Get support
Reading Time: 11 minutes

Behaviour Support to improve quality of life

NDIS Behaviour Support, also known as Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), helps participants understand their behaviour and the reasons behind it, so we can build safer, more supportive environments and improve everyday life.

Enquire about Behaviour Support
NDIS Registered provider
Enquire about Behaviour Support

NDIS Registered

Support workers who know your neighbourhood

Fun-first, safety-always

Independence, at your pace

What is Positive Behaviour Support?

What Ability delivers evidence-based Positive Behaviour Support (PBS). Our focus is on improving quality of life by understanding the function of behaviours and supporting people to build skills, independence, and meaningful participation in everyday life.

Our qualified Behaviour Support Practitioners (Pracs) work in partnership with participants, families, carers, and support networks to develop person-centred Behaviour Support Plans. Supports are tailored, evidence-based and designed to work in real-life settings.

NDIS Behaviour Supports may be suitable if you:

  • Would like support to better understand and respond to behaviours
  • Need to develop a Behaviour Support Plan (Interim or Comprehensive)
  • Are a family member, carer, or support team member seeking guidance and strategies
  • Want to build skills, improve safety, and enhance quality of life

What you’ll gain from Behaviour Support

Behaviour Support is about creating understanding, not judgement. Our approach focuses on safety, dignity and meaningful progress.

Behaviour Support can include:

  • Functional behaviour assessments
  • Development of Behaviour Support Plans
  • Interim and comprehensive Behaviour Support Plans
  • Strategies to reduce behaviours of concern
  • Support for families, carers and support workers
  • Guidance around restrictive practices
  • Ongoing review and monitoring of progress

How it works

Tell us what you need

Complete our quick form to help us connect you with the right local support team.

We’ll call you

Find out how we work and book a free online video call with one of our Behaviour Support Practitioners.

We'll plan with you

A Behaviour Support Practitioner will call you at your scheduled time and plan with you how service can be best provided to best suit your needs. 

Ready to access support!

Your Behaviour Support Practitioner will coordinate the first steps for service with you!

Meet our Practitioners

George Storer

National Clinical Manager - Behaviour Support
Sydney, NSW
George holds a degree in Psychology from the University of Sydney, where he developed a strong foundation in the functions of behaviour, with a particular focus on developmental and neurodivergent psychology. His academic experience included exploring cognitive processes, social interactions, personality development, and mental health, alongside an internship at the University’s Child Behaviour Research Clinic. During this time, George contributed to the analysis of early childhood behavioural patterns, supporting the identification of early indicators of autism and other developmental disabilities. George began his career with What Ability as a Support Worker while completing his studies, before progressing into a Behaviour Support Practitioner role. He has undertaken extensive professional development throughout his time as a practitioner to ensure he is able to provide a high quality of service supporting those with complex needs. In his current role as National Clinical Manager, George continues to provide direct support to participants while leading a national team of practitioners across multiple states. He oversees clinical quality and compliance, and develops practitioner capability to ensure consistent, high-impact behaviour support outcomes.

Giorgia De Paoli

Behaviour Support Practitioner
Sydney, NSW
Giorgia has an honours degree in Anthropology from the University of Sydney where she completed a thesis exploring the impacts of childhood trauma on cognitive development. Giorgia’s primary focus was to highlight alternative explanations to behaviours, and counter arguments suggesting that children are simply ‘naughty.’ In her studies, she took electives in psychology where she engaged with further research on cognitive development and neural pathways. Giorgia has over four years experience working in education as a Learning Support Officer, adapting to a variety of students with diverse learning needs. She has engaged in a number of disability workshops, inclusive education and recently, a course on ‘Functions and Formulations’ which has combined to enhance her knowledge and skills to benefit those individuals living with a disability.

Saskia Jane

Behaviour Support Practitioner

Brisbane, NSW

Saskia studied a Bachelor of Psychology at Macquarie University where her initial love for neuroscience, developmental psychology, human behaviour and cognition formed. Saskia brings both academic expertise and valuable lived experience to her practice. Growing up with relatives on the autism spectrum has given her a deep, personal understanding of the unique challenges individuals and their families face. This lived experience drives her commitment to offering compassionate, tailored support that respects each person’s individuality. Saskia combines evidence-based strategies with a person-centred approach, working collaboratively with participants and their families to create positive, sustainable outcomes. With a foundation in psychology, Saskia is driven to empower individuals to achieve their goals, foster independence, and enhance their quality of life in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Sydney Tiiman

Behaviour Support Practitioner
Sydney, NSW
Sydney majored in Human Development at Eckerd College, where her passion for understanding how people grow, learn, and connect first began. She went on to complete a master’s degree in Behaviour Analysis and Therapy at the University of South Wales in Cardiff, Wales, deepening her expertise in evidence-based behavioural support and intervention. For her master’s dissertation, she explored how trauma-informed approaches can be applied in behaviour analysis, reflecting her commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities in a compassionate, understanding, and effective way. With experience as a Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT), Sydney has worked across both the United States and the United Kingdom, applying her skills in a variety of settings and cultural contexts. She takes pride in helping individuals and families make meaningful progress, combining professionalism with empathy, care, and a dedication to creating positive outcomes.

Ethan Etienne

Behaviour Support Practitioner
Sydney, NSW
Ethan holds a Bachelor of Psychology from Macquarie University, and is currently completing his honours in psychology at the University of Technology Sydney. It is through this that Ethan has developed a strong interest in behaviour, motivation, and wellbeing. Ethan brings both analytical insight and genuine empathy to his role as a Behaviour Support Practitioner. Drawing on evidence-based behavioural principles, he works collaboratively with participants, families, and support teams to promote independence, meaningful engagement, and positive behavioural outcomes. Ethan’s approach is grounded in respect, patience, and adaptability. His background in both academic and practical settings has strengthened his understanding of how environmental, social, and emotional factors shape behaviour. He is driven by a commitment to helping each individual reach their goals and improve their quality of life through tailored, person-centred support. Ethan believes that every person deserves the opportunity to thrive in an environment that supports them.

Jessica Friessbourg

Behaviour Support Practitioner

Perth, NSW

Jessica has completed a Bachelor of Science specialising in Psychology at Curtin University. She is currently undertaking her Honours in Psychology, completing her thesis in the mental health and assessment field, further developing her foundation in psychological theory and evidence based practice. Jessica worked with What Ability as a Support Worker while completing her undergraduate degree, where she has provided person centred, compassionate support to a diverse range of participants with varying support requirements. Through her role, Jessica has developed a strong understanding of the importance of collaborative care, working closely with participants, families, and multidisciplinary teams to promote positive outcomes. She is passionate about supporting individuals to achieve their goals, build independence, and enhance their overall quality of life.

Tabitha Jones

Behaviour Support Practitioner
Sydney, NSW
Tabitha is currently completing a Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) at Queensland University of Technology, providing a strong foundation in understanding cognition, behaviour, and developmental processes. She has worked with What Ability for three years, beginning as a Support Worker and progressing into a Participant Onboarding role, where she supported the development of individualised support plans and collaborated closely with families to enhance their experience and outcomes. Tabitha has experience supporting individuals of all ages with a range of disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Angelman Syndrome, and intellectual disability and is driven by a genuine commitment to uplifting and empowering people with disabilities. Her psychology background, combined with her passion for working alongside neurodiverse individuals, enables her to integrate evidence-based practice with warmth, respect, and a deeply person-centred approach. She brings warmth and genuine curiosity to understanding participants, their families, and their support team, shaping support that is collaborative, purposeful, and aligned with each participant’s goals and growth.

Bety Salomiu

Behaviour Support Practitioner
Sydney, NSW
Bety holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology, and brings a genuine curiosity about human behaviour and a strong sense of compassion to her role at What Ability. She is passionate about getting to know each person as an individual and understanding the story behind their behaviour. She has experience working in behaviour support and support work roles, supporting participants with autism, ADHD, OCD, PANS, intellectual disabilities, anxiety and schizophrenia. Bety enjoys building strong, trusting relationships with participants and their families, and working together to create practical, positive strategies that make everyday life easier and more meaningful. Bety has completed her Psychological and Mental Health first aid and has engaged in a number of workshops and training courses, including a 12-week Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) counselling training program, which supports her holistic and thoughtful approach to working with people with complex needs. Bety is driven by a strengths-based, person-centred approach and feels most fulfilled when she sees people grow in confidence, independence and quality of life.

Jessica Paterson

Behaviour Support Practitioner

Perth, NSW

Jessica is a Behaviour Support Practitioner with a strong foundation in Applied Behaviour Analysis and early intervention. She recently completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Behaviour Analysis at Griffith University and brings over three years of experience delivering intensive 1:1 early intervention therapy with children living with Autism. Jessica has also worked as a Support Worker, working with individuals with a range of psychosocial and intellectual disabilities. Jessica brings a practical, hands on approach grounded in ethical, evidence based, and least restrictive practice. She is passionate about building functional communication skills and understanding the underlying function of behaviour to support meaningful, sustainable change. Jessica works collaboratively with individuals, families, and support teams to create tailored supports that promote independence and quality of life. Jessica has a strong interest in forensic behaviour support and is committed to ongoing professional development. She commences further postgraduate study in Forensic Mental Health in March 2026 and intends to complete a Master’s degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis in the near future.

Get started

Get started with What Ability

If you are looking to build your person centred Behaviour Support Plan, please submit an enquiry via the form below, or call 1300 358 714 to speak with our team. 

By clicking Next above, you agree to our Terms of Use.

Latest articles

Read all articles

NEW ARTICLE

5 signs it might be time to explore NDIS Behaviour Support

Every family deserves support that feels safe and empowering. Here are five signs that Positive Behaviour Support may help build stronger routines, clearer communication and more...
5 signs it might be time to explore NDIS Behaviour Support

NEW ARTICLE

Elementor #8437

Elementor #8437

NEW ARTICLE

Meet our team of Behaviour Practitioners

Meet our team of Behaviour Practitioners and learn how What Ability delivers evidence based Positive Behaviour Support that focuses on understanding behaviour, building skills and improving...
Meet our team of Behaviour Practitioners

NEW ARTICLE

5 signs it might be time to explore NDIS Behaviour Support

Every family deserves support that feels safe and empowering. Here are five signs that Positive Behaviour Support may help build stronger routines, clearer communication and more...
5 signs it might be time to explore NDIS Behaviour Support

NEW ARTICLE

Elementor #8437

Elementor #8437

NEW ARTICLE

Meet our team of Behaviour Practitioners

Meet our team of Behaviour Practitioners and learn how What Ability delivers evidence based Positive Behaviour Support that focuses on understanding behaviour, building skills and improving...
Meet our team of Behaviour Practitioners
Read all articles

Explore other services

Community Access

Support to help you try new activities and build friendships.
Discover more

Camps (STR)

Short stays that build confidence, friendship and fun.
Discover more

Respite

A trusted break for families while you have a great time.
Discover more

Supported Independent Living

Safe homes where you can grow skills and independence.

Discover more

Frequently Asked Questions

A Behaviour Support Plan is a clear, practical document created by a qualified Behaviour Support Practitioner. It outlines:

  • Why behaviours may be happening
  • What skills can be taught instead
  • Strategies for home, school and community
  • How everyone supporting your child can respond consistently

Your plan is person centred, strengths based and aligned with your NDIS goals. It is designed to support long term growth, not just short term behaviour change.

To access Behaviour Support through the NDIS, you will need funding for Improved Relationships or Behaviour Support Intervention in your plan.

If you are unsure whether your child has the right funding, our team can help you check. We work with families across Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Once confirmed, we book an initial assessment and begin the onboarding process.

Every family situation is different, but our typical onboarding timeframe is around 14 business days after your enquiry. We’ll be there at every step to assist as you require. After your initial assessment, your Behaviour Support Practitioner will:

  • Complete observations and information gathering
  • Consult with key stakeholders
  • Draft your Behaviour Support Plan
  • Review the plan with you before finalising

We move efficiently, but never rush the process.

If restrictive practices are currently being used, they must be documented and regulated under NDIS guidelines.

Our Behaviour Support Practitioners are trained in reducing and eliminating restrictive practices wherever possible. If a regulated restrictive practice is required, we will ensure it is properly assessed, authorised and reviewed in line with NDIS requirements.

Our focus is always on safer alternatives and skill development first.

Yes. Our team includes qualified Behaviour Support Practitioners with backgrounds in psychology, social work and related disciplines.

They are experienced in supporting children, teenagers and adults with autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, anxiety, OCD and complex behaviours of concern.