About

The behavioral health field found Katie about 15 years ago, and she has dedicated her career to making a meaningful impact on people’s lives. She loves empowering her clinical team and is passionate about the work Beacon does for the individuals it serves.

Education

• BSN & PHN — Saint Catherine’s University
• Graduate student, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program (in progress)

Clinical Experience

• Charge nurse on a cardiac unit
• Elderly psychiatric acute care unit
• Travel nursing

Education & Credentials

• ADN — Rasmussen School of Nursing (2018)
• Registered Nurse, State of Minnesota
• 8 years U.S. Army Infantry prior to nursing

Areas of Expertise

• Behavioral health support & crisis intervention
• Medication administration and monitoring
• Person-centered care planning
• Trauma-informed care
• Long-term, medical/surgical, hospice & nursing management

Education & Credentials

• Practical Nursing — Central Susquehanna LPN Career Center
• AAS — Eastern Gateway Community College
• CPR, PA Train the Trainer, NIOSH Spirometry, TeamSTEPPS certified

Clinical Experience

• 20 years of nursing experience
• Gastroenterology, geriatrics, home health, behavioral health, hospice
• Hepatitis C educator/manager, nurse navigation, IDD
• Specialty in Hep C treatment and gastroenterology

Education

• Graduate Certificate in ABA — UMass Global (2022)
• MS in Healthcare Administration — Franklin University (2015)
• BS in Healthcare Management — Franklin University (2006)
• AAS in Human Services — North Central Missouri College (2004)

Experience & Expertise

• 15 years in mental health clinic (supervisor 2018–2025)
• ABA clinic and in-home services — preschool through adult populations
• Department of corrections and ISL adults
• ACT therapy · ABA adult population specialist

Education & Credentials

• BS in Psychology (Clinical Counseling) — Regent University
• MS in General Psychology — Regent University
• Graduate Certificate in ABA — Walden University (in progress)
• Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) · Trauma-Informed Care certified · Crisis Intervention trained

Experience

• 4 years in ABA · 12 years in mental health · 11 years as a CNA
• Memory care and locked units, clinic and home-based ABA (ages 2–21)
• Habilitation center (ages 18–65+), parent training
• Expertise in crisis intervention, positive behavior supports & trauma-informed care

Education & Credentials

• BS in Psychology
• Master’s in ABA — in progress (BCBA track)
• Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
• CPR Certified · CPI Certified · Level 1 Medication Aide

Experience

• Began career as a DSP with Beacon Specialized Living
• Advanced through RBT to Behavioral Specialist — all within Beacon
• Experience with individuals with developmental and behavioral needs
• Background in casework and ABA strategy implementation

Education & Credentials

• Master of Social Work (MSW) – Marywood University, Scranton, PA
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology – DeSales University, Center Valley, PA
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) – Pennsylvania

Experience

• 18+ Years of Clinical Leadership: Extensive background in executive management, program development, and budgeting across residential, outpatient, and community-based settings.
• Multidisciplinary Expertise: Specialist in supporting individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD), serious mental illness, and co-occurring diagnoses across the lifespan.
• Diverse System Navigation: Proven track record in foster care, corrections, school-based environments, and trauma-informed behavioral health.

Education & Credentials

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Herzing University, Madison, WI
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Experience

• 20+ Years of Clinical Expertise: A diverse medical career spanning long-term care, specialized surgical units, and psychiatric nursing.
• Operating Room Registered Nurse: Two years of high-acuity surgical experience, ensuring patient safety and procedural excellence.
• Psychiatric Nursing Specialist: Seven years of dedicated mental health service within a large county correctional facility, managing complex psychiatric needs.
• Outpatient & Long-Term Care: Extensive background in General Surgery and OBGYN clinics, built upon a decade of foundational experience in long-term care.

Education & Credentials

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Administration and Leadership, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Capella University.
• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from Jersey College School of Nursing.
• Licensed Registered Nurse (RN) with professional certifications as a Certified Developmental Disability Nurse (CDDN) and a Certified Medication Trainer (CMA).

Experience

• Over 30 years of experience in nursing, currently serving as a Director of Nursing (DON) overseeing clinical operations, policy implementation, and regional nursing staff.
• Extensive background in high-complexity fields, including mental and behavioral health, intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD), addiction recovery, and long-term memory care.
• Proven track record in Quality Assurance (QA), lead auditing, and successfully navigating state surveys and medical standards regulations.
• Experienced in developing and delivering medical training for both direct care staff and management, while spearheading recruiting, hiring, and staff development initiatives.

Education & Licensure

• Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling from Cambridge College and a Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation from Green Mountain College.
• Dual-licensed as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in Vermont and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia.
• Formally trained in evidence-based modalities including DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, and ARC, with additional expertise in LGBTQ+ affirming care and Psychological First Aid.

Experience

• Expert in developing Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) and individualized crisis plans, utilizing advanced de-escalation strategies and behavior support systems.
• Extensive history as an Outpatient and School-Based Clinician, providing individual and family therapy for children and adolescents (K–12) across residential and community settings.
• Strong background in supervising clinical teams, modeling interventions for aggressive behaviors, and collaborating with multidisciplinary providers to coordinate comprehensive client care.

Education & Credentials

• Master of Special Education from Ball State University.
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), previously serving as a BCaBA.
• Dedicated to the application of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles across diverse clinical settings, with a focus on long-term functional outcomes.

Experience

• Over 10 years of experience in the field of ABA, advancing through roles as a Behavioral Technician, Clinical Supervisor, and Director.
• Extensive history working with individuals ranging in age from 3 to 72 years, with a current specialized focus on the adult population within residential and community settings.
• Expert in Trauma-Informed Care, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Natural Environmental Teaching (NET) to ensure skills are durable and applicable to daily life.
• Highly skilled in providing regular therapeutic intervention and Functional Communication Training (FCT), prioritizing proactive behavioral strategies over reactive ones.

Education & Credentials

• Master in Healthcare Administration (Non-Profit Management) and Master in Counseling (Human Services).
• Licensed Behavior Specialist (LBS) candidate.
• Certified Ukeru Trainer and Intensive Systems Therapy Certified Coach.

Experience

• Over 10 years of experience in the mental health and IDD fields.
• Background as a Family Based MH Therapist and Autism/IDD Supports Coordinator.
• Expertise in supporting individuals with Autism, IDD, and various mental health needs.
• Specialized focus on fostering self-regulation and effective communication skills to help individuals thrive.

Education & Licensure

• Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Cincinnati.
• Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Scranton.
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Specialist.

Experience

• Over 23 years of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
• Two decades of clinical work with children and adolescents (ages 2–21) diagnosed with Autism.
• Specialized expertise in supporting adults with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) in residential and community settings.
• Advanced skills in Functional Communication Training (FCT) and the development of socially significant behaviors to promote independence.

Education & Credentials

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) from Wilkes-Barre Career and Technical Center; graduated top of class with honors in Pharmacology and Mental Health.
• Currently pursuing Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at Jersey College of Nursing.
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Medication Technician licenses.
• Certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS), Pilates instruction, and Swim instruction.

Experience

• Over 25 years of experience across healthcare and human services, including long-term care, pediatrics, and diabetes management.
• Specialized expertise supporting individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Autism, and complex medical needs.
• Extensive background in clinical instruction and training, with experience spanning the U.S. Coast Guard Training Department and staff education.
• Technical proficiency in HTML, CSS, and Java, utilizing systems-based problem-solving to develop clinical documentation and training tools.

Education & Credentials

• Nursing Graduate from Northampton Community College.
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) since 1991.

Experience

• Over 20 years of specialized experience working with the IDD population.
• Clinical expertise in high-acuity care, specifically Trach and Vent management.
• Six years of experience in medical clinic operations, specializing in immunizations and vaccines.
• Proven commitment to providing stable, high-quality care within interdisciplinary teams to support unique individuals in residential settings.

Education & Licensure

• Master of Education in Agency Counseling from Winthrop University.
• Level IV Credentials in Early Intervention Services via Winthrop University and the University of South Carolina.
• Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) for both Adults and Children; Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) exam eligible.
• Certified Medication Technician and Aide with specialized training in Insulin Administration and SPMI Case Management.

Experience

• Over 25 years of experience in mental health, ranging from pediatric early intervention to supporting SPMI adults with co-occurring diagnoses.
• Expert in crisis management and stabilization, utilizing models such as CPI, PMAB, and the Zero Suicide Approach across school and residential settings.
• Extensive background in forensic and diagnostic assessment, including court testimony, sexual abuse assessments, and structured decision-making for Social Services.
• Proven clinical leadership in developing individualized service plans, managing school-based mental health programs, and supervising multidisciplinary therapeutic teams.

Education & Credentials

• Master of Science in Applied Psychology from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania.
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Penn State Harrisburg.
• Specialized Internship in Early Intervention, focusing on multidisciplinary intake assessments and developmental care planning.

Experience

• Behavioral Programming: Current Behavior Specialist responsible for developing and implementing Behavior Support Plans (BSP) and providing direct training and modeling for clinical staff.
• Case Management & Advocacy: Extensive background as an IDD Supports Coordinator and Care Advisor, managing care projects and navigating complex healthcare systems for families and individuals.
• Collaboration & Monitoring: Proven ability to lead ISP and Treatment Plan meetings, coordinate essential services, and monitor progress for individuals with mental health and intellectual disability diagnoses.
• Developmental Support: Previous experience in educational and classroom settings, assisting with IEP implementation and using data-driven behavior management strategies to enhance student outcomes.

Education & Credentials

• Master of Arts in Psychology from Marywood University.
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Lycoming College.

Experience

• 9 years of experience in the mental health and IDD fields.
• Mobile Therapist providing clinical support and intervention in community and residential settings.
• Therapeutic Staff Support (TSS) background, specializing in behavioral interventions for children.
• Extensive population expertise including children, adults, individuals with Autism, and those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Education & Licensure

• Bachelor of Science in Psychology.
• Act 62 Functional Behavior Analysis trained and certified.
• National Certificate of Achievement in Employment Services (ACRE) and Autism 2.0 OPD.
• Safe Crisis Management, Ukeru, and CPR/First Aid/AED/Fatal 5 certifications.

Experience

• 23 years of dedicated experience within the agency across residential and community-based programs.
• Multifaceted leadership background including roles as a Behavior Specialist, Care Team Manager, CPS Case Manager, and Lead Staff.
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) expertise in developing Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and Positive Behavior Support plans.
• Relational Care approach focused on fostering trust, empathy, and genuine connections to ensure individuals feel safe and understood while they thrive.

Education & Credentials

• Master of Social Work (MSW) candidate at Grand Valley State University.
• Bachelor of Human Services from Baker College of Muskegon.
• Certified Ukeru Trainer, Gentle Teaching, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) certifications.

Experience

• Over 12 years of clinical experience across case management, supports coordination, and behavioral technology (RBT/ABA).
• Specialized expertise in supporting adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual and developmental disabilities, and mental illness.
• Expert in behavior plan services, advocacy, and clinical de-escalation techniques.
• Dedicated focus on Gentle Teaching modalities, fostering environments built on safety, high-quality care, and mutual respect.

Education & Credentials

• Bachelor of Social Work from Western Michigan University.
• Limited Licensed Bachelor of Social Work (LLBSW).
• Certified Ukeru Trainer and Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP).

Experience

• Over 14 years of experience in the mental health and IDD fields, spanning clinical and field settings for all age groups.
• Previous roles as an Addictions Group Counselor, Case Manager at Network180, and a Registered Behavior Technician for over seven years.
• Expertise in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), collaborating with BCBAs to implement and refine behavioral treatment plans.
• Specialized in staff training and treatment fidelity, utilizing trauma-informed care and tailored group therapy to support residential goals.
• Regional Clinical Supervision for North and Lakeshore Michigan, managing team support and emergent clinical situations.

Education & Licensure

• Social Work Graduate with an academic focus on early intervention and mental health advocacy.
• Specialized Clinical Background in navigating complex systems, including corrections and community-based mental health.

Experience

• Significant professional history within the correctional system, providing unique insight into the intersection of mental illness, substance use, and institutionalization.
• Expertise in community-based intervention, focusing on preventative care to reduce cycles of hospitalization and incarceration.
• Strengths-based practitioner dedicated to person-centered care, stability, and promoting independence for individuals within their own homes.
• Clinical skills in building genuine connections, meeting individuals where they are to address unique needs with compassion and dignity.

Education & Credentials

• Master of Social Work (MSW) and Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Western Michigan University.
• Associate of Arts from Lake Michigan College.
• Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP).
• Certified in specialized modalities including DBT-Informed care, Ukeru, Gentle Teaching, and Seeking Safety.

Experience

• 34 years of clinical experience in the mental health field, serving in leadership roles as Clinical Director and Assistant Clinical Director.
• Specialized expertise in high-acuity, high-behavioral settings, specifically working with long-term severely mentally ill (SMI) populations.
• Extensive background supporting high-acuity males within residential and therapeutic environments.
• Practitioner of Person-Centered care, focusing on high-quality clinical outcomes and long-term goal attainment for the MI/DD population.

Education & Credentials

• Master of Social Work (MSW) from Western Kentucky University and a Bachelor of Social Work from Eastern Kentucky University.
• Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW-C).
• Specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and trauma-focused clinical approaches.

Experience

• Over nine years of diverse clinical experience spanning inpatient substance use, community mental health, child welfare, and hospital settings.
• Expertise in high-acuity care, specializing in trauma, suicidality, substance use disorders, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
• Specialized program development experience, including trauma-informed initiatives for expecting mothers and young adults transitioning to independence.
• Systems-informed practitioner skilled in risk assessment, continuity of care, and multi-agency collaboration for vulnerable populations across the lifespan.

Education & Licensure

• Master of Social Work (MSW) candidate at Spring Arbor University (Expected June 2026); Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Michigan–Flint with University Honors.
• Limited Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LLBSW); transitioning to LLMSW upon graduate completion.
• Academic Researcher with contributions to the Global Families Project and published presentations on international parental abuse policies.

Experience

• Clinical Practice: Currently serves as a Clinician with Beacon Specialized Living, providing therapeutic support for adults with complex behavioral health needs.
• Behavioral Expertise: Former Registered Behavior Technician with experience delivering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in clinical and school-based settings.
• High-Risk Intervention: Specialized experience managing high-risk presentations, including suicidal ideation, self-harm, and significant emotional dysregulation.
• Evidence-Based Modalities: Integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) into a multidisciplinary approach to care.

Education & Credentials

• Master of Social Work (MSW) candidate with an advanced academic foundation in behavioral psychology.
• Over 20 years of experience in social work and human services.
• Specialized focus on Gentle Teaching and person-centered behavioral intervention.

Experience

• Two decades of clinical and direct care expertise, beginning with foundational work at Homelife Inc.
• Specialized behavioral insight rooted in the study of motivation and the psychological drivers of human behavior.
• Expertise in relational therapy, prioritizing empathy, safety, and respect to foster positive clinical outcomes.
• Proven practitioner of Gentle Teaching, utilizing kindness, consistency, and positive relationship-building as primary therapeutic tools.
• Strong leadership in crisis and stabilization, emphasizing calm presence and therapeutic rapport to achieve client victories.

Education & Credentials

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Warner Southern University.
• Specialized Clinical Systems Expertise in documentation, compliance, and EHR management.
• Broad Systems Knowledge spanning medical social work and the insurance field.

Experience

• Former EHR Administrator, leading system-wide process improvements and workflow optimization for multidisciplinary teams.
• Expertise in Clinical Records and Compliance, translating complex requirements into practical, usable systems for front-line staff.
• Extensive History in Direct Service, beginning in medical social work and family support before transitioning to institutional systems management.
• Specialized focus on supporting individuals with serious mental illness and intellectual/developmental disabilities.

Education & Licensure

• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC).
• Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) candidate at the University of West Florida (UWF).
• Trained in crisis intervention and safety including NCI, MANDT, and Ukeru.

Experience

• Extensive clinical background in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), specializing in functional skill acquisition and verbal behavior for children and adults.
• Proven track record in communication development, successfully teaching non-verbal individuals to speak and creating adaptive communication systems for unique learners.
• Deep experience across diverse settings, including clinical centers, group homes, and in-home support for both pediatric and adult populations.
• Academic researcher with a focus on comorbidities in developmental disorders, the functions of self-stimulatory behaviors, and non-verbal communication/body language.

Education & Credentials

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from Northcentral Technical College; graduated with high honors and a 3.8 GPA.
• Registered Nurse (RN) and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certified.
• Academic Achievements: Recipient of the Graduation Gold Cord for High Honor; consistent placement on the President’s List for High Academic Honor.

Experience

• Clinical Immersion: Diverse clinical residency and preceptorship experience across Intensive Care (ICU), Intermediate Care (IMC), and Medical-Surgical units at Marshfield Weston and Aspirus Wausau.
• Specialized Care Settings: Hands-on experience in Behavioral Health and Ventilator Care units, providing high-acuity support to vulnerable populations.
• Geriatric & Long-Term Care: Foundation in long-term care through clinical rotations and six years of volunteer service at rehabilitation centers, focusing on resident advocacy and enriching activities.
• Acute Intervention: Background in high-volume care and labor monitoring within veterinary services, including the administration of medications, subcutaneous fluids, and performing lifesaving newborn interventions.

Education & Credentials

• Master of Science in Psychology (Applied Behavior Analysis) from Capella University.
• Bachelor of Science in Human Services Counseling from Old Dominion University.
• Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) and Endorsed Positive Behavior Support Facilitator through the Virginia Department of Health Professions and VCU.
• Certified Intensive Systems Therapy (IST) Coach and Certified Ukeru Trainer.

Experience

• Over 20 years of experience in Virginia Waiver and community-based services, specializing in IDD and co-occurring mental health needs.
• Clinical Leadership: Current Clinician at Beacon Specialized Living, specializing in DD Waiver Therapeutic Consultation, Crisis Support, and Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA).
• Extensive Background: Former Senior Program Manager and Outreach Coordinator with deep expertise in Foster Care support, Supervised Visitation, and Life Skills education.
• Specialized Modalities: Advanced proficiency in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Positive Behavior Support (PBS), and Person-Centered Thinking, including the ACT Matrix and customized behavioral data analysis.

Education & Licensure

• Master of Social Work from Michigan State University.
• Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Michigan.
• Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW-C).
• Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP).
• Specialized Certifications: Safe Talk certified (Suicide Alertness), Ukeru, and Gentle Teaching.

Experience

• Practicing social work since 2013 across diverse clinical settings.
• Broad Population Expertise: Extensive work with children with Autism, families in crisis/truancy court, and adults within the mental health court system.
• Specialized Adult Care: Background in senior adult day care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and Dementia, as well as support for adults with Severe Mental Illness (SMI).
• Trauma-Informed Practitioner: Skilled in strengths-based, solution-focused interventions and life skills case management for complex family systems.

Education & Credentials

• Master of Social Work (MSW) from Western Michigan University.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Western Michigan University.
• SPADA Program Graduate (Specialty Program in Alcohol and Drug Abuse).
• Limited Licensed Master Social Worker (LLMSW).
• Certified in specialized tools including Ukeru systems.

Experience

• 7–8 years of cumulative experience across social work fields and intensive clinical internships.
• Diverse Population Expertise: Deep experience supporting individuals with Severe Mental Illness (MI), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Substance Use Disorders (SUD), and Co-Occurring Disorders.
• Substance Use Specialist: Strong clinical focus on addiction recovery and therapeutic interventions for chemical dependency.