Q&A

Why were you drawn to studying Positive Behaviour Support?

While completing my Honours degree in Psychology, I became fascinated by the idea that behaviour is a form of communication and a way for individuals to express unmet needs or emotions. This shifted my perspective from seeing behaviour as something to manage, to something to understand. Positive Behaviour Support appealed to me because it combines evidence-based behavioural science with person-centred values, focusing on improving quality of life rather than simply reducing behaviours of concern! It felt like a meaningful and practical way to create lasting, positive change for individuals and their support networks.

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

I really enjoy meeting new people and building rich connections with participants and their support networks. One of the most rewarding parts of my work is being able to make a positive difference not only for the individual, but also for the people who support them. I love creating personalised, meaningful strategies that reflect each person’s strengths, preferences, and goals. I’m especially interested in working holistically with families, support staff, and allied health professionals to ensure consistency and shared understanding -  seeing everyone come together to support a person’s growth is what I find most fulfilling!

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

I’m driven by the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to be understood and supported in a way that helps them thrive. Behaviour support is a process! It’s about building trust, trialling strategies, and working through challenges over time. I find it incredibly rewarding to see even the smallest changes within that journey. Those moments are reminders that progress doesn’t always happen overnight, but that every step forward, no matter how small, contributes to meaningful growth and quality of life!

What have people said about your approach to this work?

I have often been commended on my highly collaborative and person-centered approach. Support teams appreciate my drive to involve the entire support team in the process, to ensure that strategies are consistent and sustainable across all environments. In addition to this, clients and their support teams have described me as thoughtful, patient, and thorough in my practice. I ensure to also take the time to understand the “why” behind behaviours and approach every situation with curiosity rather than judgment.