Portfolio of Selected Work
Brianne LaPelusa
Selected projects in editorial development, communications, learning design and visual storytelling. My work combines research, creative problem-solving and content development to make complex ideas engaging, accessible and useful for diverse audiences.
Translating Youth Program Data Into Community Impact
Data Storytelling · Public-Facing Reporting · Visual Communication
Led editorial development, content organization and visual communication for a public-facing report on Chicago's summer youth programs. Translated program findings and community perspectives into accessible narratives and visual materials for government, community and public audiences.
Translating Research Into Workforce Education
(Case Study)
Curriculum Development · Science Communication · Educational Design
Led curriculum development for a 12-session training program for young adult mental health peer support specialists. Translated research and lived experience into educational materials, interactive exercises and practical tools. Co-facilitated 24 hours of training for a national cohort of 40 participants and contributed to program evaluation.
Translating Youth Program Data Into Community Impact
Data Storytelling · Public-Facing Reporting · Visual Communication
Led editorial development, content organization and visual communication for a public-facing report on Chicago's summer youth programs. Translated program findings and community perspectives into accessible narratives and visual materials for government, community and public audiences.
Turning Scientific Evidence Into Practical Guidance
Scientific Translation · Toolkit Development · Research Synthesis
Overview
An evidence-informed toolkit designed to help peer support specialists navigate conversations about substance use with young people experiencing early psychosis. The resource integrates scientific literature, qualitative research and peer support principles into accessible, actionable guidance for practitioners.
Intended Audience
Peer support specialists, behavioral health practitioners, supervisors and early psychosis program teams.
My Contribution
Served as lead author of the toolkit, synthesizing research findings and practice-based knowledge into accessible educational content. Developed written guidance, structured learning materials and practical tools to support real-world application of the approach.
Collaborators
Developed in collaboration with researchers, peer support specialists and subject-matter experts whose perspectives informed the content and practice recommendations.
Translating Youth Program Data Into Community Impact
Data Storytelling · Public-Facing Reporting · Visual Communication
Led editorial development, content organization and visual communication for a public-facing report on Chicago's summer youth programs. Translated program findings and community perspectives into accessible narratives and visual materials for government, community and public audiences.
Translating Youth Program Data Into Community Impact
Data Storytelling · Public-Facing Reporting · Visual Communication
Led editorial development, content organization and visual communication for a public-facing report on Chicago's summer youth programs. Translated program findings and community perspectives into accessible narratives and visual materials for government, community and public audiences.
Designing Accessible Resources for Workforce Development
Educational Toolkit · Knowledge Translation · Information Design
Overview
A collaborative toolkit developed to help community mental health organizations effectively employ and support young adults in peer support roles. The resource translates specialized knowledge, practice-based insights and workforce considerations into accessible guidance, practical tools and organizational strategies.
Intended Audience
Community mental health administrators, program managers, supervisors and organizations employing young adult peer support specialists in New York City and nationwide.
My Contribution
Contributed to toolkit development, educational content design and visual presentation. Helped organize complex implementation concepts into structured guidance and practical resources designed for use by community mental health organizations.
Collaborators
Developed collaboratively with researchers, peer support professionals, university and organizational partners.
Developing an Evidence-Informed Practice Framework
Scientific Writing · Research Synthesis · Practice Development
Overview
A peer-reviewed research publication describing the development of an evidence-informed approach to addressing substance use among young people experiencing early psychosis. The study integrates scientific literature, qualitative research and expert perspectives to establish guiding principles and practical strategies for peer support specialists.
Intended Audience
Researchers, clinicians, peer support professionals, early intervention program leaders and behavioral health policymakers.
My Contribution
Served as first author and led the development of the PAS-EPP practice approach. Synthesized scientific literature and qualitative findings, coordinated expert consultation and co-led conceptual mapping to translate research into a practical framework. Contributed to manuscript development and communication of the study's methodology, findings and implications.
Collaborators
Developed in collaboration with university researchers, clinical experts and a peer support specialist consultant. The manuscript was co-authored with five research collaborators.
AI Tools & Verification
ChatGPT (OpenAI) was used to support citation verification and data checking. All references, data and factual claims were independently reviewed against original sources to ensure accuracy.