Adult Functional Behaviour Assessment

Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)

Completed by a Behavioural Support Practitioner, our Functional Behaviour Assessments help uncover the reasons behind behaviours of concern in adults. Through observation and collaboration with the individual and their support network, we identify triggers, unmet needs, and environmental factors to develop tailored strategies that promote safety, autonomy, and wellbeing.

FBAs are especially helpful when behaviours such as aggression, self-injury, withdrawal, or difficulties with emotional regulation and communication are impacting daily life. Our approach is strengths-based, neuro-affirming, and trauma-informed — focusing on practical, respectful support that upholds each person’s dignity and rights.

These assessments can be funded through an individual’s NDIS plan. If you’d like to learn more or explore whether an FBA is the right support, please contact us — we’re here to help every step of the way.

Behaviours Impacting Daily Life

When behaviours such as aggression, property damage, self-injury, or withdrawal are affecting someone’s ability to engage in daily routines or relationships, an FBA can help uncover the underlying reasons and develop supportive strategies.

Emotional Regulation Difficulties

If an adult experiences intense emotions like anger, anxiety, or frustration and finds it hard to manage or express them, an FBA can identify triggers and guide the development of calming, practical regulation strategies.

Distress Linked to Environmental or Sensory Factors

Some behaviours may be a response to overwhelming environments—like noise, crowds, or lighting. An FBA can help identify sensory triggers and offer adjustments to support comfort and safety.

Communication Through Behaviour

When a person struggles to express their needs verbally or through other means, they may rely on behaviour to communicate. An FBA helps identify what the person is trying to say, and supports alternative ways to be heard.

Concerns About Restrictive Practices

If restrictive practices (such as physical restraint, seclusion, or medication use) are in place or being considered, an FBA is essential to find safer, rights-based alternatives that support the person’s autonomy and wellbeing.

Risk of Social or Service Exclusion

When behaviours put someone at risk of being excluded from housing, day programs, employment, or community spaces, an FBA can provide proactive strategies to increase inclusion and participation.

Need for Consistent Support Across Environments

When multiple people support an individual—such as in shared housing or support shifts—an FBA helps ensure consistent, informed responses that reduce confusion and promote stability and trust.

A functional behavioural assessment (FBA) may encompass some or all of the following components, though it's not mandatory for all cases:

Initial Consultation and Consent

The FBA begins with gaining informed consent and discussing the goals of the assessment. This step includes a respectful conversation with the individual and/or their guardians, to understand what supports are needed and how the person wishes to be involved.

Background and History Gathering

This involves reviewing relevant medical, psychological, developmental, and support history. It may include speaking with family, support workers, or allied health professionals to understand past experiences, diagnoses, and behavioural patterns.

Interview with the Individual and Key Supports

Where appropriate, the Behaviour Support Practitioner will speak directly with the adult and their key support people to gain insight into what’s working, what’s not, and what matters most to the person in their daily life.

Observation in Natural Environments

The practitioner may observe the individual in familiar settings—such as home, supported accommodation, day programs, or the community—to see how they interact with people and environments, and what triggers or supports certain behaviours.

Behavioural Data Collection

Support staff or carers may be asked to record specific behavioural events using agreed tracking tools. This helps identify patterns in when, where, and why behaviours of concern are occurring.

Functional Analysis of Behaviour

The practitioner reviews all gathered information to identify the possible function or purpose of the behaviour—whether it’s to gain something (like attention or a preferred item), avoid something, or meet a sensory or emotional need.

Identification of Triggers and Unmet Needs

Understanding what precedes behaviours of concern helps identify unmet needs, environmental stressors, or communication breakdowns that can be addressed through support planning.

Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams

Where needed, the practitioner may consult with other therapists (e.g., psychology, OT, speech) to ensure the assessment reflects the person’s holistic needs and to support integrated planning.

Development of Behaviour Support Recommendations

Findings are used to guide practical strategies tailored to the individual. This may include proactive supports, environmental changes, communication tools, or regulation strategies that promote safety, dignity, and choice.

Report and Feedback Session

The final report is written in accessible language and shared with the person and their supports. A feedback session is held to explain the outcomes, answer questions, and collaborate on next steps for implementation.

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