Clinical Conversations – PBS, Restrictive Practices and the OT's Role in Behaviour Support

This session unpacked the realities of working alongside Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) practitioners in paediatric practice, a space many OTs find complex, underdefined, and at times difficult to navigate within the NDIS system.

In this group mentoring session, Claire and Alyce:

• Explored what PBS practitioners actually do, how their role differs from OT, and why the two disciplines can be difficult to align in practice
• Broke down restrictive practices under the NDIS — what counts, what doesn't, and what clinicians are required to document and report
• Discussed when PBS involvement is necessary versus when regulation-based or therapeutic approaches are more appropriate
• Clarified NDIS funding line items for behaviour support and how to distinguish between support for the participant versus training for those around them
• Reflected on the realities of working with families in crisis, long wait times, and the funding gaps between NDIS, schools, and other services

This session blends honest clinical discussion, practical NDIS guidance, and real-world reasoning, giving you a clearer picture of how to navigate behaviour support confidently and within scope.