Vivian Attanasio is the Senior Vice President of Operations at Heartshare Human Services and a board-certified behavior analyst with a publication track record. With a background as a school psychologist and extensive experience in working with both children and adults in the field of behavioral analysis, Vivian has a deeply personal connection to her work. Her career includes collaboration with leading researchers like Doctor Carbone and pivotal projects such as the de-institutionalization of high-profile clients at SUS. Vivian is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through respect, rights advocacy, and individualized support.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of DSP Talk, host Ashley Blaise sits down with the insightful Vivian Attanasio, Senior Vice President of Operations at HeartShare Human Services and a seasoned, board-certified behavior analyst. Vivian shares her personal journey into the field, motivated by her close family experiences with disability. This conversation delves into the core principles of understanding and managing behaviors in individuals with developmental disabilities, with a focus on communication and relationship-building.

Behavior as a form of communication is central to the discussion. Vivian breaks down the reasons behind various behaviors and offers actionable advice for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to better understand the needs and feelings of those they support. She highlights the importance of building strong, respectful relationships as a foundation for effective support, stressing that trust and mutual respect can significantly prevent behavioral escalations. This episode is packed with both personal anecdotes and professional insights, making it a must-listen for anyone in the field.

Key Takeaways:

• Behavior as Communication: Understanding that behaviors often indicate unmet needs or desires and can be categorized into reasons like attention, escape, tangible (wanting access to something), or sensory issues.
• Importance of Relationships: Building strong, trusting relationships with the people supported is crucial for preventing and managing behavioral escalations.
• Respect and Consent: Always ask for permission and respect personal space, whether the individual is vocal or non-vocal, to foster trust and cooperation.
• Personal Investment: Sharing personal stories and showing genuine interest in the lives of those supported helps in building a stronger rapport and demonstrating respect.
• Consistent Support: Addressing the trauma of temporary staff and frequent changes, emphasizing the need for consistent and respectful support to build long-term trust.

Resources:

• HeartShare Human Services: HeartShare Human Services of New York | Homepage
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) | Autism Speaks
• Dr. Carbone: The Carbone Clinic: Applied Behavior Analysis | Carbone Clinic (thecarboneclinic.ae)
• What is an IEP? What is an IEP? (understood.org)

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Welcome to DSP Talk, your go-to podcast for transformative insights on disability support. In this special DSP Week episode, host Asheley Blaise leads a heartfelt tribute to direct support professionals (DSPs), celebrating the vital role they play in the lives of people with disabilities. This episode features perspectives from various professionals and personal anecdotes, all echoing a common sentiment—gratitude for the unwavering dedication and compassion DSPs bring to their roles.

The episode kicks off with Asheley Blaise highlighting the importance of DSPs in creating inclusive communities and empowering individuals with disabilities. Contributions from notable figures like Dorianne Adams, who reflects on her 37-year career, and Jen Vogt, a parent and professional, offer personal and professional appreciation. Industry voices like Joanne Cropper, Kirsten Sanchirico, Melody Johnson, Monica Robinson, Rachel Jacob and Therea Buick further underscore the immeasurable impact DSPs have on lives, emphasizing their roles as advocates, friends, and critical supporters.

As we honor the DSP Week, each speaker underscores a recurring theme: the invaluable difference DSPs make, not just as caregivers but as integral parts of the communities they serve. They are celebrated for their kindness, resilience, and the profound, lasting impact they leave on individuals and families. From heartfelt expressions of thanks to acknowledgment of their hard work, this episode is a testament to the indispensable role DSPs play every single day.

Key Takeaways:

• Vital Role of DSPs: Direct support professionals are essential in empowering individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives and in promoting inclusivity.
• Professional and Personal Gratitude: Both professionals in the field and family members of those receiving services highlight the profound impact of DSPs.
• Heartfelt Acknowledgment: The episode emphasizes the enduring gratitude felt towards DSPs, not just during DSP Week but year-round.
• Recognition of Dedication: Consistent acknowledgment of the tireless dedication, compassion, and hard work put in by DSPs, marking a deep appreciation for their service.
• Community and Empowerment: DSPs are more than caregivers; they are champions of dignity, empowerment, and community support.

Notable Quotes:

• Ashley Blaise: "You're not just caregivers, you're advocates, your friends, and your champions of inclusion. The difference you make is immeasurable."
• Jen Vogt: "The support you provide to my son helps him navigate his world with more confidence, safety, and joy."
• Melody Johnson: "What you do for yourself dies with you, but what you do for others—that will live on forever."
• Rachel Jacob: "You are more than just professionals. You are champions of dignity, empowerment, and inclusion."

Resources:

• Visit the Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation website for more information about the vital role of direct support professionals.

Tune in to DSP Talk to listen to the full episode and gain deeper insights into the invaluable contributions of DSPs. Stay tuned for more episodes where we continue to celebrate and recognize the impactful work being done in the field of disability support.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yolanda Rodriguez is a dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP) with over four and a half years of experience in the field. She specializes in supporting individuals with disabilities and special needs through various programs, including Day Habilitation (DayHab) and Community Habilitation (ComHab). Yolanda's journey began as a therapist assistant in an after school program for children with autism, and she has since grown to become a staunch advocate for the people she works with, providing tailored support and championing their personal and professional growth.

Summary:

In this insightful episode, host Asheley Blaise interviews Yolanda Rodriguez, an experienced Direct Support Professional, to delve into the intricacies of supporting individuals with disabilities. Yolanda shares her journey into the field, the principles guiding her work, and practical examples of her role in advocating for and empowering her clients.

Yolanda explains the core difference between Day Habilitation and Community Habilitation programs and how extending support beyond typical day hours can foster greater independence for individuals. Through anecdotes, she highlights the importance of empathy, effective listening, and advocacy in her daily tasks. Demonstrating client-centered support, Yolanda discusses the nuances of communication, emphasizing the significance of picking up on nonverbal cues to better understand and meet her clients’ needs.

Yolanda also shares a heartwarming success story of a client gaining banking independence and discusses her current role in supported employment as a job coach. Her passion for the profession shines through as she articulates the rewards of companionship, personal growth, and the broader societal impact of her work. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in the DSP field, highlighting the essential skills and the profound impacts of this career.

Key Takeaways:

• Empathy and Selflessness: Essential traits for putting the needs of individuals first and providing effective support.
• Effective Listening: Critical for understanding the unique needs and preferences of individuals with disabilities.
• Advocacy: Particular emphasis on helping clients advocate for themselves, fostering independence.
• Communication Skills: Importance of recognizing nonverbal cues and understanding varied communication preferences.
• Rewarding Career: The growth and fulfillment experienced by DSPs in both personal and professional capacities.

Notable Quotes:

1. "In order to put somebody first, we need to have empathy for them and sometimes sacrifice our own needs to help someone else." - Yolanda Rodriguez
2. "Effective listening is so important because it’s one of the biggest ways to learn what people are saying, even through nonverbal communication." - Yolanda Rodriguez
3. "Being an advocate for them, but also allowing them to become their own advocate in the process, is key." - Yolanda Rodriguez
4. "Working as a DSP is definitely something you won't forget; it raises awareness and builds a sense of responsibility to contribute to society." - Yolanda Rodriguez

Resources:

• Popcorn for the People: Website
• The Center for Family Support: Website

Encourage your audience to take a deep dive into this compelling conversation to uncover more about the rewarding experiences and challenges of being a Direct Support Professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.