Dr. Kelly Barr, PT, DPT, PCS, C/NDT Owner and Director of KidZ TherapEZE
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Kelly began working with special needs children in high school with
American Red Cross Adapted Aquatics and Easter Seals, teaching
swimming skills. Twenty eight years later (24 years as a PT),
she is the owner and director of KidZ TherapEZE. She is a
physical therapist trained in pediatric NDT with the 8-week
course as well as over 30 other pediatric continuing education
courses. She constantly strives to add more "tools"
to her available treatment skills.
Her experience in many settings and her deep roots in the
community have improved her ability to provide support for
families and children with special needs beyond the immediate
physical therapy treatment. She also leads a project with
2 international organizations, Rotary International and Goodwill
International, in an effort to provide medical equipment for
children in Mexico. She works with several of the Physical Therapy University programs as the Clinical Instructor for students providing the neurological or the pediatric specific internship. She was awarded the Dorn Long Clinical Instructor of the Year for 2008 in the State of Texas.
Her greatest memories are the celebrations
when children reach unimaginable goals
and parents call with great stories,
proud of their child's achievements.
She is the mother of two girls who are grown and attending universities and a 7 year old boy, which
could be a lot more worrisome if they
weren't so wonderful and a lot less
worrisome is they weren't so beautiful.
Her daughters are UMHB Crusaders. Her little man, Travis,
keeps the whole family busy and entertained.
When she is not at work she enjoys
swimming and running after "the 2 wheeled bike with training wheels" around the block and
the Killeen Evening Rotary Club. |
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Kim Barr, Financial Officer
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Kelly's husband, Kim, is the greatest asset of the business because
of his support both in the financial management of the company and his support
at home as a loving, protective father of the girls and Travis, and loving
supportive husband to Kelly. He keeps the family and business balanced so that
all can continue to thrive and even has multiple volunteer ventures of his own.
He has a finance degree from Southwest Texas State University. His community service
includes years of service on the Killeen Evening Rotary Club Board, and the Executive Board for Heart O' Texas Goodwill.
Kim loves knowing the children in the clinic and playing with them as he
passes through the treatment areas during his daily routine. When he is not
working, he is a political junkie, often on the internet political sites while
watching multiple news channels at the same time. He also exercises and scares
the boys who like his daughters which is the greatest of all pastimes. He
is enjoying having a boy in the house now.
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Erin Harris, Director of Activities and PRO, Kelly's Right Hand |
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My name is Erin C. Harris and I was born and raised in Killeen, Tx. I'm an Ellison Eagle and graduated in 1999, went to Sam Houston State for a year to pursue Music Therapy, but transferred to SWT in 2000 to pursue communication. I graduated from Southwest Texas State in 2004 with a BA in Interpersonal Communication and studied 4 years of ASL at the University of Texas and Austin Community College.
After living and working in Austin and Dallas for a decade I decided to come back to Killeen to make my career. I joined Kidz in March of 2011 and have never looked back! I now have a beautiful family and can't wait to see what's in store for us. I am currently Kelly's right hand woman, our Non-profit "PRO" director and more than likely the person that you need to talk to if you are looking to work with us on any project. I absolutely love working here and can't wait to see what all we can accomplish together when we are KIDZ minded!! |
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Lenna Barr, Billing Manager |
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Lenna is Kelly's oldest daughter, and while she has been involved with Kidz Therapeze since the beginning, she officially started working here in 2007. She graduated from Mary Hardin-Baylor with an MBA in Accounting, and she is extremely involved with the community.
She served as the president of the Killeen Evening Rotary club for the year 2011-12, is on the board for the Killeen Free Clinic, and she is involved with the Killeen Chamber of Commerce and Greater Killeen Young Professionals. Her greatest love is the work that she does at Kidz. She is involved with all of the PRO classes, and they remain the highlight of every week. |
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Autumn Tatro, Billing Specialist |
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Autumn grew up in Las Vegas, NV, and moved to Killeen in 1995 when her husband was stationed at Fort Hood. She is a proud parent of three children, and her daughter has been coming to Kidz since 2001 for therapy. She loves seeing the difference therapy can make in a child’s life.
For over 16 years she has been a military spouse and understands the hardships that are associated with military life and deployments. Three years ago she became a member of the staff and is more than happy to answer any questions parents may have.
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Shant'e Jones, Superior Specialist |
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Hello! My name is Shante Jones, I was born in Texas and raised in Kansas. I have two daughters, who are my world. I worked as a C.N.A for about two and a half years, I loved working and being around patients. I decided after the birth of my daughter that I wanted to do something a little different.
So I went back to school, and graduated from Everest College in Medical Administration, and medical billing and coding. After finishing the medical billing program I started an internship at Kidz Therapeze, where later I was hired. The perfect Job if you ask me, I am around patients and I am also doing what I love to do as far as billing is concerned. |
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Mercy Polinati, IT Specialist |
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Mercy was born in India and was raised in India and Botswana. She came to the United States for college. She has a BBA and an MBA from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Information Systems.
She started working at Kidz TherapEZE in May 2012 and is excited about the hands on experience, to be able to apply the knowledge from class into practice in day to day activities. She loves seeing the Kidz smiles and is encouraged by their perseverance. |
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Kristen Kerr, Front Desk & Lifeguard |
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My name is Kristen Kerr, but the majority of the patients amd staff affectionately call me "KK". I was born and raised in Tampa, Florida but spent my last two years of high school in Harker Heights. I've swam competitively for almost 14 years and I love teaching the children here the values of water safety, as well as having the amazing job of participating in therapy in the pool. I currently work at the front desk and surprisingly enjoy it. I have three children; my beloved puppies Bailey, Sheldon, and Regis.
In my spare time I take my puppies for walks, swim, and play with the kiddos here at KidZ. I've also acted in one too many to count performances at Vive Les Arts in Killeen. My most recent role was Penny Pingleton in Hairspray. I'm so blessed to work around these kiddos and the amazing staff here. There isn't a day I don't comment about how much I love the work I do, or talk about the incredible kiddos I get to play with. I love seeing all the miracles and the blessings exhanged between these kiddos, their families, and our staff here. |
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Christine Cortez, Front Desk |
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Hi! I am Christine Cortez. I recently joined Kidz Therapeze and I am
over-joyed to be part of their team! I am happy to help you, your
children and your family in any way I can so that your experience at
Kidz Therapeze is the best it can be. My passion is helping others
and I spent 7 years in the hospitality industry doing that
professionally. The children here at Kidz Therapeze are a joy to work
with and allow me to pursue helping others even more in my day to day
work! I have volunteered with kids for over 10 years and I am
excited I can continue working with this establishment.
I am a true Texan at heart! I love country music, jogging, spending time with loved ones, recently just go into hunting, and my Longhorns! Hook em'!
If I'm not at work I am usually involved in something at my church,
Faith Point, which actively serves in our local community. Currently I
am active in ministries that work with our children and young adults
as well as the women in our local area. I am looking forward to
working with the great staff and patients at Kidz Therapeze and move
into a bright and promising future with them!
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Susan Smith, Front Desk (Afternoons) |
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My name is Susan Smith. I have a bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism with English as a minor. I have been married for 21 years and have three beautiful children and live in Harker Heights.
My family loves Texas, so we retired from the Army and stayed! We are a homeschooling family and enjoy the outdoors. We love the state parks in Texas, so most of the time you will find us outside – hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, etc. Some of my other hobbies include cooking, antiques and reading. |
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Jillian Ramirez, Office Assistant |
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Jillian has been working for KidZ TherapEZE since 2006 and has taken on a variety of tasks. She works hard and keeps the toys clean and running as well as helping with many of the tasks that keep the therapists available for treatment. Jillian was also awarded Athlete of the Year by the bell county judge and commissioners' committee on people with disabilities. |
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Juan Villarreal, Medical Information |
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Juan is a very athletic and intelligent young adult. He is on varsity swim team at Killeen High School. He dedicates himself to school, work, and friends. He is very handy and can assist you with any problem you may have.
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Carrie Williamson, PT, DPT, C/NDT |
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Carrie is a physical therapist who received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Simmons College in Boston. She has worked at KidZTherapEZE for one year. Carrie lives in Austin and is involved with the local farmers there. She enjoys cooking, gardening, yoga, reading, and hiking. |
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Jennifer Reimels, MPT |
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Hi, I’m Jen! I graduated with my master's degree in Physical Therapy from Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut. I was born and raised in NY, where my family still lives. I recently moved to Round Rock, Texas and love it so far! Working at Kidz Therapeze has been such an amazing experience and I could not have imagined a better job!
On the weekends I work in an acute rehab hospital in Austin, Texas specializing in the rehabilitation of patients suffering from stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple trauma, orthopedic injury, neurological conditions, brain injury and other conditions. During my free time, I enjoy learning and exploring all the fun activities Texas has to offer! |
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Aileen Tabobo, PT, DPT, C/NDT |
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Aileen began working with Kidz Therapeze in 2005 as a volunteer. After receiving her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, she decided to come back to the clinic that inspired her to become a pediatric physical therapist. She was raised in Killeen as a military child and has traveled all over Texas throughout her college years. She enjoys reading, singing and cooking. |
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Dana Zander, PT, DPT |
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Dana has worked at Kidz Therapeze since 2006 (with a few breaks due to having some babies) and has always loved being a part of the team here. She is from Louisiana and went to undergraduate school at the University of Louisiana-Monroe where she graduated with a B.S. in Exercise Science and was on the ULM waterski team. She then went to the University of Texas Medical Branch and obtained a B.S. in Respiratory Therapy. After realizing Physical Therapy was her passion, she completed her Master of Physical Therapy from UTMB in 2005.
She also has a post-graduate certificate in Pediatric Physical Therapy – specializing in 0-5 years of age. After practicing for several years, Dana decided to further her education and received her Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2012 from the University of Texas Medical Branch.Dana currently lives in Georgetown with her husband (Aaron), two children (Aubrey & Luke), and dog (Boogie). Dana used to be a competitive water-skier (20 years of it!), so she enjoys skiing when she can, going on family hikes/adventures, snowboarding, and golfing. |
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Shannon Sloan, PT, DPT, C/NDT |
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Shannon was born in Houston, TX and attended high school at Cy-Fair High School. As a sophomore in high school she injured her left knee during a soccer tournament and has undergone three more surgeries since then. It was this injury that guided her to the path of becoming a physical therapist (PT). In 1998, Shannon’s cousin was born with cerebral palsy. Working and playing with him began her journey to starting a career as a pediatric therapist.
She earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Kinesiology in 2007 at Texas Woman’s University in Denton, TX. While working on her undergraduate degree, she had the chance to work with another little girl with cerebral palsy in an aquatic program. It was after this opportunity, that her mind to go into pediatrics was made up. In 2007, Shannon began the physical therapy program at Texas Woman’s University Houston campus. During this program, she completed a clinical affiliation here at KidZ TherapEZE where she returned after graduation in August of 2010, with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree. |
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Isabel Cantu, PT, DPT, C/NDT
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| Isabel relocated to Texas from Southern California in June 2007 to work at KidZ TherapEZE. She is originally from Sugar Land, Texas. She first acquired a Bachelor of Science degree (with emphasis in Pre-medical) with a double major in Biology and Psychology from Houston Baptist University (HBU) and worked part-time as a Physical Therapist technician in the Houston medical center. She originally planned to become a Medical Doctor and attended school at UCLA. She quickly decided that she missed the more personal interaction in Physical Therapy and applied for the Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program at Loma Linda University in Southern CA.
She graduated with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2006 with her research focused in Neuroscience and more specifically Cerebral Palsy. She focused many of her affiliations and internships in Pediatrics. She loves kids, animals, and has a special place in her heart for soldiers. "My dad was stationed here at Fort Hood many years ago and he is a Vietnam veteran and someone I admire very much, so it is a blessing to be able to occasionally help and serve injured soldiers." She is definitely someoe who loves learning and continues to study and research to expand her knowledge base.
In March 2012. she received her C/NDT and is currently studying for her Orthopedic Clinical Specialty (OCS). She is also working on completing her continuing education in Myofascial Release by John F. Barnes. She also serves as a clinical instructor for the facility and has hopes of one day teaching part-time as a University Neuro-Science or Gross Anatomy Professor.
She incorporated her own company in 2010; Bellah Therapies, LLC; and works with two amazing Physical Therapist Assistants (Angie and Helen). "We are a team and we work together to problem solve and brain storm ways we can help our patients more."
In her spare time, she loves high impact sports, participating in the Tough Mudder Challenges to help support the Wounded Warrior Project, attending church/bible study, photography and running with her dog, Noah.
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Angie Richardson, PT Assistant |
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Before graduating from Austin Community College as a Physical Therapist Assistant, Angie spent a number of years as a children’s portrait photographer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Motion Picture Production from Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara, CA, and after years in the film and photo industry realized her real passion was helping children, which led her to become a PTA for kids.
Angie, her husband, their dog, and three cats live in Round Rock. Angie loves being a homeowner as gardening and home improvement are two of her passions. She is also an avid reader, loves animals, plays piano, enjoys camping, and of course continues an enthusiasm for photography and film. |
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Helen Nguyen, PT Assistant |
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Helen (Hien) Nguyen earned an associate's degree in Physical Therapist Assistant from Austin Community College in May 2011. She has been working in a pediatric setting since August 2011. She has also worked in clinical rotation at an outpatient pediatric clinic. She has experience treating kids who are diagnosed with Down Syndrome, Spina Bifida, Development delay, Torticollis, general muscle weakness, low back pain, Cerebral Palsy (Hemiplagia, Paralagia), abnormal gait pattern, Idiophathic Toe Walking, Austism, dyspraxia. She enjoys working with kids and their families to see positive changes in their lives. She enjoys watching movies, reading love stories, going to the beach and loves anything sweet. |
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Doris Fong-Potts, MSPT, C/NDT |
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Doris graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in December 1999 with a Master's Degree in Physical Therapy. She lived in Hawaii for 3 years where she worked in the areas of acute care, rehab, skilled nursing, and outpatient therapy with her primary focus in geriatrics. She moved to Clarksville, TN and lived there 2 years where she worked in outpatient orthopedics and pediatrics.
Following her husband's military career, she moved to Little Rock, Arkansas where she continued working as a pediatric physical therapist for 6 1/2 years at Easter Seals Arkansas and as the Physical Therapy Department Head for 4 years. She received her Neurodevelopmental Treatment Certification in Pediatrics in 2008 which specializes in the evaluation and treatment of children with cerebral palsy and movement disorders.
In September 2011, she moved to Temple, Texas and joined Kidz Therapeze. In addition to her career in pediatrics, she has been married for almost 12 years to her wonderful husband, Alex and they have a handsome 2 year old boy, Wyatt. |
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Leslie Sitton, DPT
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I moved to central Texas in 2006 to work at Kidz Therapeze after working in home health and graduating from UTMB Galveston with a Master's of Physical Therapy in 2005. Prior to entering graduate school, I lived in east Texas where I received a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Stephen F Austin State University and met my husband, Grant. We currently live in Harker Heights with our son, Jackson and our toy poodle, Cash. I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling and reading.
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Bethany Licht, PT, DPT, C/NDT
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I am Bethany Licht, and I am a physical therapist at Kidz. I first came here as a student for a clinical rotation, and I loved it so much that I began working here in April 2009 after I graduated with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, TX.
I love working in a pediatric setting, and I am passionate about helping children reach their highest potential. I feel very blessed to have a job that more often feels like I’m playing than working, that makes me smile and laugh every day, and that most importantly allows me to make a difference in the lives of many children and their families.
I currently live in Austin, and I love living in such a vibrant city! In my spare time, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and exploring all that Austin has to offer (especially all of the good food and live music!). I am also a volunteer advocate with the Travis County CASA program. To keep active I like hiking, jogging, and rowing on Town Lake. In addition, I love to travel, both around the country and around the world. |
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Ehren Howard, PT, DPT, C/NDT
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Children are the first priority at KidZ TherapEZE, whether it is an infant with torticollis, a preschooler with cerebral palsy, or a high school student with a joint injury. I enjoy seeing children respond to treatment, gaining greater independence, safety, and reducing pain. It is especially comical when a mother says rhetorically, “Why did you have to help my kid learn to walk? Now they’re getting into everything!”
As a certified clinical instructor, I often have a student physical therapist training with me from a variety of Texas schools and beyond. I graduated with a doctorate in physical therapy from Loma Linda University in California. And I am certified in neuro-developmental techniques for children. I am a member of the American Physical Therapy Association Pediatrics Section and the Neuro-Developmental Treatment Association. On the side, I take care of the clinic’s herb and vegetable garden used to enrich therapy with new sights, smells, and even tastes. I look forward to working with your child! |
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Cortney Jarvis, MSPT |
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Cortney is a physical therapist who received her Master of Science in Physical Therapy from Texas State University in San Marcos. She is a member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie class of 2005 where she received a B.S. in Kinesiology and met her husband, Shad. Cortney grew up in Sugar Land, Texas. When she isn’t working, Cortney enjoys spending time with the two favorite guys in her life- her husband and her baby, Nash. She also enjoys volleyball, reading, and playing outside.
Cortney became interested in physical therapy when her nephew began demonstrating delays in his development. At that time, she knew she had to learn how to help him. After entering college, she made the decision that has greatly affected her life- to become a physical therapist. Working with children brings her immense happiness, and she loves to see them succeed! |
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Ashleigh Stepp, PT, DPT |
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Ashleigh was born and raised in Killeen, Texas and first began working and volunteering for Kelly Barr at KidZ TherapEZE in 2004 while she was still in high school. She always knew she wanted to pursue a career that would allow her to help others, and after the death of her best friend and through Kelly's mentorship and example she decided to become a Physical Therapist.
Ashleigh graduated with her Bachelors of Science in Health Sciences in May of 2009 from Texas Tech University, and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in May of 2011 from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Ashleigh also completed one of her clinical rotations during school at KidZ. It has always been a dream of Ashleigh's to be able to work in an amazing and supportive environment such as KidZ TherapEZE and she feels so blessed to finally be part of the team.
Ashleigh is truly passionate about helping others, especially children, and wants to help children with disabilities succeed and feel beautiful and proud of themselves. Ashleigh currently lives in Austin, Texas, and loves it. In her spare time Ashleigh likes to cook, run, shop, read, and spend time with her family and friends. |
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Tiffany Weiser, PT, DPT |
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I am Tiffany, and I received my doctorate of physical therapy from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. I originally grew up just north of Pittsburgh in the small town of Franklin. In 2010, I moved to Austin, Texas and am absolutely loving every moment of it!
I have always loved working with the children whether it is volunteering with one of my favorite organizations, Make a Wish Foundation, or helping coach the sports that I love most. It is my goal to use my passions to promote overall wellness in the kid’s lives while also helping them achieve each one of their dreams they wish to pursue. I am excited to now be a part of the Kidz team and cannot wait to start working with the families here in Killeen! |
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Laura Nickel, MSPT works at Peaceable Kingdom Retreat for Children as a KidZ TherapEZE staff member |
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Laura is a physical therapist who received her Masters of Science in Physical Therapy from Texas Woman's University in 2007. She first came to KidZ as a PT student and now works at Peaceable Kingdom Retreat for Children in Killeen in partnership with KidZ TherapEZE. Her undergraduate degree was in Sociology from Texas A&M University. She loves her job and working with kids with special needs! |
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Jessica Lott, OTR/L, MA
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I have been working with children all of my life. However I began my journey as an occupational therapist in 2007. I enjoy every minute of what I do. There is nothing better than when a child starts to get the hang of something or master it and then I get to watch their face as they get to share the great news with their parents. It brings tears to my eyes every time.
I obtained my master’s degree from The College of St. Catherine in St. Paul, Minnesota. My special interests in pediatrics include feeding and sensory integration treatment. I have been certified as an S.O.S. Feeding Approach provider as well as a Therapeutic Listening trained provider. I have been in Killeen since September 2009 and I have loved every moment of my being at Kidz. |
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Tamara Renaud, OTR
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| If there is a furry face four
legged “therapist” in the clinic,
you can bet Occupational Therapist,
Tammy Renaud, is also nearby.
Tammy is our Program Director
for our newly established Animal
Assisted Therapy program. With
12 years of experience incorporating
animals into the healing process,
she brings to KidzTherapeze
a fresh and exciting idea, as
well as a motivating therapeutic
“tool” to use with our clients.
Our goal is to have working
therapy dogs and other small
animals that can be incorporated
into treatment with the children
we see. From motor groups to
motivating speech and language
development, animals can often
motivate children to participate
in otherwise challenging tasks.
Tammy is also an instructor
and evaluator for the Pet Partners
Program through Delta Society,
an internationally recognized leader in AAT. In her “spare
time” Tammy provides consultation
and educational outreach to
other individuals and organizations
interested in doing similar
work. This work includes traveling
to Barcelona, Spain; Lisbon,
Porgtugal; Guayaquil, Ecuador;
and Santiago, Chile where she
has provided lectures for Fundacion
Bocalan (http://www.bocalan.es/fundacion.html)
and their AAT certification
program. For more information
on Tammy and her AAT program,
please go to www.jumpstarttherapies.org.
Animal Assisted Therapy and
OT are not the only forms of
rehabilitation Tammy has practiced.
After completing her degree
in OT, Tammy took a short career
detour to follow a dream of
her own…to rescue, rehabilitate,
and release sick and injured
dolphins and small whales as
State Coordinator for the Texas
Marine Mammal Stranding Network.
During several of the rehabilitations,
Tammy utilized her knowledge
of treatment techniques for
humans on the dolphins, often
seeing wonderful results. Combining
this love with her love of working
with children, Tammy also worked
with a dolphin assisted therapy
program in Clearwater, FL as
part of her Master’s degree
internship program.
Tammy is also currently working
with Texas Hearing and Service
Dogs as a foster trainer and
consulting OT to facilitate
matching recipients with service
dogs. Seen here is Tammy with
her foster service dog in training,
Onyx, who visited KidzTherapeze
several times.
We’re excited to see what other
tools Tammy has in her bag!!
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Joselyne Burgos-Rosario, OTR
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Hi, my name is Joselyne, but everyone calls me Josie. I am a bilingual occupational therapist who has been working at Kidz Therapeze since January 2008. I have been married to my husband Eliezer since 2003 and we now have two children (one on the way) and two dogs. My weekends usually consist of hanging out with my family at the park, going to sporting events, and just having a good time outdoors.
My father was in the Army so I was born in Manhattan, Kansas, but raised here in Killeen, TX. I attended C.E. Ellison High School and graduated in 2001. I now have an Associate of Science in Kinesiology from Central Texas College, a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and a Master’s of Occupational Therapy from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. While in graduate school I obtained my license in massage therapy and also worked as an occupational therapist aide in acute care and the burn unit. I recently completed certification for perform Beckman oral motor treatment techniques. I have always loved being around kiddos. Ever since I can remember, my mother has run her own home day care business, and I think that’s where my love for kids comes from. |
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Susan Provost-Danner, OTR/L, OTD, C/NDT
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Susan Provost-Danner joined KidZ in January 2009. I work with children because they have so much to teach us and they are always willing to learn. I started my career as an Army OT in Germany, providing therapy to students in the school system. I have also worked in home health, early childhood intervention and orthopedic hand injuries.
I received my Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Creighton University in Omaha Nebraska, a Masters in Early Childhood Education from Boston University in Frankfurt, Germany and a Doctor of Occupational Therapy from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah.
I enjoy being outdoors, gardening, swimming, and hiking. I also quilt, read, and spend time with my husband, two daughters, and our ball-fetching dog.
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Melissa Shiramizu, OTR |
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In 1998, I decided to pursue a degree in Occupational Therapy at the University of Puget Sound in Washington State. I saw the profession as an opportunity to dedicate myself to improving the quality of life for disabled children and their families. Throughout my career I have worked in the public school system, an acute care hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, and pediatric clinics. My heart has always led me back to pediatrics.
I began working at Kidz Therapeze in March of 2009. I have found that the supportive staff and well equipped clinic make it easy to enjoy my work. The diversity of the children I serve and their families makes my job interesting, challenging and rewarding. I consider it a tremendous blessing to be able to do what I do.
My husband and two children are the joy of my life. We are very involved in our church where my husband serves on the elder board and I am a vocalist on the worship team. I recently joined a jazz band called Cactus Groove and am looking forward to performing in various venues in and around Central Texas. I also love to cook - and eat! |
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Mary Margaret Hart, OTR
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Hello! My name is Mary Margaret and I would love to share with you a little bit about myself both personally and professionally. I grew up in east Texas as part of a large, loving family and have always enjoyed kids of all ages. One of my favorite past experiences was working for 4 summers at Camp Fern, where I had a blast interacting with and teaching children as a counselor and water ski instructor. I absolutely love playing outdoors and being on the water, enjoying time with my family, friends, and our pets!
I graduated from Baylor University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. I was inspired to be a pediatric OT by my mother, who is a teacher, and her best friend, who has worked as a pediatric OT in east Texas my whole life. In 2008 I moved to Galveston to begin my own journey as an OT in the Masters program at the University of Texas Medical Branch. I was blessed to meet my wonderful husband, Jeff, during welcome weekend in Galveston, as he was embarking on is own journey to become a doctor. We got married in 2009 and moved to Austin for our clinical experiences. I began working in Austin at a small, transdisciplinary pediatric clinic, which truly instilled in me a holistic approach to therapeutic treatment. I have enjoyed working with children from infancy to adolescence with a wide range of challenges, including fine motor and handwriting difficulties, developmental delays, sensory processing challenges, Autism spectrum disorders, and Down Syndrome. I have continued education experience with Autism, Asperger's, ADHD, and the well-renowned Handwriting Without Tears curriculum.
In the Spring of 2012, Jeff and I were thrilled that he matched to the Internal Medicine Residency program at Scott & White! We purchased our first house in Temple and got a Papillon puppy named Ollie, who we absolutely love and adore! I am honored to be working with the precious children at KidZ TherapEZE and hope to make a positive impact in your child's life. |
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Jenna Coe, OTR, MOT, C/NDT |
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Jenna is an Occupational Therapist who has been with Kidz Therapeze since May 2010. Jenna received her Bachelor of Science in Health Care Sciences and Masters of Occupational Therapy from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio in 2010. In March of 2012, Jenna will be an NDT certified therapist. Jenna has always had a passion for working with children, wants to help all children become as independent as possible, and is loving her time here at Kidz!
Jenna also has the pleasure of supervising two COTAs that you'll also see around our clinic, George Becerra and Darius Cox. She believes that therapy is most successful with a team collaboration and believes that families should be part of that team as well! |
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Darius Cox, COTA |
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Darius Cox is a COTA who is a new member of the Kidz Therapeze team. Darius received his OTA training at the U.S Army Medical Department Center & School, Fort Sam Houston, TX in 1999. In 2000 he earned National Certification of Occupational Theray Assistants. Darius retired from the U.S Army in 2012 after 20 years of service as a combat medic.
From 1999 -2007 he served as the NonComissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC) of three Occupational Therapy clinics, Fort Knox KY, Landstuhl Germany and Fort Riley KS where his focus was physical disabilities. His last five years of service he was a platoon sergeant and team chief in a Combat Stress Control unit where his focus changed to the mental health aspect of O.T where he taught life skills classes and suicide prevention. Darius proudly served in harms way completing two tours in Iraq and one tour in Afghanistan.
Darius enjoys being a member of such a productive team here at Kidz Therapeze. All though he has a deep passion for helping people of all ages he is truly excited to work with children because he is considered a "big kid" himself.
In his leisure time Darius likes to laugh, joke, play and spend time with his family. He is married to Crystal Cox and is the proud father of four kids. Darius loves to participate in fitness/physical training activities anything from walking his dog to MMA. He also enjoys riding his motorcycle. Last but not least he is a huge New York Giants fan. |
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George Becerra, COTA |
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My name is George Becerra. I have been an Occupational therapy assistant for 12 years, was Army trained and I may look familiar to some, I worked at Darnall Amy Community Hospital since 1999. My mission there was to rehabilitate soldiers and their family members.
I joined the Kidz Therapeze team officially full time in August 2011. I enjoy being involved with kids, I was apart of the mentor program at Ft. Sam Houston, coached little league football there from 1997-98 passing on my love of competition and good sportsmanship with the kids I had the pleasure of coaching. I look forward to the opportunity to continue to serve the community in my new capacity here at Kidz Therapeze. |
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Caitlin Fanelli, OTR |
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My name is Caitlin Fanelli. I graduated from Boston University in Boston, MA with a Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy. I have been working at Kidz Therapeze since January 2012 and am so honored to be a therapist here! I think that Kidz Therapeze is such a great facility and once I start working with your child I hope that you will feel the same way too!
I have previously worked as an OT at an ABA school for children with Autism, in several preschools, in an elementary school special education class, and an after school program with teenagers with disabilities. I live at Fort Hood with my amazing husband Mike, little baby girl Grace, and our silly dog Daisy. We have been a part of the Army since 2010. |
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Adrianne Scanlon, OTR/L, MOT |
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Adrianne is an Occupational Therapist who has been with Kidz Therapeze since October 2010. Before becoming an Occupational Therapist, she devoted her work and free time to helping children with a variety of abilities. She worked as a personal attendant under the C.L.A.S.S. program for 6 years and served as a camp counselor for the Muscular Dystrophy Association for three years.
Adrianne received her Bachelor's of Science in Biology from Texas Woman's University in Denton in 2006. In 2008, Adrianne graduated with a Master's of Occupational Therapy from Texas Woman's University Houston Campus. Before coming to Kidz Therapeze, she worked at an outpatient pediatric clinic in Austin.
Her most recent continuing education courses include Aquatic Therapy for Pediatric Populations and Management of Complex Feeding Issues.
Adrianne recently moved to Killeen with her husband, Cory, who is currently stationed at Fort Hood. In her free time, Adrianne enjoys scrapbooking, kayaking, going to the movies, and visiting family in Austin.
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Speech and Language Pathologists
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Jennifer Pawling, MS, CCC/SLP
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Jennifer moved to Texas in February
2007 from South Florida. Jennifer's
background with children began
in the field of education. After
receiving a bachelor's degree
in Elementary Education from
Florida State, she taught elementary
school for 4 years. Upon leaving
the classroom, Jennifer received
a master's degree in Communication
Disorders from Nova Southeastern
University in Ft Lauderdale,
Florida.
She has extensive experience
working with kids of all ages
and welcomes the opportunity
to make speech therapy fun and
creative, while also incorporating
academics. Annie, Jennifer's
dog, works part time assisting
Jennifer at KidZ TherapEZE as
a certified therapy pet. Annie
enjoys eating bubbles, competing
in shuttle runs with the kids,
and giving kisses. The kids
simply light up in her presence.
Jennifer and her husband, Craig,
moved to Texas to improve their
quality of life. They take pleasure
in Austin's live music scene,
exploring the many parks with
Maya and Annie, swimming, biking, reading,
and doing yoga, as well as enjoying
many of the local events and
festivals that make Austin famous.
Jennifer lives in Round Rock
with Craig and her daughter Maya, Annie (the dog) and 2 cats
(Canon and Dixie).
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Nikki Neugent, SLP Assistant |
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Brandie Matt SLP Assistant |
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My name is Brandie! I am a Speech Language Pathologist Assistant working under the supervision of Jennifer Pawling, MA, CCC/SLP. I graduated from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas with a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Communication Disorders in December of 2007. I joined the Kidz Therapeze team in August of 2008. I absolutely love my job. I am extremely blessed to have the opportunity to work alongside an amazing group of people and treat such wonderful children.
I am excited to share that I am newly engaged, and very eager for our upcoming August wedding to arrive. My fiance, Chuck, and I live in Cedar Park. In our spare time we enjoy attending Texas Country Concerts, traveling to visit family and friends, and routing on the Astros, Cowboys, Spurs, and Longhorns! |
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Stacy Russell, MS, CCC/SLP |
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My name is Stacy Russell. I graduated from Baylor University in
2009 with a Bachelor of Arts, and earned my Master of Science degree
in Communication Sciences and Disorders in December, 2010 from Baylor
as well. During my graduate course work I had clinical rotations that
include hospital, school system, NICU/PICU, adult neuro group, and
Baylor's literacy-based Camp Success.
I joined Kidz Therapeze in January 2011 and feel so blessed to be
working at this clinic and to begin my career here. I live in
Gatesville with my husband and enjoy spending time with him and
family. |
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Kristin Golden, MA, CCC/SLP
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Kristin has been with Kidz Therapeze since August 2002. She received her Master's degree from the University of Florida in 1995, and has provided speech therapy services to adults and children with a variety of impairments, in a number of settings since that time. Her particular interests are working with children who are cochlear implant recipients, and children who have diagnoses including Autistic Spectrum Disorder, verbal apraxia/dyspraxia, and feeding/swallowing difficulties.
Kristin is an authorized provider of "The Listening Program" for sensory integrative issues, and has been trained in "The Beckman Assessment and Intervention Protocol" for many years. She also has training in Auditory - Verbal Therapy, and the "Picture Exchange Communication System".
Kristin is married to husband, Derrick, who is retired from 21 years of service in the Armed Forces. Together they have 2 sons (one who has just entered the Army) and a daughter. When not working, Kristin loves to travel and spend time outdoors gardening, biking, etc, with her family.
God is first in her life, and she believes that with faith nothing is impossible! |
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Erika Oliva, SLP Assistant |
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Hi, my name is Erika. I am a bilingual Speech Language Pathologist Assistant and work under the supervision of Kristin Golden, MA, CCC/SLP. I graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Communication Disorders in August 2009. Axe ‘Em Jacks! I have been blessed to be able to work with the staff, children, and families at Kidz Therapeze since May 2010. I enjoy working with children in a fun, creative, play-based setting to help them reach their full potential and goals.
On the weekends, you can catch me traveling to Houston, Dallas, or anywhere in between visiting with family and friends. I also enjoy Major League Baseball, almost anything outdoors, and too many reality TV shows. |
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Lori Cline, MS, CCC/SLP
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Lori is a Speech-Language Pathologist from Valley, Alabama who moved to
Texas and joined our staff in June 2006. Lori received her Bachelor of Science
degree at the Mississippi University for Women in 2003 and then received her
Master's degree at the University of Alabama in 2004-ROLL TIDE! Lori has had
experience with pediatrics and adults in different settings such as schools,
skilled nursing facilities, home health, and private practice. She has special
interests in Autism, pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders, and fluency
disorders.
Lori enjoys reading, cooking and spending time with her husband Bill who
is a firefighter at Fort Hood. Bill and Lori also enjoy spoiling their new
16 pound cat named Biscuit.
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Casi Gaskin, SLPA |
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Hi, my name is Casi and I am a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant working under the supervision of Lori Cline, MS, CCC/SLP. I graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology in May 2010. I began working at Kidz Therapeze in March 2012. Working with kids has always been a dream of mine. I love coming to work every day to see their smiling faces and help them reach their goals!
I enjoy cooking, reading, and spending time with my family! I married my amazing husband in January 2011, and later that year (November) we had our first child. We are expecting number 2 in February 2013!
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Rebecca Fowler, SLP-CFY
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My name is Rebbecca. My experience with Kidz Therapeze began 6 years ago when my child began receiving therapy services. I was truly inspired by the therapist and the children at Kidz and decided to return to school to pursue a degree in Speech Pathology. I graduated from Baylor University in 2012, with a Master of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. I love waking up every day knowing that I have the ability to make a positive difference in a child’s life. I am absolutely thrilled to be beginning my career at Kidz Therapeze. |
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Julie Creswell, MS, CCC/SLP |
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Julie is a speech language pathologist who joined Kidz Therapeze in July of 2009. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Speech Language Pathology from Texas Christian University in 2003 and a Master's Degree in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Kansas in 2005.
She has experience providing speech and language services to both children and adults in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and outpatient clinics. Julie lives in Austin and enjoys exploring the city, reading, traveling, and spending time with family, friends, and her dog, Magnum. |
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Lori Malone, MS, CCC/SLP |
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I graduated from Baylor University with a Master in Communication Sciences and Disorders in May of 2002. I have eight years of pediatric experience working in private practice, acute care, the neonatal intensive care unit, and in the school setting.
I am a part time therapist at Kidz Therapeze and a full time wife and mother to my husband Jonathan and two year old little girl Kate. I feel so blessed to be able to make a difference in the lives of children while at work. Seeing each child make progress towards each of their goals is so rewarding! |
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Ashlee Coots, SLP Assistant |
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Hi, my name is Ashlee and I am a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant working under the supervision of Lorie Malone, MS, CCC/SLP. I graduated from Texas A&M University-Kingsville with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders in August 2010. I began working at Kidz Therapeze in October 2010. Working with children and helping them reach their goals is a very rewarding experience! I feel very blessed for the opportunity to begin my career as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant at Kidz Therapeze.
I married my wonderful husband Marshall in December 2010. He is the love of my life and we are very excited about starting our new lives together. God and family are priorities in our lives. When I’m not working with children at Kidz Therapeze, you can find us spending quality time together with our families, going to the movies, shopping, and trying any new restaurant we might happen to find! |
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Pamela Singleton, MS, CF/SLP |
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Michelle Hobbs, MS, CCC/SLP
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Hi, my name is Michelle Hobbs. I graduated from the University of Illinois in 2007 with my bachelor's degree in Speech and Hearing Science. I received my Master's degree in Speech Language Pathology from Northern Illinois University in 2009, I met my husband, Travis, while I was studying at Northern Illinois University. We were married in Arkansas on July 11, 2009, and then we moved to Texas.
I have been working at Kidz Therapeze since September 2009. I have enjoyed working with all the children of different ages and personalities. I am very blessed by God for my job, friends, and family. My husband and I enjoy sailing, playing games, going to movies, and hanging out with friends. I am a huge White Sox fan! Go Sox!
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Leslie Searls-Gutierrez, MS, CCC/SLP |
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| Leslie has been part of the Kidz Therapeze team since 2007. After
completing her education and receiving a Master's of Arts in Speech
Language Pathology from the Univeristy of North Texas in Denton,
Texas, Leslie returned to her home town of Killeen!
She loves working at Kidz Therapeze and enjoys the intimate setting and being able to
develop close relatiosnships with her patients. She has special interets in pediatric feeding and swallowing and Early Language Development.
Leslie is married to husband, Gerson, and they have two beautiful
little girls. They enjoy spending time outdoors swimming and
gardening, watching soccer and spending time with extended family.
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Ann-Marie Larson, MS, CCC-SLP |
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I graduated with a Master in Speech Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in May 2002. I worked for a school district in Ft. Lewis, near Tacoma, WA from August 2002 until June 2005. My husband and I then moved to Florida and I worked as an SLP in an elementary school near Orlando, FL from August 2005 until May 2012.
I began working at Kidz in May 2012. I love the individualized play based speech language therapy setting that KidzTherapeze has to offer. I love that my job offers the opportunity to help children communicate to their fullest potential. |
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Jessica Bender, M.Ed, CCC-SLP |
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I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. I received my bachelor's degree in Child and Family Development from the University of Georgia and a master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Virginia. I have experience with pediatrics and adults after working in a variety of settings; however, my specialty is working with kids! I enjoy working with children who have autism and feeding/swallowing disorders.
I moved to Texas in the summer of 2012 and working at Kidz has been a wonderful experience! In my spare time, I enjoy taking my dog to the lake, traveling, and watching college football... Go Dawgs! |
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Katy Jones, MA, CCC/SLP |
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Katy received her Master in Communication Disorders in 1996 from the University of Houston. She also received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Sam Houston State University in 1991.
She loves working with children and feels blessed to work in such a positive, supportive work environment. She lives in Austin with her husband Kevin, and her 3 children. (And 2 dachshunds!) In her spare time, Katy enjoys spending time with family and friends, boating on Lake Travis, and being a Girl Scout Leader. |
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Katie Miller MS, CCC-SLP |
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Katie joined our staff in July 2006. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and Speech from Marshall University and a Master of Science Degree in Communication Disorders from Texas Tech University. She has been married for 42 years, has two grown sons, and two grandchildren. As a military spouse, for 32 years, Katie experienced 12 military moves. She has personal experience with the stress and difficulty that children face with military relocations and deployment of a parent.
As a Speech and Language Pathologist, Katie has worked with adults and children in various settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, long term care facilities and school environments. She also has experience with children through teaching Sunday school, raising two sons, and enjoying her grandchildren. Katie loves working with children. She strives to individualize therapy and make it functional for each child on her caseload. Each child is treated as she would have wanted her own children treated. She has now retired, but continues to be involved at Kidz Therapeze. |
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Jessica Cunningham, MS, CCC/SLP |
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I received my Communications Sciences and Disorders Master's Degree from Clarion University of Pennsylvania in May of 2003. I have experience working children and adults in various settings including acute care, long term care, outpatient, home health, early intervention and school settings. I am also certified in vital stimulation therapy.
I joined the Kidz Therapeze team in January of 2011. I am proud to be married to my wonderful husband, Scott, who is an active duty member of the U.S. Army. We have three wonderful boys and two dogs. In my spare time, I am spending time with my family and friends, enjoying the outdoors, traveling, reading, scrapbooking, and shopping! I am also a Pittsburgh Steeler fan! |
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Stephanie Morse, MEd, CCC/SLP |
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Shelley Ballard, MA, CCC/SLP |
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My name is Shelley, and I am the loudest, proudest member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 2009. Upon graduation from Texas A&M, I went on to receive my Masters degree in communication disorders from the University of Texas at Dallas in 2010. During my studies, I quickly discovered my passion to work with children, and took a job with Round Rock ISD. When presented with the opportunity to work at Kidz Therapeze in the summer of 2011, I quickly accepted and have recently completed my clinical fellowship year.
In my free time, you can find me hanging out with my husband, whom I married in August of 2009, and our dog, Jack Jack. God has blessed us in so many ways, and we strive daily to make a difference in others’ lives. Together, we enjoy spending time with family, doing projects around the house, and cheering for the Aggies- Gig ‘Em! |
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Megan Matos, MS, SLP |
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Megan joined the Kidz Therapeze team in August of 2011 after graduating with a master of science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Adelphi University in New York. Megan received a bachelor of arts degree in Psychology, specializing in developmental psychology and cognitive neuroscience, from New York University in 2006. She experienced working with kids on the autism spectrum as well as those using augmentative and alternative communication.
In her free time, Megan enjoys spending time with her husband and son, cooking, and watching the New York Yankees and the Giants! |
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Kim Franken, MS, CCC/SLP |
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I was born and raised in Missouri. I received both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Central Missouri. I recently moved to Hutto, TX and LOVE living in Texas so far! I enjoy working with kids of all ages and seeing all of the accomplishments they achieve!
I am very excited to be working at Kidz Therapeze! During my graduate program, I had clinicals in a clinic setting, school setting, and hospital setting working with individuals of all ages. In my spare time, I enjoy hanging out with my family and shopping! |
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Therapy Dogs |
Lexi |
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Chief |
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Hi, my name is Chief. I was adopted by Tammy Renaud from Golden Beginnings Golden Retriever Rescue (www.gbgrr.org). I am a 6 year old Golden Retriever/Saluki mix. My mom tells me I am a therapy dog, and that I help kids with special needs. I just like to think of myself as "the boss". I LOVE MY JOB!!
The best part of my day is hearing the kids say "Chief is here!" or getting treats from the kids. Playing with kids is what makes me the happiest. I love to greet them and give them kisses. But I also like snuggle and play time with them. Mom keeps telling me I have the easy life…I think it's more like the BEST LIFE!! |
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