Quality time, reflection, and support: Ending the year with purpose

December 23, 2024

As the year draws to a close, many of us find ourselves in the whirlwind of the holiday season. It’s a time filled with gatherings, celebrations, and a sense of togetherness, but it can also bring its own unique challenges. At helpz, we believe this season is not just about wrapping up the year but also about taking a step back to reflect, reset, and prioritise what truly matters: quality time with loved ones and your own well-being.


Spending time that matters

The holiday season is an opportunity to create meaningful moments with family and friends. Whether it’s sharing a meal, playing games, or simply enjoying each other’s company, these small acts of connection have a profound impact.


This year, we encourage everyone to pause, take stock of their achievements, and celebrate the progress made—no matter how big or small. It’s in these quiet moments of gratitude and reflection that we find the motivation to step into the new year with clarity and purpose.


Resetting for the year ahead


A fresh year is the perfect time to realign with your goals, prioritise self-care, and focus on what brings you joy. Taking time to reset doesn’t have to mean a complete overhaul—it’s about finding balance and setting intentions that feel right for you.


At helpz, we know that for many of the individuals and families we support, the holiday season can also be a time of increased stress or uncertainty. That’s why we remain committed to ensuring continuity of care and personalised support throughout this period.


Supporting you, every step of the way


Our commitment to our clients doesn’t take a holiday. During this time, helpz offers a variety of direct and indirect support options to ensure your needs are met.

  • Continuity of care: If your usual practitioner is on leave, an alternate practitioner will always be available for questions, guidance, or consultations.
  • Implementation plans: We provide training and guidance to ensure the recommendations in your behaviour support plans are seamlessly implemented.
  • Online training webinars: Staff can access specialised training aligned with behaviour support plans and therapy goals, enhancing care quality even during practitioner absences.

This ensures that every client continues to receive the same level of care and support they rely on, even during the festive season.


Looking ahead to 2025


As we prepare to welcome a new year, we’re reminded of the power of the connections we’ve built and the progress we’ve made together. At helpz, our focus remains on empowering every individual to achieve their goals and embrace their potential, every day.


Let’s enter the new year with renewed energy, fresh intentions, and a commitment to supporting each other. Whether you’re spending time with family, reflecting on personal growth, or simply enjoying the moments that matter most, we wish you a season filled with joy, rest, and purpose.


From all of us at helpz, thank you for trusting us to be part of your journey. If you have questions or need support during this time, don’t hesitate to reach out to your helpz practitioner or therapist.



Here’s to a season of quality time, reflection, and a fresh start.



News & Insights

Check Our Latest Resources

Maximising the Benefits of Your Behaviour Support Service

May 6, 2025
Behaviour support services are designed to help individuals reduce risk behaviours and improve their quality of life. A great behaviour support service adopts a person-centred approach, exploring a person's life holistically and focusing on their strengths. At helpz, you can expect your behaviour support practitioner to be neuroaffirming, providing support that respects and values neurological differences. They tailor strategies to align with each individual's unique needs and preferences. To help you maximise the benefits of your behaviour support service, we have put together a comprehensive list of tips and strategies. Set Clear Goals Identify Objectives: Work with your behaviour support specialist to identify specific, measurable goals. This could include reducing challenging behaviours, improving social skills, or increasing independence. Regular Reviews: Regularly review and adjust your goals to ensure they remain relevant and achievable. Engage Actively Participate Fully: Actively participate in all sessions and activities. The more engaged you are, the more you will benefit from the service. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about any aspect of the support plan. Understanding the process is key to success. Be Honest Open Communication: Be honest with your behaviour support specialist about your experiences, challenges, and progress. Transparency helps tailor the support to your needs. Share Concerns: If something isn’t working or you’re facing difficulties, communicate this openly. It allows for timely adjustments to your plan. Collect Data Track Progress: Keep detailed records of behaviours, incidents, and improvements. This data is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of strategies. Use Tools: Utilise any tracking tools or apps recommended by your specialist to make data collection easier and more accurate. Involve Key People Family and Caregivers: Involve family members or caregivers in the process. Their support and understanding can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the service. Collaborate with Professionals: Work with other professionals involved in your care, such as teachers or therapists, to ensure a cohesive approach. Implement Strategies Consistently Follow the Plan: Consistently implement the strategies and techniques recommended by your behaviour support specialist. Consistency is crucial for achieving lasting change. Monitor Progress: Keep track of your progress and any changes in behaviour. This information can help your specialist make necessary adjustments to your support plan. Stay Positive and Patient Celebrate Small Wins: Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Recognising achievements can boost motivation and confidence. Be Patient and Persistent: Behaviour change takes time. Stay patient and persistent, even if progress seems slow. Utilise Resources Educational Materials: Take advantage of any educational materials or resources provided by your behaviour support service. These can offer valuable insights and additional strategies. Support Groups: Join support groups or forums where you can share experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. Provide Feedback Share Your Experience: Provide feedback to your behaviour support service about what is working well and what could be improved. Your input can help enhance the service for you and others. By following these strategies, you can maximise the benefits of your behaviour support service and achieve meaningful, lasting improvements in your behaviour and overall well-being. Learn more about behaviour support here .
READ MORE

Parenting Tools: 5 Ways to Stay Connected to Yourself and Your Wellbeing

April 7, 2025
Parenting is a rewarding journey, but it can also be incredibly demanding. Amidst the hustle and bustle, it's crucial to take time for self-care. Here are five essential tips to help you stay connected to yourself and maintain your sanity: Prioritise "Me Time" : Carve out a few minutes each day just for yourself. Whether it's enjoying a cuppa, reading a book, or simply sitting in silence, these moments can recharge your batteries. Stay Active: Physical activity is a great stress reliever. Find an exercise routine that you enjoy, whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or a dance class. Regular movement can boost your mood and energy levels. Connect with Others: Don't isolate yourself. Reach out to mates, family, or support groups. Sharing your experiences and hearing others' stories can provide comfort and perspective. Practise Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can help you stay grounded and present. Set Boundaries: It's okay to say no. Establish clear boundaries to protect your time and energy. Communicate your needs to your family and ensure you have space to recharge. Remember, taking care of yourself isn't selfish—it's essential. By prioritising your well-being, you'll be better equipped to care for your loved ones.  Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine and watch how it positively impacts your life and those around you.
READ MORE

Our Behaviour Support Practitioners Embrace Dr. Ross Greene’s CPS Approach

April 7, 2025
At helpz, our behaviour support practitioners are increasingly adopting Dr. Ross Greene's Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS) approach to enhance the quality of life for NDIS clients . CPS is an evidence-based model that focuses on solving the underlying problems causing challenging behaviours rather than merely addressing the behaviours themselves. The CPS approach aligns seamlessly with Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) , a cornerstone of the NDIS framework . PBS is a person-centred approach that aims to improve an individual's quality of life by understanding the reasons behind their behaviour and addressing their needs in a respectful and supportive manner. By integrating CPS, helpz practitioners can proactively identify and solve problems collaboratively with clients, fostering a non-punitive and non-adversarial environment. CPS involves three key steps: identifying lagging skills and unsolved problems, prioritising problems to be solved, and engaging in collaborative problem-solving discussions This method not only reduces challenging behaviours but also builds essential skills such as empathy, communication, and problem-solving. For NDIS clients , this means a more tailored and effective support plan that respects their dignity and promotes their autonomy. By utilising CPS within the PBS framework, helpz practitioners are better equipped to create positive, lasting changes in the lives of NDIS client s . This approach not only addresses immediate behavioural concerns but also empowers clients to develop the skills they need to thrive in their communities. For more information on our behaviour support services, please c ontact us .
READ MORE