January 28, 2026
Last October, Wellspring and Consultants on Disability announced our new collaboration, Complex Guardianship Support. Our combined team provides crucial support for both the most vulnerable individuals and the legal community.
We’d like to introduce you to our team and their roles and expertise.
Our Case Manager, Joanne Dunphy, BS, is the Founder of Consultants on Disability LLC. Joanne is an experienced case manager specializing in supporting individuals with disabilities across the lifespan. She works closely with children, young adults, adults, and older adults, helping them and their families navigate complex systems with clarity, coordination, and confidence.
Core Expertise Areas
Connector and advocate. Joanne serves as a connector and advocate—helping families align educational, healthcare, and support systems so individuals with disabilities can thrive at every stage of life. She is a trusted referral partner for educators, healthcare providers, attorneys, and community organizations seeking thoughtful, person-centered case management.
Care coordination. For adults and older individuals with disabilities, Joanne helps coordinate care across medical, social service, and community-based systems. She is known for her ability to bring order to complex situations, especially when multiple providers, agencies, and funding sources are involved. Families value her practical guidance and steady presence during periods of change or uncertainty.
Insurance coverage review. Working with expert providers, Joanne has fine-tuned an annual insurance coverage review process for clients with disabilities as well as their non-disabled family members. The review helps clients and families understand benefits, anticipate changes, and avoid gaps in coverage to ensure long-term stability and access to necessary care.
Educational planning and transitions. Expertise in educational planning and transitions, including deep knowledge of IEPs, special education services, and the transition from school to adulthood. She supports families as students move from K–12 services into postsecondary education, vocational programs, community supports, and adult service systems—ensuring continuity rather than disruption during these critical years.
Value to Guardianship Programs
- Strong clinical foundation
- Extensive experience supporting individuals with physical, intellectual, developmental, and cognitive disabilities
- A deep understanding of how needs evolve at different life stages
- Expertise in Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and long-term care planning
- Supporting young adults with disabilities during critical transition periods
- Detail-oriented, collaborative approach to creating realistic, sustainable plans that promote stability, autonomy, and quality of life
Service model
The Complex Guardianship Support team provides our support on a fee-for-service basis, which allows us to offer the dedicated time, expertise, and continuity that complex situations deserve. This model helps us remain independent, responsive, and focused entirely on the needs of the individuals and families we serve.
We also recognize that financial circumstances vary. Our team is committed to treating every person with dignity and respect, and we gladly assist in identifying community resources or funding options for those who may need additional support. Our mission is to make high-quality guidance accessible, compassionate, and person-centered.
For more information, please email Sheila McMackin, MSW, LCSW, founder of Wellspring Personal Care, or telephone (312) 648-1565.