If these are working with direct Association, then you may be able to get them to work to some extent after adding them to the SmartThings network by using the Z wave tweaker device type handler to set the associations. But you won’t be able to use any manufacturer proprietary features.
If you haven’t used custom code before, it’s pretty straightforward. Basically you just copy it from the author and paste it into your own account. Here’s the FAQ for that process:
The tweaker device type handler lets you expose all of the parameters and settings on a mains powered Z wave device and set its associations. Then once you have it configured the way you want, you just go back to using your every day DTH.
You might also find the technical welcome letter in the community – created wiki helpful since you have a programming background: