Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBA)
Understanding Behaviour to Provide the Right Support

At Belong Health, our Positive Behaviour Support practitioners provide Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBA) to help individuals, families, and support teams better understand behaviours of concern and identify effective support strategies.

A Functional Behaviour Assessment is a structured process used to understand why behaviours occur, what factors may be contributing to them, and how the person can be supported in safer and more positive ways.

Rather than focusing only on stopping behaviours, an FBA helps identify the needs, triggers, and environmental factors influencing behaviour so that meaningful and sustainable supports can be put in place.

This process forms an important foundation for developing NDIS Behaviour Support Plans and improving a person’s quality of life.

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What Is a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
A Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) is a detailed assessment completed by a trained behaviour support practitioner to understand:

• The behaviours of concern
• Situations that may trigger behaviour
• What the behaviour may be communicating
• What outcomes may be maintaining the behaviour

By identifying these factors, the assessment helps guide support strategies that focus on:

• Skill development
• Environmental adjustments
• Communication supports
• Emotional regulation
• Capacity building for carers and support teams

Functional Behaviour Assessments are commonly used when individuals experience behaviours such as:

• Aggression
• Self-injurious behaviour
• Property damage
• Running away or elopement
• Emotional escalation
• Refusal or shutdown behaviours

Our approach focuses on understanding behaviour as communication, not as intentional misconduct.

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Who May Benefit From a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
Functional Behaviour Assessments may support individuals across the lifespan, including:
Children
Children who may be experiencing:

• Emotional regulation difficulties
• Behaviour challenges at home or school
• Autism-related behaviours
• ADHD-related impulsivity or frustration
• Difficulty coping with transitions or routines

Adolescents
Young people who may be experiencing:

• Escalating emotional responses
• School refusal
• Conflict with peers or family
• Social withdrawal

Adults
Adults who may require behaviour support due to:

• Intellectual disability
• Autism
• Psychosocial disability
• Brain injury
• Complex support needs

Older Adults
Older adults may benefit from behaviour support when experiencing:

• Dementia-related behaviours
• Cognitive changes
• Environmental stress or distress

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Functional Behaviour Assessments at Belong Health
At Belong Health, our PBS practitioners complete Functional Behaviour Assessments as part of a structured and collaborative process.
This process may involve:

Initial Consultation
We begin by meeting with the individual and their support network to understand:

• The behaviours of concern
• When and where behaviours occur
• Environmental factors
• Current supports in place

Information Gathering
We collect information from multiple sources including:

• Families and carers
• Support workers
• Teachers or school staff
• Other therapists
• Existing reports or assessments

Behaviour Observation
Where appropriate, the practitioner may observe behaviour within the person’s natural environments such as:

• Home
• School
• Community settings
• Supported accommodation

Behaviour Data Collection
Practitioners may use tools such as:

• ABC behaviour charts
• Behaviour pattern tracking
• Environmental analysis
• Behaviour interviews

These tools help identify patterns that may contribute to behaviour.

Functional Analysis
The practitioner then analyses the information gathered to identify the function of behaviour, which may include:

• Seeking attention
• Avoiding difficult tasks
• Accessing preferred activities
• Managing sensory needs

​Support Recommendations
Following the assessment, the practitioner provides recommendations that may guide:

• Behaviour Support Plans
• Environmental adjustments
• Skill building strategies
• Support worker training
• Family guidance

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​The 7 Steps of a Functional Behaviour Assessment
Functional Behaviour Assessments typically follow a structured process.

1. Define the Behaviour: 
Clearly identifying the behaviour of concern.

2. Gather Background Information: 
Reviewing reports, history, and previous supports.

3. Interview Key People: 
Speaking with families, carers, and support teams.

4. Observe Behaviour: 
Observing behaviour in relevant environments.

5. Collect Behaviour Data: 
Recording patterns and triggers using structured tools.

6. Identify the Function of Behaviour: 
Understanding what the behaviour may be achieving.
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7. Develop Support Recommendations: 
​Using the information gathered to guide effective behaviour support strategies.

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Common Tools Used in Functional Behaviour Assessments
Our practitioners may use several evidence-informed tools when completing an FBA, including:

• ABC behaviour charts (Antecedent – Behaviour – Consequence)
• Behaviour observation logs
• Functional assessment interviews
• Behaviour pattern analysis
• Environmental assessments
• Functional assessment checklists

These tools help provide a clearer understanding of behaviour patterns.

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How Long Does a Functional Behaviour Assessment Take?
The timeframe for an FBA can vary depending on the complexity of the situation and the environments involved.
An FBA may involve:

• Interviews with families and support teams
• Behaviour observations
• Data collection
• Analysis and reporting

For many individuals, the process may take several hours across multiple sessions, allowing the practitioner to gather meaningful information before making recommendations.

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Working With Families and Support Teams
Families and carers play an important role in the Functional Behaviour Assessment process.
They often have the best understanding of:

• Daily routines
• Behaviour patterns
• Triggers and calming strategies
• Environmental factors

At Belong Health, we work collaboratively with:

• Families
• Support workers
• Teachers
• Support coordinators
• Allied health professionals

This team approach helps ensure strategies are practical and consistent across environments.

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What Happens After the Assessment?
Following a Functional Behaviour Assessment, the practitioner may:

• Develop an Interim Behaviour Support Plan
• Develop a Comprehensive Behaviour Support Plan
• Provide guidance for families and support workers
• Support skill development strategies
• Recommend environmental adjustments
• Assist with restrictive practice reduction where required

The goal is to support the person to communicate their needs, reduce distress, and participate more comfortably in everyday life.

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Access Functional Behaviour Assessment Services
Belong Health provides Positive Behaviour Support services across Western Australia, including Functional Behaviour Assessments for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults.
If you would like to learn more about whether a Functional Behaviour Assessment may be appropriate, our team can help guide you through the next steps.
You can contact our team to discuss referrals, NDIS behaviour support services, or support options.

Enquire Now

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
A Functional Behaviour Assessment is a structured process used to understand why behaviours of concern occur and how they can be safely and effectively supported.

Can parents request a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
Yes. Parents and carers can request an FBA if they are concerned about behaviours that are impacting wellbeing, safety, or participation in daily activities.

Who is qualified to complete a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
Functional Behaviour Assessments are typically completed by trained professionals such as:

• Positive Behaviour Support Practitioners
• Psychologists
• Behaviour Analysts
• Allied health professionals with behaviour support training

Which comes first — an FBA or a Behaviour Support Plan?
An FBA comes first.
The assessment provides the information needed to develop an effective Behaviour Support Plan.

What are the two main types of Functional Behaviour Assessment?
FBAs often include two main approaches:
Indirect assessment

• Interviews
• Questionnaires
• Behaviour checklists

Direct assessment

• Behaviour observations
• Data collection
• ABC recording

Who may be eligible for a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
An FBA may be appropriate for individuals experiencing behaviours that affect safety, relationships, learning, or daily participation.
This may include individuals with:

• Autism
• ADHD
• Intellectual disability
• Brain injury
• Dementia
• Psychosocial disability

free 30min PBS Session
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Connect with Belong Health to experience personalised therapy services in the Peel Region or via Telehealth Across Australia.
Our Free Connect PBS session with a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner  is designed to address your unique needs and empower you or your family.
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Autism Spectrum Disorder

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​Attention and concentration difficulties 
including ADD/ADHD

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Cognitive Impairments/Neuro:Stroke, Parkinson's, Dementia, Motor Neuron, Multiple Sclerosis

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Co-Morbidities Related to Older Adults/Geriatric

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Developmental delays

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Early Intervention​

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Emotional regulation difficulties

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Global Developmental Delay​

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Mental Health: Anxiety, Depression, Behavioural Responses

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OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)​

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ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder)​

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PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) ​

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Positive Behaviour Management Solution​s

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Responsive Behaviour Strategies​

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Sensory processing

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Schizophrenia

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Assessments & Reports

Functional Behaviour Assessment

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SDA: Specialist Disability Accommodation​

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SIL: Supported Independent Living

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Client Diagnosis

Early Childhood 0-6yrs 

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School Aged 7-17yrs 

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Client Age Range 

Young Adults 18-26yrs

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Adulthood 27-64yrs

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Seniors 65+yrs

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Restrictive Practices at Belong Health
​1. Definition and Purpose

• Restrictive Practices are interventions or strategies that limit the rights or freedom of movement of an individual, used only when necessary to ensure safety and reduce harm. At Belong Health, these can only be prescribed by a Specialist PBS Practitioner under NDIS Guidelines.
• These practices are considered a last resort, implemented when all other less restrictive strategies have been exhausted or deemed ineffective.

2. Assessment and Identification

• A comprehensive assessment is conducted to identify the specific behaviours of concern and the underlying triggers.
• Restrictive practices are identified as necessary only if they are essential to protect the individual or others from immediate harm.

3. Development of the Behaviour Support Plan

• The BSP outlines the circumstances under which restrictive practices may be applied, ensuring they are clearly defined, justified, and used minimally.
• The plan must include proactive strategies aimed at reducing the need for restrictive practices, focusing on teaching alternative behaviours and modifying environmental triggers.

4. Ethical Considerations and Human Rights

• The use of restrictive practices at Belong Health aligns with human rights principles, ensuring the individual's dignity and autonomy are respected.
• Ethical guidelines require that these practices are used only for the shortest time necessary and are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain essential.

5. Implementation and Monitoring

• The BSP specifies who is authorised to implement restrictive practices and under what conditions.
• Ongoing monitoring is critical to assess the effectiveness and necessity of restrictive practices, with data collected regularly to inform decision-making.
• The plan includes a process for the gradual reduction and eventual elimination of restrictive practices, as the individual’s behaviours improve.

6. Review and Adjustment

• Regular reviews of the BSP are conducted to evaluate the continued need for restrictive practices, ensuring they are still appropriate and effective.
• The plan is adjusted based on the individual's progress, with the goal of reducing reliance on restrictive practices as the individual develops safer and more adaptive behaviours.

7. Documentation and Reporting

• All instances of restrictive practices must be thoroughly documented, including the rationale for their use, the duration, and the outcomes.
• Reports are shared with relevant stakeholders, including the individual (where appropriate), their family, and any regulatory bodies, to ensure transparency and accountability.

8. Collaboration and Support

• Collaboration with the individual’s support network, including family, caregivers, and other professionals, is essential to ensure consistency in the application of the BSP.
• Training and support are provided to all involved parties to ensure that restrictive practices are implemented safely and ethically, with a focus on reducing their use over time.
  
  
  

Who Can Prescribe Restrictive Practices?
Restrictive practices can only be incorporated into a Behaviour Support Plan (BSP) by a Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioner. At Belong Health, our practitioners are specifically trained to assess complex behaviours and determine when, if ever, the use of restrictive practices is necessary. Their expertise ensures that any restrictive interventions are carefully considered, ethically justified, and applied in the least restrictive manner possible. Our practitioners thoroughly document the rationale for their inclusion, ensuring that all other positive and less restrictive strategies have been exhausted. Moreover, they are responsible for ensuring that these practices are used as a last resort, monitored closely, and regularly reviewed with the goal of reducing or eliminating their use over time.


Using Telehealth at Belong Health
Telehealth at Belong Health offers a flexible and accessible format for delivering counselling sessions to clients with Behaviours of Concern, particularly after a Behaviour Support Plan (BSP) has been developed. Through secure video conferencing, clients can engage in sessions from the comfort of their own homes, which can reduce anxiety and create a more conducive environment for open discussion. Telehealth allows for consistent monitoring and support, enabling our counsellors to adjust interventions as needed in real-time. This continuity of care is crucial for the successful implementation of BSPs, ensuring that clients have the ongoing guidance and encouragement they need to achieve positive behavioural outcomes.

FAQs about Functional Behaviour Assessments at Belong Health
​
What is a Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)?
​A Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) is a structured process used to understand why a behaviour is occurring. It looks at triggers, the behaviour itself, and what happens afterwards to identify the function or purpose of the behaviour.

What is a Functional Behaviour Assessment under the NDIS?
Under the NDIS, an FBA is used to inform a Behaviour Support Plan by identifying behaviours of concern, their triggers, and appropriate strategies to support the individual safely and effectively.

What are the steps of a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
An FBA generally includes gathering background information, observing behaviour in different environments, identifying triggers, analysing behaviour, determining the function, and developing strategies to inform a Behaviour Support Plan.

What is the first step in a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
The first step is gathering information about the individual, including their history, environment, and current concerns, before observing behaviour.

How do you start a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
An FBA begins with a referral or identified concerns, followed by interviews with caregivers or support teams, reviewing existing reports, and initial observations.

What is included in a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
An FBA typically includes background information, behaviour descriptions, triggers and patterns, ABC analysis (Antecedent, Behaviour, Consequence), identified function of behaviour, and recommendations for support strategies.

What questions are asked in a Functional Behaviour Assessment?Questions may include when the behaviour occurs, what happens before and after, what the individual gains or avoids, and whether there are environmental or sensory triggers.

What is the ABC model in a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
The ABC model stands for Antecedent (what happens before), Behaviour (the action), and Consequence (what happens after). It helps identify patterns and understand the purpose of behaviour.

What are the types of Functional Behaviour Assessments?
The main types include indirect assessment (interviews and questionnaires), descriptive assessment (observations), and functional analysis (structured testing of behaviour).

What is an FBA for autism?
An FBA for autism helps identify why behaviours occur, often focusing on communication needs, sensory differences, and environmental factors.

What is an FBA for ADHD?
An FBA for ADHD focuses on understanding behaviours related to attention, impulsivity, and regulation, and identifying supports to improve functioning.

Who performs a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
Functional Behaviour Assessments are conducted by trained professionals such as Behaviour Support Practitioners, psychologists, and occupational therapists.

Who can conduct a Functional Behaviour Assessment under the NDIS?
Under the NDIS, FBAs are typically conducted by qualified Behaviour Support Practitioners who meet registration and capability requirements.

How long does a Functional Behaviour Assessment take?
Timeframes vary depending on complexity, but an FBA typically involves multiple sessions, observations, and report writing over several weeks.

What tools are used in a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
Common tools include behaviour checklists, rating scales, structured interviews, direct observations, and ABC data collection.

What happens after a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
The findings are used to identify the function of behaviour, develop strategies, and create or inform a Behaviour Support Plan.

How does a Functional Behaviour Assessment improve behaviour?
By understanding the reason behind behaviour, supports can be targeted to reduce triggers and teach more effective alternative skills.

Is a Functional Behaviour Assessment used in schools?
Yes, FBAs are commonly used in schools, as well as home, community, and clinical settings.

Is a Functional Behaviour Assessment used with adults?
Yes, FBAs are used across all ages, including adults and older adults, particularly in NDIS and aged care settings.

When should a Functional Behaviour Assessment be completed?
An FBA is recommended when behaviours of concern are ongoing, safety is impacted, or current strategies are not effective.

What is the difference between an FBA and a Behaviour Support Plan?
An FBA identifies why behaviour occurs, while a Behaviour Support Plan outlines strategies to support the individual.

Which comes first: FBA or Behaviour Support Plan?
The FBA comes first, as it informs the development of the Behaviour Support Plan.

Can a parent request a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
Yes, parents can request an FBA through NDIS providers, schools, or healthcare professionals if they have concerns about behaviour.

How do you explain an FBA to parents?
An FBA is a way of understanding why behaviour happens so the individual can be supported more effectively, rather than simply trying to stop the behaviour.

What are common mistakes in a Functional Behaviour Assessment?
Common mistakes include focusing only on behaviour rather than its cause, inconsistent data collection, not involving caregivers or support teams, and using strategies without understanding the function of behaviour.

Accessing our services

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Private Health
Your Private Health fund may cover up to 75% of the cost of OT or SP sessions if this is included in your cover, be sure to call them or check your policy for details.

No referral or self referral
You do not require a referral for accessing OT, SP, RMT, Counselling or PBS.

​Referrals to Belong Health
We are Medicare and Private Health fund registered for OT or SP.

EPC/Team care arrangements/Chronic disease (CDM) and Helping Children with Autism (HCWA) or GP management plans and self-referrals are all acceptable.

WA NDIS Registered Provider  

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NDIS Registered Provider
We are an NDIS Registered Provider
Whether you or your child have NDIS funding that is NDIS Managed, Third Party Plan Managed or you are Self-Managing your funds, you are able to use your funding to cover the full cost of therapy services plus travel costs. You will need provide us with your/your child’s NDIS number and plan details ahead of your first session. Once you have booked a session or contacted us, our team will be in touch to discuss our service agreement and provide you with our services price list. 

Let's Work Together

Medicare
You can get a referral from your/your child’s GP for OT/SP on a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan this gives you 5 sessions for OT per calendar year with a $60 rebate available on each session. A Helping Children with Autism/PDD/ or an eligible disability package (20 sessions between allied health professionals, as set up by a Paediatrician/Psychiatrist) which gives your child under 16 years a $75 rebate per session for the 20 sessions, you can use up to 10 sessions per Health Professional (up to 10 for OT/SP) and you will need a separate referral letter from your child’s Paediatrician for each Allied Health Professional you are seeking services from. 

Have a question? or need more information

Our friendly team are happy to help call us on 08 9586 3634 or send us a message