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Behavior Support Services for People with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities in Oregon (I/DD)

An ALSO direct support professional poses with an intellectually disabled client at the ALSO holiday party.

Support That Starts with the Whole Person

At ALSO, Behavior Support Services are designed to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) throughout Oregon live with greater stability, connection, and confidence in their daily lives. Whether someone is navigating communication, stress, sensory experiences, or changes in routine, our team works alongside them to understand what’s meaningful and build strategies that support their goals.

Using Positive Behavior Support (PBS), we focus on proactive, skill-building approaches that reduce barriers and create more opportunities for choice, connection, and community participation for people with I/DD.

Our work is grounded in respect, dignity, and the belief that every person deserves a life filled with purpose and belonging.

Rooted in Choice, Guided by Partnership

Residential

We believe every person has the right to make choices about their life and be heard in the process. Person-centered Behavior Support at ALSO is built through collaboration with:

  • The person receiving services
  • Their family or support network
  • Their support services team

Whether the goal is building new routines, navigating change, or finding new ways to communicate needs, we walk alongside each person with consistency, curiosity, and care.

How Our Behavior Support Services Work

Our approach is person-centered, thoughtful, and tailored to each situation.

Behavior support professionals at ALSO develop Positive Behavior Support Plans (PBSPs) using a combination of observation, conversation, and a deep understanding of each person’s experiences and environment.

Support may include:

  • Positive Behavior Support Plans (PBSPs): Clear, proactive guidance for supporting someone before, during, and after moments of distress
  • Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs): A deeper look at what a behavior is communicating and what supports may be helpful
  • Temporary Emergency Safety Plans (TESPs): Short-term strategies to create safety and stability during transitions or urgent situations
  • “Working With” Guidelines: Simple, everyday approaches that help create consistency across support teams

Our behavior support advocates are trained to implement these supports with compassion and consistency, helping create environments where people can feel safe, understood, and supported.

The Impact of Behavior Support for People with I/DD

An ALSO DSP sitting at a a table and working with a developmentally disabled individual to set up an ABLE account.

When support is personalized and consistent, meaningful changes can happen. People often experience:

  • Greater stability in daily routines
  • Increased ability to communicate needs and preferences
  • Reduced stress for both the person and their support network
  • Stronger relationships and more positive interactions
  • Increased access to community activities and opportunities

Behavior Support Services FAQs

What is Positive Behavior Support (PBS)?

Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is a proactive, person-centered approach to understanding and addressing behavior. Rather than focusing on consequences, PBS identifies the reasons behind a behavior and builds skills, environments, and strategies that reduce barriers and improve quality of life, especially for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

What is a Positive Behavior Support Plan (PBSP)?

A Positive Behavior Support Plan (PBSP) is a personalized document developed by a behavior support professional that outlines proactive strategies for supporting someone before, during, and after moments of distress. It is created in collaboration with the person, their family, and their support team.

What is a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)?

A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is a process used to understand what a behavior is communicating. It looks at patterns, triggers, and environment to identify the underlying need, so that effective and compassionate support strategies can be developed.

Who can receive Behavior Support Services at ALSO?

ALSO’s Behavior Support Services are designed for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who may benefit from additional support around communication, routine, stress, or navigating daily life.

How do I get started with Behavior Support Services?

If you’re exploring Behavior Support Services for yourself or someone you care about, you can reach out directly to Rene Hauk at reneh@alsoweb.org. The team is available to listen, answer questions, and help you understand your options.