Lauren Roth, Psy.D.
Dr. Roth is the Clinical Director and maintains a private psychology practice in the office. She is a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked with individuals all across the lifespan and with a variety of psychiatric illnesses and developmental disabilities. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida State University and Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology in San Francisco. Dr. Roth has extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of children and adults on the Autism Spectrum. Prior to opening HDC, she has worked as a staff psychologist at a special education day school completing clinical and cognitive evaluations, as well as crisis intervention and behavior program planning for students K-21. Her treatment approach focuses on honoring individual challenges, while guiding clients through meaningful change with informative instruction. She especially enjoys engaging her clients in hands on clinical work in the community. Dr. Roth primarily operates as a Cognitive Behavioral clinician, but often draws from other techniques such as Motivational Interviewing, Reality Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
She can be emailed directly at Lroth@hdcri.com
Kathryn Mahoney, M.Ed., CESP
Kathryn is the Vocational Director at HDC. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Education and Master of Education in Secondary Special Education from Providence College. She has over 10 years of experience working as a certified special education teacher with individuals with a range of disabilities and in a variety of settings. She was pivotal in the development of a secondary educational and vocational program in Westerly, which provided the opportunity for students to focus on areas specific to their individual needs/interests regarding academics and employment skills, in anticipation of successful transition into adulthood. Kathryn believes that practical experience combined with earlier preparation for life after high school is critical to students' success post graduation. In addition to her teaching experience, Kathryn holds a Certified Employment Support Professional certificate and assists adults with barriers to employment secure jobs. Further, she has been a successful coach at Narragansett High School since 2006, helping their girls soccer and basketball teams win a combined 5 state, and 6 divisional championships.
She can be emailed directly at Kmahoney@hdcri.com
Taylor Chofay
Taylor is a Direct Support Professional at HDC. She is currently on her third year of the Pre-Professional track to earn her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from The University of Rhode Island. Taylor will also be graduating with a minor in Leadership Studies. She has worked with children with developmental, bone/muscle issues, sports-related injuries, and genetic brain, spine, and nerve disorders at Olympic Physical Therapy. Outside of her work at HDC, Taylor trains dogs for the visually impaired at Guiding Eyes and is the VP of Community Service in her Sorority. Taylor currently runs the weekly social outings and cooking nights, as well as assists with job coaching. She is passionate about connecting with and supporting individuals to enhance their interpersonal and life skills.
Samantha O'Meara
Samantha is a Direct Support Professional at HDC. She is currently in her third year at The University of Rhode Island studying Textiles Merchandising and Design, as well as Business. In addition to her positive energy, Samantha brings to HDC her experience working as a CrossFit Instructor. She not only works out with clients, but teaches in-home independent living skills and assists with job coaching in the community. No matter the type of appointment, Samantha prides herself on pushing individuals to live up to their fullest potential.
Kirsten Yagoobian, MFT
Kirsten is the Social Events Coordinator at HDC. She graduated from University of Rhode Island with a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has worked with children K-21 at several Bradley Schools, as well as at Bradley Hospital. Kirsten also has experience working as a therapist in a group home for teenage girls at Child and Family of Rhode Island. In addition to direct patient care, she has co-lead multiple 16-week parenting courses throughout South County, funded by a state-wide grant designed to help families in need of support. She is passionate about working with individuals to enrich their social lives and influence personal growth.
Bella
Bella is a golden retriever who is in the process of getting certified as a therapy pet. She will not need much training, though. She loves people and is a natural at her job! Bella makes an appearance at the office each week and is certainly a favorite staff member amongst clients (and coworkers). She enjoys walks, treats, and making everyone feel comfortable.