Contributing Authors for Behavioral Success

Geneira Poulis is a seasoned Behavior Intervention Specialist (BIS) with over 14 years of experience in the field of developmental disabilities. She has served in various pivotal roles, ranging from Assistant Program Director to Program Director, and is now dedicated to fostering person-centered, equitable behavior support. Geneira 's approach is deeply informed by her firsthand experiences with systemic injustice. Holding a Master’s of Social Work from Stony Brook University, she uniquely blends clinical expertise with a strong commitment to social justice, aiming to empower both the individuals served and the professionals who support them.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of DSP Talk, host Asheley Blaise engages in a rich dialogue with Geneira Poulis, a respected Behavior Intervention Specialist (BIS), to explore the critical role that Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) play in the development and execution of behavior intervention plans. Geneira emphasizes the importance of including DSPs in the creation process, describing them as the 'backbone' of behavior support plans, and illustrating how their firsthand experiences, insights, and daily interactions with individuals can significantly enhance the efficacy and relevance of these plans.

Geneira Poulis provides an innovative perspective on empowering DSPs through collaboration and inclusion in the planning process. By underscoring the importance of fostering environments where DSPs can actively contribute, ask questions, and feel valued, Geneira outlines strategies to bridge the gap between clinical teams and direct support staff. This approach not only improves behavioral outcomes but also nurtures professional growth and satisfaction among DSPs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in the field of developmental disabilities, offering practical advice and key strategies for improving team collaboration and client care.

Key Takeaways:

• DSPs are the "backbone" of behavior support plans, providing crucial insights from their close work with individuals.
• Collaboration between DSPs and clinicians is essential for crafting effective, real-world interventions that cater to individuals’ specific needs.
• Empowering DSPs through dialogue and understanding the why behind behavior plans enhances their ability to implement these plans effectively.
• The inclusion of DSP experiences and observations in behavioral planning fosters a sense of pride and ownership, leading to better adherence and outcomes.

Notable Quotes from Geneira Poulis:

• " I often feel like they're [DSPs] the writers and the behavior intervention specialists are the editors.."
• "An observation gives us a snapshot, but the DSP gives us the whole picture. They're able to paint everything they see."
• "When we include them in creating the plan, it gives them a certain kind of pride behind the plan."
• "A strong, trusting relationship between the DSP and the people that they're supporting always gives positive behavior outcomes."
• "Make collaboration a built-in part of your system and not an afterthought."

Discover more about creating effective behavior support strategies and empowering those on the front lines by tuning in to the full episode. Stay engaged for more enlightening content from DSP Talk, where we continue to explore pivotal topics in the developmental disabilities field.

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