Our Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer (DCSCT)
Leadership Training Team
Ann Mroz, BSN, RN, SCRN, NC-BS, DCS, DCSCT
Ann Mroz, BSN, RN, SCRN, NC-BC, DCS, DCSCT has been active as a Registered Nurse for over thirty years of practice. She has achieved status as a Stroke Certified Registered Nurse (SCRN), Integrative Nurse Coach Board Certified (NC-BC) and Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer (DSC, DCSCT) in Florida. Her background includes administrative and clinical expertise in stroke center program development and management, quality improvement, nursing education, territory management and holistic health coaching for staff, patients and caregivers. Her teaching experience encompasses academic instruction, supervision for medical professionals and community outreach to the senior population.
Ann has a passion for holistic practices and completed a year-long intensive mentorship and passed national certification as an Integrative Nurse Coach. In addition, Ann has completed certificate courses for Aromatherapy Nurse and Natural Nurse Herbal Medicine.
Ann has also achieved instructor training for Qigong for Health through the International Tai Chi for Health Institute and the Ageless Grace exercise program, an evidence-based whole body chair exercise program which improves neuroplasticity and balance.
Ann has been a practitioner in many different forms of holistic techniques and is a constant learner in mind-body practices such as Meditation, Mindfulness and Healing Touch.
Beth Dunoff, OTR/L, CLT, DCS, DCSCT
Beth Dunoff, OTR/L, CLT, DCS, DCSCT has been an Occupational Therapist for over 30 years with a passion for helping seniors age in place safely. She is currently a Clinical Educator providing education to colleagues at multiple medical senior day programs in Pennsylvania. She is also a COPE provider. Care of Older Persons in their Environment (COPE) is an evidence-based program that can help individuals living with dementia maintain and improve their quality of life and help their care partners better manage daily care challenges and reduce their own upset and distress.
She has provided therapy in multiple settings including home care, acute care, acute rehab and long-term care. Beth has special training in dementia care, lymphedema management and low vision.
Her best accomplishments to date are her two adult children who live close enough for hugs from Mom. Beth enjoys traveling, kayaking and living 40 minutes from the ocean. Self-care for Beth is a trip down the shore, jamming to music or laughing with friends.
Michelle Mason-Wilson, CDP, CMDCP, CDSGF, DCS, DCSCT
Michelle Mason-Wilson, CDP, CMDCP, CDSGF, DCS, DCSCT is a dedicated professional with over 20 years of experience in the field of dementia care. As the Founder of Ending Dis-Ease Consulting LLC and Chief Operating Officer for Dementia Dignified Academy, her mission is to accelerate change in the care culture for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. She achieves this by developing and implementing specialized training that educates care professionals and care partners on effective communication techniques and practical approaches. These initiatives promote human connection throughout the dementia journey, fostering dignity, empathy, and understanding.
Michelle is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional, Certified Dementia Support Group Facilitator, and Certified Dementia Connection Specialist, bridging gaps and connecting families, professionals, and communities to valuable resources.
Recognized by the Health Care Council of Illinois, Michelle is known for developing and implementing holistic programs such as the “Soul Purpose Program,” which encourages individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s to Relax, Revive, and Rejuvenate. This program enables individuals and their families to “Live in the Moment” despite the challenges of the disease.
Michelle’s commitment extends to giving back. She serves as a Volunteer Community Educator and Co-Support Group Facilitator for the Alzheimer’s Association - Chicago Chapter, empowering others through educational sessions, community outreach, and advocacy. Her expert appearances on platforms such as Alzheimer’s Speaks Radio, Rejoice Radio 102.3 FM, and the Community Health Focus Hour at the Forefront UChicago Medicine contribute to raising awareness and fostering a supportive network. Some of these sessions included presenting the 10 Warning Signs to organizations such as WGN and ABC News.
Michelle’s dedication and impact were recently recognized by the Illinois Women Conquer ALZ and Caregiver Award Selection Committee, selecting her for the 2024 Professional Caregiver Award. She was honored at the Power of Purple: A Reason to Hope Luncheon on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. Additionally, she served on the planning committee and co-presented with Dr. Lisa Barnes, PhD, of the Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, at the Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter's inaugural African American Conference - Release the Silence on April 22, 2023, discussing risk factors for African Americans, strategies to mitigate these risks, and the importance of participation in research studies. Michelle also served a second term on the planning committee and facilitated the caregiver impact discussion at the 2024 Release the Silence Conference - Race into Action on April 27, 2024, at New Life Covenant Southeast (Greenwood Oasis), Chicago.
Rev. Jeanette B. Jordan, M.Div., CLC, DCS, DCSCT
Rev. Jeanette B. Jordan, M.Div., CLC, DCS, DCSCT is the Founder/Pastor of Journey to the Cross Ministries, a Multi-Denominational Church, providing virtual Worship experiences for caregivers and their loved ones who cannot get to the church building in Illinois. She was ordained by the Evangelical Church Alliance in 1999 and is a graduate of McCormick Theological Seminary with a Masters degree in Divinity. Her church also partner’s with the Alter Program, a program whose mission is to inspire and equip faith-based organizations anchored in African-American communities to better support families affected by dementia.
She is also a Certified Life Coach for Be Whole Life Coaching, whose focus is on relationship building, and a Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer!
Pastor Jeanette is also the Founder and CEO of Dementia Dignified Academy, a non-profit entity, providing specialized “unique” caregiver training to caregivers including health care professionals on how to provide loving and effective care for those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Additionally, she serves as an Alzheimer’s Community Educational Facilitator, a New IDEAS Champion for Chicago.
Affectionately referred to as Pastor J, she also Co-Hosts The Women and Men of Faith Caregiver Virtual Support Group for caregivers to those living with Alzheimer’s/Dementia.
She was the wife of 61 years to Robert A. Jordan, M.D., a retired Pediatrician, diagnosed with Dementia/Alzheimer’s in 2016. She is the mother of five, one son and four daughters… and the grandmother of 7, four grandsons and three granddaughters and Mother/Aunt of her 20 year old nephew that she raised!
Her life’s theme is “Here am I Lord… send me”
Her go to Scripture is Jeremiah 29:11
Sherry Boothby, OTR/L, CLVT, SHSS, CDP, DCS, DCSCT, is an Occupational Therapist with extensive experience working primarily with older adults in a variety of settings. As an Occupational Therapist and family caregiver, she combined her personal and professional experience to create Happy at Home Seniors, LLC, to assist seniors and their families with aging in place, wellness, and geriatric care management services.
Sherry has pursued additional training and specialty certifications including: Senior Home Safety Specialist™ with AgeSafe America, Certified Dementia Practitioner, Dementia Connection Specialist/Certified Trainer, and Certified Low Vision Therapist, to provide top quality services delivered with empathy and compassion. Further, as an Aging Life Care Professional®, she can assist with care management services to navigate the complex path of caring for a loved one.
Assisting seniors and their families with remaining happy at home and living life to the fullest is her passion. She believes strongly in the Dementia Connection Model, and has found this program to have practical application and effectiveness for any caregiver of a person living with dementia. She is excited to add this training to educate caregivers through private dementia consults, and to provide Dementia Connection Specialist certification seminars locally and nationally.
For self-care, Sherry finds being outdoors in nature to be soothing and good for the soul. She says, “Taking a walk, hiking, kayaking, swimming, bird watching- anything in nature helps me recharge. Also spending time with family, friends, and our kitties brings me joy.”
Sherry Boothby, OTR/L, CLVT, SHSS, CDP, DCS, DCSCT
Isoken Ogbomo, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, DCS, DCSCT
Isoken Ogbomo , RN, MSN, FNP-BC is the founder and CEO of In-Home Caregivers of Illinois (IHCI), and Co-founder of Bridgewell Health. She leads two senior care agencies that provide personalized and comprehensive medical and non-medical services to retired executives, busy professionals who are adult family caregivers, and employers who have caregiving employees.
She is the Area Director of the Chicagoland Suburb Care planning council. With a Master's degree in Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Saint Francis, She has over 20 years’ experience working with various health care organizations and providers. She leads a dedicated team committed to helping seniors age in place while alleviating the stress of caregiving for families and employers alike.
Isoken says, “I practice self-care by cherishing quality time with my family, which always brings me joy and balance. I find rejuvenation in beach vacations, where the sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun provide the perfect escape. Reading a good self-development book helps me grow personally and professionally, and I love getting lost in a compelling TV series on law, which not only entertains me but also sparks my curiosity and passion for learning.”
Rhonda Guzman, MA, OTR/L, DCS, DCSCT
Rhonda Guzman, MA, OTR/L, DCS, DCSCT a licensed Occupational Therapist, Gerontologist, and Dementia Care Practitioner, Rhonda brings extensive experience as an educator, consultant, leader, manager, and clinician. She has dedicated her career to advocating for and supporting older adults and their families across the healthcare continuum.
Rhonda is the founder of Person Centered Senior Solutions, LLC, a geriatric care management company that helps aging adults, their families, and caregivers navigate the complex challenges of late life. She believes that making a meaningful impact requires connecting personally, understanding each unique situation, and delivering care with respect and empathy.
With a deep understanding of personalized care, Rhonda recognizes that each family and care experience is unique and must be respected. This insight was shaped by her personal experience managing her mother's care alongside her seven siblings, each offering different perspectives, emotions, and levels of understanding.
Rhonda prioritizes self-care, enjoying moments of peace while walking her dog, Macy, or participating in exercise classes at her local gym.
Cathy Atkins, PTA, DCS, DCSCT
Cathy Atkins, PTA, DCS, DCSCT has been a Physical Therapist Assistant for over 30 years. Starting out in Outpatient Orthopedics for the first 10 years, she switched gears to work PRN in Home Health Settings, as she raised her family. Eventually, she found her calling working with the Geriatric Population.
Working over 20 years in various settings of IL, AL, and MC, her passion deepened for Dementia Care, and is honored to work with people afflicted with Dementia, especially Veterans.
For Cathy, a close second to treating residents is educating. Through caregiver training, she educates and empowers Caregivers on various approaches to make successful connections with those they care for. It’s these connections that build trust between the resident and caregiver. When interactions are meaningful and positive, care throughout the day can be enjoyable for both the residents and caregivers. It’s these “ah ha” moments that Cathy strives to bring to all staff members.
In addition to training caregivers, Cathy leads support groups for family members who have loved ones afflicted with Alzheimer and related Dementia. Cathy takes great pride in helping family members navigate through the journey as they cope with various feelings of loss, sadness, and anger.
For self-care, Cathy can be found in her pollinator Garden, which is now recognized by the Monarch Waystation Program. Almost empty nesters, Cathy and her Husband of 31 years enjoy traveling, walking their Dog, and family time with their 3 adult children.
Melinda Brown, CDP, ELC, VW, PAC, DCS, DCSCT
Melinda Brown, CDP, ELC, VW, PAC, DCS, and DCSCT brings over 20 years of dedicated experience in the senior care industry, where her journey began as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Over time, her path naturally transitioned into Life Enrichment, where she discovered a deep passion for creating meaningful connections and enhancing the lives of others through engagement.
With a heart especially drawn to Memory Care, Melinda has continually advanced her education to better serve individuals living with dementia. She holds certifications as a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), an Engagement Leader through Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care (ELC), and has been trained in Naomi Feil’s Validation Method (VW). She has also deepened her knowledge through additional programs, such as Dementia By Day, which provided valuable insights into creating more personalized experiences. Furthering her commitment to compassionate and effective care, she is a Dementia Connection Specialist (DCS) and has earned the distinction of Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer (DCSCT).
Melinda is a passionate advocate for person-centered care and believes deeply in the power of empathy and individualized approaches. Drawing from both professional training and personal experience, she inspires others to see the beauty in each person’s unique story, emphasizing the power of honoring individual values and preferences to create truly meaningful and genuine connections.
When she’s not working or teaching, Melinda finds joy in family nights with her husband, their four teenage boys, and their three beloved dogs. She also loves spending time outdoors and has recently embraced her inner “plant lady,” cultivating a growing collection of greenery that reflects her nurturing spirit.
Natalie Kravitz, BA, ACC, DCS, DCSCT, CDP, PAC Engagement Leader
Natalie Kravitz, BA, ACC, DCS, DCSCT, CDP, and PAC Engagement Leader, brings over two decades of experience as an Activity Professional in senior living, where she has championed life enrichment and meaningful person-centered engagement across communities internationally. Her academic foundation in Psychology, combined with an early internship exploring the connection between programming quality and quality of life, sparked a lifelong passion for the field of resident engagement.
Currently serving as the Director of Engagement Operations for Activity Connection, Natalie supports senior living communities in integrating handcrafted programs, technology, and other life enrichment resources. She is recognized for her leadership in dementia education and programming, program development, content creation, mentoring, and cultivating highly motivated engagement teams.
Natalie holds multiple certifications, including Activity Consultant Certified (ACC), Dementia Connection Specialist and Certified Trainer (DCS, DCSCT), Positive Approach to Care (PAC) Certified Engagement Leader, Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), Memories in the Making Facilitator, and Mental Health First Aid.
Natalie proudly serves on the National Association of Activity Professionals (NAAP) Advisory Council, holds the role of Vice President for both the Virginia Association of Activity Professionals (VAAP) and the Northern Virginia Association of Activity Professionals (NVAAP), and contributes her expertise through the Dementia Connection Institute as an Ambassador. She remains deeply committed to advancing the standards and visibility of the activity profession and dementia education.
Beyond her professional work, Natalie finds joy in intentional living—spending time in nature, traveling, volunteering, and caring for her animal sanctuary of eight pets. She also enjoys creating small-batch wellness goods, blending her passions for creativity, happy living, and meaningful connection.
Tara Beatty, MS, LALFA, PACT, PACC, CDP, CDES, DCS, DCSCT
Tara Beatty, MS, LALFA, PACT, PACC, CDP, CDES, DCS, DCSCT holds a Master’s degree in Gerontology from the Medical College of Virginia (now Virginia Commonwealth University). She is a Licensed Assisted Living Administrator with extensive experience and a deep passion for supporting individuals and families navigating dementia. Tara is a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), a Certified Dementia Engagement Specialist (CDES), a Positive Approach to Care (PAC) Certified Trainer and Coach, a Dementia Connection Specialist, and a Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer.
In her role as Dementia Care Navigator with the GUIDE Program with At Home Harmony, Tara combines clinical expertise with compassionate guidance to help families create meaningful care experiences tailored to each individual’s needs. She especially loves educating others about brain changes with dementia, promoting engagement, and enhancing communication strategies that support dignity and quality of life for those living with cognitive change.
Outside of her professional work, Tara enjoys traveling, swimming, reading, and spending quality time with her family.
Modupe Rotimi, DCS, DCSCT
Modupe Rotimi, DCS and DCSCT, is a dedicated leader bringing over a decade of experience in memory care. With a deep passion for serving individuals living with dementia, she played a pivotal role in launching a memory care center for the APACE Program from the ground up—overseeing its inception, designing the care program, and guiding its development into a thriving, person-centered environment.
Her hands-on expertise in both clinical and operational aspects of memory care allows her to train professionals with compassion, clarity, and actionable insight. She is committed to elevating care standards by empowering caregivers with meaningful, connection-based strategies.
Outside of her professional work, Modupe finds joy in singing at a variety of events and walking her golden-doodle, Troy. She often says that music and family time are her favorite forms of self-care, offering moments of peace and creativity that help her recharge and stay healthy.
Kevin Hall, CDP, CADDCT, DCS, DCSCT
Kevin Hall, CEO & Senior Care Advisor, Amada Senior Care Elgin, CDP, CADDCT, DCS, DCSCT, has a passion for senior care that began at just nine years old, when his great-grandmother, his first best friend, began experiencing cognitive decline. That early, deeply personal experience shaped his lifelong commitment to serving seniors and families navigating similar journeys.
In 1998, while in college, Kevin began working as a caregiver, supporting seniors, veterans, and adults with disabilities in their daily living needs. It was during this time that he discovered his true calling: advocating for and enhancing the lives of those most vulnerable.
Today, Kevin brings more than 20 years of hands-on experience to his role as CEO and Senior Care Advisor for Amada Senior Care Elgin. He holds multiple industry certifications, including CDP, CADDCT, DCS, and DCSCT, and is recognized for his expertise in dementia care and senior advocacy.
Outside of work, Kevin enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, volunteering with Dementia Friendly Elgin Area, and cheering on his lifelong favorite team, the Chicago Bears
Brooke Justiniano, DCS, DCSCT, Geriatric Care Manager, Dementia Practitioner
Brooke Justiniano, DCS, DCSCT, Geriatric Care Manager, Dementia Practitioner, has been working with the Older Adult population for more than 25 years. From independent living, adult day services, private home care, to hospice patients, and everything in between. Brooke has a Bachelor’s in Communications from Marshall University and a Master’s in Management from Ohio Dominican University. Her heart truly belongs to the Caregivers who sacrifice so much and need the true support of someone who understands the journey. Brooke is a Geriatric Care Manager, Dementia Practitioner, and most of all, she was a family Caregiver for both of her parents, who both passed away in her 20’s. To practice self-care, I enjoy a good laugh and spending uninterrupted time with my teenage daughter, who is the light of my life!
Jenn Whiteford Givler, CDP, DCS, DCSCT
Jenn Whiteford Givler CDP, DCS, DCSCT began her career in senior care in 2014 as the Wellness & Program Director at the Coatesville Senior Center.
It was there that her passion for supporting individuals living with dementia first took root, inspired by the vibrant community she served. Her dedication and leadership quickly led to her promotion as Executive Director, where she focused on educating and engaging the Coatesville community around dementia awareness and support.
As a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Dementia Connection Specialist, and a Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer, Jenn has led caregiver and family support groups and offered dementia education opportunities since 2016.
Jenn’s ultimate self-care is hiking! Spending a day on trails deep in the woods or up a mountain is her favorite way to recharge. And if there’s a spot to sneak in a meditation or some yoga - even better!
Carrie Petrelli, DCS, DCSCT
Carrie Petrelli, DCS, DCSCT is a dedicated healthcare professional from Chicago who is both a proud wife and mother of three. She has built her career focused on serving seniors and their families. Carrie graduated from the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice in 2011 with her Master of Social Work. She began her career as a hospital social worker and quickly became an advocate for the aging community and those navigating long-term care options. Carrie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Board Certified Case Manager, Certified Dementia Practitioner, and Certified Dementia Support Group Facilitator. In 2022, Carrie became an independent contractor and provided therapeutic counseling to seniors with mood disorders and neurocognitive impairments within senior communities in suburban Chicago. She earned her Master of Business Administration from DeVry University in 2024. In 2025, Carrie was appointed to the Alzheimer’s Disease Advisory Committee by the IL Department of Public Health, representing the interests of social workers.
She recently became certified as a Dementia Connection Specialist and Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer to help spread awareness and teach others about Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of Dementia. Carrie currently serves as the Director of Activities and Memory Care at Belmont Village Senior Living in Oak Park, IL.
Carrie’s self-care practice focuses on knowing what is most important, which is her family. There is nothing better than getting away and hiking with her husband and kids. When moments get stressful, it is important to focus on those memories and just breathe.
Sarah Spore MSN, FNP-C, DCS, DCSCT
Sarah Spore MSN, FNP-C, DCS, DCSCT, is a Nurse Practitioner who has recently relocated to Chicago, and is very excited to begin her role as a Staff Neuro Specialist with the Dementia Connection Institute. Over the past three years, Sarah has worked in palliative and hospice care in London, UK, where she discovered a deep passion for supporting individuals living with dementia and their families through meaningful moments.
Sarah’s approach to care is grounded in compassion, dignity, and a holistic understanding of each person's individual experience. Sarah believes it is a privilege to meet individuals in their homes, a place where they feel most comfortable, and help create a safe and supportive environment that respects their needs and preferences.
Outside of work, Sarah values slowing down and caring for myself in creative ways. Sarah enjoys practicing yoga, reading, and painting. Sarah and her husband recently adopted a new kitten who has quickly become a part of their little family.
Kara Fairhurst DCS, DCSCT
Kara Fairhurst, DCS, DCSCT, is proud to be part of the team at Senior Helpers of Bolingbrook and Southwest Suburbs. She is passionate about helping seniors maintain their independence while providing compassionate, reliable care that brings comfort to both clients and their families. She enjoys building meaningful connections and being someone others can trust and depend on. Outside of work, Kara takes care of herself by attending Pilates classes, taking short trips with her family, and trying to learn how to crochet.
Kenneth Vitellas, MD, DCS, DCSCT
Dr. Ken Vitellas, MD, DCS, DCSCT, is a diagnostic radiologist with Radiology Incorporated in Columbus, Ohio, and the Founder and President of EnergizeCare, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals living with dementia and their care partners through meaningful engagement, connection, and community support.
Inspired by his personal journey as the care partner for his wife, Lisa, who is living with Alzheimer’s disease, Dr. Vitellas has become a passionate advocate for dementia awareness, education, and compassionate care. He is a certified Dementia Connection Specialist Trainer and a Dementia Friends Champion, working to educate communities, reduce stigma, and promote dementia-friendly environments.
Through EnergizeCare, Dr. Vitellas leads innovative programs focused on social connection, cognitive engagement, caregiver support, and community partnerships. His work bridges healthcare, advocacy, and lived experience to create inclusive spaces where individuals affected by dementia can continue to thrive with dignity and purpose.
Outside of his professional and advocacy work, Dr. Vitellas prioritizes his own well-being through regular exercise, golf, mowing and landscaping, gardening, active engagement with family and friends, and participation in his church community.
Hannah Nicole, DCS, DCSCT
Nicole Hannah DCS, DCSCT, is a healthcare administration professional with over 10 years of experience leading operations, supporting patient-centered care, and advancing community-based initiatives. She currently serves as Director of Operations for EnergizeCare, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals living with dementia and their care partners through meaningful engagement, connection, and community support. Drawing from both professional and personal experience with dementia, Nicole passionately advocates for reducing stigma, increasing awareness, and promoting education surrounding the disease. She is committed to fostering compassionate, inclusive environments that empower individuals and families impacted by dementia.
Outside of her professional role, Nicole is a devoted mother of two energetic boys. She values maintaining balance through exercise, hiking, travel, reading, and practicing mindfulness as part of her daily self-care routine.
Mary Wayman, CDP, DCS, DCSCT
Mary Wayman, DCS, DCSCT, is a Dementia Connection Specialist Certified trainer, Certified Dementia Practitioner & Trainer, author, and speaker focused on improving real-time behavior response in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Mary is the author of The Don'ts of Alzheimer's Dementia, a concise, pocket-sized, illustrated guide under 40 pages, designed for healthcare professionals and the family caregivers who support them. Grounded in real-time, behavior-based care, this practical resource helps readers quickly recognize symptoms, avoid common missteps, and apply effective strategies to reduce escalation, improve communication, and preserve dignity in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Through her company, Walk Into My World, Inc., she delivers practical, hands-on education that equips audiences with strategies to reduce escalation, strengthen patient-centered communication, and support dignity in care. Mary’s mantra, “Self-care is the best care for whom we care,” comes to life as she trains for an Ironman and she likes to unwind with reruns of Signed, Sealed, Delivered on the Hallmark Channel.
Maureen Weckerly, M.S., CCC-SLP, ECDCS, DCS, DCSCT, is the owner/co-founder of Empower Speech, LLC. Maureen brings 20 years of clinical experience and knowledge from the healthcare and rehabilitation industries. Throughout her career journey, she has worked in the following settings: outpatient, acute care, skilled nursing, home health, inpatient rehabilitation, and school settings, including the PA system of higher education.
Maureen’s focus has been swallowing and cognitive/communication rehabilitation of the adult through geriatric populations. Maureen has also gained experience in clinical instruction as an adjunct professor at PennWest University of Clarion for nine years. Maureen taught the Speech Disorders and Dysphagia courses as well as provided clinical supervision to graduate clinicians throughout their clinical practice courses.
Currently, Maureen’s passion is to specialize in cognitive treatment and maintenance of individuals with mild cognitive impairment through advanced dementia. Maureen administers standardized cognitive assessments and direct cognitive treatment. Her intervention plan includes caregiver training to assist the caregiver in management strategies throughout each stage of the progressive neurological disease.
Maureen earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Sciences & Disorders in 2002 and a Master of Science degree in Speech Language Pathology in 2003 from Clarion University of PA. She has maintained PA state licensure, a Certificate of Clinical Competence, and possesses a PA Educational Specialist Teaching Certification. She continues to expand her knowledge and has earned her 3rd ASHA ACE award by the Americal Speech-Language-Hearing Association Continuing Education Board in recognition of exceptional lifelong learning in the field of speech-language pathology. Maureen is an Evergreen Certified Dementia Care specialist and a Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer.
Maureen was born and raised in western Pennsylvania with her family. She has personal experience as a caregiver to her son with autism, which has sparked her passion to include caregivers of family members caring for their loved ones experiencing cognitive decline/dementia into her intervention plans. Maureen’s goals are to improve the lives of her clients and their families/support team through education, training, and development of a client-centered maintenance program that will enable the highest potential for living their best life. Maureen enjoys spending time with her family, taking walks, and exercising to promote balance in her life.
Maureen Weckerly, M.S., CCC-SLP, ECDCS, DCS, DCSCT
Anne Berg, PharmD, DCS, DCSCT, Anne Berg, PharmD, is the founder and president of AB Consulting PharmD, a pharmacist-led consulting practice dedicated to helping older adults optimize their medications, improve quality of life, and confidently navigate today's complex healthcare system. Drawing on years of experience as a consultant pharmacist in long-term care, Anne specializes in medication optimization, deprescribing, pharmacogenomics, fall-risk reduction, and evidence-based education on CBD and cannabis. She works closely with patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to simplify medication regimens, reduce medication-related problems, and empower individuals to become active participants in their own healthcare.
Throughout her career, Anne has been passionate about educating others. As a certified trainer, she believes education is one of the most powerful tools for improving patient outcomes and enhancing quality of life. Whether speaking to healthcare professionals, caregivers, or community groups, she enjoys translating complex medical information into practical, easy-to-understand strategies that people can confidently apply in everyday life.
Outside of her professional work, Anne believes healthy aging begins with leading by example.She prioritizes her own wellness by participating in a weekly functional fitness class to maintain strength, balance, and mobility, and by following a moderately balanced, nutritious diet. She believes caring for her own physical and mental well-being allows her to better serve others with energy, compassion, and a genuine appreciation for the importance of living a healthy, fulfilling life.