Specialised behaviour coaching and support for individuals, families, groups, and schools

Our Story...

My experience of parenting has been very different to the fairytales that I (somewhat naively) expected. We have our moments of giggles, cuddles, and joy like in most other homes, but my children are also 'Energizer Bunnies'! Despite doing my best to provide a nurturing and rich nest for my youngsters, they were into anything and everything and experienced a high rate of distress and explosive behaviours. It's been difficult on our hearts, minds, and nerves. While I adore my children and wouldn't trade parenting for a second, it's been both a confusing and challenging journey in equal measure - for all of us!

In trying to understand why things seemed so different for my little family, I developed an immense thirst for the WWWWWH behind the behaviour. This wasn't to find a solution (people aren't a puzzle to be solved!) but to understand and create change for the better. I also felt a deep sadness that it should take such extensive research and consultation with specialists to be able to understand my children's experience and their resulting behaviours. To give due credit, some amazing specialists have supported, guided, and collaborated on the journey thus far, and they've all been amazing in their own ways. But I longed for a tour guide - yet never found one, and I longed for my children to have an ally and advocate who wasn't "mum". I wondered if I was in need of a helper in these ways, then others probably needed someone like that too. So, I undertook further post-graduate and specialist studies, and in 2018, I started Behaviour Detectives.

The journey with Behaviour Detectives promises to be warm and compassionate, committed to positive change, and rooted in science. We'll be focused on success in practical and achievable ways and customise plans to the unique circumstances and needs of the child (sometimes the adult), those around them, and the environments they're struggling in. We'll have our fair share of laughter along the way while we solve behaviour challenges, and we'll increase happiness and quality of life. I truly want everyone to have a smile on their face and live their best life; freudenfreude.

Behaviour Detectives is going through some changes in 2023, but the origins and commitments of our story remain the same. We're continuing to grow with and for you, and in addition to our existing individual and group offerings, we're adding horses! Keep an eye on our webpage and socials to watch us succeed in making this a reality and bringing it to life.

Katrina Phillips

Behaviour Specialist and Equine-Assisted Practitioner

Katrina is a highly qualified and skilled behaviour analyst, offering personalised solutions (rather than programmed "ABA") as an intensive form of early intervention. Throughout her consultative relationships, she identifies and prioritizes behaviour hiccups and learning opportunities, working collaboratively to find effective and customized solutions.

In addition to her in-depth understanding of teaching and children's learning, Katrina holds internationally recognised qualifications in childhood development and assessments. She is certified in PEAK (Promoting Emergence of Advanced Knowledge) Relational Training System, VB-MAPP (Verbal Behavior - Milestones Assessment & Placement Program), EFL (Essential For Living), and PLS (Preschool Life Skills). Her expertise extends to PBS (Positive Behavior Supports), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and 'Accept, Identify, Move' – an ACT curriculum for children. Katrina is also proficient in CPS (Collaborative and Proactive Solutions) method pioneered by Dr. Ross Greene and actively supports his organisation 'Lives in the Balance.'

In 2023, Katrina completed specialised training with Dr Greg Hanley in PFA-SBT (Practical Functional Assessment and Skills-Based Treatment), focusing on a trauma-assumed approach to teaching replacement behaviours for severe and complex behaviours of concern. Her commitment to holistic development extends to her studies with the Equine Psychotherapy Institute in 2022, and she incorporates equine-assisted learning in a variety of ways during online and in-person sessions. Katrina has completed continuing education units exploring integrations of IFS (Internal Family Systems) with equine-assisted practice, as well as introductory training in the Trust Technique.

Katrina's ongoing involvement in a Council-sponsored placement showcases her dedication to entrepreneurship for the betterment of human behaviour and her local community. Her formal academic qualifications include a Master of Education, Bachelor of Music in Studio Teaching (with distinction), Diploma of Project Management, and Certificate IV in Training & Assessment.

Katrina is a member of several professional organisations, including ABAA, ABIA, APBSA, Behavior Analysis in Military and Veterans' Issues SIG, Sexual Behavior Analysis, and the Complex Behaviour Community of Practice. With her extensive expertise and unwavering commitment to improving lives, Katrina is a trusted resource in the field of children's development, family and social wellbeing, and behavioural support.

Katrina is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in behaviour training across various settings, including homes, communities, educational institutions, and military environments. With a holistic approach to her work, she seamlessly integrates insights from multidisciplinary fields such as occupational and speech therapies, psychology, equine psychotherapy, relationship development intervention, positive behaviour interventions and supports, and collaborative and proactive solutions.

Her unwavering passion lies in assisting individuals to lead fulfilling lives and supporting families and schools in enhancing social engagement and enjoyment. As a parent, educator, and analyst, Katrina possesses firsthand experience in the behaviour challenges that the Behavior Detectives community faces. Her unique approach fosters a relaxed and informative environment where she openly shares both joys and struggles, creating a comfortable atmosphere for learning, laughter, questions, and connections.