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November 21, 2022 / 2022 Connecticut's Healthcare Heroes Awards

2022 Healthcare Hero: Monica Carras

Winner Category: Mental Healthcare Provider Employer: Ädelbrook Behavioral and Development Services Title: Director of Behavioral Services and Training Return to honoree page
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Monica Carras is the director of behavioral services and training for Ädelbrook Behavioral and Developmental Services. She is a board-certified behavior analyst with her master’s degree in applied behavior analysis. She has been in the field for more than 10 years and oversees training initiatives and behavioral programming in the agency.

What have been your significant contributions to your organization?

Over the last decade, I have provided ongoing supervision in the field of behavior analysis, impacting the reduction of symptomology associated with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities, across residential and educational settings.

I have worked with individuals who present with diverse clinical presentations. This allows for a more robust understanding of cross-cultural diversity, consistency in therapy, and individualized treatment needs of those with whom I work.

I incorporate evidence-based practices and interventions supporting individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, PTSD, developmental disabilities, and/or trauma to effectively treat individuals to achieve the highest level of independence and quality of life possible.

Tell us about a challenge in your job that you were able to overcome.

Navigating staff shortages, while maintaining the safety of our individuals and integrity of programming was a challenge. In addition, continually working through creative ways to teach with PPE gear, virtual versus in-person learning, training and visits for those who already struggle with social deficits were others.

How has COVID-19 changed the way you do your job?

COVID has opened my eyes to how resilient people can be, especially those that we serve with disabilities, improving my approach in training, and teaching with a new perspective on learning.

COVID has also taught me the importance of self-care and self-care of others, and creating a therapeutic and compassionate environment is to practice one yourself.

Personal side:

City of residence: Wallingford

Favorite way to relax: Walking the dog and being with my family, being by a lake and running.

Hobbies: Playing basketball, snowboarding, reading and coloring.

Favorite movie: “Dirty Dancing”

Currently reading: All of Colleen Hoover’s books

Favorite cause: Helping individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental delays.

Fun fact: I am a black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

Return to honoree page

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