We’re Looking to grow our team!
APPRECOTS is seeking an experienced Research Associate to use scientific methods to conduct data collection and analysis, synthesize findings with current best research evidence, and create new visions for effective and efficient programming. As part of a team of specialists, the Research Associate will be able to consider perspectives of all system beneficiaries to design and deliver outputs such as reports, presentations, and trainings.
For more information about the position, including how to apply, review the job description here.
Questions about the position? Email us at admin@apprecots.com
APPRECOTS is seeking an experienced Behavioral Specialist Research Associate to use scientific methods to evaluate and support behavioral intervention and skill development programming. Primary tasks will include conducting fidelity reviews, reporting findings and recommendations, and advising development of ABA quality protocols for programs serving children and youth with autism.
For more information about this position, including how to apply, review the job description here.
Questions about the position? Email us at admin@apprecots.com
Heidi Wale Knizacky
Heidi Wale Knizacky, MS, LLP
She/her
Owner and CEO
While Heidi was earning an M.S. in Clinical Psychology from Eastern Michigan University, she worked in the office of the Michigan Level of Functioning Project and was introduced to the CAFAS®. This experience awakened her passion for using measurement to enrich communication, support clinical practices, and improve service programs. In addition to working as a clinician, Heidi has worked with organizations across North America to support staff and care for individuals by integrating evidence-based measurement and best-research practices into programming. Clinical topics Heidi especially enjoys are Motivational Interviewing, applied behavioral management practices, and working with youth who are experiencing serious behavioral challenges.
Shawn McDonald
Shawn McDonald, MA
He/Him
Office Manager
Shawn holds a B.S. and M.A. in History from Central Michigan University. He used his skills as a researcher while interpreting historical themes for a number of years as a public historian in the museum field. Now as Office Manager for APPRECOTS, Shawn uses many of those same research and analytical skills. He works on a number of technology oriented projects, designs media, and supports the team on a variety of programs. He contributes to Motivational Interviewing programming through conducting standardized scenarios. Shawn interfaces with multiple external customers and coordinates efforts with the team. His attention to detail, love of and use of incorporating technology into numerous programs and projects, and organizational skills are an asset. When working remotely, Shawn is kept company by his English Bulldog, Lincoln. If you are ever on a video call with Shawn and ask to see his dog, he is happy to oblige - Lincoln is very photogenic.
Linda Schneider
Linda Schneider, MSA
she/her
Lead Trainer - Research Consultant
Linda Schneider joined APPRECOTS in 2022 as an Applied Research Consultant. Prior to joining APPRECOTS, Linda had retired from the Michigan Community Mental Health field after 39 years of service. She brings to APPRECOTS many years of experience working directly with consumers as well as 30 plus years as an administrator. Her work at APPRECOTS is focused on training and staff development tools. She is a certified CANS and ANSA trainer. Linda has a passion for person-centered planning and supporting staff training needs in this area. In her role as an administrator, she helped to write and implement many grants but the one she is most proud of is a multi-million-dollar System of Care grant. That grant sparked the SOGI (Sexual Orientation Gender Identity) work that continues through APPRECOTS today. Because of her work in this area, Linda was awarded a Great Lakes Bay Pride award in 2018. Linda holds a Master of Science in Administration (MSA) from Central Michigan University and an undergraduate degree in social work from Saginaw Valley State University.
Ellen Wehrman
Ellen Wehrman, M.Ed.
She/her
Applied Research Consultant
Ellen Wehrman joined APPRECOTS in 2022 as an Applied Research Consultant. Prior to APPRECOTS, she was the Co-Chief for Programs for a national nonpartisan youth voting nonprofit and the Student Affairs Assessment Coordinator and Assistant Director in the Leadership Institute at Central Michigan University. Ellen’s work here is centered around data analysis and facilitating training, and ensures Query the office cat is entertained. She is a certified CANS and ANSA trainer, and strives to use an inclusive lens in all areas of her work. Ellen holds a B.S.P.A. from the University of Arkansas and an M.Ed. from Loyola University Chicago.
Carol McPherson
Carol McPherson, RN
she/her
Motivational interviewing
Carol graduated from the University of Texas Medical Branch, in Galveston Texas in 1991 with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Nursing. She is a licensed registered nurse. She worked at the Midland County Department of Public Health from 1993 to 2007. She worked at Dow Chemical from 2007 to 2016 as an occupational health nurse. She joined APPRECOTS in the late fall of 2015 to assist with Motivational Interviewing training in a variety of areas. Carol became a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers in November 2018. Outside of work Carol enjoys being with her family and friends, pottery, gardening, and getting beat at tennis.
Michelle Boudreaux
michelle Boudreaux, LMSW, CAADC, CCS
she/her/hers
motivational interviewing
Michelle Boudreaux, LMSW, CAADC, CCS, Member of MINT, has been working in the community mental health provider system providing mental health and co-occurring services for over twenty-years. She has provided IDDT treatment and utilized Motivational Interviewing since 2005 and has provided DBT treatment since 2007. She was a program supervisor in two different programs where she provided oversight to multiple evidence-based practices. (IDDT, MI, DBT, FPE, IPS, Recovery Illness and Management, Integrated Healthcare, etc.) for approximately 15 years. She currently works as an evidence-based practices specialist focusing on evidence-based practices for individuals struggling with severe mental illnesses and co-occurring disorders.
Steph Stender
Steph stender, CPSS
they/them
sogi Consultant
Steph graduated as a Certified Peer Support Specialist for the State of Michigan in 2016. Having a lifetime of personal experiences and struggles with their own mental health, while also navigating the network of systems in place, they use their experiences to guide others towards their own recovery goals. Steph has worked in the mental health system for over 15 years, as well as a passionate advocate for the Great Lakes Bay Area. Steph assists in training the SOGI Safe Study Group for mental health providers. Outside of work, you can find Steph spending time with family and friends and is a passionate advocate for both humans and animals.
Matthew Clark
Matthew Clark, MPA, MA
he/him
motivational interviewing
Matthew holds a B.A . in History and Political Science from Aquinas College. Matthew has also achieved a MPA and a MA in Social Sciences from the University of Michigan-Flint. Matthew's study of the social sciences and public administration, coupled with being from Flint, Michigan, led him to a career in human services. He has worked as a PATH Program Career Coach for GST Michigan Works!, working to improve the lives of families that receive cash assistance. He supervised a team of case managers attached to a public housing community in Flint, Michigan while working for Mott Community College. Recently, he has been assisting the veteran community of the Great Lakes Bay region as the Walking with Warriors Veteran and Military Family Navigator for Saginaw County Community Mental Health Authority. Matthew also participates in the Family-Centered Coaching Professional Learning Community and serves the Flint community as the President of the Board of Flex High School Michigan. Matthew joined Apprecots in April 2023 to assist with Motivational Interviewing. While not working, Matthew loves to read, attend concerts and near-by urban festivals, and attend University of Michigan football games.
query
chief entertainment officer
Query joined APPRECOTS in 2021 after graduating from the Humane Society of Bay County. A valued team member, Query brings a wealth of knowledge, including identifying local warm spots, negotiating for treats, and handling office security/loss prevention (i.e., monitoring for mice and other would Ne’er do-wells). Due to her busy nap schedule, Query will not meet you at the door; she maintains a corner office on the top floor of the building and takes impromptu meetings in the basement if unanticipated guests disrupt her usual agenda. As our official office cat, Query takes her responsibilities seriously - from napping on keyboards to meowing loudly for pets behind her ears, she knows how to make her presence known. When feeling particularly adventurous, she may even grace you with a rare head bump or a flick of her tail.