A Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner (PBS Practitioner) is a specialist professional who is trained to assess, understand, and support individuals experiencing behaviours of concern—especially those with disabilities or complex support needs. Their role is to create practical, person-centred strategies that improve quality of life while reducing the need for restrictive practices.
Choosing a person-centred Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Practitioner is a key step in ensuring that support is not only effective but also respectful, empowering, and tailored to the individual’s unique needs and preferences.
Key Roles of a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner
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Conduct Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBA)
They investigate the causes or “functions” of challenging behaviours by observing the individual, reviewing data, and working with families and support teams. -
Develop Positive Behaviour Support Plans (PBSPs)
These practitioners design tailored plans with strategies to:-
Prevent behaviours of concern
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Teach new, more adaptive skills
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Ensure respectful responses when challenges arise
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Improve overall wellbeing
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Train and Support Others
They coach families, carers, educators, and support staff to consistently apply strategies and understand the “why” behind them. -
Monitor and Review Progress
PBS Practitioners collect and analyse data to track changes in behaviour and adjust plans as needed. -
Ensure Ethical Practice and Safeguarding
If restrictive practices (e.g., physical restraint or seclusion) are used, practitioners must ensure these are the absolute last resort, documented, approved, and regularly reviewed under the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
Qualifications and Registration
In Australia, particularly under the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), a PBS Practitioner:
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Typically holds qualifications in psychology, social work, education, or a related allied health field.
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Must demonstrate core competencies in behaviour support.
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May be a Core, Proficient, Advanced or Specialist level practitioner, based on their experience and training.
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Must be engaged through an NDIS-registered provider if working with participants who have restrictive practices in their plan.
Why Are They Important?
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They support individuals to live more independently, safely, and with dignity.
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They reduce the use of reactive or restrictive strategies.
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They empower teams to better understand and support the person, leading to more stable and inclusive environments.
How to Choose the Right Positive Behaviour Support for your needs?
1. Look for Person-Centred Values
A good PBS practitioner should:
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Treat the individual with dignity, respect, and compassion.
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Focus on the person, not just the behaviour.
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Involve the individual, family, and support team in decision-making.
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Value the individual’s strengths, interests, and goals.
- Work for an organisation that values the person and the pracititoner.
2. Check Qualifications and NDIS Registration
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Ensure the practitioner is part of an NDIS-registered provider, especially if restrictive practices are involved.
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Ask about their background (e.g., psychology, social work, education).
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Look for practitioners recognised by the NDIS Commission as:
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Core, Proficient or Advanced Behaviour Support Practitioners
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3. Ensure a Holistic, Strength-Based Approach
Person-centred PBS focuses on:
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Understanding the underlying causes of behaviour
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Supporting skills development, not just managing behaviour
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Promoting choice, control, and independence
4. Check Their Communication and Collaboration Style
A person-centred practitioner will:
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Communicate clearly and respectfully
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Collaborate closely with families, carers, and professionals
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Welcome feedback and adapt plans accordingly
5. Observe Their Interaction with the Person
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Are they warm and engaging?
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Do they speak to the person, not just about them?
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Do they take time to build rapport?
Trust your instincts—how the practitioner interacts with the individual is often the best indicator of their values.
Interested in how Positive Behaviour Support can help?
Our experienced PBS practitioners at Hively Health offers tailored PBS strategies to support individuals and teams on the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Gold Coast. Reach out today to learn how we can support you.
