Staff Profiles

James S. Elkind-Lead Clinical Consultant
Jim has been working as a clinical social worker in the mental health field since his graduation from Boston University School of Social Work in 1967. Jim began his career working primarily with children and their families and quickly moved into a supervisory role, becoming the Chief Psychiatric Social Worker at Newton Guidance Clinic. In 1974 Jim transitioned to a supervisory position at Jewish Family and Children's Services, where he has spent the last twenty-eight years. He worked for seven years as the Director of Mental Health Services and during that time co-developed a supported independent living program for adults with disabilities. In accordance with this, Jim also developed a range of advocacy, counseling, and group services to meet the needs of people with developmental disabilities and their families. From 1989 to 2002 Jim acted as the Clinical Director in the Programs for People with Disabilities, developing and implementing clinical services for adults with developmental disabilities and their families, with a focus on supporting individuals in their homes and other supported residential settings.

Jim is also interested in finding new and innovative methods of accurately assessing and evaluating individuals with developmental disabilities and is currently researching and developing alternative ways of learning about these individuals.