DSP Talk

Naomi Brickell is the project director for Supported Decision Making New York. With a distinguished career focused on empowering people with developmental disabilities, she leads initiatives to present Supported Decision Making (SDM) as a recognized alternative to guardianship in New York. Naomi is known for her work in disability policy advocacy, supporting families through the complexities of disability services, and promoting in...

Joseph Macbeth: Joseph Macbeth, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP), boasts over 40 years of experience in the intellectual and developmental disabilities field. He began his career as a direct support professional and has become a prominent leader in workforce advocacy. Joe has significantly contributed to the advancement of direct support initiatives, particularly in New York and ha...

Joseph Macbeth: Joseph Macbeth, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP), boasts over 40 years of experience in the intellectual and developmental disabilities field. He began his career as a direct support professional and has become a prominent leader in workforce advocacy. Joe has significantly contributed to the advancement of direct support initiatives, particularly in New York and ha...

Anthony Pappas: A seasoned Direct Support Professional with over 15 years of experience, Anthony Pappas is deeply involved in the realm of self-directed services for individuals with developmental disabilities. His unique approach incorporates creative elements such as music, songwriting, and creative writing to foster personal development and achieve person-centered goals. A musician, recording artist, and published author, Anthon...

Tish Allcorn is an esteemed expert in the human services field, with a dedicated career spanning over seven years working with the Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation. She is instrumental in teaching DSP (Direct Support Professional) core competencies across New York State. Tish is known for her passionate advocacy for individuals with disabilities as well as the direct support professionals who assist them. She was activ...

Alyza Tarmohamed is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-President of Radicle Health, a company dedicated to transforming human services through innovative technology. With a unique professional journey transitioning from finance and insurance technology to behavioral health, Alyza has infused her expertise in software solutions to enhance efficiency and care quality in the human services field. Her personal motivation is deeply root...

Kenny Burr is a dedicated advocate for disability rights and accessibility, with a focus on improving the voting process for individuals with disabilities. He has held leadership roles with the Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation, serving as a self-advocate lead and region 3 lead, where he supported workforce champions and direct support professionals. Kenny has been active on various disability advocacy boards, including...

Vivian Attanasio: Vivian Attanasio is an esteemed behavioral specialist with extensive experience in developing and implementing behavior intervention plans. With a career spanning several years, she has worked closely with both individuals and interdisciplinary teams to promote effective behavior management and intervention strategies. Vivian is recognized for her innovative approaches and profound commitment to enhancing the qual...

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 Carb...

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...

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 be...

Asheley Blaise is a dedicated professional in the field of direct support for individuals with developmental disabilities. With over a decade of experience, Asheley has worked tirelessly to empower DSPs and supervisors in New York through her involvement with the Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation. Starting her journey as a DSP at a young age, Asheley found her passion in helping individuals with disabilities reach their...

Samantha Russell is a dedicated treatment manager at Mount Lake Services in the cornerstone program, where she has been working for the past twelve years. Starting as an aide in the assisted living setting, Samantha transitioned to the cornerstone program to work with individuals with complex needs, especially focusing on those with sexual problematic behaviors or forensic backgrounds. Her passion lies in helping individuals build ...

Chester Finn is a strong disability rights advocate with a rich history of advocating for individuals with disabilities. He has been involved with the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities and served as the president of the Self Advocacy Association of New York State from 1995 to 1997. With a passion for standing up for people's rights, Chester has dedicated his career to creating positive change in the disability right...

Jane Canale: Jane started her career in the field of speech pathology after graduating with a bachelor's degree. She began as a habilitation specialist and eventually transitioned into human resources, where she played a significant role in developing the HR department at Schenectady Arc. With the recent merge of Schenectady Arc and Liberty Arc, Jane continues to contribute to the growth and development of employees in the organiza...

Joanna Cepin is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities. She started her career working with elderly individuals with intellectual disabilities and has since become an advocate for person-centered planning. With a passion for helping individuals lead fulfilling lives, Joanna has focused on fostering meaningful relationships with the people she supports to empowe...

TJ Casey: TJ is an accomplished acrylic painter who draws inspiration from his extensive travels. His love for art shines through in his dedication to creating beautiful paintings, some of which have been showcased in international exhibitions like the Swiss Art Expo. TJ's commitment to sharing his artistic journey and connecting with others through his work is truly remarkable.

Rebecca Hart: Rebecca is a passionate artist with a ba...

Marilee Boylan is an occupational therapist with a background in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). She has extensive experience in job development and coaching, helping individuals with IDD find meaningful employment opportunities. Marilee is passionate about creating job matches that utilize the strengths and skills of individuals with disabilities, and she believes in the transformativ...

Dan Hermreck is the Director of Certification and Accreditation for the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). He has a background in math education and initially worked as a teacher before transitioning to adult education. Dan got involved with direct support work by accident when he took on a training coordinator position at a local ARC chapter. He became familiar with NADSP through his connection with a stat...