At AmeriServe, we are committed to providing the best possible care and support for our clients. A key part of achieving this goal is understanding each individual on a deeper level, especially when it comes to their behaviors. That’s why our Training and Education Behavior Taskforce has been hard at work developing new tools to enhance our approach: Behavior Support Plan Baselines (BSP baselines).

What Are Behavior Support Baselines?

Behavior Support Plan (BSP) Baselines are comprehensive tools designed to document, analyze, and address individual behaviors. By identifying key factors—such as triggers, coping skills, and areas for growth—BSP baselines empower our IDT teams to create tailored support plans that foster independence and emotional well-being.

Why Are BSP Baselines Important?

Every individual is unique, and so are their behaviors. BSP baselines help answer crucial questions:

• What situations or environments might trigger certain behaviors?
• What coping mechanisms does the client already have?
• Are there any new skills or strategies that could benefit the individual?

By understanding these aspects, our team can prevent challenging behaviors and provide meaningful support when they arise.

How Are BSP Baselines Built?

Building a BSP baseline involves collaboration and observation. Team members, case managers, family members, and the clients themselves contribute valuable insights. Over time, patterns emerge that help us create personalized strategies, including:

• Identifying triggers: Adapting environments to reduce stress.
• Developing coping strategies: Empowering clients to manage challenges effectively.
• Monitoring growth: Updating baselines as clients grow and change.

For example, one of our clients successfully transitioned from Residential Services to the Lead On Program this year by improving their ability to manage alone time, decrease interfering behaviors, and develop positive routines. These successes were rooted in well-established BSP baselines.

Prevention and Support in Action

At AmeriServe, prevention is key. By proactively understanding triggers and behaviors, we adapt routines to minimize stress and maximize success. When behaviors do arise, our BSP baselines equip staff to respond with empathy and effective strategies, focusing on de-escalation and teaching positive coping mechanisms.

Collaboration Across Teams

Behavior Support Baselines are living documents that evolve with the individual. Our taskforce—including Jim Westphal, Kyle Clemens, Eric Seitz, Alex Tison, Samantha Baldwin, Kelly Wieczorek, Robin Ganske, Greg Scott, and other supporting members—ensures these tools remain dynamic and effective. Their dedication has resulted in significant improvements in how we measure, prevent, and train for behaviors across all programs, including DayHab, Residential Services, and Less than 24 Programs.

Success Stories and Impact

BSP baselines have made a measurable difference in the lives of our clients. Here are just a few examples:

• A client improved their medication awareness and transitioned to greater independence in the Lead On Program after building a strong behavioral foundation.
• Another client reduced interfering behaviors by implementing strategies developed through their BSP baseline.
• Multiple clients have expressed increased confidence and emotional stability as a result of personalized support plans.

These are just a few of the many stories that showcase how AmeriServe’s approach fosters client growth and success.

Local Impact and Community Connection

Based in Council Bluffs, Clarinda and Shenandoah, AmeriServe is proud to connect our clients to their communities. By focusing on behavioral health and personalized care plans, we continue to build meaningful relationships that empower individuals to thrive.

How AmeriServe Makes a Difference

At AmeriServe, we’re not just responding to behaviors—we’re fostering trust, building relationships, and creating opportunities for lifelong success. By investing in Behavior Support Baselines, we ensure that every client receives care that is as unique as they are.

Contact Us

Want to learn more about how our Behavior Support Baselines can support you or a loved one?
📧 Email us at info@ameriserveintl.com
📞 Call us at 712-322-0272

Together, we can create a brighter future.