Office of Special Needs EFMP Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Building a Support System Feb 01, 2022

Show notes

Starting out in military life, particularly with a special needs family member, can be overwhelming. Learn how to get started, overcome challenges, find and use available resources, and make connections that can last a lifetime. Erika Slaton, director for Military Community Support Programs, Military Community and Family Policy with Karen Terry, program analyst with the Department of Defense Office of Special Needs.

Advocating for Yourself and Others Feb 01, 2022

Show notes

Learning to advocate for yourself takes time and practice. EFMP experts break down the process into simple steps. And we’ll share plenty of stories and tips to illustrate how you can become a great advocate. Guest Rose Anderson, program analyst, Office of Military Family Readiness Policy, Children, Youth and Families speaks with Karen Terry, program analyst with the Department of Defense Office of Special Needs.

EFMP and the Medical Component Feb 01, 2022

Show notes

We discuss the medical component of EFMP, managing paperwork and keeping up with changes to ensure transitions flow smoothly. We’ll share tools that can help you organize and point you to resources for assistance. Guest Rebecca Tucker, special needs manager, Office of the Surgeon General, United States Army with Karen Terry, program analyst with the Department of Defense Office of Special Needs.

Caregiving Feb 01, 2022

Show notes

Caring for a special needs family member can take an emotional and physical toll. Get information about self-care, asking for help and building community. Featuring Kelly Smith, program analyst for Military Community Support Programs and Karen Terry, program analyst with the Department of Defense Office of Special Needs.

Legal and Long-Term Financial Planning (Part 2) Feb 01, 2022

Show notes

Part 2 of Legal and Long-Term Financial Planning covers guardianship, conservatorship and long-term planning. This session introduces resources and information to help you manage and improve your financial and legal health. Featuring Lt. Col. Graham Bernstein, associate deputy general counsel, Office of the Deputy General Counsel; Mr. Andy Cohen, director of the Office of Financial Readiness Special Needs; and Karen Terry, program analyst with the Department of Defense Office of Special Needs.

Legal and Long-Term Financial Planning (Part 1) Feb 01, 2022

Show notes

Preparing financially and legally for a special needs family member who may require long-term care or other considerations is critical. Part 1 of this conversation focuses on wills, special needs trusts and legal and financial assistance available on installations. Featuring Lt. Col. Graham Bernstein, associate deputy general counsel, Office of the Deputy General Counsel; Mr. Andy Cohen, director of the Office of Financial Readiness Special Needs; and Karen Terry, program analyst with the Department of Defense Office of Special Needs.

Medical and Education Transitions of a PCS Move Feb 01, 2022

Show notes

EFMP families may face unique challenges and concerns during a PCS move. Our experts provide insight on smoothing the medical and education transitions that can arise, whether you’re moving to a new state or a new country. Guests include Jenne Funk, program analyst with the Office of Special Needs; Evangeline Tennort, program analyst and TRICARE liaison with the Department of Defense Office of Special Needs; and Karen Terry, program analyst with the Department of Defense Office of Special Needs.

Educational Special Needs and Early Intervention Services Feb 01, 2022

Show notes

Information and resources associated with educational special needs and early intervention services and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA. Learn about the education checklists available on the EFMP & Me tool and how to use them. Featuring Tricia (Trish) Smith, early intervention specialist, Educational and Developmental Intervention Services; Jasmine McLeod, Department of Defense Education Activity; and Karen Terry, program analyst with the Department of Defense Office of Special Needs.

Exceptional Family Member Program Overview Jan 28, 2022

Show notes

Learn about benefits and services available to military families with special needs through the Office of Special Needs, the Exceptional Family Member Program and the EFMP & Me tool. With Karen Terry and Rebecca Lombardi from the Department of Defense Office of Special Needs.