Our Mary in a Minute series about people making an impact on the Mary Cariola Community.
Meet Zachary Clark. Zach is Mary Cariola’s School Psychologist and Preschool Behavior Therapist. He provides Assessment and Evaluations combined with Consultation and Collaboration with the goal of gaining insights into students' academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs.
A little about Zach.
Zach graduated from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Childhood Development and received his Master of Science in School Psychology from Roberts Wesleyan College in 2022. Zach joined the Mary Cariola team in June 2022. He lives in Rochester with his wife Ashley and dog Barley.
What attracted you to a Mary Cariola career?
I have accumulated a decade of experience in the education and behavioral fields, embarking on my journey as a substitute teacher at the age of twenty. Over the years, I have held diverse roles, ranging from being a behavioral specialist to serving as a one-on-one behavior therapist for external clinics. These various positions have provided me with invaluable insights and a deep appreciation for collaborating with students and assisting their parents or guardians and teachers in comprehending each student's distinctive strengths and weaknesses.
The opportunity presented by the position at Mary Cariola captivated me for its remarkable dual role. It allows me to combine my passion for working with students with the unique chance to support their growth while simultaneously fostering understanding among parents, guardians, and teachers.
Tell us about your role at Mary Cariola and what is a typical day like.
A typical day for me at Mary Cariola is dynamic, influenced by evaluations and the individual needs of the students I have the pleasure to work with. While each day brings unique challenges and opportunities, a general overview of my daily activities include:
Assessment and Evaluation: One aspect of this position that I find truly exhilarating is the opportunity to "play" the role of a detective, delving deep into understanding each student.
Consultation and Collaboration: A significant aspect of my role entails collaborating with teachers, parents, and other educational professionals to address students' needs effectively. Through consultation, I actively engage with the many school teams. This collaboration ensures the well-being and success of students.
Team Meetings: I actively participate in various team meetings, which help me make informed decisions about interventions, progress monitoring, and educational planning.
What have you learned about the Mary Cariola Center that you did not know?
The magnitude of Mary Cariola’s impact on countless individuals never ceases to astonish me. Although I had some awareness of the center before joining, it wasn't until I became part of this incredible organization that I truly comprehended the depth and significance of the work accomplished here. Witnessing the faces and connecting with the people who have been positively transformed through Mary Cariola's support is an experience that leaves an indelible mark on one's heart. The continuous surprises and the profound impact on people's lives are aspects I never anticipated, making my journey here even more remarkable.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
If someone were to get to know me better, they might be surprised to discover my passion for building with Lego. I am also keenly interested in crafting using diverse mediums, including 3D printing. I take immense pleasure in creating my own designs and transforming them into tangible objects. And, I have always had a great appreciation for the world of cinema.
What thoughts do you have for someone who may be experiencing mental health challenges?
I am deeply passionate and filled with enthusiasm when it comes to the ongoing conversations surrounding mental and behavioral health in the context of overall well-being. Although these topics can still be challenging for some to address, and it is possible to encounter friends and family who may not fully grasp their significance, it is crucial to recognize two fundamental aspects. Firstly, our mental and behavioral health is as vital as any other aspect of our well-being, deserving the same level of attention and care. Secondly, embracing the diversity of experiences and perspectives related to mental and behavioral health enriches our collective human experience.
During times when a friend or loved one is facing specific challenges, it is vital to remind them, as well as ourselves, that we are never alone. Offering support and understanding can make a significant difference in difficult moments, reinforcing the shared journey we navigate together. By fostering open conversations and promoting the importance of mental and behavioral health, we contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society that recognizes the value of every individual's well-being.
