The story of Brain Sense
Danielle and Emma first worked together in 2014, as restrictive practice clinicians supporting adults with intellectual disability. Emma taught Danielle that building independent skills was one of the most effective ways to reduce behaviours of concern. More independence, less frustration, fewer behaviours. Danielle also learned that clients receive better care when their support network understands the person behind the behaviours, when physical health is managed well, and quality of life is client-defined.
Brain Sense was built on these lessons.
Danielle, an educational and developmental psychologist with a Doctor of Psychology (Clinical and Clinical Neuropsychology), understands how people learn. She explains how each Brain Sense client thinks and engages with their world, so our practitioners can develop individualised plans.
Emma trained in learning disability nursing in the UK and was recruited by the Queensland Government to implement its restrictive practice laws. She leads Brain Sense practitioners to develop plans that build independence, reduce the use of restrictive practices, and work in everyday life for the people who implement them.
Danielle founded Brain Sense in 2024 and invited Emma to join as Chief Operating Officer. Today, our team supports people at all ages and life stages across Brisbane and Ipswich, and every plan follows the same path: assess, plan, support and implement, and review.
Brain Sense is a sister practice of Scope Psychology Services Australia, founded by Dr Danielle Copplin.
Our Values
Person-Centred
We prioritise the unique needs, preferences, and dignity of each client, ensuring personalised and compassionate care.
Transparent
We commit to open, honest, and clear communication with our clients, their support networks and the Brain Sense community, fostering trust and accountability.
Responsive
We are dedicated to promptly addressing the needs and concerns of our clients, adapting quickly to changing circumstances and providing timely support.
Respectful
We honour the individuality and worth of every client and their support network, acknowledging their life experiences, wisdom and individuality, while upholding their privacy, rights, and cultural beliefs.
Outstanding
We strive to deliver services that surpass our competitors through excellence, continuous improvement and innovation.
Our Team
Dr Danielle Copplin
FOUNDER
Danielle is an educational and developmental psychologist with a doctorate in clinical and clinic neuropsychology.
Emma de Pierri
COO & senior Behaviour support practitioner
Emma oversees all Brain Sense Support operations and coordinates our team of behaviour support practitioners.
Ashleigh Nienaber
BEHAVIOUR SUPPORT PRACTITIONER
Ashleigh delivers positive behaviour support services to individuals living in the Ipswich region.
Emily Jonas
BEHAVIOUR SUPPORT PRACTITIONER
Emily delivers positive behaviour support services to individuals living in the Brisbane region.
Cia Hudson
BEHAVIOUR SUPPORT PRACTITIONER
Cia delivers positive behaviour support services
to individuals living in the Brisbane region.
Why Choose Brain Sense?
Choosing Brain Sense means partnering with a team dedicated to understanding the unique power of the brain to drive positive and lasting change. Here’s what sets us apart:
Truly personalised solutions
We go beyond generic strategies. Our in-depth cognitive and functional behaviour assessments ensure that our approach is precisely tailored to your individual strengths, needs, and goals. We understand that every brain is unique, and your support should be too.
Evidence-Based Expertise
Our strategies are rooted in the latest research in cognitive science and behavioural psychology. You can be confident that you’re receiving support that is not only compassionate but also scientifically sound and proven to be effective.
A Focus on Empowerment, Choice and Control
We don’t just provide solutions; we empower individuals and their support networks with the knowledge and tools to understand behaviour and foster independence. Our goal is to equip you for long-term success.
Practical and Sustainable Strategies
We understand that real change happens in everyday life. Our strategies are designed to be practical, implementable, and sustainable, leading to tangible improvements in behaviour and overall well-being.
A Compassionate and Experienced Team
Our team is comprised of dedicated professionals with expertise in developmental disabilities, dementia care, and positive behaviour change. We are passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve and approach every individual with empathy and respect.
A Holistic Approach
We consider the whole person, taking into account their cognitive abilities, environmental factors, and individual goals to create comprehensive and effective support plans.
Commitment to Collaboration
We believe in working closely with individuals, families, caregivers, and other support professionals to ensure a unified and effective approach. Your input and perspective are invaluable to the process.