You’ve come to PBS (Positive Behaviour Support) because something may need to change. Things have reached a crisis point, and you could use some help. You’re struggling to achieve your goals because behaviours are creating barriers. These barriers can create a sense of urgency or even feel like a setback. But remember, positive Behaviour Support is here to provide much-needed relief and support at times like this. Let me explain more about that.
It might be hard to hear what people have to say, accept help or look for ways of improving certain situations. This sense of feeling stuck is especially true when you’re under pressure. However, a crisis can also present itself as a time of opportunity for growth. PBS begins a reframing process, looking at changes, barriers, and problems and working with you as an integral part of the team to overcome them.
PBS is about looking at the big picture. This framing includes meaningful relationships, environments, access to services, quality supports and various factors involved in creating that picture and how you see your life. It’s about building a shared understanding of what is happening and working out if any changes are needed and how.
Putting together this fresh understanding takes time and conversations with everyone involved. Behaviour is communication, and we work to understand where you’re not being heard, seen, or understood and the various factors contributing to it. What are you or the person you care for trying to communicate, and why?
I understand that you may feel overwhelmed and stressed by the challenge of what’s happening. You might be supporting someone with challenging behaviour. There might be instances of extremely distressing behaviour. Sometimes, things can be so problematic that a person is isolated from family and the wider community. But remember, you’re not alone in this; we’re here to support you, care for you, and understand you.
We approach PBS with the participant at the centre of our service. It’s their NDIS plan. We want to build an understanding of that person and their needs to improve their quality of life and independence. We work alongside you and others, using a multidisciplinary approach. This team approach means you only have to tell a story once, and goals are supported by a team.
We also want to understand the needs of people close by, family, supporters, or stakeholders. People often tell us they are surprised at how helpful it can be to have fresh eyes looking at the issues. We are one step away, which means we’re not living with the pressures and frustrations you are. We are trained problem-solvers and can work with you to move things in a positive direction—small wins, one at a time. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Goal setting helps break things down into small, achievable tasks. This journey is not easy, but it can lead to significant progress, positive change, effective communication, improvement in various areas, increased quality of life, and reduced need for engaging in behaviour to have a voice heard.
We’re glad you’re here, and we’re keen to start. Let’s go on this journey of discovery together. Along with the solutions, there could be the opportunity for more understanding and a stronger sense of connection. We’d love to see that happen for you.
