Axis - Ankeny | Axis Therapy Centers

Axis – Ankeny

Phone: (515) 261-2402

info@myaxistherapy.com

220 W 1st Street

Suite 100

Ankeny, Iowa 50023

Services Available

Social Skills Groups

Speech Therapy

Feeding Therapy

ABA Therapy

Parent Training

Occupational Therapy

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

Kallie Ruggieri

M.Ed., BCBA, LBA

Ankeny Clinic Supervisor

Certified Professional Crisis Management Instructor

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Kallie’s Bio

Kelsie Leshen

MSOT, OTR/L

Certified Occupational Therapist / OT Supervisor

Kelsie’s Bio

Casey Smith

M.A., CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

SLP Supervisor

Casey’s Bio

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)

Sydney Adkins

B.S., BCaBA, LBA

Ankeny Technician Supervisor

Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Sydney’s Bio

Moira Green

M.A., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Moira’s Bio

Brittany HORNOR

M.A., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Brittany’s Bio

Miranda Greathouse

M.S., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Miranda’s Bio

Occupational TherapistS

Kaitlyn Munsterman

Certified Occupational Therapist

Kaitlyn’s Bio

Madison Sears

COTA

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

Madison’s Bio

Lydia Jorgensen

COTA Student

Lydia’s Bio

Speech Therapists

Lexi Myli

M.A., CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Lexi’s Bio

Andrea McFalls

SLP Intern

Andrea’s Bio

Jacey Zangerle

M.A., CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Jacey’s Bio

Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs)

Tori

Registered Behavior Technician

Clinic Assistant

Tori’s Bio

Callie

Registered Behavior Technician

Clinic Assistant

Lead CPR Instructor

Callie’s Bio

Carina

Registered Behavior Technician

Carina’s Bio

Callie S.

Registered Behavior Technician

Callie’s Bio

Tré

Registered Behavior Technician

RBT Trainer

Tré’s Bio

Addie

Registered Behavior Technician

Addie’s Bio

Toni

Registered Behavior Technician

Trainee

Toni’s Bio

Jennifer

Registered Behavior Technician

BT Mentor

Jennifer’s Bio

Denise

Registered Behavior Technician

RBT Trainer

Translator

Denise’s Bio

Vanessa

Registered Behavior Technician

RBT Trainer

Vanessa’s Bio

Miranda

Registered Behavior Technician

RBT Trainer

Miranda’s Bio

Jade

Registered Behavior Technician

RBT Trainer

Jade’s Bio

Sara

Registered Behavior Technician

Sara’s Bio

Jenna

Registered Behavior Technician

Jenna’s Bio

Addison

Registered Behavior Technician

Addison’s Bio

Ella

Registered Behavior Technician

Ella’s Bio

Mercedes

Registered Behavior Technician

Mercedes’ Bio

Briana

Behavior Technician

Briana’s Bio

Grady

Registered Behavior Technician

Grady’s Bio

Haleigh

Registered Behavior Technician

Haleigh’s Bio

Emily

Registered Behavior Technician

Emily’s Bio

Carlee

Behavior Technician

Carlee’s Bio

Retine

Behavior Technician

Retine’s Bio

Kaltumo

Behavior Technician

Jaedyn’s Bio

Brooke

Behavior Technician

Brooke’s Bio

Shyann

Behavior Technician

Shyann’s Bio

Ankeny ADMIN Team

Alli Fisher

Ankeny Clinic Coordinator

Lead Clinic Coordinator

Alli’s Bio

Ashley Rungee

Ankeny Scheduler

Ashley’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

Kami McDonough

Human Resources Specialist

Kami’s Bio

Christine Villalobos

Lead Billing Specialist

Chirstine’s Bio

Tamira Fitzjohn

Billing Specialist

Tamira’s Bio

Charlise Williams

Billing Specialist

Charlise’s Bio

Ashley March

Talent Acquisition

Ashley’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.

Kallie 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. Kallie is the Site Supervisor of our Ankeny location, and is a part of Axis’ Ethics Committee. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Iowa State University, majoring in Criminal Justice and Sociology, and received her Master of Education degree in the Foundations of Behavior Analysis through the University of Cincinnati.

Kallie has experience working with challenging behaviors in a residential setting with youth ages 0 to 17, and also experience working with students in the Intensive Behavior Support classroom in a school setting. Through the many kids she has gotten the privilege of knowing over the years, Kallie has found her passion for working with children with different needs, and helping them become successful at home, school, and in the community. In her free time, Kallie enjoys biking, running, trying new restaurants, and traveling.

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.

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.

Sydney is the ABA Supervisor for our Ankeny clinic. She is a a Board Certified assistant Behavior Analyst credentialed through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Child, Adult, and Family Services at Iowa State University. Sydney values every relationship she has with the children she works with and loves watching them grow as an individual. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, and doing DIY projects.

Moira is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst credentialed through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Iowa State University in 2021, majoring in Kinesiology and Health as well as a Master of Arts in Special Education with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis degree from Arizona State University in 2023. Moira has always loved working with kids and has found a passion in her work at Axis. She loves celebrating the successes of her clients every day, both big and small. In her free time, she enjoys staying active, reading and spending time her cat, Jude. Moira is very happy to be part of the Axis Family and enjoys growing along with the wonderful individuals who come through the doors of Axis!

Brittany is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst credentialed through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. She received her bachelor of science degree in Psychology at Iowa State University and her master’s degree in applied behavior analysis with an emphasis in autism through Ball State University. She loves working with children and watching them succeed in their everyday lives. In Brittany’s free time, she enjoys being with friends and family, grabbing an iced coffee, spending time with her cat, as well as helping grow and raise her family’s show pig herd.

Miranda graduated in 2022 from Grand View University with a major in Psychology and Criminal Justice and a minor in Sociology. She plans to explore her love of helping children by advancing in her new career at Axis. Miranda has spent years in childcare settings as her mother ran a daycare in her home and Miranda also worked at DMACC’s Prairie Trail childcare facility entertaining children while their parents worked out. Miranda spends her free time playing volleyball, coaching volleyball, and spending time with her big family of 6 older siblings and loving her spoiled cats!

Destiny Y West Des Moines Behavior TEchnician

Kaitlyn is an Occupational Therapist certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and licensed in the state of Iowa. After completing her undergraduate at Grand View University and receiving a bachelor's degree in psychology and kinesiology, she went to Drake University for her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. Since she was 18, she has loved working with children and adolescents with many different diagnoses and settings. She has spent time in daycare settings, group sessions, and one-on-one support. When she is not at work, she will spend time with family and friends, get outdoors, play sports and games, read, and travel! Kaitlyn is excited to join the therapy team at Axis and collaborate with children and their families to support them in achieving goals in a fun way to increase their independence!

Madison is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant licensed in the state of Iowa. She completed her education at Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo, Iowa. During her academic career and work experience, she developed a passion for helping others succeed and reach their own personal goals. In high school, Madison volunteered at her local elementary school and had the opportunity to engage with children of all ages. She developed interest in pediatrics due to the endless opportunities to be able to positively influence children while incorporating functional play. Madison has experience with pediatrics, outpatient, and long-term care. She is most excited to help children become the best, most confident version of themselves! When Madison is not working, she enjoys being outside with her dog, hiking and spending time with her friends and family.

Lydia is currently a senior at Union Adventist University in Lincoln, Nebraska. She is studying to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant. Lydia is in her final semester of college and is very excited to graduate in May of 2026 to continue forming her passion for occupational therapy. From a very young age, Lydia has always enjoyed helping people and watching them succeed in their goals. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and dog, shopping, and doing anything outside. Lydia is very excited to join the Axis team!

Lexi is a Speech-Language Pathologist licensed in the state of Iowa. She received her bachelor’s degree in Linguistics from Iowa State University and her master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Northern Iowa. Lexi has experience with children of all ages and various diagnoses. She has experience in a variety of settings including clinic, school, hospital, and private practice. Lexi lives in Des Moines with her roommate and during her free time, she likes to read, workout, and visit with friends and family. Lexi is excited to be a part of the Axis team!

Andrea is in her final semester of graduate school through Maryville University in St. Louis, MO. She is studying to become a Speech-Language Pathologist. Andrea is very excited to graduate in August of 2026 and continue helping children with their speech and language. Andrea's passion comes from helping her own children with their speech and language and wants to help others the way that so many have helped her family. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies and hanging out with her 4 children and husband.

Jacey is a Speech-Language Pathologist certified by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association and licensed by the state of Iowa. She received her 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. Jacey has experience working with kids of all ages and a wide range of diagnoses within the educational setting. She enjoys making good relationships with clients and their families and has a passion for helping kids find and use their voice. In her free time, she enjoys going on walks with her dog, Oakley, spending time with her friends and family, running, country concerts, traveling, and spending time outside. Jacey is excited to be part of the Axis team!

Tori graduated from Western Iowa Tech Community College with her Associates of Arts Degree in Psychology. She attended Iowa State University and obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice. She has previous experience working with children in a residential setting. In her free time, Tori likes going for runs, playing pickleball, and spending time with friends.

Callie is currently a senior at Iowa State University, majoring in Human Development and Family Studies. She has always enjoyed being around kids and loves getting to be a positive light in their lives. She has over 8 years of experience working with children in a variety of settings. In her free time, you can find her spending time with friends or family, taking naps, going to concerts, or playing with her dog, Milo. Callie is excited to become part of the Axis family and grow in her professional career!

Carina is currently a sophomore at DMACC, majoring in Psychology. She brings three years of experience in childcare, including two years working specifically with children on the autism spectrum. She is passionate, outgoing, and enjoys bringing joy to others through her vibrant personality. In her free time, she expresses her creativity through painting, singing, and dancing, often performing in informal shows. Carina is enthusiastic about beginning her journey with Axis and is eager to grow and succeed in her chosen field.

Callie comes to us with over 8 years' experience in childcare. She has a passion for working with children and loves to help them learn and grow. She is excited about this position at Axis and to be a part of each child’s unique learning journey. In her free time, she likes to read, binge a good show, or spend time with friends and family. She is ready to see what this experience has in store for her.

Tre discovered his passion for working with children while tutoring elementary students in reading and math skills while attending Iowa State University. Since then, he has worked with children in many different capacities. He has been a track and football coach in the Des Moines Metro area, a 4-Hprogram assistant/intern for both Iowa State University and The University of Minnesota, and a Special Education Associate. In his free time, Tre likes to be at the gym, with his younger siblings, or just watching movies with his cat Oliver.

Addie is a senior at Iowa State University majoring in Human Development and Family Studies. After graduation, she plans to continue working with children! She always wanted to work with children, she loves getting to see them grow and learn new things and being able to help them get to that point. In her free time, she enjoys spending weekends at the lake with her boyfriend and family, and golfing at different golf courses!

Toni graduated from the University of Iowa in 2023 and has 4 years' experience working with children and adults with special needs. She is currently completing her master's degree in applied Behavior Analysis from Purdue Global University. In her free time, Toni loves being outdoors and playing with her two dogs. She has also recently taken up a new hobby of golfing and is solely getting better over time!

Jennifer currently attends William Penn University, majoring in psychology. Following completion of her bachelor's degree, she plans to continue further her education and work towards a master's degree in education. Jennifer has always loved working with children and helping them grow their confidence in education and in life.

Denise has experience working in special education as an associate with children in grades K-6. She finds it incredibly rewarding to witness each child's growth and celebrate their achievements. Outside of work, she's a proud mom of three boys, so she spends much of her free time at playgrounds with her youngest and attending practices and games with her oldest, cheering them on.

Vanessa has been working with children since the age of 14. She has always had a passion to help kiddos be the best that they can be and get the most out of every day. She loves watching them grow and learn. Since moving to the Ankeny area, Vanessa has worked at daycares and was a nanny for 4 years. Vanessa feels that Axis is the perfect fit for her to be able to make a difference!

Miranda graduated from Des Moines Area Community College with her Associates of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts. She has worked in childcare for 9 years and is excited to expand her horizons in helping kids learn and grow in new ways. She strives to have an impact on each child’s life and being a safe space. In her free time, Miranda enjoys going on walks, reading, and hanging out with friends.

Jade attended Des Moines Area Community College and received her certificate in Photography. She has also worked in childcare for 10 years and loves helping and watching the kids grow and reach all of their milestones. Jade is excited for her new journey with Axis and feels that it is a good place for her to continue with her love of helping, while also getting the chance to learn with the kids as well. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, watching superhero movies, painting, and babysitting.

Sara recently graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. She is currently working on getting her Master's Degree in Psychology. Sara has previous experience working at a camp for kids with special needs and as a paraprofessional in an elementary school. In her free time, Sara likes to spend time with friends and family, go to concerts, and spend time outdoors.

Jenna recently relocated to Ankeny from the small town of Keota, bringing with her over six years of experience in early childhood education through her work at a YMCA childcare center. After her time in childcare, she transitioned into a role as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), where she provided care and support for adults with varying needs. She is a dedicated mother to a nine-year-old, with whom she enjoys exploring a variety of activities. Jenna is also an avid animal lover and currently cares for a unique mix of pets, including a cat, two axolotls, a crayfish, and four goldfish. She is enthusiastic about this new chapter in her career and looks forward to the opportunities it brings.

Addison came to Axis with a year and a half experience in the ABA field and has loved every minute of it. She enjoys working with children because it is one of the most rewarding jobs and seeing them succeed is a favorite part of the work. In free time, Addison enjoys spending time with a dog and watching podcasts.

Ella is currently completing her final semester at DMACC, where she is majoring in Early Childhood Education. After graduation, she plans to further her career in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. In her free time, She enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, and being with friends and family.

Recently relocated to the Altoona area from a small town in northern Iowa, Mercedes brings a strong background in early childhood education and youth mentorship. She has served as an associate working with Preschool and Kindergarten students in an elementary school setting and has also coached high school cheerleading. Her passion lies in supporting children's growth and development, and she finds great fulfillment in contributing positively to their learning journeys. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending quality time with her boyfriend and their families. Her hobbies include attending concerts, painting, coloring, and shopping, which allow her to express her creativity and unwind.

Briana is originally from a small town in Georgia and has been passionate about working with children for as long as she can remember. What began with babysitting at the age of seven evolved into years of hands-on experience as a nanny and early childhood educator across a variety of settings, including preschools and childcare centers. Briana has worked with children of all ages and backgrounds, and each one has left a lasting impression on her heart. Outside of work, she enjoys immersing herself in movies, TV shows, video games, and a good book.

Grady graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in German and linguistics. He joined the team with eight years of experience working with kids, including four years as an elementary school special education associate. His time in the schools made him realize he wanted to focus his work on students with autism. His dedication to serving his community extends from his work to his personal life. From volunteering at a bird rehabilitation facility to identifying and measuring trees for the DNR's Big Tree Program, Grady is heavily involved in nature conservation in Iowa. In his free time, he wanders public land looking for ancient mounds and wildlife.

Haleigh Hobbs is a Registered Behavior Technician with experience supporting children in a variety of settings. She has worked in ABA therapy, childcare, behavioral health, and direct support roles. Haleigh chose this position because of her passion for creating positive, supportive environments where children can thrive. She enjoys building meaningful connections with children and their families. She believes in using kindness, patience, and evidence-based strategies to promote growth and independence. Haleigh is currently receiving her degree in Justice and Human Services from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and has a goal to get her Masters in Applied Behavioral Analysis. In her free time, Haleigh enjoys baking, spending time with her friends and family, and relaxing with her cats.

Emily earned her bachelor’s degree through Central College and has worked in the behavioral health field. She realized she missed working with kids and is excited to return to that setting. Emily brings a lot of drive and has always enjoyed working with little ones. In her spare time, you’ll find her drawing or playing DnD.

Carlee is currently at Des Moines Area Community College working towards her associates of arts in Psychology. She has worked with kids from the ages of 6 months - 8 years old for the last 4 years and wants to continue to make an impact on children's lives. She enjoys being around friends, going to concerts, and being outside.

Retine is a compassionate, dedicated, and positive individual with a strong passion for supporting children and their well-being. She has a natural ability to connect with others and create a warm, safe, and encouraging environment. Making people smile comes naturally to her and brings her genuine joy. She takes pride in being dependable and uplifting, and is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves through compassion, positivity, and genuine support.

Kaltumo is passionate about supporting individuals with autism in reaching their full potential. She previously worked with adults on the autism spectrum, where she gained experience in behavior support, communication development, and promoting independence. She is excited to now work with children and bring patience, compassion, and a strengths-based approach to help them grow and thrive.

Brooke brings over 10 years of experience working with children from infancy through 8th grade. She holds an Associate’s degree in Health Administration and plans to return to school to further her education. Additionally, she has over a year of experience supporting individuals with special needs through respite care. In her free time, Brooke enjoys spending time with her children, taking spontaneous day trips, and attending concerts and sporting events.

Shyann come to us with over 5 years of experience working with children. She discovered her passion for childcare through babysitting during her childhood and eventually chose to pursue nannying full time. She has enjoyed working one-on-one with families while also gaining experience in larger childcare settings. Shyann loves engaging with children, helping them learn new life skills, and celebrating each milestone along the way.

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.

Ashley is the Scheduler for our Ankeny clinic. Prior to transitioning to this role, she spent over a year as an RBT with Axis! When not at work, she is running her two daughters to dance or show choir practices. Ashley lives in Ankeny with her husband, two daughters, and two German shepherds (Sherlock and Watson). She enjoys reading mystery books and adding rhinestones to everything!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ashley has a deep passion for supporting both people and purpose-driven organizations. Her career in the ABA field began nearly 10 years ago when she started as a Registered Behavior Technician, where she quickly fell in love with the work and the impact it has on children and families. That hands-on experience continues to shape how she approaches her work today. Ashley holds a bachelor's degree in human resource management and brings over 8.5 years of experience in the ABA field across recruiting, intake, outreach, and marketing. This well-rounded background allows her to understand the full continuum of care, from the first family inquiry to building strong clinical teams. She is passionate about creating thoughtful, people-centered processes and believes that strong culture and meaningful relationships are the foundation of successful organizations. When Ashley found Axis Therapy Centers, she knew it was a place where her passion for the ABA field and her commitment to helping others could continue to grow. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and son, staying active at the gym, listening to podcasts, and cooking or baking for friends and family. She also enjoys unwinding with the latest reality TV shows, and yes, she’s known to appreciate a good Taylor Swift playlist along the way.