What is Hexaflex Model of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

May 08 2025 TalktoAngel 0 comments 1830 Views

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals develop psychological flexibility—the ability to stay present in the moment and act according to personal values, even in the face of distressing thoughts and emotions.

Central to ACT is the Hexaflex Model, a framework comprising six core processes that work together to enhance psychological flexibility. Understanding these processes provides insight into how ACT can help individuals manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. This blog will provide a detailed exploration of the Hexaflex Model in simple language, making it accessible for anyone interested in psychological well-being.

What is the Hexaflex Model?

The hexagonal shape formed by these six elements symbolises how interrelated they are in promoting psychological flexibility. Among these six procedures are:

Acceptance
Cognitive Defusion
Being Present (Mindfulness)
Self-as-Context
Values
Committed Action

Each of these elements contributes to an individual's ability to accept their inner experiences while committing to meaningful and value-driven actions.

1. Acceptance: Embracing Thoughts and Emotions

What is it? Acceptance in ACT means making space for difficult thoughts and emotions rather than avoiding or fighting them. Many people experience distress because they resist negative emotions, which often intensifies their suffering.

Example: Instead of trying to suppress anxiety before a big presentation, a person practising acceptance would acknowledge their anxiety as a normal response and allow themselves to feel it without judgment.

How to practice it?

Observe your feelings without categorising them as positive or negative.
Use deep breathing exercises to sit with your feelings without reacting impulsively.

2. Cognitive Defusion: Changing Your Relationship with Thoughts

What is it? Cognitive defusion is about distancing yourself from your thoughts rather than being controlled by them. You accept that thoughts are merely mental phenomena rather than immutable truths.

Example: Instead of saying, "I'm not good enough," someone can say, "I'm having the thought that I'm not good enough." As a result, they are less affected by the idea.

How to practice it?

Repeat a distressing thought multiple times until it loses its impact.
Imagine placing the concept on top of a cloud and watching it dissipate.

3. Being Present (Mindfulness)

What is it? Being present entails focussing on the here and now rather than worrying about the past or the future. Stress can be decreased and emotional control enhanced by mindfulness practice.

Example: Instead of overthinking past mistakes or future worries, a person practising mindfulness focuses on their current surroundings, sensations, and activities.

How to practice it?

Breathe mindfully, focusing on each inhalation and exhalation.
Use your senses to ground yourself (e.g., noticing textures, sounds, and smells around you).

4. Self-as-Context: Viewing Yourself with Perspective

What is it? Self-as-context means seeing yourself as an observer of your experiences rather than being defined by them. Instead of saying, "I am a failure," a person can recognise that they experience feelings of failure, but that does not define their identity.

Example: A person struggling with self-doubt can remind themselves that their negative thoughts do not represent their entire being.

How to practice it?

Observe your thoughts and feelings as passing experiences, not permanent truths.
Reflect on times when you've felt differently to recognise the temporary nature of emotions.

5. Values: Identifying What Truly Matters

What is it? Instead of focusing on avoiding discomfort, ACT encourages individuals to act in alignment with their values.

Example: If someone values family but avoids social interactions due to social anxiety, ACT helps them recognise the importance of family and gradually engage with loved ones despite discomfort.

How to practice it?

Write down your core values in different areas of life (e.g., relationships, career development, health).

Identify small actions you can take daily to live according to your values.

6. Committed Action: Taking Meaningful Steps

What is it? Despite obstacles, committed action entails establishing objectives and moving towards them. This component ensures that a person not only identifies values but actively works toward a fulfilling life.

Example: Someone who values health may commit to exercising regularly, even when they feel unmotivated.

How to practice it?

Set small, achievable goals aligned with your values.
Develop an action plan and track progress.

The Role of Psychological Flexibility

The Hexaflex Model's ultimate objective is psychological flexibility. Instead of instinctively reacting to discomfort, it helps people to respond to life's problems in a way that is consistent with their values.

Benefits of Psychological Flexibility:

Reduces anxiety and depression
Enhances emotional resilience
Improves decision-making and problem-solving
Strengthens relationships
Increases overall life satisfaction

Conclusion

The Hexaflex Model of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy provides a structured approach to developing psychological flexibility. By incorporating acceptance, cognitive defusion, mindfulness, self-as-context, values, and committed action, individuals can learn to navigate life's challenges more effectively. Practicing these principles can lead to a more fulfilling and values-driven life. If you're interested in learning more or seeking professional support, consider speaking with a trained ACT therapist who can guide you through these techniques in greater depth.

Contributed By: Contributed by Dr. (Prof.) R. K. Suri, Clinical Psychologist and Life Coach, &. Ms. Sakshi Dhankhar, Counselling Psychologist.

References

Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (2012). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: The Process and Practice of Mindful Change. Guilford Press.
Harris, R. (2009). ACT Made Simple: An Easy-To-Read Primer on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. New Harbinger Publications.
Bond, F. W., & Flaxman, P. E. (2006). The Influence of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Worksite Stress. Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology.