Why My Specialist Positive Behaviour Support Approach is Different

When families or professionals hear behaviour support, they often think of simple strategies: identifying triggers, understanding the function of a behaviour, and implementing a plan to reduce or replace it. While this is a piece of the puzzle, it’s far from the whole picture—especially when working with neurodivergent children and young people who have experienced trauma.

As a Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioner with expertise in neurodivergence and trauma-informed care, my approach goes far beyond surface-level observations or generic behaviour plans. Here’s why.

I Look Beneath the Behaviour

Instead of seeing behaviours as merely “challenging” or “non-compliant,” I recognise them as communication—and often, as natural trauma or stress responses. Many children I support are not simply seeking attention or avoiding demands. They are:

• Fighting because they feel unsafe.

• Fleeing because they are overwhelmed.

• Freezing because their nervous system has shut down.

• Fawning because they’ve learned to appease others to avoid conflict.

These responses are especially common among children who are neurodivergent or living with disabilities.

Recognising the Link Between Neurodivergence, Disability, and Trauma

Children who are neurodivergent or have disabilities are statistically more likely to experience trauma. This can happen for many reasons, including:

• Chronic sensory overload or unmet sensory needs.

• Difficulties with communication, leading to frustration or feeling misunderstood.

• Frequent medical procedures or hospital stays.

• Experiences of exclusion, bullying, or discrimination.

• Repeated failures or punishments when support systems don’t recognise their needs.

These early and repeated stressors can have a profound impact on development and wellbeing. That’s why trauma-informed practice isn’t optional—it’s essential.

I Integrate Child Development Theory—Including Trauma

One of the biggest misconceptions is assuming a child’s development is neatly aligned with their chronological age. For neurodivergent children—especially those with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences—development often happens unevenly across different domains (emotional regulation, language, social skills, executive function). Trauma can compound this further, slowing or interrupting progress in key areas.

This is why I never rely on blanket expectations like “a 7-year-old should be able to do this.” Instead, I take the time to:

• Assess each developmental domain individually.

• Recognise how trauma can impact the development of skills like self-regulation and attachment.

• Tailor strategies that meet the child exactly where they are right now.

  
  

My Step-Up, Step-Down Approach

Because each child’s capacity fluctuates day to day (or moment to moment), I use a step-up, step-down framework that adapts to their nervous system, sensory needs, and readiness to learn.

• On days they feel regulated, we build new skills and gently expand their comfort zone.

• On days they are overwhelmed, we step down expectations and focus on connection and safety.

This approach not only builds trust but also prevents burnout—for both the child and the adults supporting them.

A Holistic, Collaborative Model

At Tranquil Trails Therapy, my practice is grounded in collaboration, compassion, and evidence-informed strategies. My goal isn’t just to “fix behaviours.” It’s to:

✅ Help children feel safe and valued.

✅ Strengthen their capacity to self-regulate.

✅ Build skills gradually, at their pace.

✅ Empower families and educators to feel confident and supported.

I also recognise that every family is different. Parents and carers bring their own strengths, daily stresses, and unique experiences—including, sometimes, their own trauma histories. I honour this by:

• Working collaboratively to set realistic goals that fit each family’s capacity.

• Offering a non-judgmental space where parents feel heard and respected.

• Prioritising strategies that are sustainable in real life—not just ideal scenarios.

When you work with me, you get an ally who sees the whole child—and the whole family—through a lens of empathy and possibility. Together, we create a plan that is truly individualised and sustainable.

Every child deserves support that honours their story, their strengths, and their humanity.