Lesli Cattan Appointed Director of Training Programs

Lesli Cattan, Director of Training Programs Yes She Can Inc.

Marjorie Madfis, President of Yes She Can Inc., a non-profit devoted to helping young women on the Autism Spectrum prepare for future employment, is pleased to welcome their new Director of Training Programs, Lesli Cattan.

Lesli is responsible for launching the Autism Advisory Committee of the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health.  For the past 10 years, she oversaw a case management program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders, and forensic involvement.

Previously Lesli founded and led the mental health clinic at Westchester Jewish Community Services for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.  She has led social skills groups, socialization groups, parent support groups; provided individual and family therapy; taught numerous classes on understanding co-occurring disorders, sensory integration, stress management and secondary trauma.

She developed her professional interest as a college student volunteering in a service organization that took young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities on outdoor adventure trips. Early in her career she worked as a direct care professional and house manager for several group homes, later acquiring a clinical social work degree from Fordham University.

Recognized for her career accomplishments and her voice for people with developmental disabilities, Lesli was recently honored with the Advocates for Adults with Autism Award.

Lesli is a resident of White Plains, NY where she lives with her husband and dog, Bruno. Their son attends college and their daughter is enrolled in graduate school.

You can reach Lesli at Lesli@YesSheCanInc.org