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Behavioural Activation Therapy

 

What is Behavioural Activation?
Behavioural Activation (BA) is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps individuals overcome depression and low mood by increasing engagement in meaningful and rewarding activities.

 

Core Principles of BA:

  • Depression often leads to reduced activity, which in turn worsens mood.

  • Avoidance and withdrawal reinforce feelings of hopelessness and fatigue.

  • Re-engaging with life through valued, goal-directed activity can lift mood and restore a sense of purpose.

 

What BA Can Help With:

  • Depression

  • Low motivation and energy

  • Social withdrawal

  • Stress-related burnout

  • Adjustment to life changes or loss

 

How BA Works:
BA focuses on identifying the link between mood and behaviour. Together, we:

  • Monitor daily activities and mood patterns

  • Identify avoidance behaviours

  • Set realistic goals to increase positive, value-based activities

  • Reinforce success through structured planning and support

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Image by Steve DiMatteo

Treatment

 

What to Expect:

  • Clear, practical strategies to break the cycle of inactivity

  • Gradual reintroduction of enjoyable and meaningful tasks

  • Focus on action rather than deep emotional processing

  • Typically short- to medium-term therapy (often 8–16 sessions)

 

Why Choose BA?
Behavioural Activation is a straightforward, effective approach backed by strong research—particularly for depression. It empowers individuals to take actionable steps toward improving their mental health through everyday behaviour.

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Meet The Team

 

At Dr Stuart Psychologists, all of our psychologists have extensive training to doctoral level and decades of experience in their field of expertise. You will be matched with a psychologist that has the knowledge and skill to help you understand and overcome your problem - not just in the short term but for good. 

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