ABOUT EMPATHIA

Hi, I’m Eliza.

Eliza Kelly, Director and Behaviour Support Practitioner at Empathia Support Services, smiling at the camera.

Behaviour Support Practitioner
& Counsellor

I've spent over a decade working alongside adults living with disability, and throughout that time, one thing has remained important to me; taking the time to genuinely understand the people I support.

As a Behaviour Support Practitioner and ACA Registered Counsellor, I work collaboratively with individuals, families and support teams to develop practical, individualised approaches that recognise each person's strengths, experiences and goals.

I believe that building trust, listening without judgement and understanding the person beyond their diagnosis are essential to providing meaningful support.

Experience & Background

My career in the disability sector began in 2015, and I've since worked across a range of roles, including direct support, service coordination, management and staff training.

These experiences have given me valuable insight into disability support from different perspectives, including the everyday experiences of individuals, families and the people supporting them.

Since April 2023, I've worked as a Behaviour Support Practitioner, supporting adults with complex behavioural, emotional and psychosocial needs.

Alongside my work in Positive Behaviour Support, I'm an ACA Registered Counsellor with additional training in:

  • Abuse Counselling

  • Mindfulness-Based Approaches

  • Expressive Therapies

My background in both disability support and counselling informs the way I practise, especially when considering the relationship between emotional wellbeing, communication, lived experience and behaviour.

Who I Support

I primarily work alongside adults aged 18 years and over with a range of disabilities, experiences and support needs, including:

✓ Intellectual disability

✓ Autism and ADHD

✓ Acquired brain injury

✓ Psychosocial disability and mental health

✓ Genetic and neurodevelopmental conditions

✓ Dementia and other neurocognitive conditions

✓ Diverse communication and complex support needs

I recognise that many people experience overlapping needs, and that meaningful support often involves collaboration with families, carers, allied health professionals and broader support teams.

A Little More About Me…

Outside of work, you'll often find me enjoying creative and expressive arts, experimenting in the kitchen, trying new foods, spending time outdoors or looking after my two very spoiled guinea pigs!

I enjoy finding opportunities to be creative, continue to learn and connect with people from all walks of life.

Eddy and Pippy, two guinea pigs with black, white and brown fur, cuddling together on a soft blanket with fresh parsley.