Meet the Team. Specialists Built Around Your Child.
Every person at Talisman — from our directors to your child's cabin counselor — is trained specifically for autism, ADHD, and learning differences. This is what they do. Not a side specialty. The whole point.
Our Team
People Who Know This Work
Every person at Talisman brings deep experience with neurodivergent youth — not just credentials, but genuine relationships built over years. Here's who your child will be with this summer.
Andrew Ettinger
Camp Director
Andrew has spent 15+ years working with autistic children across camp, wilderness, and school settings. He doesn't just understand the theory — he's built relationships with hundreds of neurodivergent kids and knows what it actually takes to help them grow. His own passions for hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking make him a natural fit for Talisman's outdoor-driven approach.
- 15+ years working with autistic children
- Experience across camp, wilderness, and school settings
- Active outdoorsman: hiking, mountain biking, kayaking
Colt Wight
Operations Director
Colt has been part of the Talisman community since the 1990s. His 20+ years in operations and wilderness education means nothing at camp is improvised — every system, routine, and environment is set up to help campers succeed. He holds CPI and outdoor education certifications and brings a steady, experienced hand to everything behind the scenes.
- Talisman community member since the 1990s
- 20+ years in operations and wilderness education
- CPI certified & outdoor education certified
Clinical & Medical
Expert Support Behind Every Session
Dr. Mark Braunstein, D.O.
Medical Director
Dr. Braunstein is a board-eligible psychiatrist with 20+ years of experience in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. He provides medical oversight for all campers, ensuring every health and psychiatric need is handled with expertise and care throughout the summer.
Chris Blankenship
Consulting Clinician
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of Autism Learning Lab, Chris brings deep expertise in autism-informed therapy and nature-based interventions. His consulting work helps shape how Talisman staff understand and support each camper's individual needs.
Program Team
The People Running Your Child's Day
Sierra Mackupson
Assistant Camp Director & Clinical SW Intern
Brings clinical training and hands-on camp experience to daily programming, supporting both campers and counselor staff.
Drew Valladares
Assistant Camp Director
Supports daily camp operations and counselor coordination, keeping schedules, activities, and routines running smoothly.
Abdiselam Green
Foundations Program Manager
Leads the Foundations program for our youngest campers, building the structure and relationships that set them up for a great summer.
Questions About Our Team?
Talk to Us Before You Apply
We're happy to answer any questions about our staff, approach, or how we support your child. Call us or start an inquiry online.