The 2009 Rich O'Donnell Symposium presented by First Niagara drew 100 direct care providers to Enable this month. Special guest James Reynolds, CRC, NCC presented "Dual Diagnoses: Providing Care for Individuals with Mental Health Needs and Developmental Disabilities." The seminar was so popular that a second date was added to accommodate an extra section of attendees.
Mr. Reynolds used personal examples from his experience as a psychologist with Hutchings Psychiatric Center and the CNY Developmental Services Office to offer tips on care. He told attendees that it is important to see each participant in their programs as an individual when dealing with dual diagnoses. "The issue is so complex that there's no simple answer. It's impossible to have a cookbook response for every situation."
The rewards of providing services to people with disabilities in a direct care environment can be tremendous. As a direct service provider, Rich O'Donnell knew the importance and value of the personal relationship that develops between the staff in a group home and the residents who live there. Before his unexpected death in June 2007, Rich had become a friend and companion to the residents of Greystone Drive, above and beyond his role as a direct care service provider. The Rich O'Donnell Symposium seeks to provide personal training opportunities for direct care service providers, who work every day to enhance the lives of people with disabilities.
