The Coaching Caregivers Clinicians and Staff, in their own words

James Lowell Ferry, Founder and President/CEO

Twenty years of Geriatric Care Management experience Master's Degree in Social Work LICSW (Massachusetts Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) Member of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers, Inc. Member of GCM-New England Chapter Member of the National Association of Social Workers

After earning my Master's Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, I began my professional career as a social worker and discharge planner in a physical rehabilitation hospital. In that position, I worked with many families struggling in crisis when their aging family member experienced a life-changing illness or injury. My interest in elder-care issues evolved from this: I found that many caregivers become overwhelmed by the stress and strain of managing the changes resulting from medical crises. This is particularly true for caregivers who live far away and have families and jobs of their own.

To meet this need, I began my Geriatric Care Management career in 1992. My social-work background provides my ability to practice what I call the "psychosocial" aspects of caring for seniors, while strengthening the relationships with the people who care for them.

In 2003, I established the current name, Coaching Caregivers LLC, which continues to offer solutions and support to busy adults with caregiving responsibilities. Coaching Caregivers LLC provides programs, products and services to caregivers who live and work across the nation. I particularly enjoy sharing solutions with those who have the desire to begin or resume personal and professional achievement, outside of their role as caregiver. In addition to my career experience, I am a Ph.D candidate in Social Work at the University at Albany.

I live in Deerfield, MA with my wife, herself a physician, and family.

Colleen R. Letourneau, Care Manager

Twenty years of social-work experience in the areas of aging and health Bachelor's Degree in Social Work LSW (Licensed Social Worker) in Massachusetts Member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Member of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers, Inc. Member of the New England Chapter of Geriatric Care Managers

I bring 27 years of experience as a Massachusetts Licensed Social Worker to Coaching Caregivers LLC. For the past 20 years, I have specialized in the fields of Geriatrics, and medical social work. I have been employed as Director of Social Services, and Admissions Coordinator in some of the finest skilled-nursing homes in Western and Central Massachusetts.

Born and raised in Greenfield, MA, I was influenced continually by the medical field; my father was a local physician, who further educated himself to become a Board Certified Geriatric Psychiatrist. My passion for Social Work naturally unfolded from my father's example.

Now more than ever, experienced advocates are vital for navigating healthcare pathways toward positive outcomes.

We look forward to assisting you in the management of expert care for your client or loved one.

I live in Greenfield, MA with my wonderful husband and creative son.

Robert J. Page, Business Development Manager

M.Ed Counseling Psychology, Boston University B.S. Business Administration, The College of New Jersey Member, Mass ALFA Member, Leading Age (MA) Director, Hardwick Rescue Squad

My work at Coaching Caregivers blends 15 years of experience developing business in the Employee Assistance Program industry with a passion for helping to solve the complex and dynamic puzzles in the exponentially growing geriatrics marketplace. As the baby boomer population continues to cope with aging parents and their own long-term planning issues, I seek to help attorneys, financial planners, trust departments, organizations and healthcare systems find the best in geriatric care management.

I have effectively led successful sales teams, launched numerous products, and built collaborative alliances that are critical to the success of businesses today. I also write articles and develop education programs for the eldercare community.

During the past 8 years my own work/life balance has shifted. I have needed to immerse my personal and professional focus on elder care and geriatrics. After having to manage my mother's difficult battle with dementia in 2004 and "rescue" my father in New Jersey in 2009 and relocate him to Massachusetts, I have a keen interest and understanding about the complexities and expanding elder care options available to families, organizations and advisors.

I live in Hardwick, MA with my wife, and enjoy playing tennis, gardening, and the outdoors.