Beyond words: a Reflexive Thematic analysis of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in immersive art experiences for cultural minorities in Germany

Immigrants in Germany experience elevated rates of mental health challenges, often stemming from identity confusion and acculturative stress. Addressing the critical shortage of culturally sensitive mental health services, this study investigates the efficacy of integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) into an immersive art exhibition as a low-intensity intervention. Ten young adult immigrants residing in Bremen participated in a four-station audiovisual experience designed to physically manifest ACT principles: Creative Hopelessness (process of recognizing controlling experiences leads to suffocation), Acceptance (process of making space for any emotions), Cognitive Defusion (ability to distance thoughts from self), and Values (what matters in life). Reflexive Thematic Analysis of post-intervention interviews revealed that the immersive environment successfully facilitated psychological flexibility. Participants reported a shift from cognitive entanglement to flow of mind, noting that multisensory aesthetics helped externalize difficult thoughts and foster an 'Observer Self' perspective. However, limitations regarding cultural personalization and sensory intensity were identified. The findings suggest that immersive arts can effectively translate abstract therapeutic rationales (i.e. ACT) into tangible experiences and conclude that ACT-integrated immersive art represents a promising alternative to bridge the service gap for minority populations. Nevertheless, future research is required to optimize personalization and quantify efficacy.