Behaviour Bits

In this episode of Behaviour Bits, Jenn sits down with Tim Angel, an experiencedoccupational therapist and director of Ability Rehab and Bridge Rehab. Tim delves intothe world of sensory integration, explaining how sensory processes impact individuals’behaviour and functioning. He shares insights from his extensive career, focusing on theimportance of understanding and addressing sensory needs in both clinical settingsand everyday life.Tim discusses practical strategies for recognising and supporting sensory needs,emphasising the importance of predictability and routine. He provides examples fromhis work with children, adolescents, and adults with autism and other neurodiverseconditions, illustrating how tailored interventions can enhance focus, calmness, andoverall well-being. This episode oIers valuable information for those looking to deepentheir understanding of sensory integration and its application in therapeutic andpersonal contexts.Time stamps01:13 - Tim’s professional background and focus on sensory integration03:30 - Defining sensory integration and its significance06:51 - Practical examples of sensory strategies in daily life10:56 - Understanding interoception and its role in behaviour18:21 - The impact of sensory tools and the importance of strategy22:34 - The role of consistent, predictable routines in managing sensory needs26:47 - Discussion on screen time and sensory overload35:13 - Key takeaways and practical advice for listeners37:26 - Resources for further information on sensory integration

In this episode of Behaviour Bits, Jenn welcomes Ashley Smith, founder of NeuroBloom, to explore the journey from an unlikely start in dental care to becoming a trauma behavioural specialist. Ashley shares how her personal experiences and late diagnosis of autism and ADHD shaped her professional evolution into the fields of child protection, out-of-home care, and NDIS support. Through this discussion, listeners gain insight into the profound connection between trauma, behaviour, and mental health, along with the importance of relational care in professional practice.The episode dives into how trauma-informed care has become a vital component of behavioural support and offers practical strategies for fostering connection and healing through community and neurobiology. Ashley’s insights are invaluable for professionals seeking to understand and apply trauma-informed frameworks in their work. By tuning in, listeners will walk away with practical knowledge to enhance their approach to care, improve client outcomes, and cultivate more compassionate, effective support strategies.Additional notes and resources:Cozolino, L. (2013). *The social neuroscience of education: Optimizing attachment and learning in the classroom.* W. W. Norton & Company.Could the Blackfoot Wisdom that inspired Maslow Guide Us Now?The Emergence of the Breath of Life Theory - Blackfoot BeliefsThe Handbook of Trauma-Transformative PracticeDr Tracey Westerman - Indigenous Psychological ServicesDr Daniel Huges - PACE and Dyadic Developmental PsychotherapyCentre of Excellence in Therapeutic CareAustralian Childhood Foundation - RESOURCESBrené Brown - The Anatomy of TrustFour F’s - Reflexive PracticesNeurobloom - InstagramTime Stamps02:29 – Jenn asks Ashley to introduce herself and share her background04:27 – How does one go from dentistry to trauma specialist?09:39 – Managing quality and quantity in behavioural support12:22 – Tell us more about NeuroBloom and its values15:55 – The importance of community actualisation and connection18:22 – What does trauma-informed practice look like?23:53 – Defining neuroplasticity in trauma care31:32 – How do you connect a care team effectively?34:22 – Practical steps for fostering team collaboration and connection40:31 – Professional burnout and staying aligned with core values46:42 – Tips for applying trauma-informed practice in real-world settings52:40 – Resources for enhancing trauma-informed practice knowledge

In this episode of Behaviour Bits, Jenn welcomes Sharon Paley, founder and CEO of the Australian Centre for Restraint Reduction & Elimination (ACRRE). Sharon has a wide breadth and depth of experience in restrictive practice reduction. Her 40+ years of experience is reflected by her strong practice background, knowledge of practice research, and achievements in the field. Together, Jenn and Sharon dive into the complex and crucial topic of restrictive practices, discussing what they are, where they occur, and the systemic issues that allow them to persist. Sharon shares her professional journey, detailing how her early experiences shaped her dedication to reducing these practices and advocating for more ethical and supportive approaches.Listeners will gain insights into the ethical considerations surrounding restrictive practices and learn why it is essential to address these issues for the well-being of both the individuals affected and the professionals implementing them. Sharon’s emphasis on the importance of understanding and improving communication methods offers practical and impactful strategies for those in support roles, making this episode an invaluable resource for anyone looking to make a difference in behaviour support.Timestamps:[00:01:24] Introduction to Sharon Paley and her work on restrictive practices.[00:01:43] Defining restrictive practices and their application across various sectors.[00:07:18] Discussion on the real-life impacts of restrictive practices on individuals.[00:11:04] Identifying the most vulnerable groups affected by restrictive practices.[00:17:13] Examples of restrictive practices used inappropriately due to lack of guidance.[00:26:15] The importance of restraint reduction plans alongside behaviour support plans.[00:30:10] Misconceptions about risk management and how they influence practices.[00:36:47] The role of leadership in modelling change and reducing restrictive practices.[00:42:19] Addressing fear and gaining buy-in from staff implementing support plans.[00:51:06] Resources and further support for understanding and managing restrictive practices.

In this episode of Behaviour Bits, Jenn sits down with Prue Walker, a clinical social worker and leading expert in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). With years of experience in child protection, out-of-home care, and her pivotal role at Monash Children’s Hospital, Prue offers an in-depth exploration of FASD—what it is, how it affects the brain and body, and the challenges individuals with FASD face in daily life.Prue delves into the neurodevelopmental implications of prenatal alcohol exposure, discussing the importance of early diagnosis, appropriate interventions, and strategies to support individuals with FASD.This episode is packed with actionable insights, from understanding the unique behaviours linked to FASD to creating supportive environments that foster growth and development. Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or professional, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge to help you better support individuals with FASD and navigate the challenges they face.FASD HubNOFASD AustraliaEmerging Minds FASD resources https://emergingminds.com.au/?s=fasdCanada FASD Research Network (CanFASD) behavioural resources https://canfasd.ca/?s=behaviourOverview of FASDPopova, S., Charness, M. E., Burd, L., Crawford, A., Hoyme, H. E., Mukherjee, R. A. S., Riley, E. P., & Elliott, E. J. (2023). Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Nat Rev Dis Primers, 9(1), 11. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41572-023-00420-xMcLean, S. (2022). Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD): An update on policy and practice in Australia (9781760162092). https://aifs.gov.au/resources/policy-and-practice-papers/fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorder-fasd-update-policy-andFlannigan, K., Pei, J., McLachlan, K., Harding, K., Mela, M., Cook, J., Badry, D., & McFarlane, A. (2022). Responding to the Unique Complexities of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.778471FASD and Behaviour SupportsHow thinking about behavior differently can lead to happier FASD familiesBehavioral Interventions in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum DisordersKautz-Turnbull, C., Kaminsky, E., Kuhn, M., Wittlin, R., Petrenko, C. L. M., & Olson, H. C. (2024). Positive behavior support (PBS) with children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders: Characterizing caregivers' use of PBS using follow-up clinical trial data. Res Dev Disabil, 151, 104773. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2024.104773Petrenko, C. L. M. (2015). Positive Behavioral Interventions and Family Support for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Curr Dev Disord Rep, 2(3), 199-209. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40474-015-0052-8To contact Prue or request a consultation visit https://pruewalkerfasd.comTime Stamps:• [00:00:40] Introduction to Prue Walker and her professional background• [00:02:15] What is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)?• [00:04:26] Prue’s journey from child protection to specialising in FASD• [00:06:14] Understanding the causes and development of FASD• [00:08:42] The impact of alcohol exposure timing and quantity during pregnancy• [00:12:00] Key cognitive and behavioural challenges associated with FASD• [00:17:50] Rates of FASD in the general population and underdiagnosis• [00:20:33] Populations and signs where FASD is most prevalent• [00:24:54] Pathways for diagnosis and the role of neuropsychologists• [00:27:24] Strategies to support individuals with FASD in schools and at home• [00:35:34] General behavioural strategies for managing FASD effectively• [00:40:42] Resources for professionals and caregivers to learn more about FASD#FASD #ChildProtection #Neurodevelopment #BehaviourSupport #PositiveBehaviour #FetalAlcoholSpectrumDisorder #InclusiveEducation #BehaviourBits #ProfessionalDevelopment #ParentingStrategies

Join Kristin Bayley, a board-certified behaviour analyst and speech pathologist, as she delves into the importance and implementation of functional communication training (FCT) for individuals with behaviours of concern. Kristin discusses her dual expertise, the overlap between behaviour analysis and speech pathology, and the essential role of FCT in improving the quality of life for those with unmet communication needs.She shares insights into practical strategies, the significance of early intervention, and the critical concept of using low-effort, high-reward communication methods to replace problematic behaviours. Whether dealing with early intervention or residential care settings, Kristin offers a wealth of knowledge and actionable advice for practitioners looking to enhance their clients' ability to self-advocate and navigate their social environments more effectively.00:00 Introduction01:23 Defining Functional Communication04:27 Kristin's Professional Journey06:49 Intersection of Behaviour Analysis and Speech Pathology11:14 Understanding Behaviour and Communication19:55 Functional Communication Training32:19 Understanding Happy, Relaxed, and Engaged (HRE)34:02 The Importance of Quality of Life in Positive Behaviour Support37:12 Challenges and Barriers in Implementing Functional Communication Training39:05 Collaboration Between Behaviour Support Practitioners and Speech Pathologists43:41 Receptive vs. Expressive Communication51:31 Practical Tips and Resources for Functional Communication Training55:25 Conclusion and Contact InformationResources:Carr, E. G., & Durand, V. M. (1985). REDUCING BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS THROUGH FUNCTIONAL COMMUNICATION TRAINING. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 18(2), 111–126. https://doi.org/10.1901/jaba.1985.18-111McGreevy & Fry. (n.d.). Alternative Method of Speaking Tool. https://datamakesthedifference.com/alternative-method-of-speaking-tool/AFIRM: Functional Communication Training. (n.d.). https://afirm.fpg.unc.edu/functional-communication-training

In this episode of *Behaviour Bits*, Jenn sits down with Dr. Astrid Birgden, a forensic clinical psychologist and behaviour support specialist with over four decades of experience. Astrid shares her insights on the intersection of forensic psychology, disability, and positive behaviour support, shedding light on how human rights can and should be upheld—even in complex cases involving individuals with intellectual disabilities and offending behaviours.Throughout the conversation, Astrid discusses her pioneering work in forensic disability services, the Good Lives Model, and how therapeutic jurisprudence can shape a more humane approach to rehabilitation. She explores how professionals can balance dignity of risk with duty of care, improve quality of life for clients, and ensure that positive behaviour support is truly *positive*—rather than just a compliance exercise. Whether you’re working in disability, corrections, or psychology, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to inform your practice.Additional Resources:https://www.goodlivesmodel.com/Compendium of Resources for Positive Behaviour Supporthttps://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-10/Compendium%20of%20Resources%20for%20Positive%20Behaviour%20Support%20%20%20A%20guide%20for%20behaviour%20support%20practitioners%20-%20March%202019.docxPositive Practice Frameworkhttps://www.dffh.vic.gov.au/information-behaviour-support-practitionersCooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2007). Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education.

In this episode, Jenn sits down with Dr Erin Leif, a Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst and senior lecturer at Monash University, to unpack the complexities of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Erin shares her professional journey, from struggling as a student to becoming a leading advocate for transforming PBS practices in Australia. Through their discussion, they explore the current state of PBS in the NDIS, the challenges practitioners face, and how the system has shifted towards a compliance-heavy, reactive model rather than a truly supportive and preventative approach.They dig deep into the critical need for a paradigm shift—one that places more emphasis on proactive, universal support strategies over restrictive practices. Erin presents a compelling case for reimagining PBS as an everyday, embedded practice that prevents the need for behaviour support plans and restrictive measures altogether. They discuss how focusing on routine healthcare, creating environments of success, and implementing person-centred active support can significantly improve quality of life for individuals with disabilities. If you’re working in behaviour support or looking for ways to create a more inclusive and effective support system, this episode is packed with insights and actionable steps for making meaningful change.

In this engaging episode, Dr Georgina Cox, Senior Clinical Psychologist at the Royal Children's Hospital, shares insights from her extensive experience supporting families navigating disability, trauma, and mental health challenges. Georgina delves into the transformative power of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and EMDR, illustrating how these approaches can help individuals find meaning, flexibility, and resilience in the face of life's difficulties.Georgina is a Member At Large of the Association for Contextual Behavioural Science-Australia and New Zealand Chapter (ANZACBS) https://www.anzacbs.com/about-anzacbs.

In this compelling follow-up episode, Sharon Paley returns to delve deeper into the ethical principles and human rights considerations regarding restrictive practices in behaviour support. Drawing on her extensive clinical and policy experience in the UK and Australia, Sharon candidly reflects on the evolution of practice, from untrained restraint use to the implementation of thoughtful, rights-focused approaches. Her insights highlight the emotional weight professionals often carry and the need for brave, well-supported teams who are equipped to make ethical decisions even in high-risk environments.Listeners will gain a nuanced understanding of why restrictive practices are often used as default, and how that can be shifted with strong leadership, collaborative decision-making, and truly person-centred planning. Sharon unpacks key principles of ethical decision-making frameworks and stresses the importance of multidisciplinary voices and informed, proactive strategies and support. This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with the challenges of restraint reduction and striving to uphold human dignity in complex care settings.Looking for practical, flexible learning that goes beyond the podcast? The All Access Pass gives you unlimited entry to all of our self-paced online courses, early access to new content, exclusive member discounts, and our ever-growing library of downloadable resources, templates, and clinical tools. It’s all grounded in evidence-based, person-centred practice—designed to support you at your own pace, in real-world ways. Visit https://specialistbehaviour.com/all-access-pass/

In this episode, Jenn is joined by Dr Brent Hayward, a registered nurse and senior lecturer at Monash University with over two decades of experience across disability, mental health, and policy sectors. Brent shares a compelling reflection on his 20-year journey, highlighting the systemic barriers, evolving practices, and persistent challenges in providing effective support for individuals with disabilities and complex needs. Drawing on his keynote from the Complex Needs Conference, Brent outlines the “Top 10 Things to Do Differently”, offering a powerful critique of current service delivery models and a roadmap for meaningful change.The conversation dives into why reflective practice alone isn’t enough without coaching, the pitfalls of the “train and hope” approach to workforce development, and the dangers of relying on under-qualified staff for high-risk support. Brent challenges the over-reliance on medical practitioners and assessment referrals, advocating instead for person-centred, evidence-informed approaches that empower support workers and practitioners alike. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to strengthen their practical impact, navigate systemic inertia, and rethink how we work together to foster true inclusion and quality of life.Looking for practical, flexible learning that goes beyond the podcast? The All Access Pass gives you unlimited entry to all of our self-paced online courses, early access to new content, exclusive member discounts, and our ever-growing library of downloadable resources, templates, and clinical tools. It’s all grounded in evidence-based, person-centred practice, designed to support you at your own pace, in real-world ways.You can find Dr. Brent's paper on Research Gate here:https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Brent-Hayward-2Visit https://specialistbehaviour.com/all-access-pass/Questions, comments, feedback? Email us at info@specialistbehaviour.com

In this episode, Niall Hewitt, director of Rubix Support and board member of Behaviour Support Practitioners Australia and Developmental Educators Australia, shares deep insights into the evolving landscape of residential support services. With decades of experience across direct disability care, forensic services, government departments, and now leadership in the sector, Niall walks us through his hands-on journey and the critical importance of understanding support from the ground up. He discusses how good support goes beyond ticking boxes—it’s about consistency, meaningful relationships, respectful environments, and support that genuinely makes someone’s life better.The conversation explores practical ways to identify and promote what good support looks like in accommodation settings. From everyday choices and personal dignity to the role of leadership, team training, and person-centred practice, Niall outlines key considerations that can really make or break the living experience of individuals with disability. He also challenges the systemic issues like funding-driven decisions and staff turnover that can undermine person-centred care, urging us to shift the focus back to the individual. This episode is essential listening for anyone involved in behaviour support or disability services, offering grounded, thoughtful strategies that bridge policy and practice in real-world ways.You can find out more about Rubix Support here: https://rubixsupport.com.au/Looking for practical, flexible learning that goes beyond the podcast?The All Access Pass gives you unlimited entry to all of our self-paced online courses, early access to new content, exclusive member discounts, and our ever-growing library of downloadable resources, templates, and clinical tools.It’s all grounded in evidence-based, person-centred practice, designed to support you at your own pace, in real-world ways.Visit https://specialistbehaviour.com/all-access-pass/Questions, comments, feedback? Email us at info@specialistbehaviour.com

In this episode, guest Tim Angel, occupational therapist, lifestyle coach, and director of Ability Rehab and Bridge Rehab joins us for an in-depth exploration of grounding techniques. Tim unpacks how these strategies can be applied in clinical, lifestyle, and everyday settings to help reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and support decision-making. From sensory and cognitive methods to physical, emotional, and environmental approaches, he breaks down how to select the right strategies for different individuals, contexts, and levels of distress.Listeners will gain a clear understanding of how grounding can be tailored to personal needs, why proactive teaching is essential, and how reflection strengthens effectiveness over time. Tim shares a wealth of practical examples from school-based group activities to individualised toolkits, highlighting their flexibility and relevance across all ages and abilities. Whether used for calming intense moments, preventing overwhelm, or building self-regulation skills, these tools can make a meaningful difference in daily life.Looking for practical, flexible learning that goes beyond the podcast?The All Access Pass gives you unlimited entry to all of our self-paced online courses, early access to new content, exclusive member discounts, and our ever-growing library of downloadable resources, templates, and clinical tools.It’s all grounded in evidence-based, person-centred practice, designed to support you at your own pace, in real-world ways.Visit https://specialistbehaviour.com/all-access-pass/Questions, comments, feedback? Email us at info@specialistbehaviour.com

In this thought-provoking episode, Board Certified Behaviour Analyst, consultant psychologist, and Director of Billy Cart Behaviour Sarah McCluskey joins the discussion to unpack the complex and often misunderstood topic of sexualised behaviour.Together, they challenge common assumptions, explore why context matters, and reframe how these behaviours are described and responded to- especially when disability is part of the picture.Sarah sheds light on the concept of “counterfeit deviance”, where behaviours that appear problematic may stem from lack of education, privacy, or opportunity rather than harmful intent.She also shares practical ways to support healthy, respectful relationships and sexual expression, while reducing risk and protecting dignity.From teaching correct anatomical language as a safeguarding measure, to using structured frameworks to understand the unmet need of the behaviour, Sarah offers strategies for support that are grounded in evidence and compassion.This conversation highlights why labelling behaviours as “sexualised” can be misleading and harmful, and why skill-building, environmental adjustments, and open, values-aware conversations are critical. It’s an essential listen for anyone wanting to replace discomfort and stigma with informed, person-centred support, ensuring people’s needs for intimacy, connection, and safety are understood and respected.Looking for practical, flexible learning that goes beyond the podcast? The All Access Pass gives you unlimited entry to all of our self-paced online courses, early access to new content, exclusive member discounts, and our ever-growing library of downloadable resources, templates, and clinical tools.It’s all grounded in evidence-based, person-centred practice, designed to support you at your own pace, in real-world ways.Visit https://specialistbehaviour.com/all-access-pass/Questions, comments, feedback?  Email us at info@specialistbehaviour.com

In this episode, Psychologist and Director of Clinical Training, Matthew Spicer explains the Multi Element Behaviour Support (MEBS) model. MEBS is a way of thinking about behaviour support that goes beyond simply trying to “stop” challenging behaviour. Instead of focusing only on what happens before and after an action, Matthew shows how MEBS emphasises needing to understand the bigger picture—the person’s past experiences, what they are trying to achieve, and how their environment supports or blocks them.He describes how behaviour support can be about improving someone’s quality of life, not just preventing problem behaviour, and that prioritising proactive strategies (what we do every day to set someone up for success) from reactive strategies (what we do in the moment to keep everyone safe) makes all the difference.Using real-life examples, he shows why sometimes the most respectful and effective response in the moment is to meet the person’s need—like offering that cup of coffee—while planning long-term skill-building and supports for the future.Matthew shares a guide for doing MEBS well. He talks about how to start with a good assessment, design plans that build skills and positive experiences, and make sure the people putting the plan into action feel supported, trained, and confident. He links this approach to broader ideas like trauma-informed practice and positive psychology, but always brings it back to what really matters: helping people have better, safer, meaningful lives.His message is clear—good behaviour support is not about controlling behaviour, but about building an environment where people can thrive.Looking for practical, flexible learning that goes beyond the podcast?The All-Access Pass gives you unlimited entry to all of our self-paced online courses, early access to new content, exclusive member discounts, and our ever-growing library of downloadable resources, templates, and clinical tools.It’s all grounded in evidence-based, person-centred practice—designed to support you at your own pace, in real-world ways.Visit https://specialistbehaviour.com/all-access-pass/Questions, comments, feedback?  Email us at info@specialistbehaviour.com

Join us for the Positive Behaviour Support Implementation Seminar — a full-day, practical program co-hosted by Specialist Behaviour and the Complex Behaviour Community of Practice. Across six focused 1-hour sessions, experienced PBS practitioners share how to implement and monitor effective strategies, collaborate across settings, and build genuine, supportive relationships.When: Fri 13 Feb 2026, 9:00am–4:30pmWhere: Novotel, Preston (215 Bell St, VIC) + livestream (no recording)CPD: Earn 6 CEUs or a Certificate of Attendance.Seats are limited. Register nowThis episode dives straight into the constructional approach to positive behaviour support (PBS), an outcomes-first, person-led framework championed by guests John Wooderson and Oliver Roschke.Rather than shrinking “problem behaviour”, they emphasise building repertoires, opportunities and genuine options using four guiding questions: where the person wants to go, where they are now, how to get there, and what will keep them going.You’ll hear how this shifts practice towards true therapeutic contracts with the individual, assent-based, strengths-focused planning, and dignified risk—grounding change in what matters to the person, not in compliance for others.We get practical about disentangling PBS from restrictive practices by targeting the behaviour of the implementing provider and co-designing alternatives that keep everyone safe without eroding rights. John shares a compelling case example replacing a compulsory in-car harness with communication supports and staged fading—resolving conflict and maintaining safety by building skills and staff practices, not adding restraint.The conversation closes with actionable takeaways: co-created “lifestyle plans” over behaviour plans, rigorous progress reviews that treat programme design (not the person) as the problem when change stalls, and a relentless focus on quality-of-life outcomes.Resources:"Nonlinear Contingency Analysis: Going Beyond Cognition and Behavior in Clinical Practice" is probably one of the most accessible introductions to the constructional approach and non-linear contingency analysis, and it was written to introduce these ideas and concepts to a broader audience, beyond behaviour analysis: https://www.amazon.com.au/Nonlinear-Contingency-Analysis-Cognition-Behavior-ebook/dp/B09GFMZ6F9/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 PDF copies of the book are available via most uni libraries.Constructional Approach community website: The Constructional Approach to Behavior Analysis – constructional approachRelevant research papersLiden, T.A., Rosales-Ruiz, J. Constructional Parent Coaching: A Collaborative Approach to Improve the Lives of Parents of Children with Autism. Behav Analysis Practice 18, 109–126 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-024-00944-y (attached)Abdel-Jalil, A., Linnehan, A.M., Yeich, R. et al. Can There Be Compassion without Assent? A Nonlinear Constructional Approach. Behav Analysis Practice (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-023-00850-9 (free download: (PDF) Can There Be Compassion without Assent? A Nonlinear Constructional Approach)Layng, T. V. J., & Abdel‐Jalil, A. (2022). Toward a constructional exposure therapy. Advances in Cognitive Therapy, Fall, 8–11. (Free download: (PDF) TOWARD A CONSTRUCTIONAL EXPOSURE THERAPY)Linnehan, A.M., Abdel-Jalil, A., Klick, S. et al. Foundations of Preemptive Compassion: A Behavioral Concept Analysis of Compulsion, Consent, and Assent.Behav Analysis Practice (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-023-00890-1 (Free download: (PDF) Foundations of Preemptive Compassion: A Behavioral Concept Analysis of Compulsion, Consent, and Assent)Scallan, C.M., Rosales-Ruiz, J. The Constructional Approach: A Compassionate Approach to Behavior Change. Behav Analysis Practice (2023). Https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-023-00811-2 (free online copy: The Constructional Approach: A Compassionate Approach to Behavior Change)Layng T. V. (2009). The search for an effective clinical behavior analysis: the nonlinear thinking of Israel goldiamond. The Behavior analyst, 32(1), 163–184. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03392181Goldiamond, I. Toward a Constructional Approach to Social Problems: Ethical and Constitutional Issues Raised by Applied Behavior Analysis. Behav. Soc. Iss. 11, 108–197 (2002). https://doi.org/10.5210/bsi.v11i2.92Looking for practical, flexible learning that goes beyond the podcast?The All Access Pass gives you unlimited entry to all of our self-paced online courses, early access to new content, exclusive member discounts, and our ever-growing library of downloadable resources, templates, and clinical tools.It’s all grounded in evidence-based, person-centred practice—designed to support you at your own pace, in real-world ways.Visit https://specialistbehaviour.com/all-access-pass/Questions, comments, feedback?  Email us at info@specialistbehaviour.com

Sharpen your PBS skills at the 2026 Positive Behaviour Support Implementation Seminar:Six powerful sessions, 6 CEUs, and real-world strategies to elevate your practice.Join us in Preston or online. Spots are limited!Register here 👉 https://pbsimplementationseminar.eventbrite.com.au/In today’s engaging conversation, Dr. Russ Fox discusses his journey in education, focusing on positive behaviour support and its implementation in schools.He emphasises the importance of multi-tiered systems of support, building relationships with students, and the need for targeted training for teachers.Dr. Fox highlights the interconnectedness of academic and social behaviours and advocates for a rights-based approach to behaviour support.The discussion also covers practical strategies for effective classroom management and the significance of celebrating small successes to motivate both teachers and students.Takeaways:Dr. Russ Fox emphasises the importance of effective implementation in positive behaviour support.Multi-tiered systems of support are crucial for addressing diverse student needs.Building relationships with students is essential for effective teaching and behaviour management.Teachers often feel overwhelmed by the demands of classroom management and behaviour support.Positive behaviour support should be a team effort involving the entire school community.Teachers need targeted training in behaviour management strategies during their preparation.Academic and social behaviours are interconnected and should be taught together.Implementation of behaviour support strategies must be functional and sustainable.Celebrating small successes can motivate both teachers and students.Research on rights-based approaches to behaviour support is emerging and important.Looking for practical, flexible learning that goes beyond the podcast?The All Access Pass gives you unlimited entry to all of our self-paced online courses, early access to new content, exclusive member discounts, and our ever-growing library of downloadable resources, templates, and clinical tools.It’s all grounded in evidence-based, person-centred practice—designed to support you at your own pace, in real-world ways.Visit https://specialistbehaviour.com/all-access-pass/Questions, comments, feedback?Email us at info@specialistbehaviour.com

Sharpen your PBS skills at the 2026 Positive Behaviour Support Implementation SeminarSix powerful sessions, 6 CEUs, and real-world strategies to elevate your practice.Join us in Preston or online.Spots are limited!Register here 👉 https://pbsimplementationseminar.eventbrite.com.au/In this episode of Behaviour Bits, Jenn Colechin is joined again by behaviour support practitioner, Board Certified Behaviour Analyst, speech pathologist, and co-director of Launch Supervision, Kristin Bayley, for a deep dive into supervision.Together they unpack what “good supervision” really looks like in Positive Behaviour Support, both within NDIS contexts and beyond, and why it matters at every stage of your career.They explore the difference between clinical and organisational supervision, how to balance KPIs with genuine clinical growth, and why the “dose” and quality of supervision can be a major protective factor against practitioner burnout.You’ll also hear practical guidance on individual vs group and clinical vs organisational supervision, how to find a supervisor who’s a good fit for your values, and how supervision can help you hold onto your “why” in this demanding but rewarding work.Takeaways:Supervision should be lifelong: even very experienced practitioners benefit from a reflective space, a soundboard, and someone to challenge and extend their thinking.There is a crucial difference between organisational supervision (KPIs, billables, deadlines, compliance) and clinical supervision (case formulation, evidence base, skills, wellbeing) and both are needed.When supervision time is often consumed by compliance issues, practitioners lose opportunities for deeper clinical reflection and skill-building, and risk practising in a reactive way.Finding a supervisor starts with knowing your own “why” and values—then seeking out practitioners whose public work resonates, connecting through communities of practice, and treating the match a bit like dating: fit matters.Supervision is a key protection against practitioner burnout in emotionally demanding work; connection, celebration of small wins, and peer/reading groups all help you keep giving people the best of you, not just what’s left of you.Looking for practical, flexible learning that goes beyond the podcast?The All Access Pass gives you unlimited entry to all of our self-paced online courses, early access to new content, exclusive member discounts, and our ever-growing library of downloadable resources, templates, and clinical tools.It’s all grounded in evidence-based, person-centred practice—designed to support you at your own pace, in real-world ways.Visit https://specialistbehaviour.com/all-access-pass/Questions, comments, feedback?Email us at info@specialistbehaviour.com