Effectiveness of a protocol based on acceptance and commitment therapy.

Abstract

The present study evaluated the effectiveness of a maintenance protocol based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to reduce emotional symptoms and improve key psychological processes in young Ecuadorians with a history of severe depression. Changes in symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress, as well as in central variables of ACT, were analyzed over three time points. The results showed sustained improvements in acceptance and commitment therapy and a progressive reduction in symptoms. Through cluster analysis, three differentiated response profiles were identified, evidencing heterogeneity in the effectiveness of the protocol. These findings highlight the importance of personalizing interventions to optimize clinical outcomes. The clinical implications are discussed and future lines of research are suggested to deepen the mechanisms of change and therapeutic adaptation.