Day 2 Highlights from Association of Contextual Behavioral Science world Conference

Here’s Day 2 in all its glory. We explored the noticing self, inclusivity, music in ACT, addiction, and human cooperation and connection.

🎭 Self-as-Context Made Simple – Russ Harris
Russ Harris brought clarity to one of ACT’s most abstract processes—the “noticing self” or self-as-context—through metaphors (chessboard, sky, stage), humor, and movement-based exercises. I especially appreciated how he directly named the anxiety around experiential learning and created safety with grounding exercises.
🔑 “You’re not who you think you are—you’re the one noticing.”

From Russ Harris’ presentation on self-as-context

🌈 Gender, Sex, and Relationship Diversities SIG
This newly expanded SIG fosters community and competency around work with gender-expansive, ace/aro, kink, and non-monogamous clients. It was welcoming, intersectional, and refreshingly inclusive.
🔑 “Build spaces where all identities feel seen and served.”

🎶 Harmonizing Healing: Using Music and ACT to Support Trauma Recovery – Joann Wright & Daniel Moran
This workshop blended music and ACT as powerful tools for trauma work. Song-based memory evocation created space for emotion processing, values clarification, and grounding. A moving and memorable experience.
🔑 “A song can carry pain—and make space for healing.”

🤝 Invitation to Change: Helping Families Facing Addiction – Cordelia Kraus & Jeff Foote
This evidence-based model offers an alternative to “tough love” and detachment in supporting loved ones struggling with substance use. It centers compassion, education, and values-based connection.
🔑 “Behaviors make sense—even when they hurt. Understanding can transform everything.”

🧬 Origins of Human Cooperation – Michael Tomasello
This plenary traced how cooperation evolved uniquely in humans, with profound implications for empathy, joint attention, and cultural transmission. Watching videos of children and primates side-by-side made the point vivid and memorable.
🔑 “Humans don’t just survive—we collaborate.”

✨ Reflections from Day 2
I continue to be in awe of the breadth and depth of contextual behavioral science. Whether through neuroscience, metaphor, music, or community connection, one message rings clear:
✔ Growth is not about fixing—it’s about noticing, connecting, and expanding what’s possible.

#ACBS2025 #ACT #RussHarris #SelfAsContext #TraumaRecovery #MusicTherapy #SubstanceUseSupport #GenderAffirmingCare #PsychFlex #Tomasello #HumanConnection #MentalHealthMatters #SocialWork