Heather Penney

Who I am

I am a behaviour analyst who is a BCBA and a UKBA(cert). As a UKBA(cert) I am accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA) who are also the authority who oversee HCPC.

What I do

I provide ACT interventions primally through the use of DNA-V to children, teenagers, young adults, and their wider family.

Where I Work

I teach and coach DNA-V skills in schools and home settings. I teach these skills to parents and teachers as it provides a common language and thus aids communication and reduces conflict.  

How I do it

Being a behaviour analyst, I like to keep the activities real and concrete, so learners get the maximum benefit. This could include the use of visual aids, drawings, mind maps, animation, roleplay, or practising skills in a setting where they are likely to be used.

People I work with

I have experience with working with a diverse population, with learners with and without learning disabilities. I have successfully used ACT and DNA-V with learners with ASD, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia etc.

Issues I have helped with

One of the great things about ACT and DNA-V is that there doesn’t need to be an issue that someone is struggling with. Being able to use the DNA-V skills promotes personal growth, adaptability, and the development of skills to navigate life’s ups and downs, making it beneficial for anyone seeking to better understand themselves and lead a more meaningful life.

Some of the issues I have helped young people with include:

• Emotional regulation: Managing difficult emotions like anxiety, sadness, or anger.
• Self-confidence: Addressing self-doubt and building a positive self-concept.
• Stress and overwhelm: Developing skills to handle pressure from school, family, or peers.
• Decision-making: Clarifying values and making choices aligned with personal goals.
• Relationship challenges: Improving communication and understanding in friendships, family dynamics, and managing bullying.
• Adaptation to change: Building resilience to cope with transitions, such as starting a new school or dealing with unexpected life events.
• Social media use: Helping to decide how much is too much.
• Attending school: Noticing what the barriers are, and discovering what the solutions are.

Where I am

I am based in North/Mid Wales but travel to see clients. I also work remotely or provide a combination of in-person and remote to suit the client.