The InVisionary
Behavioral specialists are responsible for identifying and assessing current behavioral needs among people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Through the process of functional behavioral assessment (FBA), these specialists create customized behavioral support plans equipped with how to best meet a person’s needs, help them grow and excel, and teach the tools and techniques necessary to live a meaningful life. Behavioral specialists also provide training to their colleagues – teaching skills in how to best utilize behavioral support plans, restrictive procedures, and advocating for a person’s rights and needs. As the point of contact for behavioral support plans and any behavioral needs that may arise, InVision’s behavioral specialists coordinate with direct support teams, program supervisors, and staff from across our organization.
Through InVision’s on-call system, direct support professionals (DSPs) can reach a behavioral specialist for guidance when a person supported displays behavioral challenges. Like our program supervisors, behavioral specialists are available on call to ensure someone is available to help with these needs. Using this system can be a great way for DSPs to access feedback and coaching on behavioral support strategies as they start to recognize warning signs for the people they support. On-call behavioral specialists are intended for DSPs, however there may be instances where on-call supports could be utilized by people supported if outlined in their behavioral support plan.
Upon the creation of support plans, documentation of a person’s needs through our electronic medical records system is crucial to the implementation of this information into the lives of the people we support. Additional materials such as recordings of trainings, handouts, visuals, schedules, and other therapeutic supplies are utilized in creating an environment that best supports the needs of the people we serve and their direct support staff.
To ensure the success of each behavioral support plan, implementation and success are monitored through periodic in-person and virtual check-ins – creating a presence in the homes – as well as frequent updates on changes and training opportunities.
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?
I started working as a behavioral specialist with InVision in 2017, although it seems like yesterday. I don’t just like my job, I love it!
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have my bachelor’s degree in English and secondary education and a master’s degree in counseling. I am an observer, listener, and I can think outside the box. This is very helpful as a behavioral specialist because we need to try different approaches with every issue and use all of our senses to look beyond what is presented.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
I get to see growth, build relationships, advocate for what is right and decent in this world, and I enjoy the camaraderie with my co-workers. What I offer the people we support is my dedication to helping them live their best lives, and a sense of humor and the ability to laugh – especially during the most trying times.
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
I wish more people understood that my work is important to each individual’s personal success and happiness. I’m not just a data collector but an avenue for change and improvement.
Outside of the office, Gina has two children of her own and three grandchildren. She is an avid reader and is currently writing her first novel! Gina enjoys the arts, listening to classical music, spending time in Avalon, New Jersey, and cooking. Gina also has a cat named Lucia and is a huge fan of Villanova basketball.
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?
I started as a DSP with InVision in June 2017. I later transitioned to a behavioral specialist in May of 2019.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
Prior to InVision, I worked in the public school system as a secondary education teacher for 17 years. I co-taught with special education teachers and worked with the life skills students on occasion. Most of my time was spent with a large group of special needs children in an inclusion-based classrooms. I participated in many committees and other programs that assisted with students that needed additional help. I was a liaison between my educational team and a youth center as well as parents and family. For 3 years, I was a case manager for a portion of my students.
I was also trained and worked with at-risk high school students using the Restorative Practices model. In addition to my bachelor’s degree in secondary education, I participated in a bevy of workshops and graduate studies in English/writing, education, and psychology.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work with InVision?
Seeing positive progress among the people we support!
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
I would like more people to understand that I can only make suggestions about things inside the scope of my position. Also, I would like others to understand that I can only make suggestions and lend support to the people we support and staff to assist with understanding how to help the people we support live their best lives. Lastly, I would like people to understand that there is a lot of paperwork, meetings, and communications involved in this position.
In her personal life, Julia has two adult sons, one grandson, and multiple pets. She enjoys reading, movies, and sitcoms in her down time. She also loves nature, music, and theater, with experience performing in bands and acting in local theaters.
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?
I began working as a behavioral specialist with InVision in November 2019.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have a degree in social work, a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) certification, and a background in service coordination and criminal justice.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
Witnessing progress being made by the people we support!
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
Communication is important for success.
Outside of InVision, Jerry is a married father of two, coaches football and wrestling, and has an American Bully!
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?
I started my tenure with InVision in September 2015 as program supervisor and have since transitioned to the role of behavioral specialist in 2021.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have completed the FBA certification and have previous experience in human services and signals programs.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
When the light comes on and the people we support are willing to work toward goals or making changes. Seeing how happy they can be if and when everyone works together is quite rewarding.
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
That we are here to help both staff and people supported. I think often we are called to put out fires rather than helping or teaching staff how to implement the same techniques during their shifts.
In his off time, Jay coaches high school wrestling and plays in a community softball league. He also has a cat named Leda!
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?
I transferred from the Training Department at InVision into the role of behavioral specialist in May 2020.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have had the pleasure of serving in a variety of roles throughout my career that have included DSP, IDD supports coordinator, early intervention service coordinator, supervisor, and HR manager and trainer. At InVision, I had the opportunity to develop trainings and work with the trainers in the eastern part of the state. My education has focused primarily on psychology and counseling.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
I am grateful to be able to positively influence the lives of individuals and staff that I support. There is nothing better than seeing someone achieve their goals and experience fulfillment in their life.
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
That I put a lot of thought and research to the suggestions I make to the teams I support. I bring many years of experience to my work and continue to learn new things every day!
Outside of his work with InVision, Kenneth is a professional musician – playing the saxophone and performing with Reading’s Ringgold Band and the Wurst German Band. He loves to travel and is a Philadelphia sports fan. His friends would describe him as a food and beer aficionado. Kenneth also enjoys hiking and bicycling!
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?
I began working as a behavioral specialist with InVision in July 2020.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science, two years of experience as social therapist, and two years of experience as a case planner at a residential treatment center.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
When the people we support reach new goals or milestones!
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
We do not do magic.
Diomerys has four children of her own that she enjoys spending time with during her time outside of the office.
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?
I began working with InVision this June 2024. I look forward to expanding my learning capacity as a behavioral specialist with InVision. I also strive to collaborate with InVision’s existing staff to develop a system of techniques that can be implemented efficiently with clients.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have my bachelor’s in psychology and my master’s in clinical mental health counseling. I’ve worked in the mental health field for approximately 15 years. I have been a behavioral consultant since 2022. I have also been certified as a Registered Behavioral Technician and Behavioral Health Technician.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
The most rewarding aspect of my work with InVision is having autonomy to work with staff and clients, providing feedback, consulting, providing resources to all team members, helping in the development and creation of behavioral plans.
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
I wish that people in the community had a better understanding of the behavioral specialist’s role.
LeQuisha was born in Pittsburgh, PA, but has lived in several different states throughout her life. She has two teenaged daughters, and a dog named Shuri. Since she was a teenager, LeQuisha wanted to work in the mental health field and is very thankful for her career in the industry!
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?
I started working with InVision in July of this year.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have a Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in developmental psychology. I also have an FBA Certification and am a mandated reporter. My attention to detail, excessive empathy, and compassion for the overlooked will all contribute well to this role.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
As I am still technically in training, but I am looking forward to building trust with people who, possibly, aren’t used to being able to do so.
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
That I am not coming in with ideas and demands on my own without considering the expertise and insight the DSPs and people supported have to offer.
Theresa has two dogs who she says are the loves of her life. She enjoys traveling, learning new languages, learning about different cultures and histories, and is a huge fan of Star Wars, Harry Potter, Tolkien, George R.R. Martin, and Taylor Swift!
Thank you to all our behavioral specialists! InVision is thankful to have you, and we appreciate the support you provide your colleagues, and most importantly, the people we support.
Through InVision’s on-call system, direct support professionals (DSPs) can reach a behavioral specialist for guidance when a person supported displays behavioral challenges. Like our program supervisors, behavioral specialists are available on call to ensure someone is available to help with these needs. Using this system can be a great way for DSPs to access feedback and coaching on behavioral support strategies as they start to recognize warning signs for the people they support. On-call behavioral specialists are intended for DSPs, however there may be instances where on-call supports could be utilized by people supported if outlined in their behavioral support plan.
What to Expect from Behavioral Specialists
DSPs can look to behavioral specialists for comprehensive training, collaborative information and interventions, implementation strategies, additional support, plan development, data collection, and more. When calling the crisis support line, it’s important for DSPs to have information including the name of the person supported, regional location, program details, and the behavioral support plan details for the person supported, if applicable.Upon the creation of support plans, documentation of a person’s needs through our electronic medical records system is crucial to the implementation of this information into the lives of the people we support. Additional materials such as recordings of trainings, handouts, visuals, schedules, and other therapeutic supplies are utilized in creating an environment that best supports the needs of the people we serve and their direct support staff.
To ensure the success of each behavioral support plan, implementation and success are monitored through periodic in-person and virtual check-ins – creating a presence in the homes – as well as frequent updates on changes and training opportunities.
Introducing InVision’s Behavioral Specialists
Now that you know more about the job duties and expectations of behavioral specialists, let’s meet those within this role at InVision!Gina Ventresca (Eastern Region)
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?I started working as a behavioral specialist with InVision in 2017, although it seems like yesterday. I don’t just like my job, I love it!
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have my bachelor’s degree in English and secondary education and a master’s degree in counseling. I am an observer, listener, and I can think outside the box. This is very helpful as a behavioral specialist because we need to try different approaches with every issue and use all of our senses to look beyond what is presented.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
I get to see growth, build relationships, advocate for what is right and decent in this world, and I enjoy the camaraderie with my co-workers. What I offer the people we support is my dedication to helping them live their best lives, and a sense of humor and the ability to laugh – especially during the most trying times.
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
I wish more people understood that my work is important to each individual’s personal success and happiness. I’m not just a data collector but an avenue for change and improvement.
Outside of the office, Gina has two children of her own and three grandchildren. She is an avid reader and is currently writing her first novel! Gina enjoys the arts, listening to classical music, spending time in Avalon, New Jersey, and cooking. Gina also has a cat named Lucia and is a huge fan of Villanova basketball.
Julia Boyer (Eastern Region)
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision? I started as a DSP with InVision in June 2017. I later transitioned to a behavioral specialist in May of 2019.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
Prior to InVision, I worked in the public school system as a secondary education teacher for 17 years. I co-taught with special education teachers and worked with the life skills students on occasion. Most of my time was spent with a large group of special needs children in an inclusion-based classrooms. I participated in many committees and other programs that assisted with students that needed additional help. I was a liaison between my educational team and a youth center as well as parents and family. For 3 years, I was a case manager for a portion of my students.
I was also trained and worked with at-risk high school students using the Restorative Practices model. In addition to my bachelor’s degree in secondary education, I participated in a bevy of workshops and graduate studies in English/writing, education, and psychology.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work with InVision?
Seeing positive progress among the people we support!
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
I would like more people to understand that I can only make suggestions about things inside the scope of my position. Also, I would like others to understand that I can only make suggestions and lend support to the people we support and staff to assist with understanding how to help the people we support live their best lives. Lastly, I would like people to understand that there is a lot of paperwork, meetings, and communications involved in this position.
In her personal life, Julia has two adult sons, one grandson, and multiple pets. She enjoys reading, movies, and sitcoms in her down time. She also loves nature, music, and theater, with experience performing in bands and acting in local theaters.
Jerry Best (Western Region)
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?I began working as a behavioral specialist with InVision in November 2019.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have a degree in social work, a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) certification, and a background in service coordination and criminal justice.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
Witnessing progress being made by the people we support!
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
Communication is important for success.
Outside of InVision, Jerry is a married father of two, coaches football and wrestling, and has an American Bully!
Jay Matteo (Western Region)
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision? I started my tenure with InVision in September 2015 as program supervisor and have since transitioned to the role of behavioral specialist in 2021.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have completed the FBA certification and have previous experience in human services and signals programs.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
When the light comes on and the people we support are willing to work toward goals or making changes. Seeing how happy they can be if and when everyone works together is quite rewarding.
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
That we are here to help both staff and people supported. I think often we are called to put out fires rather than helping or teaching staff how to implement the same techniques during their shifts.
In his off time, Jay coaches high school wrestling and plays in a community softball league. He also has a cat named Leda!
Kenneth Williams (Eastern Region)
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision? I transferred from the Training Department at InVision into the role of behavioral specialist in May 2020.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have had the pleasure of serving in a variety of roles throughout my career that have included DSP, IDD supports coordinator, early intervention service coordinator, supervisor, and HR manager and trainer. At InVision, I had the opportunity to develop trainings and work with the trainers in the eastern part of the state. My education has focused primarily on psychology and counseling.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
I am grateful to be able to positively influence the lives of individuals and staff that I support. There is nothing better than seeing someone achieve their goals and experience fulfillment in their life.
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
That I put a lot of thought and research to the suggestions I make to the teams I support. I bring many years of experience to my work and continue to learn new things every day!
Outside of his work with InVision, Kenneth is a professional musician – playing the saxophone and performing with Reading’s Ringgold Band and the Wurst German Band. He loves to travel and is a Philadelphia sports fan. His friends would describe him as a food and beer aficionado. Kenneth also enjoys hiking and bicycling!
Diomerys Santana (Eastern Region)
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision? I began working as a behavioral specialist with InVision in July 2020.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science, two years of experience as social therapist, and two years of experience as a case planner at a residential treatment center.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
When the people we support reach new goals or milestones!
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
We do not do magic.
Diomerys has four children of her own that she enjoys spending time with during her time outside of the office.
LeQuisha Price (Western Region)
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?I began working with InVision this June 2024. I look forward to expanding my learning capacity as a behavioral specialist with InVision. I also strive to collaborate with InVision’s existing staff to develop a system of techniques that can be implemented efficiently with clients.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have my bachelor’s in psychology and my master’s in clinical mental health counseling. I’ve worked in the mental health field for approximately 15 years. I have been a behavioral consultant since 2022. I have also been certified as a Registered Behavioral Technician and Behavioral Health Technician.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
The most rewarding aspect of my work with InVision is having autonomy to work with staff and clients, providing feedback, consulting, providing resources to all team members, helping in the development and creation of behavioral plans.
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
I wish that people in the community had a better understanding of the behavioral specialist’s role.
LeQuisha was born in Pittsburgh, PA, but has lived in several different states throughout her life. She has two teenaged daughters, and a dog named Shuri. Since she was a teenager, LeQuisha wanted to work in the mental health field and is very thankful for her career in the industry!
Theresa Vehec (Western Region)
When did you start working as a behavioral specialist with InVision?I started working with InVision in July of this year.
What are some of the certifications or skills you have that contribute to your work as a behavioral specialist?
I have a Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in developmental psychology. I also have an FBA Certification and am a mandated reporter. My attention to detail, excessive empathy, and compassion for the overlooked will all contribute well to this role.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with InVision?
As I am still technically in training, but I am looking forward to building trust with people who, possibly, aren’t used to being able to do so.
What do you wish more people understood about your work as a behavioral specialist?
That I am not coming in with ideas and demands on my own without considering the expertise and insight the DSPs and people supported have to offer.
Theresa has two dogs who she says are the loves of her life. She enjoys traveling, learning new languages, learning about different cultures and histories, and is a huge fan of Star Wars, Harry Potter, Tolkien, George R.R. Martin, and Taylor Swift!
Thank you to all our behavioral specialists! InVision is thankful to have you, and we appreciate the support you provide your colleagues, and most importantly, the people we support.
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