AMI Leadership & Board of Directors
Meet the team of clinical professionals, community advocates, and neurodivergent leaders driving AMI's mission forward.
AMI Staff
Dr. Emily Ballard, OTD, OTR/L
Managing Director
Emily's approach is fundamentally rooted in her commitment to the neurodivergent community, emphasizing support that adapts to each individual's unique needs. Her methods foster an environment where participants and their families feel understood and valued, encouraging them to thrive on their own terms. Emily empowers others to navigate and master various challenges that may impact their growth towards independence, focusing on self-care, emotional regulation, home maintenance, and living independently. By building strong rapport and prioritizing their goals, Emily inspires others to be agents of change in their lives, consistently focusing on enhancing their capabilities and supporting their ongoing development.
Cassandra Haddon
BRIDGE Program Coordinator
Cassandra's dedication to neurodivergent affirming care is demonstrated through her work, which emphasizes understanding and leveraging the unique strengths of each individual. Her approach is rooted in the belief that neurodivergence is a natural variation of the human experience, not a deficiency needing correction. She fosters an environment where neurodivergent individuals and their families can thrive, supported by tailored strategies that respect their unique ways of interacting with the world.
2026 Board of Directors
AMI's Board of Directors provides strategic guidance and governance leadership as the organization grows its impact across Will County.
Brooke Garren, LCSW
Executive Director & Founder
Utilizing a person-centered, strength-based approach, Brooke utilizes an integrative model of care that contrasts sharply with "traditional" neurodivergent therapies found in educational and therapeutic settings. She blends various theoretical models to tailor interventions that meet each client's specific needs, emphasizing the importance of affirming care that acknowledges the complexity and uniqueness of each individual.
Brooke's journey through her own neurodivergent and learning challenges has been instrumental in crafting her approach to therapy. These experiences are the bedrock of her ability to relate authentically to the challenges faced by her clients and their families. This personal connection fuels her passion for fostering an environment where individuals feel truly seen, heard, and supported.
Interested in Supporting AMI's Mission?
We are always looking for dedicated professionals and community members who share our commitment to neurodiversity-affirming workforce development.