Supporting individuals with complex needs requires more than just care, it requires understanding, compassion, and evidence-based strategies that enhance quality of life. Trusted experts in dietitian services, behaviour therapy, and NDIS support provides comprehensive guidance to help participants achieve meaningful progress in every area of wellbeing.
Under the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), behaviour support is a key service designed to empower people with disabilities to live more independently, build meaningful relationships, and engage confidently in daily life.
This article explores what behaviour support for complex needs is, why it matters, its benefits, and practical ways to make the most of it. Whether you are a family member, carer, or participant, understanding behaviour therapy under the NDIS can help you make informed decisions and access the right support.
Behaviour support focuses on understanding the reasons behind a person’s actions and finding ways to improve their wellbeing through positive, respectful approaches. Instead of focusing on what someone “does wrong,” it looks at what they need and how their environment, communication, and emotions influence behaviour.
For people with complex needs, these supports are essential. Complex needs might involve a combination of physical, mental, emotional, or social challenges that require multiple forms of assistance. In the context of the NDIS, behaviour support aims to help individuals:
Behaviour support under the NDIS is provided by Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) practitioners, professionals trained to assess, plan, and guide strategies that prioritise dignity and human rights.
The NDIS recognises that every participant is unique. Those with complex needs may experience overlapping conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability, acquired brain injury, or mental health challenges. These conditions can make it harder to communicate, manage emotions, or adapt to change.
Complex needs might show up through:
NDIS behaviour support services work to uncover why these behaviours occur and how to create environments that promote safety, engagement, and growth.
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centred approach grounded in psychology, education, and behavioural science. It aims to replace harmful or restrictive practices with positive, proactive strategies.
A behaviour support practitioner will usually start with a Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) a structured process that helps identify the purpose of certain behaviours and the best strategies to support change.
When implemented effectively, behaviour support can transform lives. Here are some of the most important benefits:
People with complex needs often experience frustration or confusion when they cannot communicate effectively. Behaviour support helps them develop coping tools such as breathing techniques, visual aids, or structured routines.
Family members and carers gain insight into how to interact and respond in positive, consistent ways. This strengthens trust and connection.
By teaching life skills like problem-solving, self-care, and communication, behaviour support fosters independence and confidence.
Behaviour plans may include proactive strategies to reduce risk and ensure safety without using restrictive measures.
When behaviours of concern decrease and self-expression improves, participants often enjoy greater participation in school, work, and community life.
NDIS behaviour support services are designed to be flexible and person-centred. Here’s a general overview of the process:
NDIS funding for behaviour support usually falls under Improved Relationships or Capacity Building Supports categories.
Behaviour support is most effective when everyone involved works as a team. Here are some practical ways to get the best results:
Work closely with your behaviour support practitioner. Regular communication ensures strategies are followed and refined over time.
Predictability helps reduce anxiety and confusion. Use visual schedules, calendars, or simple cues to make daily life easier to understand.
Acknowledge and celebrate progress, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and encourages continued success.
If verbal communication is difficult, try alternative methods such as picture cards, sign language, or assistive communication devices.
Nutrition, sleep, and activity levels can all influence behaviour. Encourage:
Use journals, behaviour logs, or digital tracking tools to record observations. This helps identify patterns and celebrate milestones.
Many families overlook the connection between nutrition and behaviour. Research shows that a balanced diet supports emotional stability and cognitive function.
By integrating nutrition advice into behaviour support, participants often experience improvements in focus, mood, and energy levels.
Behaviour support is not only about reducing challenging behaviours, it’s about promoting overall wellbeing. Through guided interventions, participants learn to make choices that support a healthy lifestyle, including:
Providers such as Holistic Me focus on blending behaviour therapy with wellness-based practices to help participants develop healthy habits that support emotional and physical wellbeing. This integrated approach ensures long-term progress and confidence in daily living.
You can access behaviour support through your NDIS plan if you have goals related to building relationships, communication, or independence. The process generally includes:
If you’re unsure where to start, talk to your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) for guidance. Providers like Holistic Me can guide you through this process, helping you connect with trusted practitioners who understand your specific goals and challenges.
Informational intent: What is behaviour support under the NDIS? It’s a tailored approach that helps participants with complex needs build skills, confidence, and independence through compassionate, evidence-based strategies.
Transactional intent: Where can I find NDIS behaviour support for complex needs? You can access registered providers such as Holistic Me, who deliver practical, person-centred behaviour support and wellness guidance designed for lasting results.
Every small improvement is a step toward confidence, connection, and community participation. By combining professional behaviour therapy with good communication, healthy routines, and compassionate care, you can create a supportive environment that truly empowers change.
Contact Holistic Me today to discuss how our NDIS behaviour support services can help you or your loved one develop practical skills, improve wellbeing, and build a healthier lifestyle for the future.
The goal is to help participants improve their quality of life by understanding the reasons behind behaviours and developing positive, practical strategies for change.
Qualified behaviour support practitioners who are registered with the NDIS Commission. They may come from psychology, social work, or allied health backgrounds.
Progress varies depending on individual needs and consistency, but most participants notice improvements within a few months of regular implementation.
Yes. It often works alongside speech therapy, occupational therapy, or counselling to create a comprehensive support system.
Yes, if these services are linked to your goals and needs. Dietitians and wellness coaches can be funded through Capacity Building Supports.