Compass is a free-of-charge program providing prevention and stabilization services to youth ages 12 – 23 in Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle Counties. While Compass can serve youth up to their 23rd birthday, we accept referrals for youth up to age 22.

This program works with youth who are at risk of becoming involved with the justice system or foster care, are homeless, pregnant or parenting, or otherwise at risk for serious problems. Click here for the full program description.

Our team will work with the youth (and their families if available) to help them become more stable and gain access to support and services to help them get their lives on track. We typically meet with youth and their families more than once per week for about six months. Click here to fill out the referral form.

Contact: 802-864-7423 x230 or referrals@spectrumvt.org.

Meet Our Program Staff

Alicia Cerasoli, LMSW | Director of the Compass Program

Pronouns: she/her

Alicia Cerasoli joined Spectrum in 2017 as a Youth Development Coordinator before becoming the Director of the Compass Program in 2022. As the Director of the Compass Program, Alicia oversees Spectrum’s prevention, crisis, and stabilization program, which provides clinical stabilization support to youth and their families. Prior to joining Spectrum, Alicia worked with adults with developmental disabilities and served as a Vermont State Housing Authority AmeriCorps member with Cathedral Square. Alicia earned her Masters of Social Work from Simmons University in 2022 and her Bachelors of Social Work from Champlain College. Alicia enjoys trying out new recipes in the kitchen, exploring, and spending time in the sun.

Alice Ely-Sumner, MSW | Compass Clinician

Pronouns: she/her

Alice joined the Compass team in 2019 as a family preservation specialist. Prior to Compass, Alice worked at Second Spring, a long-term recovery residence. Alice holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Champlain College as well as a Masters of Social Work from the University of New England. Alice is skilled in working with both individuals and families. Alice is trained in motivational interviewing, Bowen family systems theory, ARC trauma systems, trauma-informed treatment, and more.

John Henry Trudeau | Clinical Case Manager

Pronouns: he/him

John Henry Trudeau joined the Compass team in 2019 as a case manager. Prior to Compass, John worked at Valley Vista in Vergennes working to support individuals with substance misuse. John holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from St. Lawrence University. John is trained in ARC trauma systems, Bowen family systems theory, motivational interviewing, and many more allowing for a holistic and client-centered approach to support the client’s needs.

Ellie Dickerson | Clinical Case Manager

Pronouns: she/her

Ellie joined the Compass Program in September of 2025. Prior to Compass, Ellie worked in Spectrum’s Youth Development Program for four years, where she supported youth in DCF care as they transitioned into adulthood. Ellie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International and Global Studies from Middlebury College and is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree through the University of Nebraska Omaha. Ellie believes that human connection and relationship are central to wellbeing and is passionate about helping families to better understand each other, communicate effectively, and find joy together. Ellie seeks to provide strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centered care and is trained in ARC trauma systems, motivational interviewing, and CAMS.