Brian L. Thompson

“Attempts at trying to directly alter internal experiences (a.k.a. painful emotions) are viewed as less fruitful (and often impossible) than attempts at changing the environment in which these experiences occur. If a client is depressed, what changes can they make to their lives to have a different experience? As the behavioral activation literature has taught us, because we have more control over external behaviors (e.g., taking a walk, visiting with friends) than we have over internal behaviors (e.g., uncomfortable thoughts and feelings), it’s generally more effective to try to effect change with what we can control or influence (Kanter et al., 2012).”
― Brian L. Thompson, ACT-Informed Exposure for Anxiety: Creating Effective, Innovative, and Values-Based Exposures Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy