PSG at the Positive Practices International Conference in Los Angeles
This past weekend, Positive Support Group was proud to present at the Positive Practices International Conference in Los Angeles, arranged by the IABA Research and Education Foundation.
Gina Karlberg from our Clinical Team delivered a presentation on using the PERMA Model to illustrate multi-element approaches to support. The event brought together leading researchers and sector leaders from around the world who specialise in multi-component and holistic models of support. We are pleased to continue playing an important part in a wider international effort to share learning, develop best practice in our field, and stay connected to others who are equally committed to advancing holistic, person-centred practice.
At PSG, we work with each person and their network to explore what matters most to them – recognising that quality of life is complex, multi-faceted, and deeply personal. This is why we use our multi-element Five Stage Process Model – a structured yet flexible framework that enables us to respond to the full spectrum of what matters to each person and those around them. For some, this might include reconnecting with family, exploring a romantic relationship, developing independence and self-determination, or feeling purposeful in their community – often, it’s not just one of these things but many, unfolding together. We recognise that to avoid becoming a mere buzzword, being person-centred means more than just tailoring and individualising support – it means taking the time to understand the layered goals, values, and aspirations of each person and their wider circle of support, and then working collaboratively to bring those into focus.
What makes our model unique is that it’s both holistic and rigorous. Our Five Stage Process isn’t just flexible – it’s evidence-informed and structured in a way that supports consistency, quality assurance, and adaptability across services. Whether we’re supporting someone to return to education, facilitating a safe transition from a lengthy hospital stay, working within our Behaviourally Intensive Community Services (BICS), or supporting someone as part of our Transforming Care programme – the same holistic, thoughtful, and interdisciplinary process is used.
Crucially, we’re proud to be part of a growing global conversation about what best practice in support really looks like. We’re committed to approaches that are person-driven, values-led, and rooted in both compassion and quality assurance.
At PSG, we’re excited to keep learning, sharing, and growing – because at the heart of it all is our shared mission: to support people to live not just good lives, but to truly thrive.
