Q&A

Why were you drawn to studying Positive Behaviour Support?

Studying psychology and mental health was something that I wanted to do since I was young. Being able to learn about the human mind and the various factors that can impact an individual's behaviour and thoughts was always an interesting concept that I wished to learn more about - which I definitely did. Grasping an understanding of the characteristics of certain diagnoses and the reasoning behind people's emotions, thoughts and behaviours was very fascinating.

What do you enjoy about your work, and what are you interested in or fascinated by?

I enjoy working with people, being of service to people and being able to support individuals and families in a variety of ways. I have always been interested in learning about individuals' lifestyles and developing an understanding of why people act or think the way that they do. Being able to support individuals to reach their personal goals, whether it be health, fitness, independence, etc, is something that I enjoy about this workforce as I am able to be of service to someone and see them positively thrive under the conditions of their diagnosis and/or illness.

What drives you to show up for yourself and your clients in this role?

Knowing that clients have their own specific personal goals and/or goals provided by another service (e.g. physiotherapist, speech pathologist, etc), drives me to show up for clients as I want to assist them with reaching these goals. I believe that there is no goal too big for anyone regardless of illness, disability or diagnosis, so being able to provide services and support to the clients in need to encourage positive change and development is definitely what drives me to show up for clients and for myself. If I do not show up for myself in this role, then clients will not receive the necessary support and access to services that are needed.

What have people said about your approach to this work?

Friends and family have always stated that this is the workforce for me - working with people, supporting individuals and assisting them with their everyday lives. Many have said that there have been times where I get too focused on my role and my work, especially in times where I am planning activities or supporting clients, however assisting families and individuals is something that I am, and always have been, passionate about.