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.

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

Jonathan Meagher-Zayas is the founder and chief strategist of Equity Warrior Strategies LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to advancing equity and social justice within the nonprofit and social impact sectors. With over 14 years of experience, Jonathan specializes in capacity building, leadership development, community engagement, and DEI strategy. He is a queer Latinx nonprofit leader, a social work adjunct professor, a certified fundraiser, a certified diversity professional, and a doctoral candidate focused on critical pedagogy in nonprofit leadership.

Episode Summary:

Join Asheley Blaise as she welcomes Jonathan Meagher-Zayas, a prominent leader in advocating for equity and inclusion in nonprofits. This episode delves into the pervasive issue of ableism in workplaces, particularly for individuals with developmental disabilities, and explores strategies for creating inclusive environments. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of recognizing inherent biases, co-creating solutions, and shifting organizational culture to promote genuine belonging.

Throughout the episode, Jonathan shares valuable insights into the common misconceptions that employers and the public have about people with developmental disabilities, including assumptions about competency and the notion that accommodations are costly. He advocates for the power of language and the role it plays in either reinforcing or dismantling stigma. With educational examples from organizations like AHRC Nassau, Jonathan illustrates how effective advocacy and inclusion efforts can transform communities and workplaces. The conversation also highlights the continuous journey of self-improvement and actionable steps that allies can take to combat ableism.

Key Takeaways:

• Cultural Transformation: True inclusion transcends policy changes and is deeply rooted in shifting organizational culture.
• Co-Creation and Leadership: Involving people with disabilities in decision-making processes is crucial to developing impactful strategies against ableism.
• Language and Representation: The ways we communicate and represent individuals can either reinforce stigma or foster belonging.
• Continuous Learning: Addressing ableism requires an ongoing commitment to education and unlearning of societal biases.

Notable Quotes:

• "If employers really want to center people with disabilities, they need to co-create solutions together."
• "Belonging is a human need…language helps us connect, understand, and create that belonging."
• "Giving grace is going soft on the person but hard on the problem."
• "If you are most impacted by ableism in the workplace, you have the most expertise and perspective to share, how to better address it."

Resources:

• Equity Warrior Strategies LLC
• AHRC Nassau NYS Community of Practice on DEI

Encouraging you to dive into this insightful episode, it's clear there's much to learn and reflect upon when it comes to inclusion and equity. Stay tuned for more discussions on DSP Talk as we continue to explore ways to better our communities and workplaces.

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

Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri is a prominent Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at AHRC Nassau, serving since 2022. With a global perspective, they excel in orchestrating evidence-based transformations within organizations to cultivate healthier and more inclusive work cultures. Known as an interdisciplinary scholar and cultural researcher, Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri's work revolves around unraveling how identity, power, and culture influence daily life and professional environments. Their innovative approach seamlessly combines academic research with actionable strategies to advance equity, belonging, and justice.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to this enlightening episode of DSP Talk. Today, host Asheley Blaise invites Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri to explore the nuanced intersection of sexuality, gender identity, and developmental disabilities within provider supported environments. Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri shares valuable insights into how these spaces can either suppress or support the expressions of LGBTQIA identities. The conversation highlights the systemic tendency to assume straight, cisgender norms and underscores the significance of comprehensive sexuality education, LGBTQIA training, and community and peer connections.

This episode dives into actionable strategies for direct support professionals, clinicians, and family members to create affirming spaces. Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri emphasizes the role of self-reflection to recognize and combat personal biases, as well as the necessity of embracing a trauma-informed approach to support those with developmental disabilities. Important interventions are discussed, such as employing visual aids, enhancing peer connections, and collaborating with external LGBTQIA organizations. By centering on autonomy and challenging prevailing biases, the discussion seeks to honor the full humanity of individuals with developmental disabilities while equipping caregivers and support professionals to better support their journeys.

Key Takeaways:

• Creating LGBTQIA affirming environments in support settings requires challenging systemic assumptions and championing person-centered planning.
• Direct support professionals should practice inclusive language, foster an environment that visually represents diversity, and create opportunities that provide space for self-discovery and self-expression.
• Self-reflection and honest acknowledgment of biases are crucial for caregivers and professionals to avoid imposing personal discomfort onto those they support.
• Understanding trauma histories and integrating trauma-informed approaches are fundamental to facilitating healthy personal exploration and relationships.
• Collaborating with LGBTQIA organizations and fostering peer-led education can fundamentally empower individuals with developmental disabilities.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Exploring your identity is a fundamental human right." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez
2. "Limited communication should not limit the exploration of identity." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez
3. "Being honest with ourselves about biases allows us to better support individuals authentically." – Asheley Blaise
4. "Building peer connections and partnerships is key to shifting support from protection to empowerment." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez

Resources:

• AHRC Nassau
• The LGBTQ Community Center, New York State

This 2-part interview is packed with thoughtful insights and practical strategies for anyone engaged in the support of individuals with developmental disabilities.

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

Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri is a prominent Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at AHRC Nassau, serving since 2022. With a global perspective, they excel in orchestrating evidence-based transformations within organizations to cultivate healthier and more inclusive work cultures. Known as an interdisciplinary scholar and cultural researcher, Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri's work revolves around unraveling how identity, power, and culture influence daily life and professional environments. Their innovative approach seamlessly combines academic research with actionable strategies to advance equity, belonging, and justice.

Welcome to this enlightening episode of DSP Talk. Today, host Asheley Blaise invites Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri to explore the nuanced intersection of sexuality, gender identity, and developmental disabilities within provider supported environments. Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri shares valuable insights into how these spaces can either suppress or support the expressions of LGBTQIA identities. The conversation highlights the systemic tendency to assume straight, cisgender norms and underscores the significance of comprehensive sexuality education, LGBTQIA training, and community and peer connections.

This episode dives into actionable strategies for direct support professionals, clinicians, and family members to create affirming spaces. Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri emphasizes the role of self-reflection to recognize and combat personal biases, as well as the necessity of embracing a trauma-informed approach to support those with developmental disabilities. Important interventions are discussed, such as employing visual aids, enhancing peer connections, and collaborating with external LGBTQIA organizations. By centering on autonomy and challenging prevailing biases, the discussion seeks to honor the full humanity of individuals with developmental disabilities while equipping caregivers and support professionals to better support their journeys.

Key Takeaways:

• Creating LGBTQIA affirming environments in support settings requires challenging systemic assumptions and championing person-centered planning.
• Direct support professionals should practice inclusive language, foster an environment that visually represents diversity, and create opportunities that provide space for self-discovery and self-expression.
• Self-reflection and honest acknowledgment of biases are crucial for caregivers and professionals to avoid imposing personal discomfort onto those they support.
• Understanding trauma histories and integrating trauma-informed approaches are fundamental to facilitating healthy personal exploration and relationships.
• Collaborating with LGBTQIA organizations and fostering peer-led education can fundamentally empower individuals with developmental disabilities.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Exploring your identity is a fundamental human right." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez
2. "Limited communication should not limit the exploration of identity." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez
3. "Being honest with ourselves about biases allows us to better support individuals authentically." – Asheley Blaise
4. "Building peer connections and partnerships is key to shifting support from protection to empowerment." – Dr. Sarah Gonzalez

Resources:

• AHRC Nassau
• The LGBTQ Community Center, New York State

This 2-part interview is packed with thoughtful insights and practical strategies for anyone engaged in the support of individuals with developmental disabilities. For a deep dive into these transformative discussions, listen to the full episode.

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

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 inclusion within educational settings and communities. She holds a degree from the University of Scranton and a master’s in special education and secondary transition from the University of Kansas.

Nicole Hastings is a self-advocate and leader within the intellectual and developmental disabilities realm. Drawing from her lived experiences, she plays an active role in advocating for self-determination rights. As coordinator of self advocacy and community engagement at the Westchester Institute for Human Development, Nicole leverages her position to empower others. She is both an adaptive sports enthusiast and entrepreneur, running Creative Arts by Nicole, which inspires individuals with disabilities to explore their artistic talents and pursue entrepreneurship.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of DSP Talk, host Asheley Blaise explores the transformative impact of Supported Decision Making (SDM) in enhancing autonomy and independence for individuals with developmental disabilities. Joined by Naomi Brickell and Nicole Hastings, two prominent advocates, the discussion delves into the nuances of SDM, contrasting it with traditional guardianship models and highlighting its potential to promote self-empowerment in the disability community.

Naomi Brickell explains the fundamental differences between guardianship and Supported Decision Making, underscoring how SDM prioritizes personal choice, autonomy, and the use of trusted support networks to guide decision-making. The episode challenges the misconception that guardianship is the only or safest option, revealing SDM’s role in fostering better decision-making and learning from mistakes. Nicole Hastings shares her personal journey with SDM, illustrating the importance of choosing supporters who respect individual autonomy and emphasizing the dignity of risk and the right to make independent choices, even if they lead to mistakes. As listeners engage with these dynamic stories, they'll gain a deeper appreciation for the principles of self-determination and inclusion driving this movement.

Key Takeaways:

• Supported Decision Making (SDM) is presented as a powerful alternative to guardianship, enabling individuals with disabilities to make their own informed choices with the support of chosen allies.
• Nicole Hastings discusses how her SDM journey is rooted in selecting trusted supporters to aid in complex areas like healthcare and finance, without relinquishing autonomy.
• Naomi Brickell emphasizes that guardianship often doesn't provide the safety families assume, contrasting it with SDM’s emphasis on intentional decision-making support.
• The conversation stresses the necessity for SDM to become a normalized approach in society, reducing the systemic barriers and stigmas faced by individuals with disabilities.

Resources:

·         Supported Decision Making New York

·         17a Guardianship

·         Senate Bill S7107B

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

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 has been pivotal in establishing NADSP as a national movement representing over 60,000 professionals. Among his notable achievements are co-authoring a presidential report on the direct support workforce crisis and developing the E-badge Academy. Additionally, he serves on various national boards and committees, including a presidential appointment to the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities (PCPID).

Episode Summary:

In this 2-part episode of DSP Talk, host Ashley Blaise engages in a meaningful conversation with Joseph Macbeth, an influential figure in the field of direct support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Joe shares insights from his extensive experience advocating for direct support professionals (DSPs), discussing the urgent need for policy changes that affect DSPs and their ability to provide essential services. He emphasizes the potential impact of impending Medicaid cuts and the importance of DSP-led advocacy to confront these challenges.

In an exploration filled with crucial insights, Joe Macbeth delves into significant policy issues facing DSPs today, highlighting the often invisible and undervalued status of these professionals. He elaborates on the profound effects of potential Medicaid cuts, advocating for direct support professionals to mobilize and advocate on their own behalf. Throughout the discussion, Joe underscores the vital role of DSPs in achieving quality care and the pressing need for proper recognition within the profession. The conversation further explores the necessity for systemic support, training, and direct involvement of DSPs in policy advocacy, emphasizing the role of personal stories in influencing legislative change.

Key Takeaways:

• Direct support professionals face potential setbacks due to proposed Medicaid cuts, which could impact both their livelihoods, and the quality of care provided.
• Joe Macbeth encourages DSPs to take charge and advocate for themselves, drawing a parallel to successful social justice movements led from within.
• Recognition and support for DSPs extend beyond monetary compensation to include career development, decision-making power, and strategic involvement in organizational processes.
• There is a critical need for a unique occupational classification for DSPs to ensure accurate workforce data, essential for informed policy decisions.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I see this as a social justice type of issue. People who support people with all types of disabilities need to be valued and respected as a true professional” – Joe Macbeth

2. "Honoring is a practice, not a performance." – Ashley Blaise

3. "Medicaid is not an entitlement. Medicaid feeds back into community and people with disabilities…contribute greatly to our communities." – Joe Macbeth

4. "Nobody's a good direct support professional on day one. It takes time to be a good direct support professional."– Joe Macbeth

Resources:

• National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP)
• Advocacy Center
• Disability Policy Forum

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

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 has been pivotal in establishing NADSP as a national movement representing over 60,000 professionals. Among his notable achievements are co-authoring a presidential report on the direct support workforce crisis and developing the E-badge Academy. Additionally, he serves on various national boards and committees, including a presidential appointment to the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities (PCPID).

Episode Summary:

In this 2-part episode of DSP Talk, host Ashley Blaise engages in a meaningful conversation with Joseph Macbeth, an influential figure in the field of direct support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Joe shares insights from his extensive experience advocating for direct support professionals (DSPs), discussing the urgent need for policy changes that affect DSPs and their ability to provide essential services. He emphasizes the potential impact of impending Medicaid cuts and the importance of DSP-led advocacy to confront these challenges.

In an exploration filled with crucial insights, Joe Macbeth delves into significant policy issues facing DSPs today, highlighting the often invisible and undervalued status of these professionals. He elaborates on the profound effects of potential Medicaid cuts, advocating for direct support professionals to mobilize and advocate on their own behalf. Throughout the discussion, Joe underscores the vital role of DSPs in achieving quality care and the pressing need for proper recognition within the profession. The conversation further explores the necessity for systemic support, training, and direct involvement of DSPs in policy advocacy, emphasizing the role of personal stories in influencing legislative change.

Key Takeaways:

• Direct support professionals face potential setbacks due to proposed Medicaid cuts, which could impact both their livelihoods, and the quality of care provided.
• Joe Macbeth encourages DSPs to take charge and advocate for themselves, drawing a parallel to successful social justice movements led from within.
• Recognition and support for DSPs extend beyond monetary compensation to include career development, decision-making power, and strategic involvement in organizational processes.
• There is a critical need for a unique occupational classification for DSPs to ensure accurate workforce data, essential for informed policy decisions.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I see this as a social justice type of issue. People who support people with all types of disabilities need to be valued and respected as a true professional” – Joe Macbeth

2. "Honoring is a practice, not a performance." – Ashley Blaise

3. "Medicaid is not an entitlement. Medicaid feeds back into community and people with disabilities…contribute greatly to our communities." – Joe Macbeth

4. "Nobody's a good direct support professional on day one. It takes time to be a good direct support professional."– Joe Macbeth

Resources:

• National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP)
• Advocacy Center
• Disability Policy Forum

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

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, Anthony has a rich history of collaborating with families and participants to cultivate meaningful and empowering support systems.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Asheley Blaise delves into the transformative world of self-direction with Anthony Pappas, a Direct Support Professional who has an innovative approach to person-centered care. This episode focuses on the intricacies and benefits of self-direction as people with developmental disabilities are empowered to make significant life choices about their care, supported by a close-knit team of family and DSPs. Anthony shares his insights from over 15 years in this field, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, mutual respect, and collaboration between DSPs, participants, and families.

Throughout the conversation, Anthony highlights how working closely with families changes the traditional DSP role, offering a more personalized approach to care. Terms like "self-direction," "collaborative teams," and "individualized goals" permeate the discussion as Anthony reflects on his innovative methods, such as using music to enhance vocabulary and creative expression. The discussion underscores the challenges and rewarding moments of self-direction, showcasing real-life examples that emphasize empowering choice and finding common ground in decision-making processes.

Key Takeaways:

• Self-direction thrives on collaboration, creativity, and respecting personal choice, with the participant's voice central to decision-making.
• Effective communication between families and DSPs is crucial for successfully navigating challenges and fostering growth in participants.
• Utilizing creative approaches like music can significantly enhance personal development and engagement of individuals being supported.
• Compromise and flexibility are necessary for achieving shared goals and maintaining productive relationships between families and DSPs.
• Anthony's experiences illustrate the transformative power of self-direction in instilling independence and confidence in participants.

Resources:

• Book: Gifts From the Autistic Community - by Anthony Pappas
• Listening Workshop: Listen and Unwind - Contact [email protected]

Definitions:

• Participant – In this episode, participant refers to the person being supported in self-directed services.
• FI – Fiscal Intermediary is the agency of records. The FI handles DSP onboarding, payroll, mandatory training of DSPs and families, as well as Human Resources needs such as tax information and health insurance benefits for the DSP. The FI ensures that all DSPs on the participant’s team, as well as the participant’s budget, are compliant with the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).

Tune in to the full episode to deepen your understanding of person-centered care and see firsthand how the DSP Talk series uplifts the invaluable work of direct support professionals. Stay connected for more conversations that inspire and inform.

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

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 active in the Be Fair to Direct Care campaign, she has also partnered with NADSP and actively participated in legislative advocacy. Tish holds a human service degree from Mohawk Community College. As a proud Navy brat, she is also a dedicated advocate for veterans.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Ashley Blaise sits down with Tish Allcorn, a driving force in the human services arena, for a captivating conversation. Tish brings a wealth of knowledge from her work with the Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation, focusing on DSP competencies and advocacy for fair treatment of direct care professionals. She discusses the deep connections and impactful relationships that can form between those offering support and the individuals receiving it. Tish's insights offer a glimpse into the heart of disability support work and emphasize the importance of genuine connections.

This episode delves into core themes such as the significance of understanding and emotional connection in disability support work, exemplified through Tish's own experiences in both her professional and personal life. Listeners are treated to an engaging discussion that underscores the need for emotional presence—beyond mere procedural support. The narrative paints a powerful picture of how DSPs, by showing up with both their heart and hands, can meaningfully impact the lives of those they support. Tish also highlights her anticipation of reconnecting with colleagues and community members through the re-launched Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation initiatives in May.

Key Takeaways:

• Emotional connection between DSPs and those they support is crucial for successful and meaningful assistance.
• Tish emphasizes the role of DSPs in facilitating a fulfilling life for individuals with disabilities, advocating for an understanding-driven approach to care.
• Building trust and safety requires understanding and time, which can be more challenging without the ability to choose one's support staff.
• DSPs should recognize their impact, whether they're in someone’s life for a brief moment or an extended period, underscoring their significance.

Notable Quotes:

• "You can't really support me if you don't understand me or try to understand where I'm coming from."
• "Whether you're in somebody's life for 15 minutes or for 15 years, you play a significant role in their life, and that matters."
• "My success is part of their [DSPs] success."

Resources:

• The Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation
• Be Fair to Direct Care Campaign
• NADSP (National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals)

Intrigued by Tish's insights on the essential roles played by DSPs? Tune in to the full episode to gain deeper understanding and stay updated with more enlightening content from DSP Talk.

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

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 rooted in her family’s community service background, inspired by her upbringing in a small Canadian town.

Episode Summary:

Welcome back to DSP Talks with our host, Asheley Blaise, who delves into the intersection of technology and behavioral health services. Today's insightful conversation features Alyza Tarmohamed, CEO and Co-President of Radicle Health, who shares her unconventional journey into the sector and outlines the impact of digital documentation on the responsibilities of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). With an industry in evolution, Alyza emphasizes the crucial role technology plays in enabling more holistic care approaches.

In this episode, Alyza discusses the transformative power of digital documentation, highlighting its ability to improve continuity of care, streamline communication, and enhance goal tracking for individuals receiving services. The discussion touches on the challenges of adopting new tech solutions and the need to increase DSP proficiency with intuitive design and comprehensive training. Technology is explored as a future tool to minimize time spent on administrative tasks, allowing DSPs more time for direct care, thus maximizing their impact.

Key Takeaways:

• Impact of Digital Documentation: Enhanced continuity and holistic care are key benefits, as well as more seamless communication within care teams.
• Technology as a Support, Not a Task: Emphasis is on tech tools that facilitate easier job performance, not just add to DSP workload.
• Training and Usability: Technology companies are investing heavily in user-friendly platforms and practical training to ensure DSPs can leverage technology effectively.
• Future Technological Innovations: Exploring AI and automation to reduce documentation time, supporting DSPs in providing quality care.

Notable Quotes:

• "Technology isn't there for technology's sake; it’s there to ensure things get better or help people do their jobs more easily."
• "DSPs are on the front line, making sure we see those connections in the data, linking individual care to broader program goals."
• "Without an overarching picture of data over time, we miss the opportunity to showcase meaningful progress and impact."
• "My hope is that technology will have a real impact on how DSPs do their work in the future."

Resources:

• Radicle Health: Learn more about the company and its mission

Dive into the full episode to witness the future of technology in behavioral health with Alyza Tarmohamed. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions from DSP Talks, spotlighting the intersection of care and innovation.

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