Location: St. John’s Lutheran Church, 500 3rd St W, Northfield, MN
Date: Tuesday, October 14, 2025 || 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
In-Person || Online
Enhance your understanding and knowledge of the intersection of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and mental health. Learn more about managing challenging and disruptive behaviors.
Details
Laura Baker Services Association, a support provider for people with IDD for over 125 years, is hosting a Behavioral Support Service conference this fall. The conference will focus on the intersection of mental health diagnoses and IDD.
Speakers and Topics to be Covered
Through My Eyes: Living with IDD & Mental Health
- Sandi Gerdes joined LBSA in 1983 and became executive director in 1997, bringing decades of experience across client services and relationship building within the IDD community. She will be leading a conversation with a Clinical Psychologist and a former client of LBSA about her experiences.
- Isabella Armstrong has lived her life bravely, confronting the many challenges life continues to present to her. She is married and lives with her husband and her emotional support dog, Carly.
- Jane Nofer, PhD, LP, is a clinical psychologist specializing in autism spectrum disorder and related conditions. With over 40 years of experience across leading institutions, she currently practices at the Great Lakes Neurobehavioral Center in Eagan, Minnesota. Dr. Nofer is a certified trainer in ADOS and ADI-R and is dedicated to advancing understanding and support for individuals with autism.
Creating Optimal Healing Environments
- Martha W. Lantz, MSW, MBA, is a seasoned leader and founder of Lantz Healthcare Consulting, with deep expertise in nonprofit management, strategic program development and creating healing spaces that integrate neuroscience and architecture. She excels in building impactful community initiatives and collaborative partnerships.
Therapeutic Strategies
- Dr. Pamela Moening, founder and CEO of her practice, empowers individuals with sensory and behavioral challenges through evidence-based, trauma-informed care. She emphasizes understanding the “why” behind behaviors and tailoring interventions to each person’s unique neurological profile. In today’s session, she’ll share therapeutic strategies that foster regulation, engagement and meaningful participation, especially for those with complex sensory needs.