Specialist Positive Behaviour Support

 At Bloom, we approach behaviour support with curiosity, compassion, and evidence-informed care. We start with a deep dive into understanding why certain behaviours are happening — not to control them, but to make sure the person’s needs are seen, heard, and safely met.

To do this, we complete a Functional Behaviour Assessment, which may include:

• Interviews with family, carers, educators, and other key team members
• Observations across home, school, or community settings
• Data collection and review
• A functional analysis in more complex or unclear situations
   

Once we understand the function (or ‘why’) of a behaviour, we build a Positive Behaviour Support Plan (PBSP) that is:

• Practical and easy to implement
• Grounded in the person’s strengths and goals
• Focused on proactive strategies and skill-building
• Written in accessible, everyday language
   

While the full PBSP includes everything required by the NDIS (and can be a bit chunky!), we also provide an easy-read summary version in most situations. These are printed in a compact format so key information is always on hand for support teams

To develop a comprehensive PBSP, we usually require an average of 20 hours, including assessment and writing time. Additional hours may be needed for more complex supports, including plans with restrictive practices.

We strongly believe that a plan is only useful if people understand it — so we also provide tailored training to everyone involved, from family and teachers to support workers, ensuring consistency and confidence across environments.

To develop a comprehensive positive behaviour support plan (PBSP), we need a minimum of 15-20hrs (which includes the assessment process) - we may require more time if there is additional complexities (such as restrictive practices). Although we pride ourselves on developing PBSPs that are easy-read, and utilise everyday language, they are often still long and heavy to read. For those that request it, we will provide an additional 'summary PBSP' printed in booklet form for all stakeholders to carry with them.    

For participants who experience behaviours of concern, we recommend following the PBSP with ongoing support, training, and implementation coaching. What this looks like will vary for each participant. For some, it might mean:

• Fortnightly therapy sessions directly with the participant
• Regular coaching for caregivers or staff, using a capacity-building model
• Blended support, combining direct therapy (usually with one of our Therapy Assistant's) and team training
   

The approach will always be personalised and discussed with your practitioner, who will adapt supports as they get to know the participant and their team.

At Bloom, we also work with:

• Junior Behaviour Support Practitioners – fully NDIS-registered professionals building their careers under close senior supervision. Although these practitioners meet the standards for full-rate billing, we offer a reduced hourly rate (based on performance level) while they grow their skills and confidence. We believe that for ethical quality PBS practice, this should be the standard! 
• Level 2 Therapy Assistants (TAs) – highly skilled team members who provide direct 1:1 support to implement PBSP strategies, and run our social therapy groups. We recommend regular TA sessions where possible, as they allow for longer and more frequent contact than an advanced BSPs can offer — delivering excellent value for money while prioritising relationship-based, neuro-affirming care.
   

Particularly for neurodivergent clients, we place high importance on connection, trust, and predictability — because feeling safe is the foundation of all growth.

If NDIS funding doesn’t allow for ongoing behaviour support, we’ll work with you and/or your support coordinator/family to develop clear recommendations for your next plan review. This includes tracking goals, documenting progress, and identifying areas for ongoing funding.

While the NDIS recommends PBSPs be reviewed every 12 months, we believe support should be reviewed as often as needed. Life isn’t static — and neither is human behaviour. As participants learn, grow, and evolve, their support should too.