PARTICIPANT STORIES

Sometimes, the biggest breakthroughs begin with simply feeling safe.

When Jemima first started Positive Behaviour Support, engaging with others felt overwhelming. Significant anxiety made communication difficult, and previous experiences had made it challenging to build relationships with professionals. During those early sessions, they often avoided eye contact, kept their distance, and preferred not to engage.

Rather than rushing into therapy goals, our PBS Practitioner, Rigbay, recognised that the first priority was creating a safe, supportive space where trust could grow.

Rigbay took the time to get to know Jemima, allowing them to set the pace while carefully responding to body language cues and individual needs. By showing up consistently, following through on commitments, and respecting when they needed space, a trusting therapeutic relationship gradually began to form.

Sessions were built around Jemima's interests and abilities. Games and enjoyable activities created natural opportunities to explore emotional awareness, communication, flexibility, and coping skills in ways that felt comfortable and meaningful. Alternative communication methods were also introduced, giving Jemima different ways to express themselves when speaking felt too difficult.

As confidence continued to grow, support gradually expanded from beyond the home environment into the community and via telehealth, helping to build confidence across different settings.

Jemima now engages in sessions with confidence. They laugh, enjoy conversations, and feel comfortable participating in activities. Establishing a trusting relationship they built together created a strong foundation to focus on Jemima's broader goals, including greater independence, increased participation in everyday life, and continued personal growth.

Jemima's family shared that they have seen a significant difference in how comfortable and engaged Jemima has become with sessions. They also appreciated the practical guidance and consistent communication that supported interactions at home and helped strengthen relationships with other members of the support team.

For us, meaningful outcomes are strongest when participants, families, and practitioners work together towards shared goals.

There is no single path to progress. Every person brings their own strengths, goals, experiences, and way of engaging with the world.

This story is a reminder that meaningful change doesn't always begin with a breakthrough—it often begins with a relationship built on trust, respect, and understanding.

At Autism Abilities, we're privileged to work with participants of all ages and their support teams, helping them to live a personally meaningful life, celebrating every step forward, no matter how big or small.

If you or someone you support could benefit from Positive Behaviour Support, we'd love to help. Whether you're looking to build confidence, strengthen communication, or work towards meaningful goals, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Call us: 1300 324 917 or 0481 112 928

Email: hello@autismabilities.com.au

Or make a referral below to connect with our team and learn how we can support your journey.