Agency adds Director of Psychosocial Rehabilitation Services
AVON PARK – Madeleine Leonhardt joins Ridge Area Arc as Director of Psychosocial Rehabilitation Services. Ridge Area Arc’s Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) is designed to improve the lives of people with disabilities by giving them the emotional, cognitive, and social skills needed to live and work in their communities as independently as possible. Arc’s team, comprised of a master’s level counselor, Nurse Practitioner, and overseeing physician, ensures that individuals feel empowered. Each individual will feel that they can set their own goals and have the power and autonomy to pursue them. People with certain diagnoses, such as those on the Autism Spectrum, sometimes feel discouraged. Arc’s Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program focuses on helping individuals and their families feel hopeful about the future. The program builds an individual’s skills. This form of rehabilitation aims to teach people skills to help them manage their conditions and live the life they want to live. This includes life skills, work skills, social skills, and more. Most importantly the Ridge Area Arc PSR team will help families feel supported. Our professionals offer support and help individuals build relationships and social connections in their community.
“So many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities sit at home after they graduate from high school because they do not have funding from the state and no longer have the additional support necessary to achieve independence. This program provides a lifeline, for individuals who qualify, to achieve the independence in life that they and their families are longing for. Ridge Area Arc has compiled an excellent clinical team, including a true patient advocate in Maddy. Bringing this much-needed program to Highlands County will make the world of difference for the families and individuals who need it. ” said, Ridge Area Arc CEO Kathleen Border.
Leonhardt is a dedicated leader with a profound passion for community service and uplifting others. With a master’s degree in counseling psychology and extensive leadership experience, Leonhardt has made a significant impact in our community through various roles.
Born and raised in Sweden, Leonhardt developed an enthusiasm for helping others early on. Her upbringing instilled in her the values of empathy and resilience. As a 2022 alumna of Leadership Highlands, she understands the importance of helping others achieve their dreams.
“I am thrilled to join the wonderful Ridge Area Arc team and contribute to the development of their Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program. This initiative, which will empower participants, instill hope, and equip them with the skills necessary for independent living, will be highly impactful. I feel blessed to be part of this endeavor and am eager to see the positive changes it will bring,” said Leonhardt.
A proud mother of two adult sons, she enjoys life outside of work with her husband and their border collie, working on home projects, doing arts and crafts, and spending quality time together.
Leonhardt can be reached at 863-452-1295 Ext. 113 or by email at mleonhardt@ridgeareaarc.org.
