Free Acceptance and Commitment Therapy metaphor from Dr Russ Harris
This guided ACT exercise helps clients understand cognitive fusion and defusion, the process of getting “hooked” by thoughts versus unhooking and reconnecting with what matters. Taken from the 2nd edition of ACT Made Simple, the Hands as Thoughts and Feelings metaphor visually demonstrates how thoughts can block connection, focus, and action, and how acceptance allows clients to re-engage with life.
Use this free resource to:
Introduce cognitive defusion in a simple, experiential way
Help clients see how thoughts impact behaviour and connection
Reinforce ACT principles of awareness, acceptance, and values-based action
Learn more with our ACT courses, led by Russ Harris: practical, evidence-based training to help you apply Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with confidence.
