Positive Support
At Affinity Care MN, Positive Support Services provide a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to helping individuals build healthier behaviors and improve overall quality of life—without the use of punishment or seclusion.
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Positive support is rooted in dignity, respect, and individualized care. We focus on understanding the whole person—their strengths, culture, goals, and environment—to create effective strategies that promote long-term success. Services can be delivered in the home or within the community, both in-person and remotely.
What is Positive Support?
Positive support is a structured, person-centered approach designed to:
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Build on an individual’s unique strengths, interests, culture, and goals
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Respect each person’s rights and individuality
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Replace maladaptive behaviors with safe, effective alternatives
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Promote whole-person health and well-being
Whether someone is receiving mental health, housing, educational, disability, or other supportive services, positive support enhances outcomes by focusing on proactive, compassionate solutions.
What Services are Offered?
For each applicant, our team ensures a thorough and comprehensive assessment of their functional abilities, conducted by a licensed professional. Following the assessment, we proceed to develop and implement a positive support plan tailored to the individual's specific needs. This plan incorporates proactive strategies aimed at promoting positive actions and behaviors.
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Our service offers three levels of staffing, including the Professional, Analyst, and Specialist, with varying hours based on the individual's needs. We understand the importance of flexibility, and our staff can provide support within the desired hours and timeframes of the individual.
Qualifications
To qualify for Positive Support Services, individuals typically need to meet the following requirements:
Diagnosis or Condition
Individuals should have a documented diagnosis or condition that impacts their behavior and necessitates the need for positive support. This can include developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, mental health conditions, or other related conditions.
Behavioral Challenges
Individuals should exhibit behaviors that are challenging or difficult to manage, such as aggression, self-injury, property destruction, elopement, or behaviors that pose a risk to themselves or others.
Functional Impairments
Individuals should have functional impairments that impact their daily life, independence, and ability to engage in community activities. These impairments can include difficulties with communication, social interaction, self-care skills, or adaptive functioning.
Need for Support
Individuals should require support in managing their behaviors and developing adaptive coping strategies. Positive Support Services are designed to assist individuals in achieving their person-centered goals and reducing actions that may hinder their independence.
Collaboration and Consent
Participation in Positive Support Services often involves collaboration and consent from the individual, their family, or legal guardian. This ensures active involvement in the development and implementation of the support plan.
Commitment to Change
Individuals and their support network should demonstrate a commitment to working towards positive behavior change and actively engaging in the strategies outlined in the support plan. This may involve participating in therapy sessions, training programs, and actively practicing new skills.