Michelle McCabe

Michelle McCabe is an Advanced Behaviour Support Consultant and educator, bringing over two decades of experience in special education and mental health services. She holds a Master of Special Education (Behaviour Problems), a Bachelor of Education/Arts from Newcastle University and is currently completing her Bachelor of Social Work Degree at Charles Sturt University. Michelle has undergone Maybo training, which emphasizes a low-arousal approach to reducing challenging behaviours. This training equips her with strategies to de-escalate situations calmly and effectively, aiming to minimize stress and promote safer, more positive outcomes for individuals with behavioural concerns. She has also completed training in Conflict Resolution, Crisis, and Suicide Intervention, equipping her with the skills to manage high-stress situations, de-escalate crises, and offer effective support during critical moments.

In 2024, Michelle founded Michelle McCabe Consultancy in the Hunter region, offering comprehensive Positive Behaviour Support for people aged 4 – 65 years of age under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Her services include the development and implementation of individualised Behaviour Support Plans, functional behavioural assessments, 1-1 support, classroom and community observations, social skills training, and advocacy. She is also an accomplished trainer, delivering proactive strategies to organizations and schools.

Michelle’s diverse professional background includes roles as a Mental Health Worker with Flourish Australia, where she supported individuals through the Supported Independent Living Program, and as a Behaviour Support Specialist with Samaritans Clinical Support Unit. She has extensive experience in the foster care system, having worked as a Permanency Planner Caseworker with CatholicCare and as a Case Manager with Samaritans.

Michelle worked alongside educational executives to develop the Dynamic Alternative Learning Environment (DALE) School for children diagnosed with Autism and other mental health challenges in the Hunter region. She served as a curriculum leader for three campuses spanning the Hunter Valley, Newcastle, and the Central Coast. Her exceptional contributions led to her promotion to Deputy Principal of the main campus in Newcastle, a role she held for six months before making a career change.

In addition to her consultancy work, Michelle has served as an online tutor with Cluey Learning, providing tailored educational support to students across NSW, QLD, and VIC. She is also the former owner of Michelle McCabe’s Inspired Fitness, where she offered specialized bootcamp sessions for children with special needs.

Michelle’s personal interests include horse riding, movies, reading biographies, puzzles, bike riding, and bush walks.

Her dedication to proactive and individualized strategies, combined with her comprehensive expertise, make her a valuable asset to the families and organizations she supports.