DSP Talk

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...

Lindsay Anne Murry is a long-time employee of AHRC NYC, with 19 years of experience in the organization. Lindsay has held various positions within AHRC NYC, including assistant manager, human rights committee coordinator, staff trainer, executive assistant, and program manager for special initiatives. Monique Robinson has been with AHCR NYC for a little over a year. She started as a direct support professional, then was promoted to...

BJ Stasio is an advocate and activist based in Buffalo, New York. He is passionate about advocating for disability rights and improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. BJ relies on personal care attendants and self-direction support staff to support him in his daily activities and advocacy work. He is dedicated to giving back to the community and believes in the power of storytelling to create positive change.

Episod...

Ed Bartz is a 61-year-old man living successfully with cerebral palsy. He has strived to live independently and has been a strong advocate for self-direction programs. Ed uses an augmentative communication device to convey his thoughts and feelings, and he is known for his social nature and sense of humor. He hires direct support professionals (DSPs) to assist him with personal care and live the quality of life he desires.

Wilson Pi...

Valerie Largent is a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and Team Leader from the ARC of Monroe County. With over 12 years of experience in the field, Valerie is dedicated to assisting individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities in obtaining the necessary skills to obtain employment. She is passionate about empowering individuals, promoting inclusion in the community, and integrating people with diverse abilities into wor...

Danielle Neff is a Senior Direct Support Professional (DSP) at a provider organization in Long Island, New York. Danielle supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is passionate about helping these individuals achieve their goals and live independent lives. Danielle's career in the field of disability support started as just a job, but it quickly became her calling. She finds purpose and fulfillment...

Peter Leonard is the father of Kevin Leonard, who receives support and services from New Horizons Resources, a provider organization in Hudson Valley, New York. He appreciates the direct support professionals who have made a positive impact on Kevin's life and continue to help him blossom.

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Gina Scarpa interviews Peter Leonard, the father of a son with developmental disabilities. Peter shares his...