Trauma Informed Care & Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a modern, evidence-based therapy that helps people of all ages manage difficult thoughts and feelings while moving toward what matters most to them. Rather than trying to eliminate challenges, ACT focuses on building psychological flexibility—the ability to accept what we cannot change, be present in the moment, and commit to actions that align with personal values.
We can provide ACT to children (8+) and adults who are suffering from a range of emotional and psychological challenges. We often use ACT combined with other therapies to support psychological healing from past trauma.
Who Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Helps
Who Provides It?
ACT is a behavioural therapy designed by Steven Hayes, a behavioural therapist in the field of behaviour analysis.
Within The Behaviour Clinic, ACT is provided by certified behaviour analysts (BCBA & UKBA(cert))and counsellors (BACP) who have specifically trained in ACT. Many also have specialist post-qualifying training in trauma, child development, and behaviour analysis, allowing us to tailor ACT to the unique needs of each individual.
What Can ACT Help With?
Who Can It Support?
ACT is suitable for children aged 8+ through to adulthood. It is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing ongoing emotional challenges, avoidance behaviours, or difficulty making sense of past experiences.
What Does It Look Like?
ACT sessions combine practical exercises, metaphors, mindfulness strategies, and values work. Clients learn how to notice and respond differently to unhelpful thoughts and feelings, while building skills to take actions that support their wellbeing and long-term goals.
All ACT programmes include a clear plan, agreed goals, and regular analysis to ensure therapy is progressing in line with these goals. Sessions may include:
- Mindfulness and grounding strategies to manage overwhelm
- Values exploration to identify what truly matters to the individual
- Defusion techniques to reduce the impact of unhelpful thoughts
- Practical action planning to move closer to meaningful goals
What Does It Look Like in Practice?
Assessment
Two assessment therapy sessions with the young person plus interviews with parents or carers.
Therapy
Sessions
12 ACT therapy sessions.
Sessions at The Behaviour Clinic Cardiff, in
the home, school, or online (if required).
Sessions may need to take place during
school or work time.
Parent/Carer Guidance
Parents and carers will be guided through where their child is in the process and provided with activities they can complete at home to support the therapy.
Review & Report
Midpoint review meeting.
Final meeting, report & recommendations.
