MEET OUR TEAM
Leadership Team
Tom Hoel
Founder, CEO/Owner
Tom Hoel
Tom Hoel is the Founder and CEO of Family Achievement Center. As a parent of a child with physical and developmental disabilities, he saw the opportunity to create a vision and environment that believed in every child. He is passionate about helping families through a unique model that leverages a holistic view of the child’s care team. Tom has an extensive background in business and holds a Masters of Business Administration from the University of St. Thomas.
Prior to starting Family Achievement Center, he was in various leadership positions in the corporate arena including business planning, market analysis, customer management systems, and product forecasting. In 2020, Tom was also the co-founder of the newly formed Family Achievement Foundation. This nonprofit 501(c)(3) was founded specifically to help parents who face a challenging parenting journey. “I provide hope and improve lives by continuously seeking ways to better serve our clients. I love connecting with our families because I understand what they are going through. I sincerely want them to know they are not alone in their journey.”
Sarah Mason
President/Owner
Sarah Mason
Sarah is passionate about Family Achievement Center’s mission to help families, and enjoys building community and professional collaborations with like-minded organizations. Over the past twenty years, she has been at the executive and board levels in various organizations. Her expertise is strategic planning, organizational and brand development, workplace engagement, operations, and building sustainable business models that make a difference. Her passion for pursuing a mission, while at the same time building collaborative and engaging workforces are a great match for the FAC culture.
In partnership with her husband, Tom, Sarah, is also the co-founder and board chair of the newly formed Family Achievement Foundation. This nonprofit 501(c)(3) was founded specifically to help parents who face a challenging parenting journey. As a parent herself with a child with mental health challenges, Sarah has made it her personal mission to help families. “I provide hope and improve lives by sharing my own parenting heartaches, and by pursuing every possible opportunity to help lighten the journey in any way I can.”
Kristine Rutten
Vice President
Kristine Rutten
Kristine is a seasoned senior leader with years of experience in organizational infrastructure. She is skilled at business analytics, process re-engineering, project management, client services, technology support, and compliance and operations. She enjoys supporting the community and giving back to further the mission of Family Achievement Center. Kristine is passionate about a positive workplace culture, while providing support to everyone around her and helping people while digging in to solve problems.
Her passion for helping people aligns seamlessly with FAC’s mission to provide hope and improve lives. As a parent with a daughter that has had struggles, Kristine desires to share in the journey of others by listening and showing compassion to those facing challenging times. “I provide hope and improve lives by showing care and kindness to people on life’s journey of ups and downs while dedicating my time and energy in helping people to know they are not alone.”
Katy Gavin
PT, DPT, Vice President of Therapy Services
Katy Gavin
Katy received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She is passionate about helping a pediatric population and loves being able to work with not only her patients, but also their families. Katy also loves collaborating with other disciplines at FAC to help her patients achieve the best outcomes. “I provide hope and improve lives by encouraging my patients and their families to never give up and to always believe in themselves. I strive to make each session fun and unique to the patient based on their individual needs and interests.”
Business Office Team
Meaghan Haug
Business Office Lead
Woodbury & Bloomington
Meaghan Haug
Meaghan earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Music from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota – Winona. Meaghan has always enjoyed the healthcare industry and has experience in several diverse areas of healthcare. She enjoys the intricacies and complexities that go along with insurance and billing. Meaghan finds great joy in explaining those intricacies to our clients and families, thus providing additional positive experiences for all! In her spare time Meaghan enjoys cuddling her cat and getting lost in a good book. “I provide hope and improve lives by providing and explaining information, while problem solving complex insurance matters, to alleviate additional worry in the busy lives we lead.”
Occupational Therapists
Angie Ellingson
OTR/L, Clinical Operations Manager
Bloomington
Angie Ellingson
Angie graduated with her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of MN. She has experience working with children and teens with sensory integration and enjoys seeing the positive changes they make through OT. She is also passionate about working with parents and is a Mad2Glad certified parent coach. “I provide hope and improve lives by fostering a supportive and collaborative relationship with kids and their families to work toward the goal of improved function and harmony in daily life.”
Kyle Nelson
OTR/L, Woodbury Occupational Therapy Manager
Woodbury
Kyle Nelson
Kyle graduated from the University of North Dakota with a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy. He brings a unique perspective and understanding to pediatrics through his experience of having and working with a sibling with Autism. “I provide hope and improve lives by connecting with each individual through their own interests and abilities to help them live their lives to the fullest.”
Tiana Burda
OTR/L, Woodbury Occupational Therapy Lead
Woodbury
Tiana Burda
Tiana graduated from Saint Louis University with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Sciences and a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. Her favorite aspect of being a pediatric OT is being able to work with all abilities and skill levels to achieve success across all environments. “I provide hope and improve lives by facilitating a fun and creative environment to foster achievement of goals for all children and families.”
Alli Fox
OTR/L, Bloomington Occupational Therapy Lead
Bloomington
Alli Fox
Alli graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a Bachelor’s in Biology with an emphasis in Health Medical Science before pursuing her occupational therapy degree. Alli graduated with her Master’s in Occupational Therapy from University of North Dakota. During her career Alli has worked in primarily pediatric therapy clinics and experienced working in consistent collaboration with behavioral therapy and speech therapy. Alli is a Certified Autism Specialist and trained in the TR-eat feeding approach by the Pediatric Feeding Institute. “I provide hope and improve lives by appreciating each child and family’s unique strengths and using those strengths to promote progress and growth.”
Taylor Smith
OTR/L, Bloomington Occupational Therapy Lead
Bloomington
Taylor Smith
Taylor graduated from University of Wisconsin- La Crosse with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology before receiving her Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy from St. Catherine University. Her favorite part of working in pediatrics is collaborating with families and celebrating victories, whether they are big or small. She loves how working at Family Achievement Center gives her the opportunity to collaborate with other disciplines to help contribute to a child’s success. “I provide hope and improve lives by creating a fun, positive, and personalized therapeutic experience for my clients. I will always support my clients and families at every step of their therapeutic journey.”
Elizabeth Coleman
OTR/L
Woodbury
Elizabeth Coleman
Elizabeth graduated from Mount Mary University with her Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy. She completed her doctoral capstone project on emotional regulation and is passionate about helping kids achieve their full potential. “I provide hope and improve lives by collaborating with families and using clients’ interests and motivations to encourage their participation in meaningful activities.”
Lauren Distad
OTR/L
Bloomington
Lauren Distad
Lauren graduated from the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Physiology and a minor in Health Psychology before receiving her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from the U of M. Her favorite part of working in pediatrics is getting to know each child and family and seeing the positive effect that occupational therapy has on their lives. She is passionate about life skills and improving independence. “I provide hope and improve lives by creating a client and family-centered, fun, and meaningful experience for my clients. I will meet clients and families where they are, and support them at every stage to improve specific skills, reach goals, and improve overall quality of life.”
Erin Finnegan
OTR/L
Woodbury
Erin Finnegan
Erin received her Masters of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. She has a variety of work experience including outpatient pediatrics, schools, inpatient acute care, and adult hand therapy. She is excited to be working in the pediatric setting with a multi-disciplinary team to tailor treatments to each individual child and their family. One of her favorite things about being a pediatric occupational therapist is being able to share in the successes of each child and their family. “I provide hope and improve lives by finding fun ways to learn and engage in therapy sessions, while also working closely with the family to ensure optimal functioning in daily life.”
Tina Hanson
OTR/L
Woodbury
Tina Hanson
Tina completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota and received her master’s degree in occupational therapy at St. Catherine University. She has experience with working with children of all abilities and is excited to be working in a pediatric setting. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading and spending time with family. “I provide hope and improve lives by collaborating with clients and their caregivers to understand their needs and interests and help them reach their full potential.”
Grace Holker
OTR/L
Woodbury
Grace Holker
Grace received her Master’s in Occupational Therapy from Carroll University and her Bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Science from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Her favorite part about working in the pediatric setting is seeing the smiles and excitement of children when they achieve a new skill or milestone. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, baking, and going for walks. “I provide hope and improve lives by offering a client led approach and facilitating opportunities for play so they can engage in meaningful activities to improve their quality of life.”
Sami Larson
OTR/L
Woodbury
Sami Larson
Sami received her Bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation & Human Services and her Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of North Dakota. Her favorite part about working in the pediatric setting is helping individuals reach their personalized goals and encouraging them to have fun while doing so. In her free time, she enjoys reading, knitting, and going for walks. “I provide hope and improve lives by offering a client led approach and facilitating opportunities for play so they can engage in meaningful activities to improve their quality of life.”
Angela Mann
OTR/L
Woodbury
Angela Mann
Angela received her Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Science and Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the College of St. Catherine. She has a unique perspective and understanding as a mother and sister to individuals with Down syndrome. Angela has had a variety of work experiences including outpatient mental health, acute care and home care; she most recently began offering nature based therapeutic summer camps for children of all abilities.
“I provide hope and improve lives by advocating for accessibility, acceptance and inclusion and through connection and collaboration with clients and their families to meet goals that are meaningful to them.”
Nponda Nadjombe
OTR/L
Bloomington
Nponda Nadjombe
Nponda graduated from the University of Maryland with a bachelor’s in health administration and policy with a public health focus before receiving her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from the University of Minnesota. She is passionate about impacting her community one family at the time to provide clients with the best support possible to promote a fulfilled childhood. “I provide hope and improve lives by being attuned to the family needs and developing fun treatment sessions to help kids grow to their fullest potential.”
Corinne Peick
OTR/L
Bloomington
Corinne Peick
Corinne graduated with her master of arts in occupational science in June 2016, from St. Catherine University. During under-graduate and graduate school, she worked as a therapy aide and billing professional in a habilitative clinic setting. She specializes in sensory processing disorders and sensory integrative techniques, and enjoys embracing all progress with her clients, even if it is hard to see with the naked eye. Corinne has an interest and focus in social skills facilitation, and was the social skills group specialist at her previous clinic. “I provide hope and improve lives by working with clients and their caregivers to support their success and independence within their daily lives.”
Julia Rupp
OTR/L
Bloomington & Woodbury
Julia Rupp
Julia graduated from St. Catherine University where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health as well as her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. Julia has had multiple experiences working with children in her past and finds each child she works with to be their own unique self, adding to her passion for working with this population. Julia also enjoys using her creativity and positive spirit to make the most out of every moment. “I provide hope and improve lives by fostering meaningful relationships and by providing a positive atmosphere that allows my clients and their families to succeed and grow to their fullest potential.”
Ben Stagg
OTR/L
Bloomington
Ben Stagg
Ben graduated from the University of North Dakota with a Bachelor’s in Psychology before pursuing an Occupational Therapy Doctorate. He has had experience learning in a variety of clinical settings including pediatric therapy clinics and loves to be part of a team with speech and physical therapy. Ben has always had a passion for working with children, which greatly contributed to his decision to become an occupational therapist. He cannot wait to work with each child and their family to help them be the best version of themselves. “I provide hope and improve lives by meeting each child and family where they are at and collaborating to increase engagement in all parts of life.”
Paula Stommes
OTR/L
Woodbury
Paula Stommes
Paula has been a pediatric occupational therapist for many years. She recently graduated with a doctorate in occupational therapy from St. Catherine University. She enjoys working with children and families to promote each child’s special talents and skills. Paula also works at a charter school in St. Paul and enjoys working with colleagues on research related to pediatrics. “I provide hope and improve lives by empowering children to overcome challenges and reach their full potential through activities, encouragement, and love.”
Katie Stewart
OTR/L
Woodbury
Katie Stewart
Katie received her Master’s of Occupational Therapy from the University of North Dakota in Casper, WY. Katie chose the occupational therapy profession to be able to support individuals across the lifespan in navigating the challenges and successes along their journey to optimizing their quality of life. In her free time she enjoy fishing, gardening, and getting creative with DIY projects. “I provide hope and improve lives by fostering a therapeutic relationship that engages the client and their family in establishing self-confidence to engage in their most meaningful daily tasks.” ”
Courtney Tymus
OTR
Bloomington
Courtney Tymus
Courtney attended UW-Madison for her undergraduate in Rehabilitation Psychology before completing OT school at Creighton University. She completed her doctoral capstone focus in supporting children with complex behavioral needs. Courtney enjoys doing all things outdoors, trying new recipes, and spending time with family and friends. “I provide hope to clients and their families by encouraging independence and confidence in meaningful activities!”
Stacy Tri
OTR/L
Woodbury
Stacy Tri
Stacy received her Masters in Occupational Therapy from Washington University in St. Louis and her Bachelors from St. Olaf College. During her career, she has worked in in-patient rehabilitation, home health, in school settings, and in other pediatric outpatient clinics. She has been trained in the Wilbarger Therapressure protocol, Therapeutic Listening, Interactive Metronome, and Beckman’s Oral Motor techniques. In her free time, Stacy likes to bake, sing, travel, and spend time with her family. “I provide hope and improve lives by working with children to find that ‘just right’ challenge and I collaborate with families and other providers to help children reach their full potential.”
Anna Westlund
OTR
Bloomington
Anna Westlund
Anna graduated from the University of Northwestern – St. Paul with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a minor in Psychology. Anna graduated with her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Creighton University. Her favorite part of working in pediatrics is serving clients and families holistically and working in an interdisciplinary team. “I provide hope and improve lives by collaborating with clients and their families to achieve their goals and improve their overall quality of life.”
Physical Therapists
Katy Gavin
PT, DPT, Vice President of Therapy Services
Woodbury
Katy Gavin
Katy received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She is passionate about helping a pediatric population and loves being able to work with not only her patients, but also their families. Katy also loves collaborating with other disciplines at FAC to help her patients achieve the best outcomes. “I provide hope and improve lives by encouraging my patients and their families to never give up and to always believe in themselves. I strive to make each session fun and unique to the patient based on their individual needs and interests.”
Cassie Friedli
PT, DPT, Marketing & Bloomington Physical Therapy Lead
Bloomington
Cassie Friedli
Cassie graduated from the College of Saint Scholastica, where she received both her Bachelor of Arts in Health Science and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Cassie enjoys working with people of all ages, from babies to adults, to help them be the best version of themselves. As a therapist at Family Achievement Center, Cassie loves being a part of a team where many disciplines can be working with one child to improve their life. “I provide hope and improve lives by making therapy sessions fun so that hard work doesn’t get discouraging while my patients are making working to reach their goals. I love finding ways to make the world more inclusive as well as promoting Family Achievement Center’s mission in our communities.”
Aaron O’Donnell
PT, DPT, Woodbury Physical Therapy Lead
Woodbury
Aaron O’Donnell
Aaron received his doctorate in physical therapy from the University of Minnesota. One of his favorite aspects of being a pediatric physical therapist is the opportunity to witness improvements in kids’ functional mobility day in and day out. He especially enjoys thinking up creative and fun ways to personalize treatments and make them as effective as possible. “I provide hope and improve lives by supporting both the patients and their caregivers.”
Karynn Adams
PT, DPT
Woodbury
Karynn Adams
Karynn received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Jamestown in Fargo, ND. Her favorite part about being a pediatric physical therapist is seeing her patients accomplish a challenging task and the joy that it brings them. Karynn enjoys being able to work with her patient’s families directly and being able to work with other disciplines. “I provide hope and improve lives by working with my patient and their families to create a plan that is specific to their needs so that they can achieve their goals.”
Sarah Chyzyk
PT, DPT
Woodbury
Sarah Chyzyk
Sarah received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. She enjoys the diversity, creativity, and family interaction that is involved when treating the pediatric population. Sarah enjoys being a part of the Family Achievement Center team and getting to work with other disciplines to help a child reach their fullest potential. “I provide hope and improve lives by fostering a supportive and collaborative relationship with my patients and their families to help them achieve their individual goals.”
Trista Moore
PT, DPT, Student Coordinator
Bloomington
Trista Moore
Trista received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Concordia University, St. Paul and her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise and Sport Science from St. Catherine University. Her favorite part of being a pediatric physical therapist is engaging patients through play while challenging their balance, coordination, strength, and motor skills. Trista strives to help patients and families achieve their individualized goals by providing fun, compassionate, and effective patient-centered care. She enjoys celebrating and sharing in her patients’ successes throughout their time at Family Achievement Center. “I provide hope and improve lives by motivating and educating my patients and their families to reach their goals. I believe in the importance of collaborating with other disciplines to achieve the best outcomes, level of independence, and quality of life for patients.”
Allison Ruthe
PT,DPT
Bloomington & Woodbury
Allison Ruthe
Allison graduated from Bradley University in Peoria, IL where she received both her Bachelor of Degree is Health Sciences and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Allison enjoys working with the pediatric population and seeing how physical therapy can be fun and functional helping the child reach their goals. As a therapist at Family Achievement Center, Allison enjoys the collaborative care that can be seen daily and how the family and child’s needs are always at the forefront. “I provide hope and improve lives by creating individualized treatments for each child where the child can have fun, improve their function, and reach their goals.”
Speech Therapists
Jana Smith
CCC-SLP, Speech Therapy Manager
Woodbury
Jana Smith
Jana attended the University of Minnesota- Duluth to obtain her Master of Arts degree in Speech Language Pathology. She has experience working with adults in both the inpatient and outpatient setting and with pediatrics in the outpatient setting. She has been trained in PROMPT, Beckman Oral Motor, and Interactive Metronome. “I provide hope and improve lives by working together with families to help children reach their highest potential.”
Aly Mueller
CCC-SLP, Woodbury Speech Therapy Lead
Woodbury
Aly Mueller
Aly attended the University of Wisconsin – River Falls to obtain her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Her favorite aspect of Speech-Language Pathology is working with children and their families to support the growth of communication. Aly’s areas of special interest include language development, articulation, and phonology. “I provide hope and improve lives by collaborating with clients and their families to foster a fun, comfortable, and functional environment to learn and grow.”
Elizabeth Tickle
CCC-SLP, Bloomington Speech Therapy Lead
Bloomington
Elizabeth Tickle
Elizabeth attended the University of Minnesota-Duluth to obtain her Master of Arts degree in Speech Language Pathology. She has experience in in-patient adults and pediatrics and outpatient pediatrics. She also has experience in the educational setting. She has been trained in PROMPT, Therapeutic Listening, MNRI Oral Facial Reflex Protocol, and the SOS Feeding Program. She also has experience with AAC devices/systems, CORE Language, and CranioSacral Therapy as it relates to Speech and Language. Elizabeth enjoys spending her time with her husband and two children exploring the outdoors! “I provide hope and improve lives by working side by side with a child’s families, celebrating each and every milestone they achieve, and assuring them that their child will tell us what they are going to achieve and when and we are only the facilitators of that growth and development.”
Shannon Zimmerman
CCC-SLP, School Therapy Lead
Woodbury
Shannon Zimmerman
Shannon attended Saint Cloud State University where she received her Masters of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. Her special interests include supporting the growth of children with articulation & phonological disorders, early language intervention, pragmatic language deficits secondary to Autism, apraxia of speech, and the development of Augmentative and Alternative Communication systems. “I provide hope and improve lives by encouraging parents to become an active member in the therapy team; giving them the tools & ongoing support to feel empowered and successful in facilitating their child’s speech-language growth and development.”
Rachel Beck
CCC-SLP
Woodbury
Rachel Beck
Rachel obtained her undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Communication Disorders and Sciences at the University of Oregon. She obtained a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at University of North Dakota. Rachel has experience in working with individuals of all ages and various cultural backgrounds in clinics, hospitals, schools and residential facilities. She has a unique interest in articulation, language, fluency, social skills, and AAC (Augmentative Alternative Communication) systems. In her free time, Rachel enjoys hiking, traveling, spending time with family, and her two cats. “I provide hope and improve lives by implementing play, creativity, and humor into each session.”
Caitlin Buhr
CCC-SLP
Bloomington
Caitlin Buhr
Caitlin received her Masters of Science degree in Speech Language Pathology at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. She has experience with the pediatric population in the outpatient setting (with the majority of her caseload having ASD and/or trauma history) as well as the school-based setting. Caitlin enjoys collaborating and building trusting therapeutic relationships with her clients, families, and coworkers to help reach the clients’ fullest potential. “I provide hope and improve lives by bringing a positive attitude to every session, working as a team with all that are involved, and making each session fun and individualized towards the needs and interests of the client.”
Chaise Buss
CCC-SLP
Bloomington
Chaise Buss
Chaise attended the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities to obtain her Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology. Her favorite part of Speech-Language Pathology is the ability to make so many new connections and continually learn new things about her clients as well as herself. She has experience working with both children and adults in clinics, schools, and skilled nursing facilities. She shows a special interest in articulation & phonological disorders, language development, and the development of AAC (Augmentative Alternative Communication) Systems. “I provide hope and improve lives by creating a safe & trusting environment to allow for creativity and confidence, while focusing on individuality and functional goals to facilitate growth and development during and outside of the therapy session.”
Jeanne Gunvalson
CCC-SLP
Woodbury
Jeanne Gunvalson
Jeanne received her Bachelor degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of MN Duluth and her Master’s degree in Speech Pathology at St. Cloud State University.
She is passionate about working with kids and especially loves this setting to get to know families and siblings so they can all collaborate together. Her specific interests include motor speech disorders, apraxia of speech, early childhood language development, phonological development and articulation disorders.
“I provide hope and improve lives by focusing on enjoyment and trust during therapy sessions and strive to provide confidence and encouragement for my clients to reach their best potential.”
Michelle Hilden
CCC-SLP
Woodbury
Michelle Hilden
Michelle received her Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. She has experience working with the pediatric population in the outpatient setting and hospitals (with the majority of her caseload having Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or trauma history). Michelle has always been passionate about working with children and has unique interests in pediatric dysphagia, AAC, language, articulation, and phonology. Michelle enjoys fostering therapeutic relationships and collaborating with her clients, families, and other professionals in order to help each client reach their fullest potential. “I provide hope and improve lives by creating a nurturing learning environment rich in language, play, and creativity to encourage each clients’ individual growth and development while celebrating every achievement and milestone along the way.”
Siri LeMay
CFY-SLP
Woodbury
Siri LeMay
Siri graduated from the University of Minnesota-Duluth with a Master’s of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She enjoys working with kids of all ages. Siri’s favorite aspect of Speech-Language Pathology is getting to watch her client’s grow their skills and develop relationships with client’s and their families. Her special interest areas include Augmentative and Alternative Communication systems, social communication, and language development. “I provide hope and improve lives by providing a fun and productive learning environment that grows client’s confidence and families optimism for the future.”
Angela Matheson
CCC-SLP
Woodbury
Angela Matheson
Angela attended the University of Wisconsin-River Falls to obtain her Master of Science degree in Speech Language Pathology. She has always had a passion for working with kids of all abilities. Angela’s special interests include supporting the growth of children with articulation & phonological disorders, apraxia of speech, language deficits secondary to Autism, and the development of Augmentative and Alternative Communication systems. “I provide hope and improve lives by encouraging individuals to find their own voice and ability to communicate effectively, taking a team approach, providing ongoing support and tools to facilitate growth and development outside the therapy room, bringing creativity and individuality to meet the needs and interests of all my clients and to celebrate every milestone no matter how big or small!”
Anna McCormick
CFY-SLP
Bloomington
Anna McCormick
Anna received her bachelor’s degree in Speech Language Hearing Sciences and Disorders from the University of Kansas and her Master of Arts degree in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology from the University of Iowa. She has always had a passion for working with children of all ages. Her special interest areas include Augmentative and Alternative Communication systems, apraxia, autism spectrum disorder, and early intervention. Anna values getting to know the whole client and collaborating with other disciplines to create a bigger impact. “I provide hope and improve lives by honoring and encouraging all modes of communication and by encouraging families to be an active participant in the therapy process. I prioritize functional goals so that therapy makes a positive impact on my clients’ daily lives.”
Jennifer Miller
CCC-SLP
Bloomington
Jennifer Miller
Jennifer received her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology at Minot State University in Minot, North Dakota. She has a passion for pediatrics and believes every child has a voice that deserves to be heard. She has experience with the pediatric outpatient setting with a special interest in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), language development, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems. Jennifer enjoys collaborating with other disciplines and advocating for families and their children in order to increase overall functional communication in a variety of environments. “I provide hope and improve lives by being present in every session, meeting the client where they are at in the present moment, and making each treatment plan personalized to each client and family.”
Madisyn Plumhoff
CCC-SLP
Woodbury
Madisyn Plumhoff
Madisyn received her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Minnesota State University, Mankato. She has always had a passion for working with children. Her favorite aspect of Speech-Language Pathology is building relationships and collaborating with my clients, families, and other professionals to support the growth of communication. “I provide hope and improve lives by creating a welcoming and positive environment for children and families. I prioritize making personalized relationships to help each child communicate effectively and reach their highest potential while celebrating all moments, big and small!”
Kelsey Smith
CCC-SLP
Woodbury
Kelsey Smith
Kelsey attended the University of Minnesota – Duluth for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Speech Language Pathology. She has experience working with children and adults in an outpatient setting and with children in an educational setting from 4K-12th grade. Kelsey’s areas of special interest include social communication, articulation, and language development. “I provide hope and improve lives by taking a client led approach to therapy that focuses on functional goals in order to help individuals and their family members to feel engaged and valued throughout the therapeutic process.”
Kayla Thalhuber
CFY-SLP
Woodbury
Kayla Thalhuber
Kayla received her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Her specialized interests include dysphagia, articulation & phonological disorders, child language development, and AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) Systems. She is passionate about creating personalized relationships with clients and their families while fostering learning and growth in communication. “I provide hope and improve lives by practicing from a place of love and inclusivity. I prioritize creating meaningful relationships and providing clients with purpose by celebrating their strengths and achievements. I intend my therapy to be fun, empowering, and unique to everyone!”
Anna Udenberg
CCC-SLP
Woodbury
Anna Udenberg
Anna graduated from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a Master’s of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She has experience working with a wide range of ages and needs within the pediatric outpatient setting. Anna enjoys using a team approach to therapy, collaborating with family, teachers, and other professionals to individualize therapy for each client. “I provide hope and improve lives by bringing creativity and laughter into therapy and helping each client and their family feel confident bringing therapy successes into everyday life”
Taylor Vlasak
CCC-SLP
Woodbury
Taylor Vlasak
Taylor attended the University of Wisconsin – River Falls to obtain her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Her favorite aspect of Speech-Language Pathology is working with the multiple different modalities to give a variety of people a voice and ability to communicate. Taylor’s areas of special interests include language development, Augmentative and Alterative Communication (AAC) Systems, and social skills. “I provide hope and improve lives by incorporating laughter, creativity and fun into therapy to make each session personable and relatable to the client inside clinic and outside in their everyday lives.”