M.Sprong.CV
Sprong, M. E., Hollender, H., Burley, N., Formigoni, M., &
Annerino, K. (anticipated 2026). The Substance-Related Disorder Assessment: A
Road Map to Effective Treatment Planning & Community Reintegration (2nd
ed.). Kendall Hunt Publishing.
Sprong, M. E., Hollender,
H., Formigoni, M., Love Jordan, J., & Parker-Barnes, L. (anticipated 2026).
The Substance Related Disorder: Special Populations & Treatment
Considerations. Kendall Hunt Publishing.
Sprong, M. E., Hollender, H., Formigoni, M., Parker-Barnes,
L., & Sneed, Z. (2025). The Substance-Related Disorder: Treatment &
Rehabilitation. Kendall Hunt Publishing.
Sprong, M. E., & Davis, S. (2018). The Substance-Related
Disorder Assessment: A Road Map to Effective Treatment Planning. Kendall Hunt
Publishing.
Peer-Reviewed Journal Publications
2025
[65] Lee, Y-S., Gor, K., Sprong,M.E.*, Shrestha, J., Huang, X., & Hollender, H. (In Press).
Development of a Machine Learning-Based Predictive Nomogram for Screening
Children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Pseudo-Longitudinal Study of
223,195 Children in the United States. Frontiers in Public Health, 13.
https://doi.org//10.3389/fpubh.2025.1531764 [SCIMAGOJR = Q1; ImpactFactor= 3.0] *Corresponding Author
[64] Gor, K., Lee, Y-S., Sprong, M.
E., Hollender, H., & Shrestha, J. (In Press). Effect modifications of
juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) on anxiety and depression in children and
adolescents of the United States. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health, 21. http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/0117450179372640250324051404[SCIMAGOJR = Q2; ImpactFactor= 3.122]
[63] Sprong, M. E., Hollender,
H., Lee, Y-S., Forziat-Pytel, K., Dooley, T., & Buono. F. D. (2025).
Effects of COVID-19 on enrollment and discharge for veterans (with substance
use disorders) referred to vocational rehabilitation within the VA Healthcare
System. Rehabilitation Counseling
Bulletin, 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1177/00343552251320950
[SCIMAGOJR = Q2; ImpactFactor= 1.9]
2024
[62] Lee, Y-S., Shrestha, J., Sprong,
M. E., Huang, X., Tuladhar, S., & Chuang, M. Y. (2024). Machine
learning analysis of factors influencing pediatric telehealth visits during
COVID-19: A state-level comparison using 2021-22 National Survey of Children’s
Health Data. Healthcare, 12(21), 2170. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12212170 [SCIMAGOJR
= Q2; ImpactFactor= 2.4]
[61] Sprong, M. E., Hollender,
H., Rumrill, S., Blankenberger, B., Lee, Y-S., Kriz, K., Weber, K., Gilbert,
J., & Buono, F. D. (2024). The Road to Reintegration: Evaluating the
Effectiveness of VA Healthcare in Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment
Retention for Veterans with Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation, 15, 107-123. https://doi.org/10.2147/SAR.S462882 [SCIMAGOJR = Q2; ImpactFactor= 5.1]
[60] Lee, Y-S, Sprong, M. E., Smeltzer, M. P., Shrestha, J., & Hollender, H. (2024). Trajectory analysis
for identifying classes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) of
Children in the United States. Clinical Practice & Epidemiology in
Mental Health, 20(e174550179298863).
https://doi.org/10.21174/0117450179298863249516970510 [SCIMAGOJR
= Q2; ImpactFactor= 3.122]
[59] Sprong, M. E., Tomlin, E.,
Blazer, S., Porcaro, C., Colby, S., Latham, L., Staley, M., Guzman, E., &
Hollender, H. (2024). Utilization of the VA Healthcare system for veterans with
and without substance use disorders: Resources for rehabilitation counselors. Journal
of Rehabilitation, 89(4), 46-58.[SCIMAGOJR
= Q3]
[58] Sprong,
M. E., Mamboleo, G., Fullmer, L., Green, K., & Hollender, H. (2024).
Disability-related equity gaps in post-secondary education. The
Rehabilitation Professional, 32(1), 43-56.
[57] Sprong, M.
E., Blankenberger,
B., Pierce, S., & Hollender, H. (2024). The COVID-19 Pandemic’s Influence
on Employment Outcomes of Veterans Enrolled in VA Healthcare Vocational
Rehabilitation. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 60(3) 379-388.
https://doi.org/10.3233/JVR-230065[SCIMAGOJR
= Q2]
2023
[56] Buono, F. D., Polonsky, M., Sprong,
M. E., Aviles, A., & Cutter, C. J. (2023). Feasibility of a remotely
monitored blood alcohol concentration device to facilitate treatment
motivations: A pilot study. Drug and Alcohol Dependence Reports. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100202Impact Factor: 3.4
[55] Vincenzes,
K., Pechek, A., Pytel, K., & Sprong, M. E. (2023). Comparison of
case study delivery on ethical self-efficacy: Evaluation of a distance
education Clinical Mental Health Counseling course. Journal of Creativity in
Mental Health. https://doi.org/10.1080/15401383.2023.2246873
[54] Peterson,
S, Skerritt, C., Sprong, M. E., & Thomas, L. B. (2023).
Individualized plan for employment development for individuals with psychiatric
disabilities:
Recommendations
for state vocational rehabilitation administrators. The Rehabilitation
Professional, 31(3), 35-52.
[53]
Parker-Barnes, L., Wise, S. M., Lio, S., Rowley, C., McDaniel, J., Starts, S.,
& Sprong, M. (2023). Supervision 2.0: Culturally competent and
creative online supervision practices. Journal of Technology in Counselor
Education and Supervision, 3(2). https://doi.org/10.61888/2692-4129.1055
[52] Austin,
B. S., Lee, C. L., McCarthy, A., & Sprong, M. E. (2023). Importance
of clinical judgment skill competencies across practice settings: Certified
Rehabilitation Counselors’ perceptions. Journal of Applied Rehabilitation
Counseling, 54(2).
https://doi.org/10.1891/JARC-2022-0006
[51] Sprong, M. E., Hollender, H., Lee, Y.,
Rawlins-Williams, L., Sneed, Z., Garakani, A., & Buono, F. D. (2023).
Disparities in Program Enrollment and Employment Outcomes for Veterans with
Psychiatric Disorders and Co-Occurring Alcohol and other Substance Use
Disorders Referred to VHA Vocational Rehabilitation. Frontiers in Psychiatry,
76(4).
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1200450Impact Factor: 4.7 [SCIMAGOJR
= Q1]
[50] Buono, F. D., Polonsky, M., Marks, A.,
Larkin, K., & Sprong, M. E. (2023). Work readiness and barriers to
employment during COVID for Individuals with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1). Work,
76, 1265-1273.https://doi.org/10.3233/WOR-220259Impact Factor: 2.3
[49] Sprong, M. E., Thomas, L., Fuscaldo, N., Purinton,
J., & Oakes, T. (2023). Examination of Vocational Rehabilitation Models
Used in Forensic Rehabilitation Settings. The Rehabilitation Professional,
31(1), 13-26.
[48] Vincenzes,
K., Pechek, A., & Sprong, M. E. (2023). Counselor
trainees’ development of self-efficacy in an online skills course. Journal
of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 17(1). https://digitalcommons.sacredheart.edu/jcps/vol17/iss1/1
2022
[47] Sprong,
M. E., Hollender, H.,
Pechek, A., Pytel, K., & Buono, F. D., & (2022). Effects of VHA Policy
Directive 1163 on Acceptance and Employment Rates for Veterans with Substance
Use Disorders Referred to VHA Vocational Rehabilitation. Substance Abuse: Research & Treatment,
16, 1-10.https://doi.org/10.1177/11782218221132397Impact Factor: 2.52 [SCIMAGOJR
= Q2]
[46] Sprong, M. E., Hollender, H., Paul, E., Gilbert,
J., Weber, K., Garakani, A., & Buono, F. D. (2023). Impact of substance use
disorders on employment for veterans. Psychological Services, 20(Suppl
2), 222–231. https://doi.org/10.1037/ser0000690Impact Factor: 2.659
[SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
[45] Sprong, M. E., Chamarro, A., Polonsky,
M., Pechek, A. A., Pilcher, C., Griffiths, M. D., & Buono, F. D. (2022).
The Spanish version of the Video Game Functional Assessment – Revised. Cyberpsychology,
Behavior, and Social Networking.
https://doi.org/10.1089/cyber.2021.0325Impact Factor 2020: 4.157 [SCIMAGOJR
= Q1]
[44] Sprong, M. E., Brinck, E., Iwanaga, K.,
Jones, J., & Schultz, J. (2022). Pedagogy in rehabilitation education: An
exploration of educator competencies. Journal
of Applied Rehabilitation Counseling, 53(1), 15-28. https://doi.org/10.1891/JARC-D-20-00003
2021
[43] Buono, F.
D., Larkin, K., Rowe, D., Sprong, M. E.,
& Garakani, A. (2021). Intensive dialectical behavior treatment for
individuals with borderline personality disorders with and without substance
use disorders. Front. Psychol., 12(629842).
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.629842 Impact Factor 2018: 2.067 [SCIMAGOJR
= Q1]
[42] Sprong, M. E., Buono, F. D., Kaiser, S., Garakani, A., Paul, E.,
& Griffiths, M. D. (2021). The mediation effects of behavioral motivations
between gaming onset between and Internet Gaming Disorder. J Addict Behav Ther
Rehabil, 10(4). Impact Factor 2019: 3.639
[41] Buono, F.
D., Sprong, M. E., Paul, E., Martin, S., Larkin, K., & Garakani, A.
(2021). The mediating effects of quality of life, depression, and generalized
anxiety on perceived work barriers of people diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis
Type 1. Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases, 16, 234. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13023-021-01866-6
Impact Factor 2018: 3.687
[SCIMAGOJR = Q1]
[40] Brinck,
E. A., Friedman, K. B., & Sprong, M. E. (2021). Legislation impact
on transition services for youth with disabilities: Interagency collaboration
between schools and vocational rehabilitation. The Rehabilitation
Professional, 29(1), 37-52.
[39] Sprong, M. E., Buono, F., Brinck, E.,
Nerlich, A. P., & Hollender, H. (2021). Alcohol-related cause of spinal
cord injury and the impact on service recommendations. Journal of Rehabilitation, 87(2),
36-42. [SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
2020
[38] Nerlich,
A., Wrobbel, E. D., Bosley, A. A., & Sprong, M. E. (2020). Nonverbal
behavior, disability presentation, and impression formation: Implications for
the rehabilitation professional. The
Rehabilitation Professional, 28(4),
177-192.
[37] Rubin,
J., Brinck, E., Goram, L., & Sprong,
M. E. (2020). Vocational rehabilitation for people with psychiatric
disabilities. The Rehabilitation
Professional, 28(4), 193-214.
[36] Shields,
J., Pechek, A., Brinck, E., & Sprong, M. E. (2020). Strategies for
improving employment outcomes of Veterans diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress
Disorders. The Rehabilitation Professional, 28(4), 225-244.
[35]
Aliff, M., & Sprong, M. E. (2020). Qualifications for rehabilitation
counselors: A social justice issue. Journal of Applied Rehabilitation Counseling,
51(4), 277-281.
[34] Turner,
R. V., & Sprong, M. E. (2020).
Designer drugs: An emerging challenge in substance-induced disorders. Journal of Rehabilitation, 86(2), 4-12. [SCIMAGOJR
= Q2]
[33] Buono, F. D., Paul,
E., Sprong, M. E., Smith, E.,
Garakani, A., & Griffiths, M. D.
(2020). Gaming and
gaming disorder: A mediation model gender, salience, and time spent gaming,
under review. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social
Networking, 23(9),
647-651. https://doi.org/10.1089/cyber.2019.0445 Impact Factor 2018: 2.650 [SCIMAGOJR = Q1]
[32] Sprong,
M. E., Currier-Kipping, K., Hollender, H., Cerrito, B., & Buono, F. D.
(2020). The influence of gender and sexism on the
vocational rehabilitation recommendations of certificate programs and consumer
autonomy. Journal of Rehabilitation, 86(1), 4-11. [SCIMAGOJR
= Q2]
2019
[31] Sprong,
M. E., Iwanaga, K., Mikolajczyk, E., Cerrito, B., & Buono, F. D.
(2019). The role of disability in the hiring process: Does knowledge of the
Americans with Disabilities Act Matter? Journal of Rehabilitation, 85(4), 42-49. [SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
[30] Buono, F. D., Grau, L. E., Sprong, M. E., Moore, B. A., Johnson,
K., Barry, D., …, & Gutmann, D. (2019). Pain symptomology, functional daily
impact, and pain management of people with Neurofibromatosis Type 1. J Pain Res., (12), 2555-2561. https://doi.org/10.2147/jpr.s209540
Impact Factor 2019:
2.236 [SCIMAGOJR = Q1]
[29] Sprong,
M. E., Dallas, B., K., Hennenfent, K., Cerrito, B., & Buono, F. (2019).
Race and disability on perception of relative fairness of post-secondary
educational accommodations. Journal of
Applied Rehabilitation Counseling, 50(2), 118-128. https://doi.org/10.1891/0047-2220.50.2.118
[28] Sprong, M. E., Griffiths, M., Daniels, B., Paul,
E., & Buono, F. D. (2019). Cross-
validation of the Video Game
Functional Assessment-Revised (VGFA-R) and Internet Gaming Disorder Test
(IGD-20). Front. Psychol., 10, 310,
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00310 Impact
Factor 2018: 2.323 [SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
2018
[27] Masood, A. F., Dell,
C. A., Sprong, M. E., & Dell, T.
F. (2018). Test review:
Cognitive
Distortion Scale (CDS). Vocational
Evaluation Career Assessment Professional Journal, 13(2), 33-42.
[26] Sprong,
M. E., Soldner, J., & Dallas, B. (2018). Emergency preparedness knowledge
and confidence in providing services for people with disabilities: An
exploratory analysis among rehabilitation counseling students. Journal of Rehabilitation, 84(3), 57-65.[SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
[25] Sprong, M. E., Dallas, B., Paul, P.,
& Xia, M. (2018). Rehabilitation technology
services and employment outcomes among consumers using Division of
Rehabilitation Services.Disabil
Rehabil Assist Technol, 3, 1-8.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17483107.2018.1463400
Impact Factor 2018: 2.054 [SCIMAGOJR
= Q2]
2017
[24] Buono, F.
D., Griffiths, M. D., Sprong, M. E.,
Upton, T. D., Lloyd, D. P., Sullivan, R. M., & Moore, B. A. (2017).
Measures of behavioral function predict duration of video game play:
Utilization of the Video Game Functional Assessment – Revised (VGFA-R). Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 6(4), 572-578. https://doi.org/10.1556/2006.6.2017.084 Impact
Factor 2016: 4.134 [SCIMAGOJR = Q1]
[23] Sprong, M. E., Dallas, B. K., Chowdhury, D., & Buono, F. D.
(2017). Impact of sexism and gender on recommendations for rehabilitation
services. Journal of Rehabilitation, 83(4),
13-24. [SCIMAGOJR
= Q2]
[22] Moreno-Tucker, V., McCarthy, A.
K., & Sprong, M. E. (2017).
Unrecognized potential: The value of the rehabilitation professional in the
transition process. Vocational Evaluation
and Work Adjustment Association Journal, 41(2), 67-77.
[21] Buono, F. D., Sprong, M. E., Lloyd, D. P., Cutter, C., Printz, D. M. B.,
Sullivan, R. M. & Moore, B. (2017). Delay discounting of video game payers:
Comparison of time-duration
among gamers. Cyberpsychology, Behavior,
and Social Networking, 20(2), 104-108.https://doi.org/10.1089/cyber.2016.0451Impact Factor 2016: 2.571 [SCIMAGOJR
= Q1]
[20] Dell, T.,& Sprong, M. E. (2017). Test Review: Global Appraisal of Individual
Needs – Short Screener (V.3.0). Rehabilitation
Counseling Bulletin, 60(20), 121-124. https://doi.org/10.1177/0034355216632485 Impact Factor 2016: .744 [SCIMAGOJR
= Q2]
2016
[19] Ysasi, N. A., Marini, I., Sprong, M., & Silva, I. (2016). Differences among life care
planners and physiatrists regarding the likelihood and frequency of secondary
complications for persons with spinal cord injury. Journal of Life Care Planning, 14(2), 3-37.
[18] Case, J. C., Blackwell, T. L.,
& Sprong, M. E. (2016).
Counselor ethical considerations for end-of-life care. Journal of Rehabilitation, 82(1), 48-58. [SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
[17] Dallas, B., Sprong, M. E., & Kluesner, B. (2016). Multi-university
comparison of faculty attitudes and use of universal design instructional
techniques. Rehabilitation Research,
Policy, and Education, 30(2),
148-160. https://doi.org/10.1891/2168-6653.30.2.148
[16] Buono, F. D., Upton, T. D.,
Griffiths, M. D., Sprong, M. E., & Bordieri, J. (2016). Demonstrating the validity of the Video Game
Functional Assessment-Revised (VGFA-R). Computers
in Human Behavior, 54, 501-510.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2015.08.037 Impact
Factor 2016: 3.435 [SCIMAGOJR = Q1]
2015
[15]Dallas, B., & Sprong,
M. E. (2015). Assessing faculty attitudes toward universal design
instructional techniques. Journal of
Applied Rehabilitation Counseling, 46(4), 18-28.
[14] Crtalic, A.,
Gibbs, R., Sprong, M. E., &
Dell, T. (2015). Boundaries with social media: Ethical considerations for
rehabilitation counselors. Journal of
Applied Rehabilitation Counseling, 46(3), 44-50.
[13] Austin,
B. S., Sabo, C. W., McCarthy, A. K., Sprong,
M. E., & Noble, L. N. (2015). Utilization of interviewing as an
assessment tool to enhance vocational rehabilitation service delivery:
Fostering the therapeutic alliance and professionals’ judgment accuracy.
[Special issue]. Vocational Evaluation
and Work Adjustment Association Journal and Vocational Evaluation and Career
Assessment Journal, 37–52. *+
[12] Sprong, M. E., Dallas, B., Upton, T. D., & Bordieri, J. (2015).
The influence of race, causal attribution, & in-group favoritism on
recommendations for rehabilitation services. Rehabilitation Counseling Bulletin, 58(4), 227-239.
https://doi.org/10.1177/0034355214562071 [SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
[11] Buono, F. D., Whiting, S., & Sprong, M. E. (2015). Comparison of
temporal discounting among obese college students and obese adults. Behavior Analysis: Research and Practice, 15(1),
1-9. https://doi.org/10.1037/bar0000015
2014
[10] Sprong, M. E., Buono, F., Bordieri,
J., Mui, N., & Upton, T. D. (2014). Establishing the behavioral function of
video game addiction: Development of the video game functional assessment. J Addict Behav Ther Rehabil, 3(4). https://doi.org/10.4172/2324-9005.1000129
Impact Factor: 3.639
[9] Sprong, M. E., Dallas, B., Melvin, A.,
& Koch, D. S. (2014). Substance abuse and vocational rehabilitation: A
survey of policies & procedures. Journal
of Rehabilitation, 80(4), 4-9. [SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
[8]
Dallas, B., Upton, T. D., & Sprong,
M. E. (2014). Post-secondary faculty attitudes toward inclusive teaching
strategies. Journal of Rehabilitation, 80(2),
13-21. [SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
2013
[7] Hillesheim,
C., Sprong, M. E., Dallas, B.,
Upton, T.D., & Musgrave, J.R. (2013). Falling through the cracks: A
screening assessment for student veterans with educational barriers. Vocational Evaluation and Work Adjustment
Association Journal, 40(1), 23-31.
[6] McCabe, M., Sprong, M. E., Dallas, B., Mui, N.,
& Upton, T. D. (2013). Program effectiveness of vocational evaluation as
quantified by the Career Planning Scale. Vocational
Evaluation and Work Adjustment Association Journal, 40(1), 13-22.
[5] Mui,
N., Sprong, M. E., Chowdhury, D.,
Lee, S., & Flowers, C. (2013). An ethical guide for rehabilitation
administrators: Revising the NARL Code of Ethics. Journal of Rehabilitation Administration, 37(1), 19-24.
[4] Reinschmiedt,
H. J., Sprong, M. E., Dallas, B.,
Buono, F. D., & Upton, T. D. (2013). Post-secondary students with
disabilities receiving accommodations: A Survey of satisfaction &
subjective well-being. Journal of
Rehabilitation, 79(3), 3-10. [SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
2012
[3] Geiger, J., Sprong, M. E., Kozma, W., & Upton,
T. (2012). Predicting driver’s licensure using the Ruff 2 & 7 Selective
Attention Test. Vocational Evaluation and
Work Adjustment Association Journal, 39(1), 31-35.
[2] Sprong, M. E., Upton, T. D., &
Pappas, M. (2012). Utilization of community rehabilitation programs: Screening
for alcohol & drugs. Journal of
Rehabilitation, 78(2), 13-19. [SCIMAGOJR = Q2]
2011
[1] Sprong, M. E., Lewis, T., Soldner, J.,
& Koch, D.S. (2011). Emergency preparedness for persons with disabilities:
Implications for rehabilitation professionals. Journal of Rehabilitation Administration, 35(1), 27-38.
Chapters in Professional Books
Published
[9] Soldner, J., & Sprong, M. E. (2022). Professional Responsibility. In J.
Stano (Eds.), Ethics in Rehabilitation Counseling: A Case Study Approach (2nd ed.). Professional Services.
[8] Cioe,
N.,Yalamanchili, P., & Sprong, M. E. (2022). Principles
of Ethics. In J. Stano (Eds.), Ethics in
Rehabilitation Counseling: A Case Study Approach (2nd ed.).
Aspen Professional Services.
[7] Hollender, H., Brinck, E., & Sprong,
M. E. (2022). The counseling relationship. In J. Stano (Eds.), Ethics in Rehabilitation Counseling: A Case
Study Approach (2nd
ed.). Aspen Professional
Services.
[6] Upton, T. D., Sanchez, J., & Sprong,
M. E. (2020). Forensic rehabilitation services in the United States. In M.
M. Joseph & M. R (Eds.), Fundamentals of Clinical Rehabilitation
Counseling. Cognella, Inc.
[5] Ysasi, N., Tiro, L., Sprong, M. E., & Kim, B. J. (2017). Marketing Vocational
Rehabilitation Services in Rural Communities. In D. A. Harley, N. A. Ysasi, M.
L. Bishop, A. R. Fleming (Eds.), Disability
and Vocational Rehabilitation in Rural Settings. Springer Publishing.
[4] Sprong, M. E., Soldner, J., & Dent,
M. (2015). Professional Responsibility. In J. Stano (Eds.), Ethics in Rehabilitation
Counseling: A Case Study Approach. Aspen Professional Services.
[3] Sprong,
M. E., McDermott, A., Matney, A., & Lucy, M. (2015). The counseling
relationship. In J. Stano (Eds.), Ethics
in Rehabilitation Counseling: A Case Study Approach. Aspen Professional
Services.
[2] Sprong,
M. E., Cioe, N.,Yalamanchili,
P.,&McDermott, A., (2015). Principles of Ethics. In J. Stano (Eds.), Ethics in Rehabilitation Counseling: A Case
Study Approach. Aspen Professional Services.
[1] Watt, C., Sprong, M. E., & Upton, T. D. (2011). Functional Capacity
Evaluations: A Guide for Rehabilitation Professionals. In T. D. Upton (Eds.), Private Rehabilitation: Evolving
Opportunities. Ed. T. D. Upton.
Aspen Professional Services.
Grant Awards &
Other Funding Awards
Advanced Rehabilitation Research Postdoctoral
Training Grant - HHS-2024-ACL-NIDILRR-AREM-0102: $1,250,000.00 Mentor –
(Funded) – University of Wisconsin Madison is PI & host-site September
1, 2024 – August 30, 2029.
Veteran Employment and Economic Security Research
Consortium - Health Systems Research (HSR) Grant Program (1l50HX004063-01):
$2,491,907.00 Co-Investigator – (Funded) October 1, 2024 – September 30,
2029.
Illinois Criminal Justice Information Agency.
Contract to provide process evaluation of the Restore, Reinvest, and Renew (R3)
Grant Program: $744,278 Co-Investigator
-(Funded) July 2023 – July 2025.
Falling
through the Cracks: Increasing Employment for Veterans in Rural Communities.
Department of Veteran Affairs SPARK-SEED-SPREAD Innovation Grant: $49,000. Principal Investigator – (Funded) January 2020 – December 2020.
LaSalle County Adult Drug Court Problem Solving
Grant. State of Illinois Office of Justice Programs, $113,007.97. Principal Investigator – (Funded) August 2018 – August 2019.
The
impact of Residual Functional Limitations on the Availability of Employment for
people with disabilities. (2016). NIU CHHS award $2000. Principal Investigator – Funded
An
Analysis of Sexism on the recommendations for vocational rehabilitation
services. (2016).NIU CHHS award
$2000. Principal Investigator – Funded
Effectiveness
of Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling: Measuring Changes in Work Motivation,
Job Search Knowledge & Attitudes, Career Planning Ability, and Barriers of
Successful Employment. (2014). MSU-B Creative and Research Endeavors (CARE)
Grant. $4800. Principal Investigator –
Funded
State of Illinois Department of Human Services
Block Grant. $3.62 million | 2009-2013). Program Evaluator -Funded)
Southern IllinoisPlacement for Adults with Disabilities: American Reinvestment and
Recover Act (ARRA), $235,847. Co-Investigator -Program Evaluator – Funded (1-year
grant).
Southern IllinoisPlacement for Youth with Disabilities: American Reinvestment and
Recover Act (ARRA), $215,847. Co-Investigator -Program Evaluator – Funded (1-year
grant).
Public Speaking Event(s) / Community
Event(s) - Public Panel(s)/Trainings
2025
Sprong, M. E. (2025). Invited Panelist for Lecture on Systemic Health Equity Issues
within the Veteran Health Administration: William & Mary University –
Washington, DC.
2024
Ragsdale, K., Stanfil, W.
A., & Sprong & M. E. (2024). Forensic Panel. Texas Rehabilitation Association’s 2024 Annual
Conference (September 4 – 6): San Antonio, TX.
2023
Training - Mayors | Recorded Presentation: Illinois
Municipal Property and Land Use as a part of the Illinois Municipal League
Project on May 5, 2023
Training
- Mayors | Recorded Presentation: Collective Bargaining for Public Employees as
a part of the Illinois Municipal League Project on May 5, 2023
2022
Training: Veterans and VR: Challenges for
Veterans with Criminal Backgrounds 101. Training Developed for the VR
Technical Assistance Center for Quality Employment (VRTAC-QE)
Invited
Presenter: Impact of Stigma on Psychological Well-Being. Presented for
Veterans enrolled in the Psychosocial Residential Rehabilitation Treatment
Program (PRRTP) on June 14, 2022. VA Illiana Healthcare System
Invited
Presenter: Role of Employment and Vocational Rehabilitation for Veterans with
Substance Use Disorders in Community Reintegration into Society. Presented
for Veterans enrolled in the Psychosocial Residential Rehabilitation Treatment
Program (PRRTP) on June 18, 2022 at VA Illiana Healthcare System
Invited
Presenter: Influence of Resiliency and Empowerment on Community Reintegration
into Society for Veterans with Substance Use Disorders. Presented for
Veterans enrolled in the Psychosocial Residential Rehabilitation Treatment
Program (PRRTP) on June 20, 2022 at VA Illiana Healthcare System
2020
Sprong, M. E. (2020). Assessing employability and
placeability of people with severe disabilities: The use of VR strategies to
improve job satisfaction. Presented at the Hines VA Family Empowerment Network
Event “Successful Employment: What all Veterans Need to Know” at Edward Hines
Jr. Medical Center, Hines, IL (February 21, 2020).
2017
Sprong, M.E. (December 5, 2017). Combating the Opioid Epidemic. Dekalb, Illinois https://calendar.niu.edu/event/combating_the_opioid_epidemic#.YPAjES1h1DM / https://northernstar.info/27616/news/panel-discusses-opioid-epidemic/
Professional Presentations
[70] Austin, B., Lee, C-L., Strauser, D., & Sprong, M. E. (2025).
Development and validation study of the work and well-being screening inventory
for vocational rehabilitation counseling. Presented at the National Symposium
for Quality Employment (May 21-22): Madison, WI.
[69] Sprong, M. E. (2025). Empowering Veterans through Accessible Vocational
Rehabilitation. Presented at the Association for Rehabilitation, Research,
Policy and Education conference (February 28 – March 1): Savannah, GA.
[68] Sprong, M. E. (2024). Empowering Veterans through Accessible Vocational
Rehabilitation. Presented at the American Society for Public Administrator’s
2024 Annual Conference (April 12 – 16): Minneapolis, MN.
[67] Sprong, M. E. Statistical Primer (May, 2022). Oral Presentation presented at the
International Association of Life Care Planners (IALCP) Summit. Dallas, Texas.
[66] Buono, F.D., Larkin, K., Sprong, M.E., Garakani, A., Matthew E.
Sprong, Ph.D., Amir Garakani, M.D., Kaitlyn Larkin, BA; & Kimberly Johnson,
Ph.D. (June, 2020). The Impact of Anxiety and Depression on Work Readiness
within Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1). Oral Presentation presented at the
annual scientific meeting at the Children’s Tumor Foundation, Virtual
Conference.
[65] Weaver, L., Park, T., & Sprong, M. E. (2020). Universal Design and Mental Health
Disabilities: What Works to Make Courses Accessible Online? The North Atlantic
Region Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (NARACES) accepted
the presentation. [Note:
Conference was canceled due to COVID-19]
[65] McFarland, T., Truthan, J.
A., Weiss, M. M., Vercillo, A., Sprong, M., & Harden, T. (2018). SSVE advanced training: Using tools and
knowledge to testify (SVP 8-10). Presentation for the International Association
of Rehabilitation Professionals, National 2018 Conference, Charlotte, NC.
[64] Sprong, M. E., Jones, J.,
& Schultz, J. (2017). Rehabilitation educators’ perception of implementing
adult learning theories. Poster presented at the National Council on
Rehabilitation Education Conference, Anaheim, CA (April 20, 2017).
[63] Sprong, M. E., Thomas, S.,
Moroni, K., & Currier, K. (2017). The influence of sexism on the
recommendations of vocational rehabilitation services. Poster presented at the
National Council on Rehabilitation Education Conference, Anaheim, CA (April 20, 2017).
[62] McCarthy, A., & Sprong, M. E. (2016). Using electronic
assessment in vocational rehabilitation: Considerations for practice.
Concurrent session presented at the Illinois Rehabilitation Association (IRA)
60th Annual Conference, Alsip, IL (May 5, 2016).
[61]
Sprong, M. E., Jones, J., &
Schultz, J. (2016). Pedagogy in rehabilitation education: An exploration of
educator competencies. Poster presented at NIU AHCD Research Day (April 29, 2016).
[60] Sprong,
M. E., Dallas, B., & Soldner, J. (2016). Effectiveness of
emergency-preparedness training and student perceived competence. Poster
presented at NIU AHCD Research Day (April 29, 2016).
[59] Sprong,
M. E., Jones, J., Bernacchio, C., & Schultz, J. (2016). Distance
education: Course objectives, learning activities, & student evaluations.
Panel Discussion presented at the National Council on Rehabilitation Education
Conference, Newport Beach, CA
(April 22, 2016).
[58] Sprong,
M. E., Jones, J., & Schultz, J. (2016). Pedagogy in rehabilitation
education: An exploration of educator competencies. Poster presented at the
National Council on Rehabilitation Education Conference, Newport Beach, CA (April 22, 2016).
[57] Sprong, M. E., Dallas, B.,
& Soldner, J. (2016). Effectiveness of emergency-preparedness training and
student perceived competence. Poster presented at the National Council on
Rehabilitation Education Conference, Newport Beach, CA (April 22, 2016).
[56] Dallas, B., Koop, N. M., McCarthy,
A., & Sprong, M. (2016).
Restructuring the Communicative Disorders Program. Poster presented at the
Assessment Expo, Dekalb, Illinois.
[55] Sprong,
M. E., Jones, J., Schultz, J., Bernacchio, C., & Soldner. J. Get out of
the dark on distance education: Making Pedagogy Exciting [Panel Discussion].
National Council on Rehabilitation Education Conference, Arlington, VA (October
18, 2015).
[54] Schultz, J., Jones, J., & Sprong, M. E. Grounding distance
education in pedagogy and learning theory [pre-conference workshop]. National
Council on Rehabilitation Education Conference, Arlington, VA (October 17,
2015).
[53] Dell, T., McDermott, A., Dell, C., & Sprong, M. E. Applying Universal Design
for Online Learning: Pedagogical and Practical Considerations [Concurrent
Session]. National Council on
Rehabilitation Education Conference, Newport Beach, CA (April 24, 2015).
[52] Austin, B. S., Sabo, C. W., McCarthy, A. K.,Sprong, M. E., & Noble, L. N.
Utilization of Interviewing as an Assessment Tool to Enhance Vocational
Rehabilitation Service Delivery: Fostering the Therapeutic Alliance and
Professionals’ Judgment Accuracy [Poster]. National Council on Rehabilitation Education Conference, Newport Beach,
CA (April 24, 2015).
[51] Sprong,
M. E., Dallas, B., Upton, T. D., & Bordieri, J. Race, Causal
Attribution, & In-Group Favoritism on Recommendations for Rehabilitation
Services [Poster]. National Council on
Rehabilitation Education Conference, Newport Beach, CA (April 24, 2015).
[50] Sprong,
M. E., Buono, F., Hollender, H., & McDermott, A. Traumatic Brain Injury
and Substance Use Disorders among Veterans [Poster]. National
Council on Rehabilitation Education Conference, Newport Beach, CA (April 24,
2015).
[49] Sprong,
M. E., & McDermott, A. Rehabilitation & Mental Health Professionals
and Disasters Response for Persons with Disabilities [Poster]. National Council on Rehabilitation Education
Conference, Newport Beach, CA (April 24, 2015).
[48]
Dallas, B., & Sprong, M. E. Multi-University
Comparison of Faculty Attitudes and Use of Universal Design Instructional
Techniques [Poster]. National Council
on Rehabilitation Education Conference, Newport Beach, CA (April 24, 2015).
[47]
Sprong, M. E., & Buono, F. D. Measuring Indifference Points of
Ethical Issues Among Future Substance Abuse Counselors [Poster]. The
Association for Behavior Analysts International (ABAI) Conference, San Antonio,
TX (May 25, 2015).
[46] Buono, F. D., Perate, S., & Sprong, M. E. The Marriage Game: Do
Financial Constraints Affect Marriage Couples-Revised [Poster]. The Association
for Behavior Analysts International (ABAI) Conference, San Antonio, TX (May 25,
2015).
[45]
Buono, F., Sprong, M. E., & Bordieri, J. Establishing the
Behavioral Function of Video Game Addiction-Revised: Utilization of the Video
Game Functional Assessment (VGFA-R). The Association for Behavior Analysts
International (ABAI) Conference, Chicago, IL (May 25, 2014).
[44] Sprong,
M. E., Buono, F., Bordieri, J., Dixon, M., & Upton, T. D. Video Game Functional Assessment. The
Association for Behavior Analysts International (ABAI) Conference, Minneapolis,
MN (May 27, 2013). SABA Senior
Student Presenter Grant Recipient
[43] Dent,
M., Mui, N., Upton, T.D., & Sprong, M.E.Increasing ADA knowledge among customers of a community-based
rehabilitation program. National Council on Rehabilitation Education
Conference, San Francisco, CA (April 18, 2013).
[42] Dallas,
B., Ramisch, J., & Sprong, M.E.The
Role of Family in the Transition of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
(ASD) to Postsecondary Settings. National Council on Rehabilitation
Education Conference, San Francisco, CA (April 18, 2013).
[41] Sprong,
M.E., Chowdhury, D., & Upton, T.D. The
Ambivalent Counselor: A Study Measuring Hostile and Benevolent Sexism. Research Town Meeting and Fair, Southern
Illinois University, Carbondale, IL (April 17, 2012).
[40] Sprong,
M. E., Soldner, J., Upton, T. D., & Bordieri, J. Emergency Preparedness of Future Rehabilitation Professionals:
Measurement of Knowledge Competencies. Research Town Meeting and Fair, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale,
IL (April 17, 2012).
[39]
Sprong, M.E., Hillsheim, C., Musgrave, J., & Upton, T. Falling through the Cracks: A Screening
Assessment for Student Veterans with Educational Barriers. Research Town Meeting and Fair, Southern
Illinois University, Carbondale, IL (April 17, 2012).
[38] Geiger,
J., Kosmo, W., Sprong, M. E.Predicting
driver’s licensure using the Ruff 2 & 7 Selective Attention Test.
Research Town Meeting and Fair, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL
(April 17, 2012).
[37]
Sprong, M.E., Hillsheim, C., Musgrave, J., & Upton, T. Falling through the Cracks: A Screening
Assessment for Student Veterans with Educational Barriers. National Council on Rehabilitation Education
Conference, San Francisco, CA (April 14, 2012).
[36]
Sprong, M.E., Geiger, J., Kosmo, W., & Upton, T. Predicting driver’s licensure using the Ruff
2 & 7 Selective Attention Test. National
Council on Rehabilitation Education Conference, San Francisco, CA (April 14,
2012).
[35] Dent,
M., Mui, N., Dallas, B., Upton, T. D., & Sprong, M. E.Understanding
Barriers to Successful Employment. National
Council on Rehabilitation Education Conference, San Francisco, CA (April 13,
2012).
[34]
Lewis, T., Sprong, M. E.Community response planning for special and
functional needs – shelter in place. 8th Annual Rural Public
Health Institute Conference, Effingham, IL (March 14, 2012).
[33] Sprong, M.E., Pappas, M., &
Upton, T. Utilization of community
rehabilitation programs: Screening for alcohol & drugs. National
Council on Rehabilitation Education Conference, Arlington, VA (October 31,
2011).
[32] Musgrave,
J.R., & Sprong, M.E.A model for developing a specialized
vocational assessment using O*NET abilities data element. Illinois
Department of Rehabilitation Services (IDRS), Alton, IL (May 5, 2011).
[31] Musgrave, J.R., & Sprong, M.E.Learn-To-Work: A
model for comprehensive vocational evaluation employment exploration. Illinois
Department of Rehabilitation Services (IDRS), Alton, IL (May 5, 2011).
[30] Sprong, M. E.Knowledge and attitudes of
persons with disabilities towards emergency preparedness. Illinois
Department of Rehabilitation Services (IDRS), Alton, IL (May 5, 2011).
[29] Sprong, M. E.Relationship of work motivation
and job search attitudes. Illinois
Department of Rehabilitation Services (IDRS), Alton, IL (May 5, 2011).
[28] Sprong, M. E.Utilization of community
rehabilitation programs: Screening for alcohol & drugs. Illinois Department of Rehabilitation
Services (IDRS), Alton, IL (May 5, 2011).
[27] Sprong, M. E.Program effectiveness of
vocational evaluation as quantified by the Career Planning Scale.
Illinois Department of Rehabilitation Services (IDRS), Alton, IL (May 5, 2011).
[26] Sprong, M. E.Predicting driver’s licensure
using the Ruff 2 & 7 Selective Attention Test. Illinois Department of Rehabilitation Services
(IDRS), Alton, IL (May 5, 2011).
[25] Geiger, J., Kosmo, W., Sprong, M. E.Predicting driver’s licensure using the
Ruff 2 & 7 Selective Attention Test: A Proposed Study. Research Town
Meeting and Fair, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL (April 12,
2011).
[24] McCabe, M., Musgrave, J.R., Upton, T.,
& Sprong, M.E.Program
effectiveness of vocational evaluation as quantified by the Career Planning
Scale. Research Town Meeting and Fair, Southern Illinois University,
Carbondale, IL (April 12, 2011).
[23] Sprong, M.E., Klein, J., &
Pappas, M. Screening for alcohol and drug
use among persons with disabilities. Research Town Meeting and Fair,
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL (April 12, 2011).
[22] Sprong, M.E., Yalamanchili, P.,
& Bordieri, J. Video Game &
Addiction. Research Town Meeting and Fair, Southern Illinois University,
Carbondale, IL (April 12, 2011).
[21] Sprong, M.E., Deppen, K.,
Musgrave, J.R., & Koch, D.S. Relationship
of work motivation and job attitudes. Research Town Meeting and Fair,
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL (April 12, 2011).
[20] Sprong, M.E., Pappas, M., Deppen,
K., & Koch, D.S. Emergency
preparedness: Information for new rehabilitation professionals. Research
Town Meeting and Fair, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL (April 12,
2011).
[19] Sprong, M.E., Pappas, M., Deppen,
K., & Koch, D.S. Emergency
preparedness: Rural challenges in Southern Illinois. Research Town Meeting
and Fair, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL (April 12, 2011).
[18] Hollender,
H., Cioe, N., Koch, D.S., & Sprong,
M.E.A proposed treatment approach
for co-existing brain injury and substance use. National Council on
Rehabilitation Education Conference, Manhattan Beach, CA (April 8, 2011).
[17]
Sprong, M.E., Pappas, M., Deppen, K.D., Mitchell, A., Hollender, H.,
Watt, C., & Koch, D.S. Emergency
preparedness for persons with disabilities: Becoming aware of the issues.
National Council on Rehabilitation Education Conference, Manhattan Beach, CA
(April 7, 2011).
[16] Sprong, M.E., Pappas, M., Deppen,
K.D., Mitchell, A., & Koch, D.S.
Increasing knowledge of emergency preparedness. National Council on
Rehabilitation Education Conference, Manhattan Beach, CA (April 7, 2011).
[15] Sprong, M. E., & Koch, D.S. Emergency preparedness for persons with
disabilities: Roles and functions for counselors. Tennessee Counseling
Association Conference, Nashville, TN (November, 2010).
[14] Sprong, M. E., Cioe, N.,
Hollender, H., Watt, C., & Koch, D. S. Preparing
for emergencies: Incongruent patterns associated with dialogue and
implementation. National Rehabilitation Association Annual Training
Conference, New Orleans, LA (October 17, 2010).
[13] Cioe,
N. J., Hollender, H., Sprong, M. E.,
& Upton, T. D. Cannabis use following
traumatic brain injury. National Rehabilitation Association Annual Training
Conference, New Orleans, LA (October 17, 2010).
[12] Sprong, M. E., Cioe, N.,
Hollender, H., Watt, C., & Koch, D. S.
Emergency Preparedness Initiative:
Addressing the need to incorporate planning for persons with disabilities.
National Rehabilitation Association Annual Training Conference, New Orleans, LA
(October 17, 2010).
[11] Sprong, M. E., Hollender, H.,
Cioe, N. J., Watt, C., & Koch, D. S. Administrators’
need to implement medical packets: Persons with disabilities may be better
served when the Emergency Response Team arrives to help. National
Rehabilitation Association Annual Training Conference, New Orleans, LA (October
17, 2010).
[10] Sprong, M. E., Hollender, H.,
Cioe, N., Bunton, D., Mbugua, A., Watt, C., & Koch, D. S. Training future rehabilitation counselors’
procedures necessary to address issues regarding emergency preparedness for
persons with disabilities. National Rehabilitation Association Annual
Training Conference, New Orleans, LA (October 17, 2010).
[9] Sprong, M. E., Klein, J.A.,
Johnson, A., Mbugua, A., Bunton, D., Cioe, N. J., Hollender, H., & Koch, D.
S. Individuals with co-existing visual
impairment and substance use concerns: How are VR agencies handling these
individuals? Research Town Hall Meeting, Carbondale, IL (April 19, 2010).
[8] Cioe, N. J., Sprong, M. E.,
Hollender, H., Upton, T. D. Veterans
returning from Iraq & Afghanistan: What are rehabilitation counselor
training programs doing to prepare their students? Research Town
Meeting and Fair, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL (April 19,
2010).
[7] Sprong, M. E., Cioe, N. J.,
Bordieri, J., Musgrave, J. R. Validity of
the O*NET Ability Profiler for Use in Comprehensive Vocational Evaluation.
Research Town Meeting and Fair, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL
(April 19, 2010).
[6] Hughes,
A., Sprong, M. E., Hollender, H.,
Cioe, N. J., Klein, J. A., & Upton, T. D. Negative Attitudes Towards Individuals with Cognitive Impairments (formerly Mental Retardation).
Research Town Meeting and Fair, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL
(April 19, 2010).
[5] Mbugua,
A. W., Johnson, A. M., Bunton, D. A., Sprong,
M. E., Klein, J.A., & Koch, D. S. Matrix
of Hope Final Evaluation. Research Town Hall Meeting, Carbondale, IL (April
19, 2010).
[4] Johnson-Melvin,
A., Davis, S. J., Mbugua, A., Sprong,
M.E., Klein, J.A., Bunton, D., & Koch, D.S. Recognizing suicide risk in consumers with HIV/AIDS. Research Town
Hall Meeting, Carbondale, IL (April 19, 2010).
[3] Grayson,
K., Sprong, M. E., & Koch, D. S.
Screening, Brief Intervention, and
Referral to Treatment: Implications for co-existing HIV/AIDS and substance
abuse service providers. Research Town Hall Meeting, Carbondale, IL (April
19, 2010).
[2] Sprong, M. E., Klein, J. A., Bunton,
D., Hollender, H., Cioe, N. J., Johnson, A., Mbugua, A., & Koch, S. Emergency Preparedness for Persons with
Disabilities: Are we prepared to serve individuals in rural areas. Research
Town Meeting and Fair, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL (April 19,
2010).
[1] Ruvolo, D., Norsic, J., Sprong, M. E., & Willits, E. Social anxiety: A moderating variable between daily hassles and working
memory performance. Midwestern Psychological Association, Chicago, IL (April
2009).