Allison DeGweck

•Partner with teachers, administrators, and families to create individualized communication supports for students with autism, including many who are nonverbal and have significant behavioral needs.

• Train and support staff and caregivers in the effective use of AAC devices and other assistive communication tools to increase student independence and functional communication throughout the school day.

• Work collaboratively with BCBAs, occupational therapists, teachers, and other team members to implement consistent communication strategies that improve student engagement, participation, and overall success.

• Delivered individualized therapy in patients' homes, instructing caregivers on techniques and device utilization to enhance progress outside of sessions.
• Guided patients and families through therapy plans, clearly explaining treatment rationale and care options, while advocating for resources to support understanding, access, and adherence.
• Collaborated with physicians, nurses, and case managers to align interventions with medical plans, and optimize patient outcomes.

•Collaborated with teachers, special education staff, and administrators to implement communication supports and evidence-based interventions within classroom settings.

• Provided workshops, in-service training, and ongoing coaching to teachers and staff to promote effective and consistent use of AAC devices and communication strategies throughout the school day.

• Monitored student progress and the effectiveness of communication supports, adjusting interventions and recommending strategies to improve student engagement, participation, and functional communication.

• Collaborated with physicians, nursing staff, and therapists to facilitate timely access to interventions and equipment.
• Performed evaluations and interventions for patients with complex medical needs, including ventilator-dependent individuals and those experiencing dysphagia.
• Educated patients, families, and staff on therapy techniques, device use, and safe care practices.

• Managed a high-acuity caseload of ventilator-dependent patients, utilizing clinical expertise, data-driven decision-making, and persuasive communication to influence treatment planning.
• Educated multidisciplinary teams and patient families on complex medical devices (e.g., speaking valves, tracheostomy communication aids, and feeding systems).
• Conducted evaluations and interventions for patients with complex medical needs, including ventilator-dependent individuals and those with dysphagia