Neuro-Affirming Positive Behaviour Support
What We Do & Why It Matters
We walk alongside neurodivergent children, their families, and support networks to build lasting change through curiosity, collaboration, and compassion. We believe behaviour is communication – and seek to understand what your child is telling us so we can respond with care. Everything we do is grounded in emotional safety, autonomy, and connection.
Meet Our Practitioners
Janie Echt & Cheryl Bladen
Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner
Janie Echt and Cheryl Bladen are experienced paediatric Occupational Therapists and NDIS-endorsed Positive Behaviour Support Practitioners who bring decades of clinical experience supporting neurodivergent children, young people and their families.
Their approach is grounded in the understanding that behaviour is communication. They work alongside children, families, schools and support teams to understand the factors contributing to behaviours of concern and develop practical, proactive strategies that build skills, support regulation, strengthen relationships, and improve quality of life. This includes considering sensory processing, nervous system regulation, communication, emotional wellbeing, relationships and environmental demands.
Drawing on their extensive backgrounds in occupational therapy, trauma-informed practice, sensory processing and neurodevelopment, Janie and Cheryl develop strengths-based behaviour support plans that are practical, collaborative and tailored to each person’s unique needs. Their work is firmly grounded in neurodiversity-affirming, person-centred practice, with a focus on improving participation, increasing independence, and reducing the need for restrictive practices wherever possible.
Behind the Scenes
Much of the work happens outside of sessions – assessment, documentation, visuals, and liaising with other professionals. This ensures supports are tailored, thoughtful, and aligned with your child’s context.
Clear, Respectful Communication
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- Collaborative: Communication is a two-way exchange – your voice matters.
- Respectful & Affirming: We communicate with compassion and curiosity.
- Clear & Intentional: Predictable communication builds trust.
How We’re Different
Unlike traditional compliance-based models, we take a neurodiversity-affirming approach. We focus on understanding behaviour, not managing it. Our goal isn’t to eliminate behaviours – it’s to support your child to thrive, feel safe, and be understood.
What Collaboration Looks Like
- Getting to Know You – We explore your child’s strengths, needs, and goals through conversation and observation.
- Co-Creating Support Plans – We create individualised, practical plans together using evidence-based frameworks.
- Supporting Everyday Routines – Strategies are integrated into daily life – not just during sessions.
- Capacity Building – We support the whole family and key caregivers.
- Ongoing Review & Reflection – We adapt as your child grows.
Our Process
- Initial Consultation: Understand your child’s needs and explain how we’ll work together.
- Understanding the Why: Functional assessment through observation, discussion, and data review.
- Immediate Support: Early strategies to build trust and reduce stress.
- Behaviour Support Plan: Co-design a clear, compassionate plan across environments.
- Plan in Action: Hands-on coaching, training, and consistent support.
- Growth & Adaptation: Ongoing updates and support as your child develops.
Next Steps
Starting Behaviour Support can feel like a big step – but we’re here to make it simple, supportive, and clear. Follow the steps below to get started:
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- Contact our admin team at info@northshorekidstherapy.com
- Submit your referral form via the orange button below
- We’ll be in touch to begin your journey
Partner with us to uncover the ‘why’ behind behaviour and build meaningful supports
Contact us to learn more about how we can support your family