Our Approach

The Langdale adopts the PACE model (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy) to provide a relational, trauma-informed approach to parenting and care. Rooted in attachment theory, PACE creates a nurturing environment in which children feel safe enough to build trust, process trauma, and grow emotionally. Core principles include: Playfulness – Building joyful, non-threatening connections Acceptance – Valuing the child’s inner world without judgement Curiosity – Seeking to understand the ‘why’ behind behaviours Empathy – Validating emotions and providing compassionate support. PACE informs all aspects of care delivery from key working sessions to daily routines and is critical to creating a secure base from which children can heal and thrive.

The Langdale integrates DBT-informed practice to help children and young people who experience difficulty managing intense emotions or distressing thoughts and behaviours. This includes young people with: • Emotional dysregulation • Self-harming behaviours • Trauma backgrounds • Depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other complex presentations DBT combines Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) strategies. Our staff team undergo accredited training in “Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Skills Training for Children & Adolescents: Rescuing the Dysregulated Child,” enabling them to implement DBT principles in the home setting. The DBT modules embedded in our practice include: 1. Mindfulness – Building self-awareness and emotional regulation 2. Distress Tolerance – Managing crises safely and effectively 3. Emotion Regulation – Reducing emotional vulnerability and improving resilience 4. Interpersonal Effectiveness – Promoting healthy relationships and assertive communication This structured approach fosters a supportive, consistent, and emotionally intelligent care environment, empowering young people to develop healthier coping strategies and stronger interpersonal skills.

Our care is underpinned by the BDDNYC Child-Centred Package of Care, tailored to meet the individual emotional, behavioural, and developmental needs of each child. We deliver this through: • Individualised activity planning • Relationship-based care • Active involvement of young people in their own care planning • Solo or emergency placements where appropriate and assessed via a Matching Needs Assessment We offer a multi-dimensional living environment, promoting resilience, recovery, and independence through: • Education • Planned treatment • Therapeutic routines • Cultural awareness • Family and community engagement Our philosophy is that therapeutic care requires deep and sustained involvement, not just provision. All staff are encouraged to understand behaviour through the child’s lens, using empathy to guide consistent responses.