
Behavior Management, also referred to as behavioral modification, is a scientific method that is based on the idea that problem behavior is learned over time and maintained by consequences in the environment. Effective behavioral management often requires teaching a new skill or an appropriate behavior to replace an inappropriate behavior or negative actions within specific settings including home, school, place of employment, or the community. Assessments and Behavior Support Plans are completed to target problem behaviors and provide the team with methods to work with the individual to reduce pain associated with poor choice making and increase personal happiness by teaching more appropriate alternative behaviors. Consistency and repetition are key components to behavior change.
Behavior services are implemented by highly trained professionals who have completed a minimum of a Master’s Degree in any applied health service area of psychology (social work, clinical psychology, counseling, etc) and who may also have additional license’s or certifications including Marriage and Family Therapist, Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, etc. Services can be rendered in many different environments including the home, work, school, day program, community settings, etc.
Modality
Behavior management is a scientific method that is based on the idea that problem behavior is learned over time and maintained by consequences in the environment. Assessments and Behavior Support Plans are completed to target problem behaviors and provide the team with methods to work with the individual to reduce pain associated with poor choice making and increase personal happiness by teaching more appropriate alternative behaviors.
Individuals Served
Behavioral Management services are provided for a number of populations, primarily focusing on those who are involved with the Medicaid Waiver system. Behavioral Management clients are typically associated with either the Family Support Waiver (FSW) or the Community Integration and Habilitation waiver (CIH), but we are able to provide services both through an Educational Scholarship Account (ESA) and through self-pay options. Common diagnoses served include those with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, and a number of other intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Outcomes
Behavioral Management has a goal to re-educate, maintain, or improve each clients personal independence by increasing the use of appropriate and adaptive behavioral strategies, in order for the individual to live the best quality of life. Consistency and repetition are key components to behavior change.
Framework
Effective behavioral management often requires teaching a new skill or an appropriate behavior to replace an inappropriate behavior. Services can be rendered in many different environments including the home, work, school, day program, community settings, etc. Behavioral Management sessions can range in durations from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the client’s needs and Behavior Management budget.
Collaboration
It is imperative that all team members participate in the development of the behavior support plan. Also, it is vital that all team members agree with the replacement behaviors and interventions for changing problematic behaviors. At TBH, we focus on team communication and the contracted consultant will also work with the client on trust building or any other kind of strategy that incorporates the development of a meaningful relationship. Research has consistently shown that the most important ingredient to behavior change is the client and contracted consultant relationship.
Independence
Achieving higher levels of independence and wellness for our clients is the ultimate goal for Behavioral Mannagement. By participating in Behavioral Management services, clients will be able to learn skills, habits, coping mechanisms, etc, that they will be able to apply to their daily routines to help not only cope, but thrive in their daily lives.
For any further questions regarding Torres Behavioral Health LLC Behavior Management Services, please contact Kyle Dawalt, MA (Director of Behavior Management) at (260) 702-9145.