Beyond Attention: Developing Functional Understandings of Behaviour

Do you ever feel like “attention-seeking” doesn’t tell the full story behind a student’s behaviour?
Want to learn how to uncover the why behind challenging behaviours and respond more effectively?
Ready to move beyond surface explanations and towards strategies grounded in behavioural science?

Join us for this free webinar designed for psychologists, school psychologists, and mental health clinicians who work with children and young people experiencing behavioural challenges.

This practical and theory-informed session will explore how to use functional behaviour analysis (FBA) appropriately and in a more neurodiversity-affirming manner to better understand the underlying purpose of behaviour—recognising that actions often serve as communication which is usually more complicated than gaining attention.

Key topics include:

• Understanding the functions and reinforcers of behaviour beyond “attention-seeking”
• Using a functional framework to assess, interpret, and respond to behaviour
• Recognising sensory, emotional, and environmental influences on behaviour
• Developing supportive and individualised strategies that address root causes, not just surface symptoms

Participants will leave with a clearer, more compassionate understanding of behaviour, as well as practical tools to support students in ways that respect their needs and promote genuine behavioural change.

Perfect for psychologists, school counsellors, and educators seeking to build their confidence in using functional behaviour analysis to guide evidence-based, neuro-affirming support for children and adolescents.

All registered participants will receive a recording of this webinar as well as resources following the event.

Presenter: Shannon Lopez is a Clinical Psychologist, Board-Approved Supervisor and Principal Clinical Psychologist at Spencer Health. She has a strong interest in child and adolescent therapy, autism and ADHD assessment, and is a neurodiversity-affirming practitioner dedicated to evidence-based, compassionate care. With years of experience supporting children, adolescents and families, Shannon brings practical, real-world insights to these sessions.

Recording, Privacy and Informed Consent

Please note that this event will be recorded. The recording will be shared with registered attendees for up to 14 days following the event, and may also be uploaded to the Spencer Health Institute website for access by health professionals.

Attendance at the live session is optional. Participants are welcome to have their cameras on or off; however, individuals are responsible for managing their own privacy, confidentiality and professional boundaries while attending live. We encourage you to consider your environment and level of comfort when deciding how you participate.

By choosing to attend the live session, you are providing informed consent to be included in the recording. If you prefer not to be recorded, you are welcome to register and access the recording afterward rather than attending live.