Understanding Behaviour Support: How It Works and Why It Matters

Navigating the complexities of behaviour support can often feel overwhelming, yet it stands as a crucial element for those seeking to foster positive changes in challenging behaviours. Behaviour support involves tailored strategies that focus on understanding and improving behaviours in individuals, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, or other disabilities. If you’re wondering whether behaviour support might be beneficial for your child or family member, it’s important to recognise the signs that indicate a need for such intervention. Our approach at Brave Mental Health is designed to simplify the process for families in Glen Waverley, ensuring that support is accessible and aligned with your unique needs. Whether you’re new to behaviour support or looking to enhance your current strategies, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

What Is Behaviour Support?

Behaviour support is a comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing challenging behaviours. It focuses on creating positive environments and teaching new skills to improve quality of life.

Key Principles and Goals

Behaviour support is built on the foundation of respect, dignity, and individual empowerment. Its primary goal is to enhance a person’s quality of life by addressing behaviours that may be harmful or limiting.

The approach emphasises understanding the root causes of behaviours rather than just treating symptoms. This involves looking at environmental factors, communication barriers, and underlying needs.

Positive behaviour supports aim to teach new skills and coping mechanisms. By doing so, individuals can better express their needs and navigate challenging situations more effectively.

A key principle is collaboration between the individual, their family, and support professionals. This team-based approach ensures strategies are tailored to the person’s unique circumstances and preferences.

How It Works

Behaviour support typically follows a structured process, starting with a thorough assessment of the individual’s needs, environment, and current behaviours. This information forms the basis for developing a personalised support plan.

1. Assessment: Gather information about the person’s history, current situation, and specific behaviours.

2. Plan Development: Create a tailored strategy based on the assessment findings.

3. Implementation: Put the plan into action, involving all relevant parties.

4. Monitoring and Adjustment: Regularly review progress and make changes as needed.

The support plan often includes strategies for modifying the environment, teaching new skills, and responding to challenging behaviours. It may also involve training for family members or carers to ensure consistent support.

Positive reinforcement is a crucial element, encouraging desired behaviours through rewards and recognition. This approach helps build confidence and motivation for continued progress.

Signs You May Benefit

Recognising when behaviour support might be helpful is an important step in addressing challenges and improving quality of life for individuals and their families.

Recognising Challenging Behaviours

Challenging behaviours can manifest in various ways and may impact an individual’s ability to participate fully in daily activities or maintain relationships.

Common signs include:

• Aggressive actions towards self or others

• Frequent emotional outbursts or meltdowns

• Difficulty following instructions or routines

• Withdrawal from social interactions

• Repetitive or obsessive behaviours

It’s important to note that behaviours are often a form of communication. They may indicate underlying needs, frustrations, or difficulties that the individual is struggling to express in other ways.

Persistent challenging behaviours can lead to stress for both the individual and their support network. If these behaviours are interfering with daily life, learning, or relationships, it may be time to consider professional support.

When to Seek Support

Seeking behaviour support is appropriate when challenging behaviours persist despite attempts to address them or when they significantly impact quality of life.

Key indicators that it’s time to seek professional help include:

• Safety concerns for the individual or others

• Difficulty participating in school, work, or community activities

• Strain on family relationships or caregiver burnout

• Lack of progress with current strategies

Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes. If you’re unsure whether behaviour support is needed, consulting with a professional can provide clarity and guidance.

Remember, seeking support is a positive step towards improving well-being and quality of life for both the individual and their support network.

Starting with Brave Mental Health

At Brave Mental Health, we’re committed to providing accessible, personalised behaviour support services to families in Glen Waverley and surrounding areas.

Our Support Process

Our behaviour support process is designed to be collaborative, transparent, and tailored to each individual’s needs.

1. Initial Consultation: We begin with a comprehensive discussion to understand your specific situation and concerns.

2. Assessment: Our skilled practitioners conduct a thorough evaluation, observing behaviours in different settings and gathering information from all relevant parties.

3. Plan Development: Based on the assessment, we create a customised behaviour support plan, incorporating evidence-based strategies and your personal goals.

4. Implementation and Training: We work closely with you to put the plan into action, providing training and ongoing support to ensure consistency across all environments.

5. Regular Review: We continuously monitor progress and make adjustments as needed, ensuring the support remains effective and relevant.

Coverage Under NDIS Plan

Behaviour support services are often covered under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for eligible participants.

NDIS typically covers:

• Behaviour support assessments

• Development of behaviour support plans

• Implementation of strategies

• Training for family members and caregivers

The specific coverage depends on individual NDIS plans. Our team can assist you in understanding your plan and how it applies to behaviour support services.

If you’re unsure about your NDIS coverage or need help navigating the process, we’re here to provide guidance and support. We can work with you to ensure you’re accessing all the services you’re entitled to under your plan.

Book an initial Assessment with us: https://calendly.com/bravementalhealth/bsp