Axis - Ames | Axis Therapy Centers

Axis – AMES

Phone: (515) 337-0343

info@myaxistherapy.com

1315 S Bell Ave.

Suite 108

Ames, Iowa 50010

Services Available

ABA Therapy

Speech Therapy

Feeding Therapy

Occupational Therapy

Parent & Caregiver Training

Social Skills Groups

Our online Intake Form is created to help our team understand your interest in services. Submitting the form creates a profile for your child and adds them to the waitlist based off of the services that you have indicated an interest in. Availability for services is always changing as we rapidly work to meet the needs of the communities that we serve. We look forward to meeting your family and contacting you with availability as it may arise. Please note that wait times depend on many factors and we may not be able to provide estimates for wait times at all locations. If you have any questions, we are happy to assist

Online Intake Form

DirectorS

Kristin Hanson

M.A., BCBA, LBA

CEO / Executive Director

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Kristin’s Bio

Kylie Wheeler

M.S., BCBA, LBA

Ames Clinic Supervisor

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Kylie’s Bio

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)

Jordan Lillard

M.S., BCBA, LBA

Ames Fieldwork Supervisor

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Jordan’s Bio

Dakotah Overton

M.S., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Dakotah’s Bio

Meggie Drietz

M.S., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Meggie’s Bio

Occupational Therapists

Kelsie Leshen

MSOT, OTR/L

Certified Occupational Therapist

OT Supervisor

Kelsie’s Bio

Haley Austin

OTD, OTR/L

Certified Occupational Therapist

Haley’s Bio

Emily Weber

COTA

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

Emily’s Bio

Speech Therapists

Casey Smith

M.A., CCC-SLP

Registered Behavior Technician

Yasmine’s Bio

Bennett S.

Registered Behavior Technician

Trainee

RBT Trainer

Bennett’s Bio

Lisa P.

Registered Behavior Technician

Clinic Assistant

Lisa’s Bio

Tori L.

Registered Behavior Technician

Clinic Assistant

RBT Trainer

Tori’s Bio

Holly C.

Behavior Technician

Holly’s Bio

Paige B.

Registered Behavior Technician

Paige’s Bio

Jessa S.

Registered Behavior Technician

Jessa’s Bio

Laura M.

Registered Behavior Technician

Laura’s Bio

Renee J.

Registered Behavior Technician

BT Mentor

RBT Trainer

Renee’s Bio

Mercedes D.

Registered Behavior Technician

Mercedes’s Bio

Saribel O.

Registered Behavior Technician

Registered Behavior Technician

Kaitlin’s Bio

Trinity W.

Behavior Technician

Trinity’s Bio

Ames ADMIN Team

Alli Fisher

Ames Clinic Coordinator

Lead Clinic Coordinator

Alli’s Bio

Hailey Davis

Ames Scheduler

Hailey’s Bio

Candy Gaedke

Clinic Coordinator Supervisor

Lead Facilities & Maintenance Manager

Candy’s Bio

Genna LeRoy

Clinical Scheduler Supervisor

Genna’s Bio

Kayla Cornelius

ABA Authorization Coordinator

Kayla’s Bio

Myra Adams

OT & Speech Authorization Coordinator

Myra’s Bio

Kim hennick

Client Benefits & Services Coordinator

Kim’s Bio

Christine Villalobos

Lead Billing Specialist

Chirstine’s Bio

Charlise Williams

Billing Specialist

Charlise’s Bio

Tamira Fitzjohn

Billing Specialist

Tamira’s Bio

Kami McDonough

Human Resources Specialist

Kami’s Bio

Landon D.

Ames Facility Cleaner

Landon’s Bio

Join Our Team

Axis is always looking for highly-motivated, passionate, and energetic individuals to join our team!

Apply Today

Kristin Hanson is an accomplished Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA), and the Founder, CEO, Owner, and Clinical Director of Axis Therapy Centers. With over 15 years of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Kristin is a visionary leader known for driving organizational growth, fostering a culture of excellence, and championing client-centered, evidence-based care.

Kristin holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Grand View University and a master’s degree in child and adolescent psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Her clinical expertise is rooted in the early detection and intervention of autism spectrum disorder, with advanced training in administering the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and evaluating young children for autism.

Since founding Axis Therapy Centers in 2017, Kristin has built a thriving, multi-location organization committed to serving children and families with autism and special needs. Under her leadership, Axis has grown into a dynamic and supportive clinical environment focused on continuous learning and meaningful outcomes. She is especially passionate about mentoring and training the next generation of ABA professionals, emphasizing clinical integrity, ethical practice, and skillful implementation of behavior-analytic principles.

Kristin actively collaborates with schools, educators, and families to create individualized, inclusive support plans, and strongly values parent and caregiver involvement as a cornerstone of successful treatment. Her empowering leadership style has contributed to high staff retention and a culture rooted in purpose, compassion, and impact.

In addition to her clinical and executive work, Kristin serves on several statewide and national committees. She is a Board Member of the Autism Society of Iowa, a member of the Autism Expert Panel for the Iowa Regional Autism Assistance Program, and Co-Chair of the Council of Autism Providers Special Advocacy Group for Iowa. She also contributes to the Council of Autism Providers Marketing and Recruitment Committee and is actively involved with the Iowa Association for Behavior Analysis and Autism Speaks Iowa.

Kristin is committed to lifelong learning and personal growth, continually engaging in advanced leadership training, mentorship, and self-development. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, reading, listening to podcasts, attending concerts, and golfing.

Kylie is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst credentialed through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board and a Licensed Behavior Analyst under the Iowa Board of Behavioral Science. Kylie is the Clinic Supervisor of our Ames location. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology through Iowa State University, and her Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis through Saint Joseph’s University. Prior to joining the Axis team, Kylie had experience working with children in the field of mental health, ages 10 to 17; and experience in the school setting working with elementary to middle school aged students. After having several years of experience working with children, Kylie got to know more about Applied Behavior Analysis and saw the positive changes in behavior ABA services provide. Kylie enjoys biking, running, and being outdoors in the summer time. She loves to visit new places and spend time with family and friends.

Jordan serves as the ABA Supervisor at the Ames location. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst credentialed through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board and a Licensed Behavior Analyst under the Iowa Board of Behavioral Science. With a bachelor’s degree in genetics from Iowa State University and a master’s degree in psychology with a concentration in applied behavior analysis from Eastern Kentucky University, Jordan's educational background provides a strong foundation for her work in behavior analysis.

Jordan has clinical experience in early intervention ABA, with a focus on problem behavior management and neurodiversity-affirming therapy. As a Credentialed Professional in Practical Functional Assessment (PFA) and Skill-Based Treatment (SBT) of Severe Problem Behavior, she is well-equipped to handle complex cases and develop effective treatment plans.

Her professional philosophy centers on neurodiversity-affirming therapy, emphasizing a person-centered approach. Jordan is passionate about naturalistic teaching methods, ensuring that therapy sessions are engaging and meaningful for clients. As someone who is also neurodivergent, she is deeply committed to providing compassionate care with the highest level of quality possible. Her dedication to understanding and supporting neurodiverse individuals is at the core of her work at Axis Therapy Centers.

Jordan is also passionate about training new technicians and supporting those in graduate school working towards BCBA certification. She strives to foster a supportive learning environment and mentor the next generation of behavior analysts.

Outside of her professional role, Jordan enjoys spending time with family and friends and learning more about ABA, autism, and neurodiversity.

Dakotah is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst credentialed through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Services and Psychology from William Penn University and her Master of Science degree in Applied Behavior Analysis through The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. When she is not working, she loves spending time with her husband, daughter, and two dogs (Mable and Oaklie). She enjoys being outside, going on walks, watching movies and spending time with family and friends.

Meggie is a Registered Behavior Technician credentialed through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. She has her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Special Education from Mount Mercy University. She has previously taught as a Special Education teacher for Kindergarten and First grade as well as a General Education teacher for First grade. Meggie lives in Ames with her husband and two little boys. She enjoys working with kids, and getting to help them learn and grow.

Kelsie is a registered and licensed Occupational Therapist whose clinical experience has centered around the pediatric population with an emphasis on children with autism spectrum disorder. Kelsie attended Grand View University where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She then attended Allen University where she obtained her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. Kelsie is a trained professional of the SOS Approach to Feeding and has also completed continuing education on MRNI Dynamic and Postural Reflex Integration. In her free time, Kelsie enjoys spending time with her husband and family, camping, fishing, watching movies, listening to podcasts and traveling.

Haley is an occupational therapist certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. She graduated from Drake University with her occupational therapy doctorate degree (OTD). Haley also graduated from Grand View University with her Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology and was a member of the GVU competitive dance team (Go Vikings!). Haley's passion for working with kids started through working as a rehabilitation technician and interning for an adaptive sports organization while she was in college. Outside of work, Haley enjoys coaching dance team, going to concerts, traveling, hiking, going on walks, baking, and puzzles! Haley also enjoys spending time with her husband and their dog Archie, and two cats, Maeve and Nova, as well as her family and friends. Haley is thrilled to be part of the therapy team at Axis Therapy Centers and aims to make a positive impact on the Ames community by helping local children and their families reach their full potential and meet their goals.

Destiny Y West Des Moines Behavior TEchnician

Emily is a Certified and Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant. She graduated from Indian Hills Community College with her Occupational Therapy Assistant degree. Emily’s love for working with kids began at a young age with babysitting and teaching dance. In her free time Emily likes to go to country concerts, do her nails, go to the gym, crochet, and go on walks. During the summer Emily spends her free time on the lake wake-surfing or swimming. Emily enjoys hanging out with her family and friends, as well as her two-family dogs.

Casey is the Lead Speech-Language Pathologist and Speech-Language Pathology supervisor at Axis, certified by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association and licensed by the state of Iowa. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and a Master of Arts degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Northern Iowa. From her time as a student clinician until now, Casey has had experience working with a wide range of clients, including children of all ages in both educational and clinical settings. However, her passion is serving children with autism and their families. Casey’s voice has always been important to her; and now, it is her ambition to “give a voice” to kids that need one, whether that be through expanding their verbal communication or through the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Outside of work, Casey loves spending as much time as possible with her husband and two children. She enjoys spending time outdoors, exercising, singing, watching movies, eating good food, and participating in her local church.

Tatum is a Registered Behavior Technician credentialed through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. She’s currently a student at Iowa State University currently majoring in Human Development and Family Studies. She has a passion for working with children and adults with disabilities on everyday needs. She loves helping children of all ages to make progress in achieving meaningful life goals and helping them to learn and grow. In Tatum’s spare time you can find her actively involved with her church, listening to music, hanging out with friends, and going to the beach.

Emma is a student at Iowa State University. She is majoring in psychology with a minor in human development and family studies. Her goal post-graduation involves working towards becoming a BCBA. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, boating, and attending country concerts! She is so excited to work with the children and families at Axis Therapy.

JJ is currently a Behavior Technician Intern and student at Iowa State University, majoring in Human Development and Family Studies, after first receiving her associate degree in psychology from Des Moines Area Community College. Prior to joining the Axis team, JJ worked as a Direct Support Professional at a nonprofit that served adults with disabilities with their everyday tasks in their homes, and then as the Program Coordinator of an organization dedicated to helping and supporting individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities to work, learn, play, and grow in the community. She now has the experience, passion, and drive to continue being a supporter of positive changes and outcomes for people with disabilities. When JJ is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and her dog, along with traveling, watching old movies, and going to concerts.

Katie recently graduated from Liberty University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. She has worked with children in various roles and has loved getting to witness their growth and development in all areas of life. In Katie's free time, you can usually find her hanging out with family and friends, volunteering at her church, baking a new recipe she found, or dancing around her home. She is excited about the opportunity to serve the children and families at Axis Therapy Center.

Yasmine is an online graduate student at Grand Canyon University. She is studying clinical mental health counseling with a specialization in child and adolescent disorders, with the goal of becoming a child and adolescent therapist. She has over a year combined experience as an RBT. In her rare free time, she enjoys spending time with her two children who are five and three, listening to audiobooks, or catching up on her favorite tv shows. Yasmine’s experience with children with ASD is both professional and personal since one of her children is diagnosed with ASD. She is excited to work with Axis families and help make a difference in their lives.

Bennett is currently a senior at Iowa State University studying Psychology. He hopes to become a Clinical Psychologist to work on research to better understand ASD and ADHD, along with improved ways of treating them. Bennett has been working with children for the past 8 years and has learned more and more from them at each position he has held. He is very excited to work with Axis and be a part of the team that works so hard to help change the kiddos' lives for the better. When he is not working, he really enjoys going to the gym, doing any outdoor activities, and spending time with friends.

Lisa has experience as a childcare provider, with a background in both classroom and nanny settings. She is committed to empowering children to reach their full potential and find joy in their learning journey. In her free time, she likes to read, go for walks, and try new Pinterest recipes.

Tori has a passion for working with children and has been working with them for the last 6 years as a Lead Preschool Teacher at a daycare center, previously in other centers, and nannying. In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time outside with her family.

Holly graduated from Iowa State University with a bachelor's degree in psychology. She has a passion for working with kids and encouraging their creativity, positive thinking, and ability to reach goals. Outside of work Holly enjoys spending time with friends, crafting, and cooking new recipes.

Paige is a junior at Iowa State University pursuing a degree in Psychology. She has a passion for helping and supporting others. Paige loves to work with children of any age to help build on skills and provide impactful growth. In her spare time, Paige can be found playing rugby, in the gym, or reading a book.

Jessa currently resides in Ames. She enjoys working with children and has a passion for helping them learn and grow. She loves to taking on new challenges and learning. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music, reading a book or relaxing at home.

Laura has a bachelor's in communication studies with a double minor in Leadership Studies and Dance. Laura has a huge soft spot for working with children to help guide them to living their most authentic and best lives. She is super excited to embark on this new journey here at Axis, to be able to grow as an RBT and build new connections with other team members! In Laura’s free time she likes to listen to music, watch true crime, hang out with friends, camping, go on new adventures, and play with her cat Potato Chip!

Renee is a current student at Iowa State University, pursing a Bachelor of Science degree Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. During her free time, she enjoys yoga, traveling, photography, fishing, and spending time with friends and family!

Mercedes graduated with her Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Iowa State University and is excited to begin her journey at Axis. Mercedes is most looking forward to creating a lasting impact in children's lives through ABA therapy. In Mercedes' free time she spends her time walking, kayaking, and playing fetch with her two Australian shepherds.

Saribel is a recent graduate of Iowa State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. She brings valuable experience from her previous role as a Direct Support Professional, supporting adults with intellectual disabilities in their daily living environments. Saribel is passionate about contributing to the growth and development of children and is excited to be part of their progress at Axis. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, crocheting, and shopping.

Lauren is a recent graduate of Iowa State University, where she earned a degree in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology. Her passion for working with children began at an early age and continues to drive her professional aspirations. Lauren is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in children's lives by helping them develop new skills they can carry into the real world. Outside of work, Lauren enjoys quality time with family and friends, taking her dog on walks, discovering new places, and reading.

Alison loves working with children and helping them excel. She hopes to further her education in the future and aspires to help others. In her free time, Alison likes to take her dog to the park or for a walk and expects to start fostering animals.

Grace loves working with children and helping them reach their goals. She is currently studying Kinesiology at Iowa State University and plans to become an Occupational Therapist. Grace is passionate about creating a positive and supportive environment where children feel encouraged and confident as they grow. She is excited to continue learning and making a meaningful impact in the lives of the children she works with.

Jenny is a current student at Iowa State University majoring in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. Her aspiration is to become a mental health counselor for kids and adolescents. Her favorite thing about working with kids is being there to support and celebrate moments that may feel small to them but are meaningful towards their goals. In her free time, she enjoys reading, being outdoors, and watching soccer games with her family.

Lauren has a bachelor's degree in human development and family studies from Iowa State University, and three years of experience at a nonprofit providing group care for children from infancy through 5th grade. She is passionate about creating positive, welcoming environments where children feel supported and safe. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, game nights, and spending time with friends and family.

Kaitlin is currently pursuing her nursing degree at Nightingale College. Upon completing her BSN, she plans to continue on to earn her MSN, with a focus on adolescent mental health. For the past year and a half, she has worked as an Assistant Director and preschool teacher, specializing in behavior intervention within the classroom. Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, Kaitlin is a devoted mom to three wonderful children, one of whom has ASD. In her free time, she enjoys reading, baking, and exploring state parks with her kids.

Trinity is currently studying Criminology through The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Once she graduates, she plans to continue her education to get her master’s degree in Forensic Psychology. Before joining Axis, Trinity worked with children with autism. She then decided that helping kids is what she is made to do! In her free time, Trinity enjoys doing sudoku, watching shows or reading about true crime, and hanging out with her cat Rex Splode! Trinity is so excited to work with these kids and watch them grow as people!

Alli has experience working with school-aged kids after heading up programming for a local after-school program for many years. She has a passion for working with children with disabilities and is inspired by her younger sister with special needs. In her free time, Alli likes to read, get outdoors, and spend time with her husband and daughter.

Hailey is our Ames Scheduler. Prior to this role, she worked as an RBT for over three years. Her background brings a deep understanding of client-centered care and a commitment to helping individuals with autism reach their full potential. Outside of work, Hailey enjoys spending quality time with her dogs, savoring a good cup of coffee, filling her home with many plants, and exploring the beauty of nature. She is happily married and values creating meaningful connections with her clients and team.

Candy is our Ames Clinic Coordinator. She has her Associate of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education and has worked in the Early Childcare field for 30 years. The past 25 years has been in administration in childcare. Candy’s passion and focus has been coaching and educating teachers on Positive Behavior Interventions and quality care. It has also been very important to her that children and families feel valued and heard. She believes that collaboration and clear communication between families and providers is key to helping children succeed. Candy enjoys living in her small town of Colo, having get-togethers with her extended family, spending lots of time with her 3 grandchildren and binge-watching shows with her husband and dog.

Genna is our Lead Clinical Scheduler. She likes reading thrillers, doing crafts, and hanging out with her two cattle dogs, Spork & Goose. In her free time, she also likes going to concerts and football games with her husband.

Kayla is the Authorization Coordinator for Axis. She now works remotely for all locations after having previously held the Clinic Coordinator role in both Ankeny and West Des Moines. She came to us with several years of insurance and customer services experience. Kayla decided she wanted to be in a field where she could work with children after working in her small-town public library as their director where she planned all the activities for toddler time and their summer reading program. Kayla lives in Maxwell, IA with her husband and their 7 children. In her free time, Kayla enjoys her kids’ activities or just being home on the farm with a good book and country music.

Myra recently graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology, minoring in Criminal Justice. In her free time, she likes to hang out with friends and family, spend time with her husband and two cats, and find cute coffee shops to hang out at!

Kim is our Ankeny Clinic Coordinator. She is the one that will greet you in the lobby, walk you through the intake process, and communicate any location updates. She is a Missouri native that moved to Maxwell in May 2021, sharing life with her significant other, Dennis. She two grown sons of her own who live in the Kansas City area (yes, she is a Chiefs fan!). They have given her two lovely daughters-in-law, and 5 beloved grands (4 silly little girls and one lone prince!). Dennis has three children, 2 grown and on their own, and one teenager that lives with them and has refreshed her memory of grocery shopping for teenagers! In her free time, Kim enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren and gardening. Kim strives to become a well-functioning cog in the wheel that helps Axis continue moving forward in its journey!

Christine has her Bachelor of Business Administration from The University of Iowa. She has many years of client relations experience starting in retail management and most recently in administration for an outpatient mental health office. Christine is passionate about being part of a team that supports providers so providers can offer the best care to their clients. When she’s not cheering on the Hawkeyes with her husband Chris, she enjoys trying out new food venues.

Charlise is a part of the Axis RCM/Billing team. She resides in Detroit, MI, and is currently working toward her associate degree in Registered Health Information Technology. She has been working in the healthcare field for 23 years. Charlise is very passionate about healthcare and goes above and beyond to assist her clients. In her free time, she enjoys reading, watching television, traveling, and family game nights.

Tamira is a part of the Axis RCM/Billing team. She resides in Atlanta, GA, and has had a successful 20-year career in the Medical Billing/Healthcare Administration industry. She completed her comprehensive Medical Billing and Healthcare administration certification in 2006, and then became a member of the (AAPC) The American Academy of Professional Coders and AMBA American Medical Billing Association. Tamira enjoys helping others map out financial responsibility during unfortunate circumstances. She makes it her priority to help families establish payment plans and understand health insurance benefits as it pertains to each individual situation. In her free time, she loves traveling to different beaches, being activate and spending quality time with her two daughters.

Kami is our Human Resources Specialist. Before joining Axis, she spent 23 years at a single organization, where she held a variety of roles, most of which centered around Human Resources. Kami brings experience and passion with a strong commitment to foster positive culture and employee growth. Over her years in HR, she has developed expertise in talent acquisition, employee relations, and performance management. Her approach is combining strategic thinking with empathy and ensuring HR initiatives align with the business goals. Outside of work, you will find her with her husband, cheering on her daughter at high school sporting events.

A proud 2023 graduate of Ames High School, Landon enjoys the simple joys of life, like going on walks, listening to music, and taking relaxing car rides. He is always up for a little adventure, some good tunes, and a vacation. Landon has joined the Axis team as a Facility Cleaner and helps keep the clinic a neat and sound environment for all!