Behaviour Support
A behaviour support practitioner is a specialised professional who provides targeted support and intervention strategies to individuals exhibiting challenging behaviours, often due to developmental disorders, mental health conditions, or neurological differences.
These practitioners possess a deep understanding of behaviour as a form of communication and work within a framework that seeks to identify and address the underlying causes of challenging behaviours.
Their approach is holistic and person-centred, focusing on enhancing the individual's quality of life and enabling them to participate more fully in their community.
Behaviour support practitioners often work within multi-disciplinary teams, collaborating with psychologists, therapists, educators, and healthcare providers to ensure a cohesive and comprehensive support plan. They are trained in various therapeutic and intervention strategies, with a strong emphasis on positive behaviour support (PBS) Their expertise also includes legal and ethical considerations related to behaviour support, ensuring that interventions are respectful of the individual’s rights and dignity.
Clients seeing a behaviour support practitioner can expect a thorough assessment process, which may involve observations, interviews, and collaboration with other professionals involved in the individual's care. This assessment aims to understand the person's needs, preferences, and the function of their behaviours within specific contexts. Following this, the practitioner will develop a personalised behaviour support plan, which includes proactive strategies to reduce the occurrence of challenging behaviours by teaching new skills, making environmental adjustments, and addressing any identified needs.
The support plan also outlines specific, evidence-based interventions to be used in response to challenging behaviour, ensuring that these are safe, respectful, and effective. Clients and their families are integral to the planning process and are provided with training and ongoing support to implement the strategies at home and in other settings.
The goal is always to promote independence, social inclusion, and overall well-being, with the practitioner working closely with the client and their support network to achieve the best possible outcomes.
In summary, seeing a behaviour support practitioner offers individuals and their family’s expert guidance and support tailored to their specific needs and circumstances. It represents a collaborative and respectful approach to managing challenging behaviours, with a focus on positive outcomes and the enhancement of the individual's quality of life.