Behavior support services can be a critical element in providing comprehensive support services to those with psychological and behavioral health challenges. For people with disabilities, behavioral support services provide access to resources and support to help those with disabilities achieve greater independence in managing their own lives.
Behavior support services are tailored specifically to each individual’s unique strengths and needs. Services may include assessment, intervention planning, implementation and monitoring of behavior plans, skill development, and consultation with other stakeholders such as family members. The ultimate goal of providing behavior support services is to give those with disabilities the means to improve their quality of life.
The first step in providing appropriate behavior support services is to assess the needs of the individual and develop a plan of care. This typically involves conducting a comprehensive assessment of the individual and his or her environment. During the assessment, support providers will seek to identify any environmental or personal factors that may be contributing to the individual’s behavior. After a thorough assessment, providers can develop an intervention plan tailored to the individual’s specific needs.
The second step is to implement the intervention plan. Interventions may include placing a client in a structured environment and providing positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors. Intervention may also involve creating a supportive home and social environment that reduces stress and enables positive behavior. In addition, it may involve the use of medication and/or counselling sessions to address underlying issues.
The third step is to monitor the behavior support services and interventions to make sure they are effective. During intervention, support providers will monitor the individual’s progress and if necessary, make adjustments to the plan of care. This type of monitoring helps support providers ensure that the plan is achieving the desired outcomes and that the individual is benefiting from the interventions.
Finally, providers develop and maintain supportive relationships with the individual and family members. This includes ongoing communication and collaboration about the individual’s needs and successes as well as problem solving and resources that can be used to support the individual’s progress. Developing positive relationships helps to ensure the individual is safe and feels supported.
Behavior support services have the potential to be life-altering for those with disabilities. If a comprehensive assessment is conducted to accurately identify needs, then the right interventions can lead to improved quality of life. Support providers must be knowledgeable and skilled in behavior support service provision in order to ensure successful outcomes.