Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Massachusetts & Rhode Island
Call (508) 886-4746

Devereux National

Printer Icon Mail Icon Linkedin Logo Twitter Logo

Devereux Massachusetts & Rhode Island in the News

Family going on a walk   Staying curious: A new approach to making a New Year’s resolution

As 2024 comes to a close, Devereux Center for Resilient Children Director Susan Damico encourages us to make a commitment to staying curious in 2025. Learn the positive benefits of curiosity, including how it can make you healthier and happier.

NASET School of Excellence   MA/RI’s Devereux School earns NASET ‘School of Excellence’ distinction

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island (MA/RI) is thrilled to announce the Devereux School in Rutland, Massachusetts, was recently named a “School of Excellence” by the National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) for the 2024-25 school year.

Family walking through fall trees   National Adoption Month: Providing youth with love, support and a sense of belonging

National Adoption Month celebrates the families who have flourished through adoption and shines a light on the thousands of children across the U.S. who are still waiting to find a family of their own. Devereux is proud to work with foster and adoptive families to help children with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences find stable and nurturing homes where they can heal and grow.

Students enrolled in Devereux MA/RI’s cosmetology program are gaining hands-on salon experience   More than makeovers: Devereux MA/RI’s cosmetology program helps students gain skills, confidence

Students enrolled in Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s cosmetology program are gaining hands-on salon experience, and expressing themselves creatively in the process.

Casey working at Wawa   Family credits Devereux PA Children’s Services with helping son thrive in community

Since he began receiving services through Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services in 2018, Casey continues to learn, grow and excel. In 2023, with support from Devereux, Casey secured his first competitive employment position. This year, Casey achieved another significant milestone when he graduated from the Devereux School for Integrated Learning.

Kirkbrae Country Club   Teeing up for a good cause: ‘Devereux Golf Cup’ raises more than $35,000 for Devereux MA/RI

The annual “Devereux Golf Cup” was a hole-in-one for Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island. More than 70 golfers hit the greens at Kirkbrae Country Club in Lincoln, Rhode Island, for the event, which raised more than $35,000 for the organization’s therapeutic foster care program in Rhode Island.

A sad girl sits in the hallway   Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: Helping those in crisis feel safe, supported

During Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September, Devereux is joining other organizations in raising awareness about this national public health issue and spreading the word about actions we can all take to be part of the solution and support youth and adults at risk of suicide.

Dad and Son in front of schoolbus   The summer-to-school switch: Helping families with disabilities ease into the school year

For many families, the transition from summer vacation to school can be challenging, especially if you are a parent of a child with emotional, behavioral or cognitive differences. Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, offers tips to help families of children with disabilities get back into the swing of things and make the summer-to-school switch a success.

Justin   'I've come a long way:' Justin credits Devereux MA/RI with helping him learn new skills, thrive

Among the New England Patriots and other sports memorabilia adorning the walls of Justin's room at a Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island group home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, are certificates and awards, commending him on various life achievements

Dad and daughter watering plants   Nurture your resilience: Discover ways to keep your pitcher full this summer

As we spend time with our family and friends this summer, the Devereux Center for Resilient Children offers resilience-building tips to keep our pitchers full – and to fill our children's cups with all they need to flourish.

Raindbow Heart   Pride Month: Fostering a culture where LGBTQ+ youth, adults feel valued and supported

Pride Month, celebrated in June, is a time to honor and uplift the voices of those within the LGBTQ+ community, promote inclusion and allyship, and recognize the challenges that remain for many LGBTQ+ youth and adults as they strive to live life as their authentic selves.

Guests at Gala   Devereux MA/RI gala raises $225,000 to benefit youth, adults with disabilities

More than 200 guests gathered at the historic Mechanics Hall in Worcester, Massachusetts, for Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s annual gala to raise critical funds for children, adolescents and adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences.

May Awareness   Mental Health Awareness Month: Fostering open dialogue, understanding and support

During Mental Health Awareness Month in May, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is highlighting the importance of talking openly about mental health to combat stigma, foster a culture of empathy and understanding, and encourage those in need to seek support.

woman holding bag of vegetables   Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month: Celebrating differences, promoting inclusion

In recognition of Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month in April, Devereux is celebrating the differences of children, adolescents and adults with autism, and promoting inclusion for these individuals in all aspects of community life.

Dylan Gauthier   Reaching for the stars: Youth credits Devereux MA/RI with helping him grow – and thrive

Nineteen-year-old Dylan Gauthier is a high school senior with his own YouTube channel who dreams of becoming an actor. Dylan, who was served by Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island between 2018 and 2023, is looking forward to the future, while reflecting on the past.

March Awareness   Developmental Disabilities Awareness: Helping individuals with disabilities lead fulfilling lives

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is celebrating the many remarkable achievements of youth and adults with developmental disabilities, highlighting the importance of helping these individuals lead productive and fulfilling lives.

February Awareness   Recreational Therapy Month: Helping youth, adults achieve healthier, more fulfilling lives

During Recreational Therapy Month in February, Devereux is highlighting the positive impact recreational activities, such as arts and crafts, games and sports, can have on those with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences.

Nadyia Abbas   Nadyia Abbas elected to Children’s League of Massachusetts Board of Directors

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island Executive Director Nadyia Abbas, M.A., CAGS, LMHC, LADC-I, was recently elected to the Children’s League of Massachusetts Board of Directors.

January Awareness   Human trafficking awareness: Empowering youth survivors to break the cycle of abuse

During National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, Devereux is highlighting the importance of empowering survivors to break the cycle of abuse, regain their independence and take control of their lives.

Steve and Maureen   Community supporters brighten holiday season for Devereux MA/RI youth

For more than 10 years, Steve Groccia and his wife, Maureen, have been making the holiday season brighter for youth who receive services through Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Comic Book   Devereux Massachusetts/Rhode Island youth learn coping skills through comic books

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island youth are learning healthy coping skills in a creative way. Children and adolescents at Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s East Meadow group home are creating comic books that emphasize the importance of coping skills, such as deep breathing and grounding (refocusing on the present moment).

December Awareness   ‘Start on the inside:’ Nurture your resilience this holiday season

During the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in seemingly never-ending to-do lists. Before you dive head-first into the decorating, shopping, baking, wrapping and entertaining, Devereux Center for Resilient Children Director Susan Damico, M.A., suggests you take time to focus on your social and emotional health and well-being.

MARI Video   Video: Welcome to Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island serves children, adolescents and adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences across all stages of life. Learn how we are providing hope and healing to those in need.

Katrina and Melvin Jones   National Adoption Month: Devereux N.J. parent shares foster care/adoption journey

Katrina and Melvin Jones became therapeutic foster parents with Devereux New Jersey in 2008. Since that time, they have fostered 25 children, including three currently. In 2012, they adopted their first foster child, Dennis, and then, in 2019, they adopted three other children, all brothers, Lavion, Demetrius and Dayshawn.

October Awareness   National Disability Employment Awareness: Fostering inclusive, welcoming workplaces

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and Devereux is celebrating the significant contributions of employees with disabilities, and highlighting the importance of creating a workplace culture that is positive, supportive and equitable for all.

September Awareness   Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: Be the one to start a conversation, save a life

During Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September, Devereux is joining other organizations in spreading the word about actions we can all take to provide help, healing and hope to those who are struggling.

OT Interns Room   Devereux MA/RI offers robust occupational therapy student internship program

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s occupational therapy (OT) internship program helps prepare Massachusetts college students for entry-level school-based and psychosocial OT positions.

Library Welcome Sign   Devereux MA/RI’s enhanced school library inspires a love of reading in students

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island recently enhanced its school library, creating a calm and comfortable space for students to read and check out books. In addition to many new book titles geared toward students’ interests, the library now features bean bag chairs and pillows, a white noise machine that plays soothing sounds, decorative plants and updated lighting.

August Awareness   Creating a summer routine: Enriching (and fun!) activities for children with disabilities

If you are looking to create a summer routine for your child, Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, offers enriching – and fun – activities for families of children with disabilities.

Golfers   It’s tee time: Devereux golf events raise critical funds for youth, adults with disabilities

Golfers recently hit the greens to raise critical funds to support children, adolescents and adults living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences served by Devereux.

Olanzer Cameron   Massachusetts/Rhode Island international team member shares Devereux journey

Born and raised in Jamaica, Olanzer Cameron has always had a passion for working with children. In 2022, Cameron embarked on his journey with Devereux, and now serves as a teacher at Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Police Appreciation Brunch   Building community connections: Devereux MA/RI CARES hosts police appreciation brunch

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s Center for Autism Resources and Education Services (CARES) recently hosted a police appreciation brunch to provide students living with autism spectrum disorder and other intellectual and developmental disabilities an opportunity to learn from, and socialize with, local police officers.

July Awareness   Build your bounce: Take the Devereux Center for Resilient Children’s five-week Resiliency Challenge

Everyone deals with stressful situations at some point in their lives. Being able to adapt to those situations requires resilience. The Devereux Center for Resilient Children offers a five-week Resiliency Challenge to help adults learn how to “bounce back” from misfortune or change.

Pride Month   ‘Devereux has always been a safe place for me:’ Arizona team member shares transgender journey

Devereux Arizona Accounts Receivable Specialist Team Lead Kagen Leva was 37 years old when he came out as transgender. Leva, who was working at Devereux Pennsylvania’s Children’s Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services center (now Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services) at the time, describes it as a “sudden realization.”

GA Salon   Mental Health Awareness Month: Getting the support you need, when you need it

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Learn common warning signs of mental illness in youth and adults, as well as coping techniques to help you strengthen your well-being and resilience.

Eaton Family   Video: Massachusetts/Rhode Island family shares journey with Devereux

In this video, Gwen Eaton shares how Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island helped her son, Danny, overcome emotional and behavioral health challenges, learn valuable life and social skills, and become a thriving member of his local community.

April Awareness   Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month: Thriving in the community with support from Devereux PA

Patricia Armellini, who receives services through Devereux Pennsylvania, wears many hats in her day-to-day life. She is a dog owner, artist and retail employee. Patricia says Devereux Pennsylvania’s Community Adult Autism Partnership Program has taught her essential job, life and social skills, and helped her secure and maintain meaningful employment.

Christmas Tree   Devereux MA/RI’s ‘Building Connections’ program helps students develop positive relationships

Students at Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island are strengthening their social skills and building positive and healthy relationships with others through the center’s “Building Connections” program.

March Awareness   Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: Recognizing the unique strengths of individuals with disabilities

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is raising awareness about the importance of inclusion for children, adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities, and celebrating the unique strengths and vital contributions of these individuals.

Nadyia Abbas   Nadyia Abbas named executive director of Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Massachusetts and Rhode Island

Devereux has announced that President and CEO Carl E. Clark II has named Nadyia Abbas, M.A., CGAS, LMHC, LADC-I, executive director of Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Recreational Therapy Month   Recreational Therapy Month: Enriching the lives of youth, adults with disabilities

February is Recreational Therapy Month. Learn how Devereux is using recreational activities and programs to help those living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences acquire new skills, boost their self-confidence and improve their quality of life.

January Awareness Month   National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month: Helping youth survivors reclaim their lives

Since 2007, the National Human Trafficking Hotline has reported nearly 74,000 cases of human trafficking in the U.S. Learn how Devereux is empowering survivors to regain control of their lives and supporting them on their path to recovery.

disappointment   Taking on your feelings (all of them) during the holiday season

The holiday season is here. For many, this time of year may generate feelings of excitement, joy and happiness while, for others, it might elicit feelings of anxiety, anger, regret or disappointment. Learn how to recognize and label your feelings so you can better enjoy the holiday season.

Mario   Parent credits Devereux Massachusetts/Rhode Island with helping son achieve success

Lorraine Clark credits Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island with helping her son, Mario, develop effective coping skills, learn how to advocate for himself and achieve success.

Family Standard   Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health releases its annual report

Devereux recently released its 2021 annual report, which includes information about our commitment to quality and safety, and the Devereux Family Standard.

National Adoption Month   National Adoption Month: Changing lives, touching hearts, building bright futures

November is National Adoption Month. Learn how Devereux is helping youth in need find safe, stable and supportive homes where they can grow and thrive.

October Awareness   National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Seeing the ability in disability

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to recognize the vital role people with disabilities play in the workforce. Learn how Devereux is helping adults build self-confidence, utilize their skills, achieve their goals and thrive.

dig this   Dig this: Devereux MA/RI vocational students grow knowledge, skills through gardening

When it comes to hands-on learning, students enrolled in the vocational program at Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island have a growing appreciation for gardening.

Suicide Prevention   Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: Providing help, healing and hope

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 46,000 Americans died by suicide in 2020, with an average of one person taking their own life every 11 minutes. Learn how you can help someone who is struggling.

August Awareness   Planning a summer vacation: Travel tips for families of children with disabilities

Planning on taking to the skies or hitting the open road this summer? Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, offers tips for families of children with disabilities to ensure a safe and successful trip.

power of empathy   Watch these video series on the power of empathy, overcoming toxic positivity

Practicing empathy can help you build stronger relationships, manage your emotions and foster greater compassion. The Devereux Center for Resilient Children offers free video series on the power of empathy and how to avoid toxic positivity.

Pride Month   Pride Month video: Devereux team members share what #DevereuxPride means to them

In recognition of Pride Month in June, team members from Devereux centers across the country share what #DevereuxPride means to them.

foster parents   Devereux MA/RI foster parents provide safe, supportive environment for youth in need

Since 2017, Sheila Castillo and her husband, Yusel Rivera, have fostered five children through Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and in July 2021, they adopted one of the children in their care, Natalia.

Mental Health Awareness Month   Mental Health Awareness Month: Make your mental health a priority

There has never been a more important time to make your mental health a priority. Learn coping strategies for managing stress and building resiliency.

April Awareness   Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month: Helping youth, adults with autism reach their full potential

April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. Learn how Devereux is helping children, adolescents and adults with autism lead fulfilling, productive and socially-connected lives.

Jessica Kemp, Ph.D., NCSP, HSP   Devereux MA/RI psychologist shares findings from social-emotional learning study at NASP convention

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island Therapeutic Day School Licensed Psychologist Jessica Kemp, Ph.D., NCSP, HSP, recently detailed findings from her study examining the effectiveness of aligning proactive classroom management practices with social and emotional learning skills at the annual National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) convention.

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month   Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: Helping individuals with disabilities achieve their dreams

In recognition of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in March, learn how Devereux is helping youth and adults with developmental disabilities increase their independent living skills, integrate into the community and achieve the highest possible quality of life.

Safety and Quality Report   Devereux releases its Safety and Quality Report

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, one of the largest and most advanced behavioral healthcare nonprofit organizations in the country, just published our most recent Safety and Quality Report.

Recreational Therapy Month   Recreational Therapy Month: Enhancing quality of life for individuals with disabilities

Learn how Devereux is using recreational therapy to help those living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences learn new skills, achieve greater independence and enhance their quality of life.

path to recovery   National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month: Supporting youth on their path to recovery

Human trafficking is a global issue that can happen to anyone, anywhere. Learn how Devereux is helping youth who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual trauma and exploitation lead safe, healthy and happy lives.

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island   Devereux MA/RI celebrates opening of new residence hall for youth with special needs

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island recently celebrated the opening of a new residence hall for children, adolescents and young adults living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences.

holiday season tips   Stress less: What NOT to do this holiday season to help lighten your load

Devereux Center for Resilient Children Director Susan Damico offers tips for having a happy - and less stressful - holiday season.

Tyrone Burns   National Adoption Month: Devereux Florida helps young man find forever family

In celebration of National Adoption Month, learn how Devereux helped a young man heal from past trauma and find his forever family.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month   National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Recognizing the skills, talents of all individuals

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Learn how Devereux is helping adults secure and maintain meaningful and competitive employment in the community.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month   Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: One conversation can save a life

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 34, and the fourth leading cause of death for people ages 35 to 54. Learn how you can support those in crisis - and possibly save a life.

Rutland police 5K-9 race   Devereux MA/RI students learn valuable life skills through participation in Rutland police 5K-9 race

Students and staff at Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island laced up their sneakers recently to participate in the Rutland Police Department’s annual 5K-9 race, which benefits the department’s K-9 Foundation.

Amy and Annie   Managing back-to-school jitters: Tips to help children with special needs ensure a smooth transition

Is your child excited - and nervous - about heading back to school this fall? Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, offers tips to help children with special needs ensure a smooth transition.

Strengthening your resilience   Strengthening your resilience

The Devereux Center for Resilient Children offers tools and resources to help adults strengthen their social and emotional health and well-being.

Fitchburg Fire Department   Devereux MA/RI students earn internship with Fitchburg Fire Department

When Michael and Jaysus, who both receive services through Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island, learned they would be interning with the Fitchburg Fire Department they were excited about the opportunity to gain new skills and build upon their existing strengths. The young men are enrolled in Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s Center for Autism Resources and Education Services, a day school that provides primary, elementary and secondary education services for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities.

Pride month   Celebrating Pride Month in June

Pride Month is a time to celebrate and raise awareness of the current issues facing the LGBTQ community. Learn how Devereux is creating safe spaces to help youth and adults strengthen their overall emotional health and well-being.

Jessica Kemp, Ph.D., NCSP   Devereux MA/RI clinician featured in Rhode Island Small Business Journal article on remote learning

Read this Rhode Island Small Business Journal article featuring Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island Therapeutic Day School Clinician Jessica Kemp, Ph.D., NCSP, as she shares tips she recently provided during a Department of Revenue presentation to help students, families and caregivers embrace online learning.

Jessica Kemp, Ph.D., NCSP   Devereux MA/RI clinician shares remote learning tips during Department of Revenue presentation

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island Therapeutic Day School Clinician Jessica Kemp, Ph.D., NCSP, recently offered tips to help parents engage children in remote instruction during a virtual panel discussion hosted by the Massachusetts Department of Revenue’s Diversity Council.

May Awareness Month   May is Mental Health Awareness Month

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the mental health of many individuals. Learn how to cope with uncertainty and build your resiliency.

brave   April is Autism Awareness Month

In recognition of Autism Awareness Month, Devereux Senior Vice President of Organizational Development Rayni Brindley, M.Ed., BCBA, shares her perspective on raising a child with autism.

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month   March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

In recognition of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, learn how Devereux is helping youth and adults of all abilities achieve success in their homes, schools and communities.

Worcester Railers Hockey   OurSports Central article spotlights hockey club’s pizza donation to Devereux Massachusetts/Rhode Island staff

Read this OurSports Central article spotlighting the Worcester Railers Hockey Club’s pizza donation to front-line staff at Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The hockey club, a minor league affiliate of the New York Islanders, delivered pizzas to more than 120 team members and students as part of its “Hockey Feeds the Need” program.

swimming   Celebrating Recreational Therapy Month in February

At Devereux, providing fun, safe and effective recreational activities is a critical component of the successful treatment of youth and adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences.

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island   Devereux MA/RI staff appointed to Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology board

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island Director of Clinical Services Ashley Warhol, Psy.D., and Coordinator of Diagnostic Services and Clinical Training Rachel Schein, Psy.D., HSP, were recently appointed to the Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology’s (SCCAP) Acute, Intensive and Residential Service executive board. SCCAP is a division of the American Psychological Association.

Happy 2021!   Human Trafficking Awareness Month

Human trafficking is an issue that affects every country around the globe. Learn how Devereux is helping youth who have experienced emotional, physical and sexual trauma thrive and succeed in life.

December Awareness   Celebrate the season with new holiday traditions

The holidays may look a bit different this year, but that doesn’t mean the festivities have to stop. Devereux Center for Resilient Children Director Susan Damico offers creative ways to make the season special, while staying safe and healthy.

November Awareness   Celebrating National Adoption Month

November is National Adoption Month, and Devereux is proud to work with foster and adoptive families to help children find a loving family and a permanent place to call home.

October Awareness   October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

National Disability Employment Awareness Month celebrates the significant contributions of workers with disabilities. At Devereux, we believe all individuals should be given the opportunity to showcase their skills and talents and thrive in their communities.

August awareness   Staying active and engaged while social distancing

Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, shares activities to help your child or adult with special needs learn new skills - and have fun - while staying safe and healthy.

Introducing …   Introducing … Devereux’s adult resilience initiative

Devereux is launching an adult resilience initiative to help team members learn new skills to strengthen their social and emotional health and well-being.

June Awareness Month   Celebrating Pride Month in June

Pride Month is an annual celebration in June of the LGBTQ community. Learn how Devereux is working to ensure every child, adolescent and adult in our care feels welcomed and safe to express themselves openly and without judgement.

May Awareness Month   Mental Health Awareness Month: Managing stress and anxiety during a pandemic

There has never been a more important time to make mental health a priority. Learn how to manage stress and anxiety related to COVID-19.

Autism Awareness Month   Autism Awareness Month: Talking to individuals with autism about COVID-19

Learn how to talk to children and adults with autism about COVID-19 to ensure they have the information and resources they need ? without causing unnecessary worry and anxiety.

Breaking down barriers   March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, youth and adults with developmental disabilities often face barriers that can make it challenging to function on a daily basis. Learn how Devereux is helping to break down these barriers.

Recreational Therapy   Celebrating Recreational Therapy Month in February

At Devereux, providing fun and healthy recreational activities is a critical part of the successful treatment of youth and adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences.

Human Trafficking Awareness Month   January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month

Human trafficking is an issue that affects every country and every state in the U.S. Learn how Devereux Florida is granting hope and healing to individuals in need.

Being Present   Celebrating the season: Tips to avoid holiday stress

The holidays are a time of celebration, filled with family gatherings, gift giving and good cheer, but for many people, they also are a time of stress and seemingly never-ending to-do lists. Devereux Center for Resilient Children’s Nefertiti B. Poyner offers tips for families to slow down this holiday season and focus on being present, not perfect.

National Adoption Month   Celebrating National Adoption Month in November

Since 1995, National Adoption Month has been recognized in communities across the country. Devereux is proud to work with foster and adoptive families to help children in need find a permanent, loving family.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month   Recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October

National Disability Employment Awareness Month celebrates the significant contributions of workers with disabilities. At Devereux, we believe all individuals should be given the opportunity to be included and achieve their fullest potential.

Breaking the silence   September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Suicide can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or ethnicity. Devereux joins other individuals and organizations to promote awareness and combat the stigma associated with this tragic loss of life.

Back to school tips   Back to school: Tips for creating a seamless transition

Devereux’s Amy Kelly shares back-to-school tips for parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

ACRC Conference   Devereux MA/RI staff discuss gender diversity and dialectical behavior therapy at ACRC conference

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s Dr. Ashley Warhol and Bernadette Conneely discussed gender diversity and dialectical behavior therapy at the Association of Children’s Residential Centers conference.

DECA 20 Years   DECA Program anniversary: Celebrating 20 years of promoting resilience in young children

The Devereux Center for Resilient Children (DCRC) is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Devereux Early Childhood Assessment (DECA) Program, a strength-based assessment and planning system designed to promote resilience in children, ages 4 weeks to 6 years old.

Art Show   Devereux Massachusetts/Rhode Island students shine in local art contest

Artist Henri Matisse once said, “Creativity takes courage.” Students at Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island are courageously expressing their hopes, fears and dreams through art - and earning accolades along the way.

June Awareness Month   Celebrating Pride Month in June

Pride Month is an annual celebration of the LGBTQ community, and a time when LGBTQ individuals - and their supporters - seek to raise awareness of the ongoing challenges youth and adults face in their daily lives.

Mental Health Awareness Month   You are not alone: Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is proud to serve as a nationally recognized leader in the evolving field of behavioral healthcare, providing innovative specialty mental health programs/services for youth and adults with emotional and behavioral disorders.

CIDDS   Autism Awareness Month: Nurturing greater understanding, compassion and support

In honor of Autism Awareness Month in April, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health a leading provider of autism services for children, adolescents and adults - wants to highlight the need for greater understanding, compassion and support to help individuals diagnosed with autism lead more independent, fulfilling and socially connected lives.

STARR   Devereux Massachusetts/Rhode Island STARR program builds a sense of community

For the past two years, Sheri-ann Mclean, program director at Devereux Advanced Behavior Health Massachusetts and Rhode Island, has been cultivating a culture of trust and collaboration among staff in the organization’s Short-term Assessment and Rapid Reintegration (STARR) program in Paxton, Mass.

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month   Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: Promoting inclusion

March has been recognized as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month since 1987 when President Ronald Reagan issued a public proclamation urging Americans to provide individuals with developmental disabilities “the encouragement and opportunities they need to lead productive lives and to achieve their full potential.”

  Recreational Therapy Month: Recognizing the value of therapeutic recreational programs

Recreational therapy uses activities such as music and dance classes and arts and crafts to help stimulate and improve the overall health and well-being of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions.

  Human Trafficking Awareness Month: Join the fight against modern-day slavery

Human trafficking is an issue that affects every country around the globe. In the United States, one of the biggest challenges to combating this form of modern-day slavery is a lack of awareness and understanding.

  Focusing on togetherness during the holidays

Devereux Center for Resilient Children (DCRC) Early Childhood Specialist and National Trainer Nefertiti B. Poyner, Ed.D., offers tips for families to focus on togetherness during the holiday season.

  National Adoption Month 2018: Join the conversation

Each year, November is recognized as National Adoption Month and Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health wants to shine a light on the urgent need to connect the thousands of children and youth in the U.S. foster care system with permanent, loving families.

  Recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), and at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, we believe all individuals should be given the opportunity to be included and make a positive impact in their communities.

  Helping individuals in crisis: September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

The American Association of Suicidology reports that, in the U.S., nearly 45,000 individuals died by suicide in 2016. In addition, the organization said suicide is the 10th leading cause of death, with an average of one person taking his or her own life every 11.7 minutes.

  Focusing on trauma: Take Devereux’s pledge to promote social/emotional health in children

This month, the Devereux Center of Resilient Children invites everyone to embrace our shared role in promoting healthy early childhood development by taking its online pledge to promote the resilience of all children, and to learn more about the negative impacts of childhood trauma, as well as the need for trauma-informed practices.

  Devereux MA/RI 2018 Gala and Auction a huge success

The Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Massachusetts and Rhode Island center’s annual “Gala & Auction,” held this spring in Worcester, Massachusetts, set a record for the organization’s premier fundraising event. Featuring live entertainment, fantastic food, dancing and a live auction for the 10th anniversary of this event, the Gala generated more than $270,000, which represents a 20 percent increase in sponsorships and a 30 percent increase in live auction results.

  Noah D. Noyes appointed as executive director of Devereux Connecticut, The Glenholme School

Devereux announced that President and CEO Carl E. Clark II has selected Noah D. Noyes as Devereux Connecticut, The Glenholme School’s, incoming executive director. Noyes, who currently serves as the school’s operations manager, will assume this role on Nov. 1, 2018. Noyes succeeds Maryann Campbell, who will retire on Jan. 31, 2019, following more than four decades of leadership and vision.

  Kerry Ann Goldsmith recognized by the Association of Children’s Residential Centers

Kerry Ann Goldsmith, executive director of Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island, was recently honored with the prestigious “Fellow” award by the Association of Children’s Residential Centers (ACRC).

  Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island granted expedited COA reaccreditation

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island was recently reaccredited by the Council on Accreditation for a period of four years for “achieving the highest standards of professional practice for the services it provides.” The Devereux center first received COA accreditation in 2009.

  Legislative breakfast sparks inspirational story from Devereux parent

In March, Devereux Massachusetts / Rhode Island held its seventh annual “Legislator’s Breakfast” event at its Rutland, Mass., campus. During the event, attendees heard a moving speech from Devereux parent Erica Sarro, about her son’s journey to Devereux.

  New England Psychiatrist article puts the spotlight on Ashley Warhol

Devereux Massachusetts / Rhode Island Director of Clinical Services and Internship Training Ashley Warhol, Psy.D, was recently featured in a New England Psychiatrist article called “Behavioral disorders: accurate diagnosis proves challenging.”

  Devereux employee retires after more than 50 years with the organization

After an amazing 51 years of service, Bob Wheeler Devereux Massachusetts / Rhode Island maintenance specialist has retired. The Massachusetts / Rhode Island team recently honored Wheeler and his achievements during a retirement celebration in Devereux’s Rutland, Mass., office.

  Devereux Massachusetts / Rhode Island youth named motorbike sportsmanship champions

Eight youth from our Devereux Massachusetts / Rhode Island center were crowned champions of the recent National Youth Project Using Minibikes (NYPUM) East Rodeo competition as a result of their stellar show of sportsmanship, reinforcing their self-esteem and self-discipline.