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The YWHAG Foundation, dedicated to supporting those affected by the YWHAG genetic mutation, recognizes the vital need for comprehensive support for both the community and caretakers. In a concerted effort to address these needs, the Foundation has initiated partnerships with skilled professionals in fields identified as crucial for the well-being of affected families. These areas include specialized counseling, educational support, and medical consultation, ensuring that our community receives guidance from experts who are familiar with the unique challenges posed by the YWHAG mutation.
Despite the Foundation's limited budget, with all available funds being allocated directly to essential research, we have successfully negotiated discounted rates with these professionals on behalf of the families we serve. This arrangement allows us to extend much-needed services at a reduced cost, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to necessary support. Through these partnerships, the YWHAG Foundation continues to enhance its commitment to improving the lives of those it serves, underscoring our ongoing mission to not only advance scientific research but also to provide tangible support in everyday challenges.
IEP CONSULTATION TAILORED FOR YWHAG GENETIC MUTATION
Staci Zimmerman, M.Ed, offers specialized support to craft positive educational programs for children affected by YWHAG genetic mutation. With her extensive background in special education, she collaborates closely with schools to ensure that students receive the necessary support and resources to thrive academically.
HER SERVICES INCLUDE
- Advocacy for IEPs and other essential services
- Thorough review of IEP documents and related materials
- Active participation in IEP meetings and other collaborative educational sessions
- Consultations are available both virtually and in-person for those located in the Denver, CO area.
With over 20 years of experience in special education across various Colorado school districts, Staci supports both private clients and organizations, including the Angelman Syndrome Foundation, The Prader-Willi Syndrome Association of Colorado (PWSACO), and Rocky Mountain Down Syndrome Association (RMDSA), as an IEP Consultant and family advocate. She is an Adjunct Professor in the Office of Clinical Experiences and Partnerships at the School of Education, Metropolitan State University of Denver, where she teaches undergraduate Special Education and supervises student teachers. Staci holds a B.A. in Sociology and a Master’s in Special Education from The University of Kansas, where she also completed postgraduate work in Autism Spectrum Disorder.
REQUEST A CONSULTATION
​Contact Staci Zimmerman: Stacizim11@gmail.com
Please Note: Be prepared to send documentation to review, such as IEP, Health Care Plan, behavioral and other support services.
COUNSELING AND SUPPORT SERVICES
While caring for an individual with a YWHAG genetic mutation can be immensely rewarding, it also presents unique challenges that can be stressful, isolating, and overwhelming. In recognition of these challenges, we are pleased to offer specialized counseling services at special rate for families affected by the YWHAG mutation in the United States.
We have partnered with Shannon Barlow to offer to support for care takers and families in the YWHAG community. Her counseling services provide support in areas including, but not limited to:
- Caregiver stress
- Marital challenges
- Substance abuse issues
- Self-esteem concerns
- Stress management
Shannon is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with extensive experience working with individuals, families, children/adolescents, and groups. She fosters a warm, productive client/therapist relationship using a non-judgmental, client-centered, and strengths-based therapeutic approach. This approach helps facilitate personal growth by providing empathy, support, and constructive feedback, empowering clients to set and achieve realistic goals.
Shannon holds a BA in Psychology and a MA in Education with a concentration in Community Mental Health Services from DePaul University. She is well-versed in person-centered techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and crisis intervention, specializing in areas such as depression, trauma/abuse, bipolar disorder, and stress management among children and adolescents. Shannon is also a certified WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Planning) facilitator.
All information shared with the counselor is kept strictly confidential.
Please note that while this service is comprehensive, it is not intended to replace traditional counseling programs.
CONTACT SHANNON, LCP FOR SUPPORT
Email: ShannonbarlowLCPC@gmail.com
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