Tara Viens, MS

Research Associate II

University of Connecticut Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

Tara joined the UCEDD as an Education & Development Specialist in 2021. She has been working in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities for over 20 years and is passionate about supporting people throughout the lifespan. Tara started her career in early intervention programs for children diagnosed with Autism then transitioned to supporting adults with a dual diagnosis of IDD and MH. Tara was a visiting professor at Eastern Connecticut State University before spending 3 years with the Office of Developmental Programs in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; serving as clinical consultant in the Bureau of Autism Services and as the clinical director in the Bureau of Community Supports. Tara holds a masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Sage Colleges. She completed her undergraduate degree at Olivet Nazarene University in Psychology with a minor in Social Work.