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Direct Support Professionals Conference
Direct Support Professionals Conference
A two-day conference that aims to honor and celebrate the important role of DSP's through workshops, keynotes, and connection.
A two-day conference that aims to honor and celebrate the important role of DSP's through workshops, keynotes, and connection.
2026
2026
Keynote Speakers
Keynote Speakers
Karyn Harvey
Karyn Harvey
Karyn Harvey has worked as a clinician in the field of intellectual disabilities for over 35 years. She currently has a private practice and does therapy with people with intellectual disabilities. She also regularly conducts a variety of trainings related to the impact of trauma for both state and individual organizations throughout the US and Canada.
Pauline MacLellan
Pauline MacLellan
Pauline is the mother of 5 children, 3 of whom are on the Autism Spectrum.
Pauline advocates for her children in diverse settings and has shared her family's journey at conferences and various other speaking engagements for more than 15 years!
What to Expect
What to Expect
Powerful plenary sessions with our keynote speakers each day for all participants to attend
The Town Hall on day 2 allows all conference participants to engage in an active question-and-answer forum with DDS Commissioner Sarah Peterson.
Amazing, engaging workshops presented by well-known pioneers in the field of developmental disability services, locally and internationally, including:
Peter Leidy
Marie Younger Blackburn
Carol Blessing
Jo Massarelli
...and many more to be announced!
Engaging, role-specific workshop topics including...
Communication for DSPs: Impact, Advocacy, and Effectiveness
From Good to Great: Skills That Make Exceptional DSPs
Dynamic Person-Centered Support Panels featuring Presenters with Disabilities and their Allies
Sexual Health and Wellbeing of People with Disabilities
Rooted in Purpose: Reconnecting With the “Why” of Direct Support
Thriving, Not Just Surviving: Wellness & Resilience for DSPs
... many more to be announced!
All sessions throughout the 2-day conference are specifically designed
for Direct Support Professionals!
Highly impactful exhibitors, including:
The Caring Force
University Without Walls
Commission for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities (CPPD)
The Arc of Massachusetts
Pathways to Friendship
Learn more about the conference here.
**If you would like to reserve seats at the conference but haven't determined DSPs yet,
email Phoebe Goodman, Conference Coordinator, at Goodman@arcmass.org**
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