IMPACT Leadership Development Pilot Program: Advancing Champions

By Madeana Galler, Therapy Managed Care Resource

We’re excited to introduce IMPACT, a pilot program designed to elevate therapy leaders and therapists to confidently drive clinical and financial outcomes within the managed care environment.

While IMPACT is therapy-focused at its core, it is intentionally designed to support strong internal and external IDT collaboration, enhance facility-wide understanding, and strengthen knowledge, confidence, and competency in navigating quality care within the managed care model. The goal is not only to develop individual therapists and therapy leaders but also to foster local champions who can influence change to positively impact patient outcomes.

IMPACT stands for Insurance & Managed Care Program, Advancing Champion Therapists. The program blends virtual learning with in-person training, emphasizing practical, real-world application.

Pilot Cohorts: Learning, Leading, and Shaping the Program

We successfully completed the first IMPACT pilot cohort in September 2025 and proudly launched the second cohort in March 2026. These initial cohorts play a critical role in shaping IMPACT into what it is today. Their engagement, insight, and willingness to provide meaningful feedback help refine the content, strengthen learning experiences, and ensure relevance to real-world practice.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to our pilot participants. These clinicians and leaders are true pioneers, stepping forward to test, challenge, and refine the program. Their commitment reflects a shared passion for growth and advancing therapy practice within managed care.

First Cohort (September 2025)

Left to right: Top row: Jimmy Nguyen, David Lopez, Molly Conklin, Camrin Nettey, Brian Banka, Scott Ruther, Abby Solis

Bottom row: Denny Davis, Justine Cruz, Madeana Galler, Erin Mallory, Jamie Lawrence, Allison Metzger

Second Cohort (March 2026)

Left to right: Top row: Tara Moellering, Casey Shaw, Brenna Laurent, Jennifer Ybarra, Marci Woehler, Madeana Galler, Marlo Grant

Bottom row: Cassie Hoffman, Calley Johnson, Lauren Ponce, Lindsay Fry, Heather Bjernudd, Camrin Nettey

What’s Next for IMPACT

Upon completion of the second pilot cohort, IMPACT participation nomination will open organization-wide participants. This next phase will allow us to expand the program’s reach while continuing to build a strong community of therapy leaders who are confident navigating managed care and influencing change.

We are excited to bring this leadership development opportunity to a broader audience and look forward to continuing the momentum generated by our pilot cohorts. More details will be shared soon as we prepare to scale IMPACT and support even more therapists in becoming local managed care champions.