Emily Jonas
Behaviour Support Practitioner
What led you to becoming a Behaviour Support Practitioner?
I was drawn to behaviour support because it combines my interest in psychology with the opportunity to make a practical difference in people’s lives. Throughout my psychology studies and experience providing behaviour support services to NDIS participants, I love seeking to use a holistic approach understanding the multitude of factors that influence and maintain certain behaviours. I really value the Positive Behaviour Support framework because of its holistic focus on improving overall quality of life through collaboration with the participant within their support system. Having the privilege to work alongside participants to help them achieve their behaviour support goals and pursue what is meaningful to them is why I love my job so much.
What does a ‘win’ look like for you in your work?
A win in my work is when a participant feels understood and supported. This might look different for each person, for example, developing a new skill, having more opportunities for choice and control or having their support team respond more effectively to their wants and needs.
Why do you like working at Brain Sense?
I appreciate that Brain Sense focuses on understanding behaviour through a brain-based and evidence-informed lens. I also value the emphasis on personalised support by recognising that every individual has their own personal strengths, wants, needs and goals. I love being surrounded by clinicians who are also passionate about evidence-based practice and learning from them. Regular discussions with my team allow me to continue developing my skills while contributing to meaningful outcomes for participants.
What values inform your approach?
- Respect and dignity – I believe that every individual deserves to be treated with respect and have their voice heard regardless of their communication abilities or support needs.
- Curiosity over judgement – I try to understand why a behaviour is happening before making assumptions. I see behaviour as a form of communication and aim to understand the person’s unmet needs or circumstances.
What do you find rewarding about being a Behaviour Support Practitioner?
The most rewarding part of my role as a Behaviour Support Practitioner is seeing the positive impact that person-centred support can have on someone’s quality of life. I enjoy getting to know each person I work with, understanding what is important to them and working collaboratively with them and their team to achieve their goals. It is rewarding to see someone gain new skills, reduce engagement in behaviours of concern/harm and utilise their choice and control.
What are some of your personal interests?
- Spending quality time with my family, friends, partner and cat
- Reading novels and non-fiction books about the brain and behaviour
- Running, I completed by first marathon last year!