School based interventions
Educators and carers in schools play a vital role in equipping children and young people with the skills they need to navigate life's challenges and thrive academically and socially.
Creating a supportive school environment where students feel safe, valued, and ready to learn is essential for unlocking their full potential. However, for some children and young people—particularly those who have experienced trauma, are , or struggle with mental health challenges—feeling safe and engaged in school can be a significant hurdle.
At interACT Psychology, we work closely with schools to create environments where every child has the tools and support they need to thrive. Our tailored School-Based Interventions are designed to help children and young people develop emotional resilience, and foster a positive, inclusive school culture.
Why school-based interventions matter
Educators and carers in the school setting play a pivotal role in helping children navigate life’s challenges. By equipping students with the right skills, schools can empower them to face difficulties with confidence and resilience.
At the core of our approach is the concept of developing ‘flexible strength’—the ability to move towards what we want in life even when we encounter problems and unhelpful people. This foundation helps children and young people build emotional resilience, fostering the confidence to grow and thrive in and beyond the classroom.
Our approach: the DNA-v model
We support children and young people to develop ‘flexible strength’ by drawing on the child and adolescent model of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) known as DNA-v, developed by Dr. Louise Hayes and Joseph Ciarrochi. This model is designed for use in school and community settings and describes three key behavioral processes (Discoverer, Noticer and Advisor) that we all have, in the same way we all have DNA:
Discoverer (D) - Encourages trying new experiences, fostering curiosity, and building problem-solving skills.
Noticer (N) - Connects young people to their emotions, teaching them how to recognise their feelings.
Advisor (A) - Represents our inner voice, helping children understand and navigate the advice they give themselves.
At the heart of these processes are our Values—the guiding principles that help individuals make meaningful choices and build a life they care about.
The six steps to wellbeing
Embedded within the DNA-v model are the Six Steps to Wellbeing, that encourage children and young people to build on their values. By engaging in these steps children and young people have been found to experience an increase in their energy, motivation, and emotional health. The six steps to wellbeing are:
1️⃣
Giving to Others: Building kindness and having a positive impact on others.
2️⃣
Being Active: Encouraging physical activity to boost mental and physical health.
3️⃣
Embracing the Moment: This involves mindfully interacting with our thoughts and feelings.
4️⃣
Challenging Yourself: Continually improving through learning and growth.
5️⃣
Caring for Yourself: Prioritising self-care and personal wellbeing.
6️⃣
Connecting with Others: Developing healthy social relationships.
Through playful exercises and guided activities, we teach children and young people how to apply these steps, helping them build resilience and face life’s challenges with confidence.
Services we offer to schools
Our School-Based Interventions are tailored to meet the individual needs of your school community, ensuring practical and meaningful outcomes for students, educators, and carers.
Group therapeutic interventions for students
We provide group sessions for children and young people that focus on teaching the DNA-v model in a way that is accessible, engaging, and practical. These sessions empower students to:
Understand their emotions and inner strengths.
Develop resilience and coping mechanisms.
Build stronger relationships with peers and educators.
Training and workshops for educators and carers
Our workshops equip school staff with the skills, knowledge, and strategies to create a supportive learning environment. We offer:
Bespoke training on managing harmful behaviour (e.g. self-harm and difficulties with eating)
Workshops for managing anxiety and other difficult emotions.
Sessions to help educators understand the DNA-v model and its application in school settings.
All our training is customised to the unique needs of each educational setting, ensuring it addresses the specific needs of your school.
Why choose interACT Psychology for your school?
Tailored solutions
Our interventions are designed with your school’s unique needs in mind.
Evidence-based approach
All of our training is grounded in the latest research.
Empowering educators
We give school staff the tools and confidence to make a lasting difference.
Inclusive practices
Our approach is sensitive to the needs of all students including those who are neurodiverse and those with mental health difficulties.
