Behaviour therapy is a form of therapy that focuses on changing behaviours in a positive and effective way. Behaviour therapy for children in Australia can help children overcome problematic behaviours and develop healthy habits. In this blog post, we will discuss what a behaviour therapist is, why your child might see a behaviour therapist, how to get a referral, what to consider before seeing a behaviour therapist, what to expect during the appointment, and what financial support is available in Australia.
A behaviour therapist is a professional who specializes in behaviour therapy. They work with individuals to identify problematic behaviours and develop strategies to change those behaviours. Behaviour therapists may have training in various approaches, including Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Your child may see a behaviour therapist if they are exhibiting problematic behaviours such as aggression, self-injury, impulsivity, or anxiety. Behaviour therapy can also be helpful for children with developmental disabilities or behavioural disorders such as ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
You can get a referral to a behaviour therapist from your child’s doctor, a psychologist, or a therapist. You may also be able to find a behaviour therapist through your child’s school or community services.
Before seeing a behaviour therapist, it is important to consider the cost of the therapy, the location of the therapist’s office, and the therapist’s experience and qualifications. It is also important to consider your child’s needs and goals for therapy and whether behaviour therapy is the right approach for your child.
During the appointment, the behaviour therapist will typically conduct an assessment to gather information about your child’s behaviour and identify the problematic behaviours that need to be addressed. The therapist will then develop a treatment plan and work with you and your child to implement strategies to change the problematic behaviours. The therapist may also provide training and support to help you and your child maintain the positive changes.
Behaviour therapists may conduct behavioural assessments to gather information about your child’s behaviour. These assessments may include direct observation of your child’s behaviour, interviews with you and your child, and questionnaires or rating scales.
Behaviour therapists do not typically provide diagnoses, but they may work with your child’s doctor or psychologist to develop a treatment plan that addresses any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the problematic behaviours.
Behaviour therapists may use various treatments and therapies, including ABA, CBT, and Positive Behavioural Interventions and Supports (PBIS). These treatments may involve the use of rewards, consequences, and positive reinforcement to change behaviours.
In Australia, some private health insurance plans may cover the cost of behaviour therapy. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may also provide funding for behaviour therapy for children with disabilities.
It is important to take care of yourself and your family during the therapy process. This may include setting aside time for self-care, seeking support from family and friends, and staying engaged in your child’s therapy process. It is also important to communicate openly with your child’s therapist and ask questions as needed to ensure that you are fully involved in the therapy process.
