Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Protocol for the Treatment of Substance Abuse Among Muslims
[Thesis]
Akter, Naeema
Masterpasqua, Frank
Widener University
2020
58 p.
Psy.D.
Widener University
2020
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a therapeutic approach that is based on processes that increase psychological flexibility, which refers to an individual's ability to connect with the present moment as a conscious human being and to behave in a way that is aligned with identified values (Hayes et al., 2012). ACT processes address and allow for the incorporation of spirituality and religion (Hayes et al., 2012). While Acceptance and Commitment Therapy has been utilized to treat individuals with substance abuse, no current scholarship addresses the integration of Islamic principles and practices into therapeutic interventions (DuFrene and Wilson, 2012). Islam provides Muslims with a code of behaviors, principles, and social morals to implement in their daily lives (Sabry and Vohra, 2013). Commonalities among Islamic traditions and ACT principles can be utilized to tailor personalized interventions for Muslims attempting to overcome substance abuse. This dissertation proposes an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy manualized protocol for Muslims seeking individual and group psychotherapy for substance abuse. The ACT therapist will teach Muslim clients ACT processes with Islamic traditions to foster sobriety. Clients are encouraged to reflect on their values to create a healthy life worth living.