The Difference Between Behaviour Support and Therapy

We are frequently asked the question, “I see a psychologist, do I also need behaviour support?”. Behaviour support and therapy are two approaches often used to help individuals who may be struggling with certain behaviours or mental health issues. While there may be some overlap between these two approaches, there are some important differences to consider.

Behaviour support, also known as positive behaviour support, is an approach that aims to promote positive behaviours while decreasing negative or challenging behaviours. It involves identifying the factors that may contribute to a person's challenging behaviour and then implementing strategies to address those factors. This may include teaching new skills, providing positive reinforcement for appropriate behaviours, and creating a structured and predictable environment. Every behaviour has a purpose, it’s a way of connecting and communicating a need. By understanding why certain behaviours happen and what triggers them, we can develop alternative strategies that not only address the issue but also promote independence and functionality, and improve both physical and mental well-being.

Behaviour support is often used with individuals who have developmental disabilities, but it can also be helpful for individuals with other types of challenges, such as those related to mental health or trauma. The focus is on teaching new skills and creating an environment that supports positive behaviour.

Therapy, on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to a range of approaches aimed at improving mental health and emotional well-being. Therapy may involve talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or other approaches, depending on the individual's needs and goals. Therapy typically focuses on addressing underlying psychological or emotional issues that may be contributing to negative behaviours or mental health challenges. It may involve exploring past experiences, identifying patterns of thought or behaviour, and developing coping strategies.

While there may be some overlap between behaviour support and therapy, the main difference is in their focus. Behaviour support focuses on addressing specific behaviours and creating a supportive environment, while therapy focuses on improving overall mental health and addressing underlying psychological issues.

In some cases, both behaviour support and therapy may be used together to provide a comprehensive approach to addressing mental health or behavioural challenges. For example, a person with a developmental disability may receive behaviour support to address specific behaviours, while also receiving therapy to address any underlying psychological issues that may be contributing to those behaviours.

At JRTS, we believe a Behaviour Support Plan is only as effective as the people implementing it. That’s why education is at the heart of what we do.

We don’t just write plans—we unpack them, educate, and train those who need to use them. Whether the plan is written by us or another provider, our goal is to bring it to life through hands-on, practical training. By ensuring a deep understanding of behaviour strategies, we empower individuals to create meaningful change.