Behaviour Support in Cessnock
Behaviour is simply a way of communicating a need that isn’t being met. At Optimum Nowra, we don’t judge; we listen. Our Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) practitioners work with you and your support network to uncover the root causes of challenges. We focus on building capacity, improving quality of life, and reducing the need for restrictive practices. It’s not about controlling the person; it’s about changing the environment and teaching new skills to navigate the world safely.
Who We Support With Behaviour Support in Cessnock
We support individuals and families navigating complex behaviours that impact quality of life. We know that behind every challenging behaviour is a person trying to communicate an unmet need, and that can be exhausting for everyone involved.
Our job is to listen to that need and translate it into a plan that works. We work with your entire support network to create an environment where you can thrive, reducing stress and building a path toward a happier home.
Emotional regulation
Challenging behaviours
Social interaction skills
Routine building
School support strategies
Family coaching
Crisis management
Independence skills
Behaviour Support Services Available at Cessnock
Functional Assessment
We find the root cause. We look at why challenging behaviors happen and what the person is trying to communicate.
Positive Behaviour Plans
We focus on quality of life. We create plans that build skills and reduce the need for difficult behaviors.
Skill Building
Techniques to alleviate persistent and acute pain.
Family & Carer Training
We support your network. We teach families and support workers how to respond consistently and calmly.
How Behaviour Support Works at Our Cessnock Clinic
1.
Initial Assessment & Consultation
We meet to listen and observe. We gather information from you and your support network.
2.
Treatment Planning
We analyze the data. We develop a Positive Behaviour Support Plan tailored to the individual’s needs.
3.
Active Treatment & Intervention
We implement the strategies. We work with the person to teach new skills and coping mechanisms.
4.
Re-Education & Functional Training
We train the team. We ensure everyone in the person’s life knows how to use the plan effectively.
5.
Progress Review & Outcome Measurement
We monitor the results. We track if behaviors are reducing and if quality of life is improving.
6.
Maintenance & Prevention
We fade our support. We ensure the strategies are sustainable so the person can thrive long-term.
Meet Our Cessnock Behaviour Support Team
Michael Baxter
Behaviour Support Practitioner
B.Ed/BA
Sam Harris
Behaviour Support Practitioner
BSW, Dip MH, JP (NSW)
Shane Cassel
Clinic Director, Behaviour Support Practitioner & Exercise Physiologist
MCExPhys
Juma Lohure
Behaviour Support Practitioner
Bach. Psych
Penny Sydenham
Discipline Area Manager & Behaviour Support Practitioner
B. Comm. Welfare (Youth Work)
Ashley Allen-Skinner
Area Discipline Manager & Behaviour Support Practitioner
Matthew Craig
Behaviour Support Practioner/Exercise Physiologist
BAppSc (ExPhys)
Katherine Weeks
Behavioural Support Practitioner
BPsych
Referrer’s Hub
Whether you’re a new referrer or you’ve used our services before, the Optimum referrers hub has all your needs. With one click you can make enquiries, make referrals and check all of our clinics’ service capacities.
NDIS Behaviour Support in Cessnock
Transparency and Trust. Behaviour Support is a journey, not a quick fix. We map out your funding to cover the deep work: the assessments, the plan writing, the training for your team, and the ongoing monitoring. You will know exactly how your budget is being used to support your independence.
We rely heavily on our “MDT Advantage.” Behaviour doesn’t happen in a vacuum. We case-conference with Speech Pathologists (to check communication frustration) and OTs (to check sensory triggers). We ensure the whole team understands the person, not just the behaviour.
Cessnock Clinic Location
Start Your Enquiry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)?
Do you work with the participant or the family?
How long does it take to see results? It takes time and consistency.
Can you write a plan for the NDIS?
What is your cancellation policy?
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