May 21, 2025

Bridging the Gap – Why mental health care often overlooks people with IDD

Bridging the Gap – Why mental health care often overlooks people with IDD As someone who has worked in the mental health arena in multiple states for nearly 40 years, I have a vast knowledge of our mental health systems, services, clientele, etc. I am pleased to see that mental… Read More

May 14, 2025

From Referral to Results: How to Navigate Behavioral Health Services

From Referral to Results: How to Navigate Behavioral Health Services When and how should a person determine if they need behavioral health services? The process of determining the need for mental health care varies from person to person. Many people seek out care on their own, and others have a… Read More

Laura Baker Services Association Behavioral Support Services

May 9, 2025

Laura Baker Services Association Launches New Behavioral Support Service

Laura Baker Services Association Launches New Behavioral Support Service Behavioral Support Services will provide person-centered behavioral support for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities who are experiencing behavioral issues. Laura Baker Services Association (LBSA), one of the oldest providers of housing and support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental… Read More

integrated supports and services blog

April 11, 2025

Embracing an Integrated Approach for IDD Supports and Services

Embracing an Integrated Approach for IDD Supports and Services Navigating life with an intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) comes with its unique set of challenges. For individuals and their families, finding the right supports and services can be a daunting task. However, there’s a growing recognition that an integrated approach… Read More

We Can Do Better

March 18, 2025

We Can Do Better

Why We Should All Care About the Lack of Behavioral Support for People with Developmental Disabilities Imagine watching someone you love struggle every day, not because of who they are, but because they can’t get the help they need. For thousands of families across the country, this is their daily… Read More

Fragmented World of IDD

March 11, 2025

The Fragmented World of IDD Support Services

The Fragmented World of IDD Support Services Navigating the world of support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can often feel like traversing a maze. These essential services are frequently divided into multiple categories, each with its own unique focus and approach. While these specialized services are… Read More

Together We Can

March 4, 2025

Together We Can

Together We Can By Sandi Gerdes, Executive Director Transitions. They are an unavoidable fact of life. Despite their unavoidability, we resist them. We complain about them. We mourn the old. As the world moves faster and faster, we have less time to acclimate to transitions, to prepare ourselves. Sometimes they happen so quickly we… Read More

February 26, 2025

LBSA Welcomes New Behavioral Support Services Director, Malissa Parrott-Stanke

LBSA Welcomes New Behavioral Support Services Director, Malissa Parrott-Stanke My name is Malissa Parrott-Stahnke, and I am the new Director of Behavioral Supports for Laura Baker Services. I have been a lifelong advocate for people’s rights, person-centered thinking/planning and the need for behavior support services. I am a Qualified Mental… Read More

A mother and her son with Down syndrome enjoy a day out together, walking through a brightly lit shopping mall.

January 15, 2025

Embracing Inclusivity: Sensory-Friendly Activities in Minnesota

Embracing Inclusivity: Sensory-Friendly Activities in Minnesota Navigating a world filled with sensory stimuli can be challenging for individuals with sensory sensitivities. However, creating inclusive environments and offering sensory-friendly activities can make a world of difference for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD), allowing everyone to participate fully and enjoy… Read More

December 11, 2024

Creating a Holiday Haven: Tips for Making the Season Brighter for Families with Disabilities

Creating a Holiday Haven: Tips for Making the Season Brighter for Families with Disabilities Is there someone special in your life with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD)? The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration and togetherness; however, this festive period can come with unique challenges for families… Read More