Free ECHO Sessions for Mental Health/DD providers launch May 15

By JoLynne Lyon | April 25, 2023
A young woman with Down Syndrome smiles over coffee

Starting May 15, a new Institute for Disability Research, Policy & Practice ECHO project will provide free instruction and professional development for those who serve clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities who also have mental health concerns.

In addition to presenting information from expert presenters, the Mental Health and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities: Education for Disability Providers series will include the lived experience of people with disabilities who experience mental health concerns. The ECHO model is delivered through Zoom, and it also allows for small-group discussion among participants.

“At the intersection of mental health and developmental disability there is a nationwide lack of education, training and resources,” said Ty Aller, Co-Investigator on the project. “We’re trying to fill that gap.”

Another goal is to build a responsive community of providers. “It takes a community to move the needle. As you increase awareness and more folks are aware, they become more informed and curious. You start getting more players on the team, you start increasing their competency. It’s tailored to their specific needs, which is pretty unique.”

Registration for the ECHO sessions is free. The series on mental health and intellectual or developmental disabilities begins at 11 am on Monday, May 15. The opening topic is Dual Diagnosis: History, Terms, and Definitions and Implications for Disability Service Providers.

register for May 15


Additional topics, including mental health literacy and behavior as communication within the context of mental health concerns, will be presented throughout the coming months.

register for series after May 15


Mental health providers, support coordinators, direct support professionals, and other disability service provider administrators and staff are invited to attend.

IDRPP offers several ECHO learning opportunities, including a series on early intervention and another serving families impacted by opioid abuse.

Share This Story