If you or someone you know has a disability or complex needs, you may have heard the term Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner. But what exactly do they do, and how can they help?
Understanding Positive Behaviour Support
Positive Behaviour Support is an evidence-based approach designed to improve the quality of life for individuals by reducing behaviours that may cause distress. Rather than focusing solely on the behaviour itself, PBS seeks to understand why a behaviour occurs and address the underlying causes.
Once the underlying cause is identified, PBS Practitioners develop tailored strategies that create positive changes in an individual’s environment, routine, and support systems. These strategies aim to enhance communication, reduce anxiety, and provide alternative ways for individuals to express their needs. This might include skill-building activities, sensory supports, structured routines, and modifications to surroundings to create a more positive and supportive experience. Over time, these interventions help individuals develop greater independence, improve relationships, and participate more actively in their communities.
The Role of a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner
A Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner is a trained professional who supports individuals, families, carers, and support teams to develop tailored strategies that promote positive behaviours and meaningful participation in daily life. Their role includes:
- Engagement and Assessment: Conducting assessments to identify triggers, patterns, and reasons behind behaviours that may be distressing.
- Developing and Implementing Behaviour Support Plans: Creating individualised plans that outline proactive strategies to encourage positive behaviour.
- Supporting Families and Carers: Providing training and guidance so families, carers, and support workers can implement strategies effectively.
- Reducing Restrictive Practices: Working within the guidelines of the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission to ensure that interventions are ethical and person-centred, and trauma informed.
- Encouraging Skill Development: Helping individuals build independence and develop alternative communication and coping strategies.
Who Can Benefit from Positive Behaviour Support?
Positive Behaviour Support Practitioners support people of all ages who may experience behaviours that impact their daily lives, relationships, and participation in the community. This includes individuals with:
- Intellectual and physical disabilities
- Autism
- Mental health conditions
- Complex support needs
- Trauma-related responses
Which NDIS Funding Covers Positive Behaviour Support?
Positive Behaviour Support services can be funded under the NDIS Capacity Building Supports category. Specifically, you may be able to access PBS under:
- Improved Relationships (Category 11): This covers specialist behavioural intervention supports, including assessment and development of Behaviour Support Plans.
If you are unsure about your funding options, our team can help you navigate your NDIS plan and find the right support for your needs.
Where We Provide Positive Behaviour Support
Our allied health services, including Positive Behaviour Support, are available in multiple locations across New South Wales either face-to-face or via telehealth, including:
- Upper and Lower Hunter
- Central Coast
- New England and North West
- Northern Rivers
- Dubbo
- Sydney
- Albury
- Brisbane
- Gold Coast
Why Positive Behaviour Support Matters
Positive Behaviour Support is about more than just managing behaviour—it’s about empowering individuals to live fulfilling, independent lives. By focusing on strengths, providing the right support, and creating a positive environment, PBS Practitioners support individuals develop skills that enhance their well-being and community participation.
If you’re looking for support for yourself or someone you support, our team of dedicated Positive Behaviour Support Practitioners is here to help.
