TMG IRIS Consultant Biography
TMGIRIS Consultant Name: Susan Espeseth-Shepardson
Joined TMG: May 2017
Phone Number: 844-864-8987
Email: IRISInfo@tmgwisconsin.com
Location & Experience
Other Experience:
Prior to joining TMG, I was employed for 2 ½ years at a center for people with intellectual disabilities in Houston, Texas, where I was a children services caseworker. After that, I worked as a sheltered workshop intake caseworker for people with intellectual disabilities. For the next chapter of my career, I spent 14 ½ years as a vocational rehabilitation counselor, where I got to support people who have disabilities. A move to North Carolina changed my career path, and I became an adult Medicaid caseworker, where I worked for 13 years with people who have disabilities and the elderly, including working with Long Term Care Services Skilled Nursing and Assistive Living. Finally, in September 2016, I returned to my home state of Wisconsin and began working as a case manager for the Vilas County long-term care COP-Waiver Program, where I supported people with disabilities and older adults.
County/Region I'm Familiar with: Forest, Oneida, Vilas
Languages or Communication Skills: English
More About Me
How do you Partner with people to 'clear the path ahead'?
I help people in the IRIS program “clear the path ahead” by establishing a solid relationship with them. Listening to their needs, their interests and their dreams is the first step to jointly determine what services will best assist them in achieving their goals. Often times, that includes thinking outside the box and being creative. I enjoy coming up with innovative solutions, and I also embrace traditional ideas that have proven to be effective.
What's your favorite thing about being an IRIS consultant?
Being an IRIS Consultant gives me the opportunity to meet new people and learn about their unique life stories and experiences. Together, we work towards common goals to achieve the life they want to live.
What past experience prepared you to become an IRIS Consultant?
As someone who has devoted 30+ years of my career to helping provide services to persons with disabilities and the elderly, I know how to navigate the obstacles and challenges that might present themselves to participants in the IRIS program. We are never too old to learn, and each encounter with someone provides a new opportunity to do so.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
When I’m not working, I enjoy reading a good book, baking up a storm, checking out Pinterest boards, and listening to an eclectic range of music. I also love spending time with family, playing with my dog, trying new restaurants, and being outdoors in the Great Northwoods. Oh, and I love those Packers! I’m looking forward to rediscovering Wisconsin as an adult!
