(1) The service provider must conduct and document a functional assessment before developing and implementing a client's positive behavior support plan.

(2) The service provider must start the functional assessment when the client begins to engage in challenging behaviors that interfere with the client's ability to have positive life experiences and form and maintain relationships.

(3) The service provider must ensure that a client's written functional assessment addresses:

(a) A description of the client and pertinent history;

(b) The client's overall quality of life;

(c) The behaviors that are considered challenging and/or are of concern;

(d) The factors or events which increase the likelihood of challenging behaviors;

(e) When and where the challenging behavior(s) occurs most frequently;

(f) The factors or events which increase the likelihood of appropriate behavior;

(g) An analysis and assessment of the possible functions or purpose the challenging behavior(s) serve for the client including what he or she obtains or avoids by engaging in the behavior(s); and

(h) A concluding summary of the functions or purpose that each challenging behavior serves for the client.

(4) The service provider must include the following sections in the format of each client's written functional assessment:

(a) Description and pertinent history;

(b) Definition of challenging behaviors;

(c) Data analysis/assessment procedures; and

(d) Summary statement(s).