Behavior Support and Executive Function Coaching at Spectrum
At Spectrum, behavior is viewed as communication. Our Behavior Specialists work with individuals and families to understand what may be contributing to a behavior and identify practical strategies that can be used at home and in the community.
Rather than focusing only on stopping a behavior, we consider factors such as communication, sensory needs, emotional regulation, environment, expectations, and skills. Support is based on the individual and the situations in which help is needed.
Behavior Support Services
Behavior Support may include:
- Understanding Behavior: Identifying patterns, triggers, and possible reasons a behavior is occurring.
- Developing Practical Strategies: Creating approaches that reduce stress, support regulation, and address the individual’s needs.
- Proactive Planning: Adjusting routines or environments when possible to prevent unnecessary stress and improve predictability.
- Skill Building and Self-Advocacy: Developing communication, coping, independence, and self-advocacy skills.
- Parent and Caregiver Coaching: Helping families understand behavior and use strategies consistently in everyday situations.
Executive Function (EF) Coaching
Executive function skills help us plan, organize, manage time, begin and complete tasks, regulate attention and emotions, solve problems, and adjust when circumstances change.
Spectrum provides Executive Function Coaching for children, adolescents, and adults who need additional support in these areas.
EF coaching may address:
- Organization and Time Management: Developing systems for managing schedules, materials, responsibilities, and deadlines.
- Focus and Task Completion: Building strategies for starting tasks, maintaining attention, and following through.
- Flexible Thinking and Problem-Solving: Practicing ways to adjust plans, consider alternatives, and make decisions.
- Emotional Regulation and Self-Awareness: Recognizing internal cues and developing strategies for managing emotions and frustration.
- Goal Setting and Self-Monitoring: Identifying goals, breaking them into manageable steps, and tracking progress.
There is no single organizational system or strategy that works for everyone. Our coaches work with each client to identify tools and routines that fit the way they learn, work, and manage daily responsibilities.
Family and Caregiver Support
Parents and caregivers may be involved in services when appropriate. Our team can help families understand what may be contributing to a behavior, establish realistic goals, and use strategies consistently at home and in the community.
For younger clients, caregiver participation can also help skills practiced during sessions carry over into everyday routines.