Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is an evidence-based approach that helps adults reduce behaviours of concern by teaching new skills, improving communication, and supporting wellbeing. It improves independence, safety, and confidence while aligning with NDIS goals and Australian best-practice guidelines.
What Is Positive Behavior Support?
Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is a person-centred, proactive approach that focuses on understanding the reason behind a behaviour. Instead of using restrictive practices, PBS teaches useful life skills, communication strategies, and emotional regulation techniques. The goal is always improved quality of life.
PBS is widely used with adults and teenagers with disabilities, including autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, psychosocial disability, and acquired brain injuries. It aligns strongly with NDIS expectations for best-practice behaviour support.
Positive Behavior Support does not aim to control behaviour.
It aims to empower people with the skills and supports they need to thrive.
Why Positive Behavior Support Matters for Adults
1. It develops real, functional skills
PBS teaches practical skills that help people succeed in everyday tasks. These include communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.
2. It reduces behaviours of concern
Behaviours of concern often arise because a person’s needs are not understood. PBS identifies these needs and replaces unsafe behaviours with effective alternatives.
3. It increases independence
When adults understand their emotions and have reliable strategies, they make confident decisions and experience fewer barriers in daily life.
4. It strengthens relationships
Clear communication and improved coping skills enhance family, workplace, and community connections.
How Positive Behavior Support Works
1. Functional Assessment
The practitioner gathers information from the adult, support workers, families, and coordinators. This assessment explores:
- What triggers behaviours
- What the person is communicating
- The environment
- Sensory needs
- Patterns around the behaviour
This forms the basis of understanding why the behaviour happens.
2. Development of a Behaviour Support Plan (BSP)
A Behaviour Support Plan outlines:
- Person-centred goals
- Strategies that teach new skills
- Environmental adjustments
- Support strategies for daily routines
- Crisis or safety plans (when needed)
- Tracking and review methods
A high-quality BSP should be trauma-informed, strengths-based, and respectful.
3. Teaching New Skills
This is the heart of PBS. Adults receive strategies that help them:
- Communicate effectively
- Manage overwhelming emotions
- Navigate social situations
- Follow routines
- Complete tasks independently
4. Ongoing Review
PBS evolves as the person grows. Strategies change based on progress, strengths, and feedback from supporters.
Positive Behavior Support and the NDIS
The NDIS recognises PBS as the preferred model for managing behaviours of concern, prioritising the reduction of restrictive practices.
PBS is commonly funded under:
- Improved Relationships
- Capacity Building
Support Coordinators often play an essential role in linking participants with trained providers, monitoring progress, and supporting the Behaviour Support Plan.
For more information, visit the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission:
https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/
Common Positive Behavior Support Strategies
PBS strategies aim to meet unmet needs, teach new skills, and improve wellbeing.
Functional Communication Training
Adults learn to ask for what they need—breaks, support, space, or help—rather than expressing distress through behaviours of concern.
Environmental modifications
Small adjustments can have a big impact. Reduced noise, clear spaces, and predictable routines improve comfort and safety.
Emotional regulation tools
Deep breathing, sensory items, grounding techniques, and movement breaks help adults stay calm during stressful moments.
Task sequencing and routines
Visual schedules, step-by-step guides, or reminders reduce anxiety and increase independence.
Strength-building approaches
PBS focuses on a person’s strengths—including interests, sensory preferences, and learning styles—to create meaningful, motivating goals.
How Freedom Therapy Services Supports PBS
At Freedom Therapy Services, we provide Positive Behavior Support that respects each person’s story, culture, strengths, and goals. Our PBS practitioners work closely with adults, carers, and support coordinators to develop sustainable strategies that support long-term growth.
Our integrated supports include:
- Behaviour Support — Functional assessments, Behaviour Support Plans, and skill-building programs.
- Psychology — Mental health support that enhances emotional wellbeing and complements PBS strategies.
- Cognitive Assessments — Identifying cognitive strengths and challenges to tailor interventions effectively.
- Parent Coaching for Carers — Support for carers and families, helping them implement strategies consistently and confidently.
These supports work together to promote independence, emotional resilience, and meaningful participation.
Positive Behavior Support for Autism, ADHD, and Cognitive Disabilities
PBS is especially effective for adults with:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- ADHD
- Intellectual disability
- Psychosocial disability
- Developmental delays
- Trauma-related challenges
It helps individuals manage sensory overload, social fatigue, communication barriers, and changes in routine.
For mental health support, Beyond Blue provides helpful Australian resources:
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
How Positive Behavior Support Helps Support Coordinators
PBS provides strong, measurable outcomes that Support Coordinators can use when working with NDIS plans. Benefits include:
- Reduced crisis events
- Safer environments
- Clear documentation for NDIS reviews
- Consistent strategies for support workers
- Increased quality of life for participants
- Coordinators often see improved stability, stronger relationships, and smoother support delivery when PBS is used consistently.
When to Consider Positive Behavior Support
You might consider PBS if you notice:
- Increased stress or anxiety
- Withdrawal or avoidance
- Verbal or physical outbursts
- Difficulty with routines or transitions
- Trouble communicating needs
- Sensory overwhelm
- Relationship breakdowns or workplace/social challenges
PBS does not wait for behaviour to escalate. Early support leads to stronger long-term independence.
Why Choose Freedom Therapy Services
We believe every adult deserves the opportunity to live confidently and independently. Our PBS practitioners use:
- Warm, trauma-informed practice
- Evidence-based strategies
- Collaborative support with families and coordinators
- Strength-focused planning
- A goal-driven, respectful approach
Together, we help adults develop skills that last a lifetime.
FAQ
What is Positive Behavior Support?
Positive Behavior Support is a proactive, person-centred approach that teaches new skills and reduces behaviours of concern by understanding their underlying causes.
Is Positive Behavior Support funded by the NDIS?
Yes. PBS is typically funded under Improved Relationships or Capacity Building in an NDIS plan.
Who benefits from PBS?
Adults and teenagers with autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, psychosocial disabilities, or those experiencing communication or emotional regulation challenges.
How long does PBS take to work?
PBS is ongoing, but many participants experience positive changes within weeks. Plans evolve as the person grows.
Get Support
If you’re an adult with a disability, a carer, or a Support Coordinator seeking Positive Behavior Support that is compassionate, effective, and aligned with NDIS standards, we’re ready to help.
Book an appointment with Freedom Therapy Services today and start building skills for independence and wellbeing.
