Integrated Behavior Support Services
Addressing Critical Gaps in Behavior Support for Adults with IDD
Integrated Model of Care
Our Integrated Model of Care supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who experience challenging behaviors and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Challenging behaviors can significantly affect daily life for individuals and their families or caregivers. Research shows that:
- Roughly 1 in 5–6 individuals with IDD experience behavior challenges that require more intensive intervention (Lineberry et al., 2023).
- Nearly 40% of individuals with IDD also have a co-occurring mental health condition (Kalb et al., 2020).
Applied Behavior Analysis
IBSS incorporates Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), an evidence-based therapy that uses positive reinforcement to reduce challenging behaviors and promote skill development.
To meet the needs of transitional-age youth and adults, our IBSS programs use a modified ABA approach integrated with therapeutic supports, including:
- Psychiatry
- Individual and family therapy
- Modified ABA interventions
- Collaboration with medical providers
- Family education and and guidance on behavior strategies
- Skill-building and practice to support daily living
The following programs incorporate this modified ABA approach as part of our integrated model of care.
EMPOWER Program
(Evidence-Informed MH/IDD Practice on Wellness and Enhancing Resiliency)
The EMPOWER Program is an evidence-informed program developed through years of clinical practice. It focuses on strengthening wellness and resiliency for transitional-age youth (14+) and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and co-occurring mental health conditions.
This program provides more intensive, structured support to help individuals build skills, stabilize behaviors, and improve emotional regulation.
Key features include:
- Individualized session frequency based on the individual’s needs, with more intensive support when appropriate
- Collaborative team-based care to address behavioral and emotional needs
- Modified ABA strategies focused on positive reinforcement and skill-building
- Behavior Skills Training (BST) the approach used to teach and practice daily living and coping skills
- Mental health screening tand services to identify symptoms and support emotional regulation
Aftercare Program
The Aftercare Program supports individuals who have completed the EMPOWER Program and may experience a recurrence of less severe behaviors that still require timely support.
This program provides targeted follow-up support at a lower level of intensity to help individuals maintain progress and continue building on the skills they have developed.
The program may include:
- Educational support for staff and caregivers, including training on the individual's Behavior Support Plan (BSP)
- Mental health interventions to address symptoms and support emotional regulation
- Collaborative team planning to ensure consistent support across home, school, and community settings
Transitions Program
The Transitions Program supports individuals with a history of challenging behaviors or those experiencing mild behavioral changes related to a life event, transition, or stressor.
This program provides structured support within our coordinated model of care at a lower level of intensity, helping individuals navigate change while maintaining stability.
The program may include:
- Educational support for staff and caregivers, including training on the individual's Behavior Support Plan (BSP)
- Mental health interventions address symptoms and support emotional regulation
- Collaborative team planning to ensure consistent support across home, school, and community settings
Therapeutic Behavior Support (TBS) Program
The Therapeutic Behavior Support (TBS) Program supports individuals who have completed more intensive services and are transitioning to a lower level of support.
This program focuses on maintaining previously learned skills while continuing to build independence and develop additional skills as new needs are identified.
The program may include:
- Practice and reinforcement of previously learned behavioral and daily living skills
- Development of additional adaptive and daily living skills as needed
- Training and guidance for caregivers and support staff to promote long-term stability and independence
- Ongoing mental health interventions to address symptoms and support emotional well-being
Together, these programs provide a coordinated continuum of care designed to meet individuals where they are and support long-term stability, skill development, and independence.
Not sure which program is right for you?
Call 216-532-3427 to discuss your needs with our team.