
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

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

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

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

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

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

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