What Does a Behavior Consultant Do? A Complete Guide for Parents and Caregivers
When someone faces challenges with behavior—whether at home, school, or out in the community—it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s where a Behavior Consultant comes in. These professionals offer assistance, evidence-based strategies, and support tailored to help individuals develop new skills and improve behavior in everyday life.
At New Beginnings, our Behavior Consultants work alongside families and caregivers to create positive, lasting change. Here's a closer look at what they do and how they make a difference.
Understanding the Role
A Behavior Consultant focuses on identifying the reasons behind certain behaviors and then creating personalized strategies to encourage more positive, functional ones. This role involves a mix of observation, planning, coaching reinforcement strategies, and collaboration with everyone involved in the individual’s care.
Behavior Consultants are not one-size-fits-all problem-solvers—they take time to understand each person’s unique needs, environment, and communication style.
What Does a Behavior Consultant Do?
1. Observes and Assesses Behavior
To support someone effectively, a Behavior Consultant first gathers information about when, where, and why certain behaviors occur. This may include time spent observing the individual, talking with caregivers, and reviewing any past documentation. The goal is to identify patterns and triggers that influence behavior. These assessments are called Functional Behavior Assessments.
2. Develops Support Plans
Once the consultant understands the behavior, they create a customized Behavior Support Plan designed to teach new skills and reduce challenges. These plans are built around the individual's strengths and needs, offering clear steps for caregivers and teachers to follow.
3. Coaches and Collaborates
A big part of a Behavior Consultant’s job is working with others—parents, teachers, therapists, and even the individual receiving services. The consultant provides guidance on how to use the plan consistently and effectively across different settings. This teamwork helps reinforce positive behaviors wherever the person goes.
4. Tracks Progress and Adjusts
As the Behavior Support Plan is put into action, the Consultant continues to monitor how things are going. If something isn’t working, they make adjustments. Behavior Support is not a one-time fix, it’s a process that evolves with the individual’s growth.
5. Builds Skills for the Future
Beyond addressing challenges, Behavior Consultants focus on helping individuals build the tools they need for long-term success. This might include communication skills, coping strategies, or daily routines that foster independence and confidence.
Who Can Benefit?
Behavior Consultants support people of all ages and backgrounds. Individuals who may benefit include those who:
Struggle with routines or transitions
Display aggressive, withdrawn, or impulsive behaviors
Have developmental delays or learning differences
Need help building social or coping skills
Whether the concerns are at home, in school, or in other environments, a Behavior Consultant can help create a more positive and structured path forward.
Why Behavior Consultants Matter
Challenging behaviors can disrupt learning, relationships, and daily routines—but they also signal an unmet need or skill gap. With support from a Behavior Consultant, individuals and their families can gain clarity, structure, and hope.
At New Beginnings, we believe every person has the potential to grow and thrive. Our Behavior Consultants work closely with families to support lasting progress one step at a time.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re curious about how Behavior Support could help your family, we’re here to talk. Contact Us to learn more about how our team can provide personalized strategies and hands-on guidance to meet your goals.