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Behaviour is a way of communicating needs, emotions, and stress. When behavioural challenges arise, they are often a sign that a person is struggling to cope with something in their environment, emotions, or experiences.
Behavioural issues can look different for each person and may vary across settings. They often occur when a child or young person does not yet have the skills needed to manage emotions, sensory input, transitions, or expectations.
Behavioural difficulties may include:
• emotional outbursts and/or aggression
• defiance and/or refusal
• withdrawal and/or shutdown
• impulsivity and/or risk-taking behaviour
• difficulty following routines and/or instructions
• avoidance of tasks or environments
• challenges with attention and/or regulation
These behaviours are not intentional or manipulative. They reflect unmet needs, skill gaps, or overwhelm.
Behavioural challenges are common in childhood and adolescence, particularly during periods of stress, change, or developmental growth. Families may notice:
• frequent meltdowns and/or frustration
• difficulty managing transitions
• challenges at school or in learning environments
• peer relationship difficulties
• increased anxiety and/or emotional sensitivity
• behaviour that escalates when demands increase
At Chrysalis Psychology & Wellbeing, we work with children and families to identify what is driving the behaviour and build skills that support emotional regulation, communication, and flexibility.
Adolescents may show behavioural difficulties differently as they navigate identity, independence, and increased social and academic pressures. This may include:
• withdrawal from family or activities
• heightened emotional reactions
• risk-taking behaviour
• conflict at home or school
• avoidance of responsibilities
• difficulty managing stress and expectations
We provide a respectful and collaborative space for adolescents to understand their emotions and develop strategies that support healthier choices and self-regulation.
Our approach is supportive, practical, and evidence-informed. Support may include:
Understanding the function of behaviour
We explore what the behaviour communicates and what need it is trying to meet.
Building emotional and behavioural regulation skills
Teaching children and young people how to manage feelings, impulses, and stress.
Developing communication skills
Supporting individuals to express needs and emotions in safer, more effective ways.
Parent and caregiver support
Providing guidance, strategies, and confidence to support behaviour at home.
School collaboration
Offering recommendations and strategies to support positive behaviour in educational settings.
Strength-based intervention
Focusing on what the individual does well and building on existing strengths.
The first session focuses on understanding the behavioural concerns, family context, and goals. We work collaboratively to develop practical strategies that can be used in daily life. Intervention may include cognitive behavioural strategies, emotional regulation work, parent coaching, and behaviour support planning.
Support at Chrysalis Psychology & Wellbeing is tailored, respectful, and focused on long-term positive change.
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