, or sensations'. From an ACT view, valued living becomes the primary focus for clients in forensic settings. Professional training is not required for non-mental health professionals who desire to learn ACT. The chapter presents a case study to illustrate ACT in forensic settings.
