Liam (Name changed for privacy) is a curious and energetic boy diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and moderate intellectual disability. He lives with his parents and younger brother. Liam loves trains and swimming butt has struggled significantly with communication and emotional regulation.
Presenting Issues:
- Self-Injurious Behaviour: Frequent headbanging and biting his own hands when distressed or unable to communicate his needs.
- Aggression: Physical aggression towards family members and support workers, particularly during transitions or when denied a preferred item.
- Community Isolation: Due to the severity of his public meltdowns, Liam’s family had stopped taking him to parks, shops, or family gatherings.
The Challenge
Liam’s family was in crisis. The intensity of his behaviours had led to a restrictive home environment where everyone was constantly on high alert.
Impact at Home & School:
- At Home: Liam’s parents were exhausted and fearful for his safety. They had resorted to locking doors and removing furniture to prevent injury, which felt restrictive and undignified but necessary at the time.
- At School: Liam was spending most of his school day in a sensory room, isolated from peers because his outbursts were considered a safety risk to others. His learning had stalled, and he was disengaged.
- NDIS Complexity: While Liam had an NDIS plan, his previous supports were general in nature and failed to address the root causes of his complex behaviours.
We thought we had tried everything. But the specialised support from daar was different. They didn't just give us a plan; they taught us how to understand Liam. For the first time in years, we went to the park as a family last week. That freedom means everything.
daar Therapy Approach
Liam’s family engaged daar for Specialised Behaviour Support funded by his NDIS plan. Our approach was not just to manage the behaviour, but to understand the "why" behind it and build a life of quality and inclusion.
Key Interventions Implemented:
- Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA): We conducted a deep-dive assessment to identify the triggers for Liam’s aggression. We discovered that his self-injury was often a response to sensory overload and his aggression was a way to communicate "I need a break" or "I want that."
- Positive Behaviour Support Plan (PBSP): We developed a comprehensive, person-centered plan. This included proactive strategies like using a visual communication board to request breaks and sensory regulation tools (chewelry, noise-canceling headphones) to manage overload.
- Skill Building: Instead of just stopping the behaviour, we taught Liam replacement behaviours. He learned to hand over a "break" card instead of hitting, which was immediately reinforced by his support team.
- Team Collaboration: We trained Liam’s parents, school staff, and support workers on the new plan. Consistency was key—everyone used the same language and strategies, creating a predictable environment for Liam.
- Reduction of Restrictive Practices: A major goal was to safely fade out the environmental restraints (locked doors) by teaching Liam safety skills and increasing his supervision in a supportive way.
Results and Progress
Over eight months, the shift from reactive management to proactive, specialised support transformed Liam’s world.
Measurable Improvements:
- Reduction in Self-Injury: Incidents of head-banging have decreased by 90%, occurring only rarely during extreme illness or fatigue.
- Community Access: Liam now visits the local park and grocery store weekly with his support worker, with zero incidents of aggression in the last three months.
- School Engagement: Liam is back in the classroom for 60% of the day, participating in group activities with his peers.
- Communication: He independently uses his communication board to request needs, significantly reducing his frustration.
Key Outcomes
Liam’s success illustrates the power of Specialised Behaviour Support for NDIS participants with complex needs.
- Quality of Life: Liam is no longer confined to his home. He is experiencing the world and enjoying his life.
- Dignity and Safety: The need for restrictive practices has been drastically reduced, respecting Liam’s human rights while keeping him safe.
- Family Resilience: His parents feel empowered and supported, knowing they have a roadmap to handle challenges.
Conclusion
Complex behaviours don't have to mean a limited life. With socialised behaviour therapy and a specialised approach, individuals like Liam can thrive. The NDIS provides the pathway, and daar provides the expertise to walk it with you.
If you or a loved one needs specialised support for complex behaviours, daar is here to help. We build plans that build lives.
Ready to unlock potential?
Contact daar today to schedule a consultation and discuss your NDIS behaviour support needs.