When navigating the world of Allied Health Supports, especially under the NDIS, it’s common to come across both Psychology and Positive Behaviour Support (PBS). At first glance, they might seem like they’re doing the same thing – helping people understand and manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.
However, while there is some overlap, these are two distinct services—each with its focus, methods, and value. The good news? When they work together, the results can be transformative.
At Bloom Healthcare, we offer psychology and behaviour support under one roof, which means our teams collaborate to provide consistent, person-centred care. This article breaks down the differences, the similarities, and how we bring the best of both worlds together for our clients.
What Does a Psychologist Do?
A Psychologist focuses on mental health, emotional wellbeing, cognition, and behaviour. Their work often involves:
- Supporting clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, or emotional regulation
- Helping people process experiences or develop healthy thinking patterns
- Working through relationship issues or life transitions
- Building self-awareness, coping strategies, and resilience
- Conducting cognitive and psychological assessments
At Bloom Healthcare, our Psychologists are experienced in supporting neurodivergent clients, people with intellectual disabilities, and NDIS participants with complex emotional needs. Therapy may include structured approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), or more flexible, trauma-informed methods tailored to the individual.
Learn more about our psychology and counselling services here:
https://bloom-healthcare.com.au/services/psychology-counselling/
What Does a Behaviour Support Practitioner Do?
On the other hand, a Behaviour Support Practitioner focuses specifically on behaviours of concern, particularly when those behaviours pose a risk to the individual or others. Their work centres on:
- Understanding what triggers certain behaviours
- Identifying what the person is trying to communicate through behaviour
- Developing Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) plans to reduce risk and build new skills
- Coaching families, carers, and support workers to respond in consistent, supportive ways
- Reducing the need for restrictive practices, in line with NDIS Quality and Safeguards guidelines
PBS is not about “fixing” a person; it’s about creating environments, routines, and strategies that support wellbeing and reduce distress. It’s highly practical, goal-driven, and often involves the person’s broader support network.
Learn more about our PBS services here:
https://bloom-healthcare.com.au/pbs/
What’s the Difference Between Psychology and Behaviour Support?
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to clarify:
| Psychology | Behaviour Support (PBS) |
| Focuses on emotional wellbeing, cognition, and mental health | Focuses on reducing behaviours of concern and building functional alternatives |
| Often involves 1:1 therapeutic conversations | Often involves practical planning, observation, and coaching across settings. |
| Addresses internal experiences (e.g. anxiety, trauma, self-esteem) | Addresses external behaviours (e.g. aggression, absconding, self-injury) |
| Builds insight, coping skills, and emotional regulation | Builds functional skills and modifies environments or routines |
| Delivered by registered psychologists | Delivered by NDIS-registered behaviour practitioners |
In short, Psychology explores the “why” behind emotional or mental health challenges, while PBS focuses on what’s happening in day-to-day life, and how to respond proactively and safely.
How Do Psychology and Behaviour Support Work Together?
At Bloom Healthcare, many of our clients benefit from both services working in tandem. This is especially true for individuals who:
- Have complex behaviours related to trauma, anxiety, or sensory processing
- Are you navigating a new autism or ADHD diagnosis
- Live with dual diagnoses (e.g. intellectual disability and mental health conditions)
- Need help with both emotional insight and practical behaviour strategies
Here’s what this collaboration looks like at Bloom Healthcare.
Example 1: Emotional Regulation + Behaviour Strategies
A child with autism experiences intense outbursts at home and school. The Psychologist helps the child explore their emotions, learn calming techniques, and build confidence. The behaviour practitioner works with the family and teachers to develop a consistent PBS plan that includes routines, sensory tools, and positive reinforcement.
Example 2: Trauma + Behaviours of Concern
An adult with an intellectual disability has a history of restrictive practices due to aggressive behaviour. The PBS practitioner creates a plan to identify triggers and teach safer communication methods. Meanwhile, the Psychologist helps the individual process past trauma and build emotional resilience.
Example 3: School Avoidance and Shutdowns
A teenager with ADHD and anxiety is refusing school and shutting down socially. The Psychologist supports the young person’s mental health, working on anxiety and motivation. The PBS practitioner collaborates with the school to create a modified plan with achievable steps, break times, and rewards.
These examples make Bloom different – we don’t treat symptoms in isolation, we support the whole person in every environment they live, learn, and grow in.
Why Choose Bloom Healthcare for Psychology and PBS?
At Bloom, we believe that no service holds all the answers – but together, they can offer powerful support. That’s why we:
- Employ both registered Psychologists and NDIS-approved PBS Practitioners
- Ensure open communication between Therapy teams
- Offer Therapy in homes, schools, clinics, and via telehealth
- Work with families, support workers, and educators to create consistent strategies
- Deliver Therapy that’s affirming, evidence-based, and deeply respectful
We also provide support across the lifespan, from early intervention to adult services, and across different funding streams, including the NDIS, Medicare (for Psychology), or private arrangements.
How to Know Which Service You Need
Not sure whether to start with Psychology or PBS? You’re not alone. Many families and support coordinators ask the same question.
Here’s a rough guide:
- Start with Psychology if the primary concern is around anxiety, low mood, trauma, self-esteem, or relationship issues
- Start with PBS if the primary concern is around behaviours that are unsafe, disruptive, or limiting access to the community or education.
- Consider if the challenges are complex, persistent, or happening across settings.
At Bloom, we can help you determine the right pathway and transition smoothly between services when needed.
Psychology and Positive Behaviour Support are two sides of the same coin. While Psychology helps people understand and process their inner world, PBS supports them in navigating the outer world with greater safety, skill, and confidence.
At Bloom Healthcare, we don’t force a choice between the two. We bring them together with shared goals, language, and respect for the individuals and families we support.
