ACT 1: People
How to open up, be present, and do what matters in your life and work as an actor
ACT for Acting is a training approach grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT), a contemporary model of behavioural psychology, centred on the principles of psychological flexibility. Designed specifically for actors, this work helps performers develop the skills to stay open, grounded, and responsive—even in the face of pressure, vulnerability, or emotional intensity.
Rather than trying to control thoughts and feelings, ACT teaches actors to notice, name, and work with their internal experience. This opens up greater freedom, choice, and presence in rehearsal, performance, and life.
- A fresh approach to acting that’s grounded in process, not perfection
- Tools to help actors unhook from self-doubt, overwhelm, or emotional overload
- Embodied, practical exercises that support rehearsal and performance
- A compassionate framework for sustainable, emotionally intelligent craft
ACT for Acting is structured around six core processes:
Defusion – noticing thoughts without getting stuck in them
Acceptance – making space for emotion without resistance
Contact with the present moment – building grounded, embodied presence
Self-as-context – accessing a flexible, stable sense of self
Values – connecting with what matters most
Committed action – choosing meaningful behaviour, even when that's difficult
Together, these processes support psychological flexibility: the ability to be fully present and to take action guided by values.
- As a self-paced online course (coming soon)
- Through workshops and in-person sessions
- As the foundation of longer actor training modules (see The Role-Model Framework)
- Actors and acting students
- Acting teachers and rehearsal directors
- Artists and educators interested in emotionally sustainable practice
To request a workshop, preview the online course, or discuss institutional partnerships, please get in touch.