Integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Islāmic Psychotherapy for Managing Chronic Pain

This book proposes a psychotherapeutic intervention integrating Islamic Psychology with Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Muslims with chronic pain conditions.

The first part of the book provides an overview of the challenges of living with chronic pain and illness and explores the cultural expressions of pain and disease and a literature review on culturally adapted psychotherapies. An overview of the main components of ACT and their congruence with Islamic tenets, including spirituality and contemplation, is provided to propose an Islamic-based ACT approach that aims not to reduce or eliminate pain but rather to help the client build a repertoire of behaviours that lead them towards value-based directions. The second part of the book outlines a session-by-session cultural adaptation of the six core processes of ACT interwoven with Islamic teachings from the Quran and Sunnah. The book is supplemented with downloadable resources such as worksheets and handouts that professionals can use in practice.

This book is intended as a pain management guide for therapists familiar with ACT and Islam. It will provide therapists with the tools to deliver a faith-adapted, evidence-based treatment for clients who follow the Islamic faith.