Steven E. Gutstein, Ph.D., Director 

Dr. Steve Gutstein is an internationally renowned pioneer in the field of developmental disabilities. As the developer and director of RDIconnect, he has brought over twenty years of experience in treatment planning, program development, clinical expertise and education to his innovative approaches for treating at-risk children, adolescents and adults. Over the course of his career he has trained thousands of dedicated professionals, supporting them as they work with families around the world, while serving as the director of the Relationship Research Institute and the Gilbert Hall School in Los Angeles. It is Dr. Gutstein’s belief that every individual with developmental disabilities merits a second chance to realize success in a world where their choices and decisions are entirely their own.

Rachelle K. Sheely, Ph.D., Director

Dr. Rachelle Sheely serves as the co-director of RDIconnect as well as the head of professional training and supervision. For the past fifteen years she has been a leader in the development and logistical implementation of programs for both families and professionals working with children, adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities. Along with her extensive clinical training, Dr. Sheely brings an accomplished background in education, art, music and poetry allowing her to inject creativity and originality into the teaching, training and management of the thousands of professionals and families she reaches on a daily basis. Profoundly effecting, Dr. Sheely has spent a lifetime working with children on a professional and personal level. With a gift for moving from observation to intuitive precision, her work extends far beyond treatment, and into the everyday moments that resonate in the lives of her clients. 

 Elizabeth Alford, Professional Training Coordinator

Elizabeth (Beth) Alford is a creative and energetic leader with many years experience in communications, teaching, training and team development. She holds a B.A. in Music and English as well as training in organizational leadership and theological studies. At RDI, Beth works closely with Dr. Sheely to oversee the professional community, including training, supervision and re-certification. Her responsibilities also include marketing RDI programs through a weekly newsletter, blogs and social media.   

Philip Balonwu, Support Analyst

Philip Balonwu is a seasoned Computer specialist and System Analyst. With in depth knowledge of computers and troubleshooting, he supports and handles all technical related issues to the RDI Learning System Programs. Philip is also responsible for responding to all user service request tickets as well as handling all internal technical issues. A dedicated and highly energetic person, Philip holds a B.S in Technical Management and A.S in Computer Science.  

Dora Caballero, Business Manager

Dora Caballero is essential to almost every aspect of RDIconnect. As Business Manager, she solves problems, creates spreadsheets, manages finances all with good humor. Dora has been with RDIconnect since 2002. During that time she has witnessed and participated in the growth of the organization from the bottom up.  Dora holds a degree in Accounting , bi-lingual, a Texan and the mother of two little cowpokes. 

Martha Greenberg, Front Office Administrator

Martha comes to RDIconnect as an accomplished administration manager. After thirty years of working with a range of different systems, office atmospheres and personalities we are happy to have her as an addition to our wily crew. Besides acting as a triage for all questions, answers and requests Martha is the front line of our business always welcoming, wonderful and charming. Email Martha.

Umair Syed, Systems Analyst

Umair is at the forefront of web platform development for the RDIconnect community. He has contributed from its inception to the launching of the RDI-LS system and is currently responsible for its maintenance, for supporting both its users and our internal organization. A graduate of Hyderabad India, Umair has also earned a Masters degree from the University of Houston. Umair is an avid cricket player and fluent in English, Hindi and Urdu.