Learning Community for Cognitive Disabilities

A partnership between the Texas State University Department of Psychology, the Seaton Foundation, and the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities-Texas Chapter.

The Learning Community is comprised of Texas State students who meet on a regular basis and complete an internship in Psychology focusing on the theme of long-term care (LTC) and LifeLong Living (LLL) for individuals of all ages with cognitive disabilities. The purpose is to prepare students for a career in LTC specializing in cognitive disabilities through education, training, internships, and optional research opportunities during their junior and senior year at Texas State University. The experiences may also be helpful for students considering careers as direct support professionals or licensed professionals, such as psychologist, counselor, or specialists in school psychology.

By participating fully in the community activities, Texas State students will:

• Receive priority registration in the internship course required for the learning community
• Receive a stipend upon completion of the internship during their junior or senior year.
• Develop contacts for possible employment or volunteer activities in the future
• Attain specialized training and designation as a Direct Support Professional
• Become a life-long advocate for improved quality of LTC for individuals with cognitive disabilities
• Have the option of applying for a stipend of $150 to write a white paper that critically analyzes an aspect of long-term care and potentially presenting the paper or a poster about it at a state or regional conference with travel assistance provided

For additional information, please see the links below or contact the Faculty Advisor, Dr. Krista Howard, at krista.howard@txstate.edu.

Advisory Board

Texas State Members

Dr. Krista Howard, Faculty Advisor and Professor, Texas State University

Dr. Maria Czyzewska, Professor, Texas State University

Community Partners

David Seaton, President of the Seaton Foundation

Megan Gutierrez, LiveOak Internship Coordinator

Robert Schier, Down Home Ranch Internship Coordinator

Will Hoermann, Marbridge Internship Coordinator