Positive Behavior Support Initiative

The Division of Developmental Disabilities (Division of DD) embraced Positive Behavior Support (PBS) strategies nearly two decades ago.   PBS is a set of research-based strategies used to increase quality of life and decrease problem behavior by teaching new skills and making changes in a person's environment, unlike behavior management, which seeks to eliminate undesirable behaviors through rewards or punishment.   

The Division of DD is implementing a new PBS trainer certification program, with a goal to increase the training capacity across the state in partnership with providers of community-based residential services and supports.    Through a competitive bid process, a contract has been awarded to The Columbus Organization to implement the PBS Training Initiative. It is the division’s intent to establish a diverse cadre of certified trainers of PBS, who can then provide training to direct support professionals and other staff engaged in provision of direct services.  Trainers will also be qualified to certify additional trainers.