Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a therapeutic approach focused on improving a person’s life. PBS provides personalised, goal-focused support to reduce risky behaviours. It takes a holistic view of each behaviour, looking at what triggers it (the antecedents) and what happens afterwards (the consequences). By understanding these patterns, PBS helps meet a person’s needs proactively, reducing the likelihood of risky behaviours. This leads to a safer environment and encourages healthier alternatives that still fulfil the person’s needs.
A PBS clinician works to uncover the root causes of risky behaviours and creates tailored strategies to address them, working with the person’s community to support strategy implementation.
A PBS clinician’s role involves:
- Assessing the root causes of risky behaviours and collaborating with the individual and their community to reduce their occurrence.
- Developing Behaviour Support Plans, person-centred documents that outline proactive strategies focused on preventing risky behaviours and promoting positive alternatives.
- Upskilling the person’s support network, ensuring they can confidently and safely implement effective support strategies.
- Collaborating with existing supports, including occupational therapists, educators, and support workers, to create a cohesive approach that keeps the individual safe, empowered, and less likely to engage in risky behaviours.
A person might need the support of a PBS practitioner if they are engaging in risky behaviours, such as:
- Harming themselves or others
- Damaging or destroying property
- Engaging in inappropriate social behaviour
- Displaying sexualised behaviour
- Withdrawing or isolating from others
Is PBS Covered by the NDIS?
PBS is funded through the NDIS, but unlike capacity-building supports such as occupational therapy, it has its own dedicated funding stream called Behaviour Support Funding. This funding is added to NDIS plans based on individual needs.
Before working with a PBS practitioner, a person must have this specific funding in their plan. If they don’t, they can complete a PBS Access Report to assess their needs and apply for the necessary funding.
Ready to get started?
Looking to access Behaviour Support Funding? Our team can assist with a PBS Access Report. Submit your details, and we’ll be in touch to discuss the next steps.
If you already have Behaviour Support Funding, our skilled team is ready to help. Refer online today.
