Verdict
Both are capacity-building supports. Behaviour support is broader and more preventive; psychology is clinician-gatekeeping. Choose based on need.
NDIS Comparison
Behaviour Support vs Psychology Service
Both are capacity-building supports. Behaviour support is broader and more preventive; psychology is clinician-gatekeeping. Choose based on need.
Behaviour Support
Best for: Participants with challenging behaviours or skill-building needs
Pros
- Broader remit than psychology (teaching, environment design, prevention)
- Preventive focus (stop problems before crisis)
- Lower cost than psychology typically
- Longer-term relationship possible
Cons
- Limited clinical depth (psychologists have different training)
- Can't prescribe or diagnose (unless psychologist is also BSP)
Psychology Service
Best for: Participants with mental health, trauma or psychological assessment needs
Pros
- Clinical expertise and diagnosis
- Psychological assessment credibility
- Can prescribe if also psychiatrist
- Trauma-informed treatment
Cons
- Narrower scope than behaviour support
- Smaller provider pool
- Higher cost per session
- Can feel clinician-gatekeeping to families