Behavioural Activation(BA)
Showing plain-language explanations suitable for anyone.
Overview
Behavioural Activation is a structured psychological therapy that focuses on increasing engagement in meaningful activities to improve mood. It is grounded in behavioural models of depression and emphasises action before motivation — the principle that waiting to feel better before doing things keeps people stuck.
What this therapy focuses on
BA targets avoidance and withdrawal, helping people reconnect with activities linked to pleasure, meaning, and accomplishment. Rather than working primarily with thoughts (as in full CBT), BA works directly with what people do and how that affects how they feel.
What sessions are usually like
Session length: 30–60 minutes
Frequency: Weekly
Time-limited: Yes (commonly 8–16 sessions)
Between-session work: Activity planning, monitoring, and tracking mood alongside activities
Session profile
Common uses and suitability
What problems it is commonly used for
Who this therapy may suit best
- People feeling stuck or withdrawn
- Those who find cognitive approaches overwhelming or unhelpful
- Individuals preferring action-based, practical therapy
- People early in treatment who need momentum
When it may need adapting or may not be suitable
- Severe anhedonia may require additional scaffolding
- Active suicidality requires integrated risk management
- Physical health limitations may require adapted activity planning
Where this therapy may not be enough
BA may not be sufficient for complex depression with significant cognitive distortions, personality difficulties, or relational trauma. It does not directly address thought content or relational patterns.
What happens in therapy
Activity Monitoring
Tracking what you do each day and how it affects your mood, so you can see patterns.
Values-Based Activity Scheduling
Planning activities based on what matters to you, not just what feels easy.
Graded Task Assignment
Breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps so you can build momentum gradually.
TRAP/TRAC
Noticing when you are stuck in a pattern of avoidance (TRAP) and choosing an alternative coping response (TRAC).
Evidence Base
Guideline support
Strong. BA is recommended by NICE (NG222) for depression. The COBRA trial (Richards et al., 2016) demonstrated that BA delivered by junior mental health workers was non-inferior to CBT delivered by more experienced therapists, supporting both its effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.
Strength of evidence
Strong for depression. Multiple RCTs and meta-analyses demonstrate effectiveness comparable to full CBT for depression.
Limitations
Evidence is strongest for depression; less evidence for anxiety disorders as a standalone treatment. The simplicity of BA may be insufficient for complex presentations requiring cognitive or relational work.
Evidence claims by condition
BA is a recommended talking therapy for depression that helps by increasing activities that improve mood.
Resources & Printables
For Adults
For Children (6–11)
For Teenagers (12–17)
For Parents & Caregivers
Practitioner & Training Notes
Typical professional background
Mental health professionals including psychological wellbeing practitioners, therapists, and psychologists.
Recognised training routes
Often embedded within CBT training programmes. Standalone BA training available. The COBRA trial demonstrated effective delivery by junior staff with appropriate supervision.
Registration considerations
Typically held within broader CBT or mental health registrations.
Source Registry
Link and cite; do not reproduce large sections verbatim.
Last evidence review: January 2026. All sources are verified and checked on a scheduled cadence.