Moving Through the 11-Step Process

When working with adults with challenging behaviors, the Behavior Consultant moves through the 11 steps listed below.

• Step 1: The Participant is referred to the Behavior Consultant for services through the Developmental Disabilities Program.
• Step 2: The Behavior Consultant obtains releases of information and then accesses and reviews the participant's personal files and historical data.
• Step 3: A meeting is arranged with the participant's service providers and guardians (if applicable).
• Step 4: The participant is observed in at least three community-based settings, such as home, work, and/or day treatment center.
• Step 5: Key cooperating service providers at these community-based settings are interviewed.
• Step 6: The Behavioral Consultant gathers a list of strengths and needs, including any previous treatment approaches to the participant's challenging behavior. An historical review will assist in eliminating treatments that have failed and provide a starting point for defining the challenging behavior.
• Step 7: With the help of key team members the BC identifies which behaviors will receive priority for PBS intervention efforts. Obviously, any behavior that endangers the participant or others should be targeted. Priorities should be established based on how negatively a behavior impacts a community-based life style.
• Step 8: The challenging behavior is identified and targeted for Positive Behavioral Supports (PBS) intervention.
• Step 9: A meeting is held with the participant's Targeted Service Coordinator (TSC), case manager, or person responsible for accessing and monitoring services in the community. A recommendation is submitted to the TSC for the number of hours needed for Behavior Consultation.
• Step 10: The Behavior Consultant advocates for team meetings for the new participant and includes all key service providers.
• Step 11: A weekly schedule for behavior therapy is established.