EMPOWERING POSITIVE CHANGE +  BRIGHTER FUTURES

What is Positive Behaviour Support?
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is an NDIS-funded service that helps people with disability improve their quality of life by understanding and changing behaviours of concern. It’s not traditional therapy. Instead, PBS focuses on the reasons behind behaviours, and works with the client and their support network to make meaningful, lasting change.

PBS is:

• A person-centred, rights-based approach
• A way to build safe, respectful support plans
• Focused on improving the client's environment and daily life
• About teaching new skills and reducing challenging behaviours
• Focused on what works best for the client
• Never based on punishment or harm

How Does It Work?
PBS support is delivered by a Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioner. This person works mostly with the client's support team - like family, carers, and educators - to help them understand the client's needs and support them better.

Here’s what they do:

• Learn about the client's behaviour and what might be causing it
  
• Create a Behaviour Support Plan that outlines clear strategies
  
• Help others put the plan into action
• Monitor progress to make sure things are getting better over time

PBS is different from regular therapy. Most of the work happens behind the scenes, not through weekly face-to-face sessions. It’s about supporting the people who support the client.

A Behaviour Support Plan (BSP) is a document that outlines how to support a client in the best way possible. It helps others understand the client better, make their environment safer, and reduce behaviours of concern.

There are two types:

• Interim Plan (or Risk Management Plan) – Focuses on short-term safety while a full assessment is being done.
• Comprehensive Plan – Based on a detailed understanding of your needs and behaviour. It uses proactive, long-term strategies for positive change.

The client's plan will include:

• What behaviours of concern are happening
• Why they might be happening
• What needs to change in their environment or support
• Skills they can learn
• How others can help them
• Any restrictive practices and how to reduce or eliminate them

Behaviours of concern are actions that:

• May be unsafe for the client or others
• Make it harder for the client to take part in everyday life
• Could lead to exclusion or harm if not understood

Examples include hitting, self-harm, or running away.

PBS helps people understand why these behaviours happen and teaches safer, more positive ways to respond.

Restrictive practices are things done to control or limit your behaviour—for example:

• Locking away sharp objects
• Holding you to stop harm
• Stopping you from leaving a room or activity

These practices should only be used as a last resort and for the shortest time possible. They can impact your rights and freedom. That’s why Positive Behaviour Support aims to reduce and eventually eliminate the need for them.

All restrictive practices must follow strict NDIS rules and be authorised according to the law.

PBS is designed to:

• Help the client live a happier, safer, and more independent life
• Support the client's goals and build their strengths
• Teach new skills to the client and those who support them
• Reduce or remove unsafe behaviours and restrictive practices
• The client build stronger relationships with others
• Make sure support workers and carers know the best ways to help the client
• Create environments (like home or school) where the client can thrive
• Give the client more choice and control over your life

Here are 10 things you should expect from good quality PBS services:

1. NDIS-Approved Provider
Your provider is registered and uses NDIS Behaviour Support Practitioners who meet national standards.

2. Written Service Agreement
You agree on the support you’ll receive. This is written down in a clear service agreement.

3. The Client's Voice is Central
The client is involved in every step.The practitioner will also work with your support network — with the client's permission.

4. Best Practice and Legal Compliance
Your provider follows NDIS laws and uses strategies that are proven to work.

5. Quick Safety Plan (Within 1 Month)
An Interim Plan is written to manage risks and include safety steps early on.

6. Functional Behaviour Assessment
The practitioner collects information, observes, and talks to people to understand what’s happening and why.

7. Comprehensive Plan (Within 6 Months)
This plan focuses on long-term change, new skills, and making the client's environment better suited to their needs.

8. Stop Use of / Responsible Use of Restrictive Practices
Only used if absolutely needed, and always within the law — with full transparency and ongoing review.

9. Training for The Client's Team
The client's support team gets guidance on how to follow the plan properly. They’ll learn how to respond to the client in the best ways possible.

10. Regular Reviews (At Least Yearly)
The client's plan will be reviewed every 12 months, or sooner if needed, to make sure it’s working and still right for them.

PBS may be helpful if you or someone you care for:

• Shows behaviours that make life difficult or unsafe

• Needs support in school, home, or community settings

• Has experienced restrictive practices

• Needs a behaviour support plan to meet NDIS goals

You don’t have to face this alone. PBS helps create safe, respectful, and effective support systems tailored to the client's life.

If you’re in need of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and you live in Adelaide, Conscious Healthcare SA is here for you. Along with our two clinics located in North and South Adelaide, we provide in-home support in key metro areas, including Gawler, Aldinga, and Mt Barker. Our Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioners also offer telehealth (phone and video calls) throughout Australia.

We are a registered NDIS provider and offer PBS services for children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly.

To get started with Conscious Healthcare SA, you can submit a referral, call (08) 8166 4700 or email enquiries@chcsa.com.au today.

Hi, I’m Rowena Cornish, a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner and PBS Team Lead at Conscious Healthcare SA.

With over 20 years of experience as a Developmental Educator, I’m dedicated to helping individuals create meaningful, positive change in their lives. I hold a Bachelor of Applied Science (Disability Studies) and a Graduate Certificate in Project Management, and throughout my career, I’ve worked in community, accommodation, and employment settings, providing support coordination, positive behaviour support, and managing multidisciplinary teams. My approach is person-centred, collaborative, and strengths-based, ensuring that the strategies we develop together are tailored to your unique needs, interests, and goals.

In our sessions, I focus on understanding who you are—your interests, routines, and the activities you enjoy. Together, we identify practical strategies that can reduce risks, increase independence, and empower you to live a fulfilling life. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel comfortable expressing yourself and actively participating in your journey toward a better quality of life.

I specialise in working with teenagers through to adults, particularly those with intellectual disabilities, autism, acquired brain injuries, and dementia. At Conscious Healthcare, we follow a positive behaviour support framework to develop comprehensive plans that address specific behaviours and promote functional, safe alternatives. As a full member of Developmental Educators Australia Inc (DEAI) and Behaviour Support Practitioners Australia (BSPA), I stay updated with the latest in positive behaviour support, functional behaviour analysis, and trauma-informed practices through regular training and community practice events.

In my role, I work closely with clients and their support teams, using a collaborative approach that involves meeting with people who know you well and gathering information from various sources to build an effective support plan. My passion lies in helping people build on their strengths through positive and proactive strategies, creating a respectful space where everyone feels valued.

I look forward to supporting you in achieving your goals and making a positive impact on your journey.

Hi, I’m Jess, a Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Practitioner at Conscious Healthcare SA.

I’m passionate about using Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) to help people with disabilities live their best lives. PBS is an evidence-based, person-centred intervention that focuses on improving quality of life for individuals and their support teams, while reducing and eliminating challenging behaviours. My approach is truly person-centred, ensuring that you have choice and control every step of the way as we work together to create positive, lasting change.

I have over 10 years of experience supporting individuals across a range of disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and Intellectual Disabilities. I specialise in helping participants and their support teams develop skills to improve their environment, reduce triggers, and implement effective behaviour strategies. Together, we’ll create a plan that enhances your quality of life and supports your goals.

I hold a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Counselling and Psychology) from the University of South Australia, and I’m currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work at Flinders University. In addition to my formal qualifications, I’ve completed extensive training in areas such as trauma-informed practice, anxiety and autism, and evidence-based behaviour support strategies. I’m also a full member of the Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors and Behaviour Support Practitioners Australia.

My aim is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you feel respected, understood, and heard. I’m passionate about empowering individuals to develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive, and I believe in the power of Positive Behaviour Support to help you sparkle in your own unique way. As someone who is, and loves, neurodivergent people, I’m committed to helping you live your best life while being your true, authentic self.

Hi, I’m Christian, a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner at Conscious Healthcare SA.

With a Master of Social Work and an Honours degree in Sociology from the University of South Australia, I bring over seven years of experience across a wide range of fields, including carer support facilitation, community development, refugee and asylum seeker support, youth services, NDIS support coordination, and positive behaviour support. Throughout my career, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the diverse needs within the community and developed the expertise to support individuals from all walks of life.

My approach is compassionate, mature, and holistic, with a strong focus on creating a nurturing environment where you and your support network can build on your strengths and capabilities. I’m dedicated to helping you develop the skills and confidence needed to lead a meaningful, positive life, and I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Whether we’re working on behaviour support strategies or finding ways to improve your daily life, I’m here to offer guidance and support that is tailored to your unique needs and goals.

Hi, I’m Neeti, a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner at Conscious Healthcare SA.

I’m passionate about empowering my participants to improve their quality of life and make decisions that reflect their own hopes and desires. My goal is to create positive changes in their environment that support independence and encourage them to express their choices in a guided and supported way. I believe that every individual should feel included and never left out, and I strive to empower each person I work with to achieve their goals and build a satisfying future.

I bring a strong foundation of knowledge and experience to my role, with a background in Rehabilitation Services (specialising in Rehabilitation Psychology), a Master’s in Applied Psychology, and a Diploma in Guidance and Counselling. Additionally, I hold a Bachelor’s in Education, a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, and have provisional registration as an Early Childhood Teacher with the Teachers Registration Board of South Australia. I’m also pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Positive Behaviour Support and have completed training in NDIS-compliant Behaviour Support Plans. I’ve been a member of Behaviour Support Practitioners Australia (BSPA) since 2023.

Before moving to Australia, I spent over 16 years as a Special Educator at one of India’s leading schools, where I developed a deep understanding of disability, rehabilitation, and the values of inclusion. My experience has shaped my belief that every behaviour communicates something to us, and it’s important to be attentive in understanding what that is.

I love working with young adults, but I’m comfortable supporting participants of all ages, from 4 to 65. I believe everyone should have a voice in their own life and enjoy the fun, positive aspects of who they are.

Hi, I’m Xin Yu (you can also call me Xin), a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner at Conscious Healthcare SA.

With 14 years of experience working as an Autism Therapist in Singapore, I’m passionate about supporting individuals with a range of disabilities to live meaningful and fulfilling lives. I hold a Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Psychology) from the National University of Singapore, a Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology from James Cook University, and a Positive Behaviour Support module certificate from Monash University. During my career, I’ve specialised in working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, OCD, and other learning and mental health challenges, helping individuals aged 7 to 21 develop their strengths and overcome challenges.

Since moving to Adelaide in late 2023, I’ve been supporting NDIS participants, both children and adults, with multiple disabilities and mental health concerns. I take a ‘seek first to understand’ approach, ensuring I get to know each person’s unique strengths, preferences, and differences. By building trusting and open therapeutic relationships, I aim to create support plans that are meaningful and practical, helping you achieve your goals in a way that feels right for you.

I believe that even small wins are worth celebrating and that making a difference, no matter how small, is what keeps me motivated in my work. Whether we’re working on improving everyday life skills or addressing more complex behavioural concerns, I’m committed to supporting you on your journey in a way that feels safe, supportive, and empowering.

Hi, I’m Jessica, a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner at Conscious Healthcare SA.

I’m passionate about working with individuals to create positive, lasting change that helps build confidence, independence, and well-being. My approach is warm, collaborative, and respectful—focusing on each person’s unique strengths, goals, and the belief that behaviour is a form of communication. By understanding the reasons behind behaviours, I support clients in developing practical, everyday strategies that lead to meaningful improvements in their lives.

I hold a Master of Applied Behaviour Analysis from Monash University, a Graduate Diploma in Psychology from Deakin University, and a Bachelor of Science (Psychology) from Macquarie University. Over the past three years, I’ve supported both children and adults in a variety of settings, helping to assess behaviours, create personalised plans, and guide families and support teams in implementing effective, evidence-based strategies.

My experience includes working with individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, and complex behaviours. I focus on reducing distress, strengthening communication and functional skills, and empowering participants to live more fulfilling and independent lives.

In every session, I aim to create a safe and supportive space where people feel heard, respected, and free to be themselves. I believe in building on what already works, and using interests and aspirations to create achievable, strengths-based goals. I look forward to supporting you on your journey and working together to create positive, meaningful change.

Hi, I’m Steph, a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner at Conscious Healthcare SA.

I’m passionate about empowering individuals to thrive—not only in the future, but in their everyday lives. My approach centres on understanding each participant’s unique strengths, challenges, and goals. I work collaboratively with individuals, families, caregivers, and support teams to create supportive, consistent environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and involved in the process of positive change.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, I design individualised behaviour support plans that are both practical and holistic. I aim to balance emotional and psychological wellbeing with real-world strategies that build confidence, independence, and resilience. I believe that every step forward—no matter how small—is worth celebrating, and I strive to make each participant feel safe, respected, and empowered throughout our work together.

I hold a First Class Honours Degree in Psychological Science from the University of Adelaide and am currently pursuing a Master of Psychology in Organisational and Human Factors on a part-time basis. My experience spans a wide range of participants, with a particular focus on children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Global Developmental Delay.

I use a mix of proactive strategies—such as routine-building, communication development, and skill-building—alongside supportive reactive strategies for emotional regulation and behaviour management. I ensure that choice and control remain at the centre of each plan, so that participants feel confident and engaged in their own progress.

As a practitioner, I bring empathy, consistency, and a relaxed, non-judgmental approach to every session. I genuinely love what I do, and seeing participants grow in confidence and independence is what motivates me every day. I look forward to supporting you or your loved one on a journey of positive, meaningful change.