Barriers to Valued Action
An ACT worksheet identifying barriers to valued action (fusion, avoidance, unrealistic goals, remoteness from values) and planned responses.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Acceptance and commitment therapy
- Approach / concern
- ACT
- Technique
- Acceptance and commitment therapy
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Barriers to Valued Action?
ACT identifies common barriers to committed action and matches them with responses: defusion, acceptance, realistic goals and reconnecting with values.
Why it works
Harris (2019) summarizes common barriers to action and ACT responses. Committed action is a core ACT process (Hayes et al., 2012).
When to use it
- Stuck clients
- Procrastination
- Low motivation
- Following values work
How to use it in session
- Name the action.
- Identify barriers.
- Describe how they show up.
- Plan responses.
- Choose a small step.
Clinician tips
- Normalize barriers.
- Break goals down.
- Keep returning to why it matters.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I avoid what matters?
Meaningful actions often bring discomfort; ACT helps you make room for it.
What if my goal is too big?
Break it into the smallest possible next step.
References
Harris, R. (2019). ACT made simple: An easy-to-read primer on acceptance and commitment therapy (2nd ed.). New Harbinger.
Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (2012). Acceptance and commitment therapy: The process and practice of mindful change (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
