Jennifer Stelter, Psy.D., DCS, DCSCT
Founder, Chief Executive Officer, Creator of the Dementia Connection Model©, and Senior Living & Dementia Care Consultant
Dr. Jennifer Stelter, also known as the Oil Doctor, Psy.D., is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Senior Living and Dementia Care Consultant, Johns Hopkins University Press author and national speaker, and the creator of the Dementia Connection Model©. She has 30 years experience in the healthcare field and over 15 years in the senior living industry.
Dr. Stelter is the founder and CEO of the Dementia Connection Institute by the Oil Doctor, Psy.D., LLC, providing education, training, consultation, and clinical services to healthcare organizations and family caregivers. She is the developer and Master Trainer for the nationally and internationally accredited Dementia Connection Specialist (DCS/DCSCT) Certification Program. Also, Dr. Stelter is the author of the Johns Hopkins Press publication "The Busy Caregiver's Guide to Advanced Alzheimer Disease".
She has been featured in a number of podcasts, blogs, and publications, including Bridge the Gap, USA Global TV & Radio, Chicago Tribune, and McKnight’s Long-Term Care News and local to the midwest in Sun Day News, Daily Herald, Northwest Herald, and Quintessential Barrington’s Medical Guide.
After her own mental health journey, Dr. Stelter quickly realized the power of non-pharmacological tools, and therefore, dedicated her career to educating others on the power of having these tools in their hands. She spent the first half of her career helping those with mental health concerns. During this next part of her career, Dr. Stelter dedicated the last 12 years exploring, researching, creating, and trialing innovative dementia care techniques to bring professionals and caregivers the latest tools to equip them for success. She then opened NeuroEssence, LLC with her business partner, and they launched the Dementia Connection Institute in 2022. The Oil Doctor, PsyD LLC then resumed management of the Dementia Connection Institute in 2024.
Dr. Stelter’s self-care regimen consists of exercise, oiling, meditation, and laughing with her husband and children. She also loves to get on the floor and play with her Rhodesian Ridgeback. In addition, she takes time for herself on bike rides, sipping coffee in nature, and listening to music.
Sarah Spore MSN, FNP-C
I am a Nurse Practitioner who has recently relocated to Chicago, and I am very excited to begin my role as a Staff Neuro Specialist with the Dementia Connection Institute. Over the past three years, I have worked in palliative and hospice care in London, UK, where I discovered a deep passion for supporting individuals living with dementia and their families through meaningful moments.
My approach to care is grounded in compassion, dignity, and a holistic understanding of each person's individual experience. I believe it is a privilege to meet individuals in their homes, a place where they feel most comfortable, and help create a safe and supportive environment that respects their needs and preferences.
Outside of work, I value slowing down and caring for myself in creative ways. I enjoy practicing yoga, reading, and painting. My husband and I recently adopted a new kitten who has quickly become a part of our little family.