Simone C. Taylor, PT, DPT, has been a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with SEEC for just over three years. In this role, Simone plans and facilitates in-person and virtual activities for the people SEEC supports to assist them in becoming more independent with daily tasks, as well as more involved, active, and successful participants of their communities. As a physical therapist, keen observation and attention to detail are two particularly important skills. Simone was able to immediately carry these skills over into the role of DSP, which helped her to truly engage and implement the person-centered approach while providing supports.

Approaching the role of DSP through the lens of a physical therapist often prompted Simone to investigate “the why” behind various behaviors, barriers, and situations. Sharing these observations and inquiries really allowed Simone to become more involved in different committees within SEEC to help initiate change.

Recognizing her efforts in this regard in addition to her skill set, Simone was asked to help pilot a wellness program through which she assessed and recommended interventions to decrease fall risk. The success of this work led to her stepping into a collateral role as an Integrated Health Specialist. In this role, Simone focuses on advocating for the people SEEC supports, consulting with their teams to develop and implement a customized plan to better access their homes and communities in a safe manner. Simone is also a credentialed DSP-II and mentor for other DSPs.

In her free time, Simone enjoys playing bingo, the performing arts and traveling. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education with a concentration in Exercise Sport Science from North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, and a Clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York City, NY. Simone is licensed to practice in the State of Maryland and has maintained an active membership in the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) over the past 10 years.
Simone is grateful for the culture of excellence and improvement at SEEC that creates opportunities for her to broadly apply her skills and exercise her passion for serving the I/DD community.