West Des Moines | Axis Therapy Centers

Axis – West Des Moines

Phone: (515) 505-7283

[email protected]

7755 Office Plaza Dr N

Suite #105

West Des Moines, Iowa 50266

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

Clinical Director

Kristin Hanson

M.A., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Axis Clinical Director

Kristin’s Bio

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)

Kelsey Schabold

M.S., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

West Des Moines Clinic Supervisor

Kelsey’s Bio

Kiley Johnson

M.A., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

West Des Moines ABA Supervisor

Kiley’s Bio

MJ Holmes

M.Ed., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

MJ’s Bio

Brooke Wilson

M.S., BCBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Brooke’s Bio

Occupational Therapists

Kelsie Leshen

MSOT, OTR/L

Certified Occupational Therapist / OT Supervisor

Kelsie’s Bio

Jackie Bratt

OTR/L

Certified Occupational Therapist / OT Supervisor

Jakie’s Bio

Kaitlyn Munsterman

Certified Occupational Therapist

Kaitlyn’s Bio

Speech Therapists

Casey Smith

M.A., CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

SLP Supervisor

Casey’s Bio

Amy Dannenfeldt

M.A., CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Amy’s Bio

Katlyn Weber

M.A., CF-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Katlyn’s Bio

Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs)

Gabby R.

Registered Behavior Technician Clinic Assistant

Gabby’s Bio

Taylor W.

Registered Behavior Technician Clinic Assistant

Taylor’s Bio

Brent T.

Registered Behavior Technician

Brent’s Bio

Shayna F.

Registered Behavior Technician

Shayna’s Bio

Kathryn K.

Registered Behavior Technician

Kathryn’s Bio

Kenzie K.

Registered Behavior Technician

Trainee

Kenzie’s Bio

Lauren R.

Registered Behavior Technician

Lauren’s Bio

Brooke C

Registered Behavior Technician

Trainee

Brooke’s Bio

Makenzie J.

Registered Behavior Technician

Makenzie’s Bio

Alexis E.

Behavior Technician

Intern

Alexis’ Bio

Kendra C.

Registered Behavior Technician

Kendra’s Bio

Sami F.

Behavior Technician

Sami’s Bio

Erica L.

Behavior Technician

Erica’s Bio

West Des Moines Clinic coordination Team

Candy Gaedke

Clinic Coordinator Supervisor

Candy’s Bio

Genna Bertram

West Des Moines Scheduler

Lead Clinical Scheduler

Genna’s Bio

Kim Slattery

Human Resources Specialist

Kim’s Bio

RCM / Billing Team

Christine Villalobos

Lead Billing Specialist

Chirstine’s Bio

Tamira Fitzjohn

Billing Specialist

Tamira’s Bio

Kayla Cornelius

Authorization Coordinator

Kayla’s Bio

Charlise Williams

Billing Specialist

Charlise’s Bio

Renea Johnson

Authorization Coordinator

Renea’s Bio

Join Our Team

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

Apply Today

Kristin is the CEO, Founder, and Clinical Director of Axis. 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. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Grand View University, and her Master’s degree in Child and Adolescent Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Most of Kristin's clinical experience has been focused on the early detection and intervention of autism spectrum disorder and specializing in early intervention. She has completed advanced training in the administration of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and has experience testing toddlers and children for autism spectrum disorder. She is on the Board of Directors for the Autism Society of Iowa, on the Autism Expert Panel for the Iowa Regional Autism Assistance Program, and is an active member of the Iowa Association for Behavior Analysis and Autism Speaks Iowa.

Kristin founded Axis in 2017 on her passion for serving children and families living with autism and special needs. Since building Axis side-by-side with her family from the ground up in 2017, Kristin couldn’t be prouder of the team, culture, and organization that it has become. As a family helping families, Axis looks for opportunities that will make the largest impact and create significant and life-changing outcomes for clients, families, and her staff. Kristin is dedicated to the mission of Axis and is committed to her own leadership development and actively participates in advanced training, mentoring, and deep self-exploration on how to live out her purpose to love and support her family and help others reach their full potential.

In her free time, she enjoys going to major league baseball games (Go Cubs and Go Braves!), watching Iowa Hawkeyes football, attending concerts, playing slow pitch softball, volleyball, coaching her children’s sports teams, listening to true crime and leadership podcasts, and spending time with her husband and their three children.

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As the Clinic Supervisor at Axis in West Des Moines and Fort Dodge, Kelsey leads a team of dedicated behavior analysts and therapists, ensuring high standards of clinical practice and personalized care for each client. Kelsey's leadership is characterized by a commitment to ongoing professional development and training, empowering staff to deliver effective and compassionate treatment plans. Passionate about professional development, Kelsey enjoys training and mentoring aspiring behavior analysts, fostering a culture of continuous learning within the field. Currently serving as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and the Clinic Supervisor of the West Des Moines location, Kelsey combines clinical expertise with a compassionate approach, ensuring that each client receives personalized, evidence-based treatment tailed to their unique needs.

With a passion for improving the lives of individuals through applied behavior analysis (ABA), Kelsey brings over 6 years of experience as a BCBA to Axis. Specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorders, Kelsey has dedicated her career to implementing evidence-based interventions and fostering positive behavior change.

Kelsey holds a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Drake University, is certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), and is licensed in the state of Iowa as a Licensed Behavior Analyst and maintains active involvement in professional organizations such as Council of Autism Service Providers (CASP).

Outside of work, Kelsey enjoys spending time with her husband and their two dogs, Professor and Bodhi. You can find them taking hikes, traveling, biking, or sitting around a campfire. Kelsey also enjoys participating in sports, her gym community, and playing the piano.

Kiley 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. Kiley received her Bachelors of Science in Psychology through the University of South Dakota, and her Master’s Degree in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis through Arizona State University.

Kiley has always had a passion for helping children, and being a positive role model in their lives. Kiley lives in Ankeny with her husband, daughter, her dogs (Stella and Beau), and her cat (Pearl). In her free time, she enjoys going to movies, taking her dogs on walks and to the dog park, and spending time with her family and friends.

MJ 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. She received her Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Missouri, a Master’s degree in special education from Central Missouri State University, and a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis through Arizona State University. MJ taught special education for 10 years, and loves celebrating with children as they grow and learn new skills. MJ is an instructor at a local gym and enjoys helping students reach their physical and health goals. In her free time, she enjoys being outside, kayaking, biking, and singing. Her favorite is spending quality time with her husband and two daughters.

Brooke is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certified through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). She has been with Axis at the West Des Moines location since 2021. Brooke has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Iowa State University and a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorder from Capella University. Prior to becoming a BCBA, Brooke was an RBT for 3 years which is where she fell in love with the field of ABA and the population we serve. She specializes in creating personalized behavior intervention plans that promote positive outcomes for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities. Her approach emphasizes collaboration with families and caregivers to ensure consistency and effectiveness in implementing behavior strategies. Beyond her work, Brooke enjoys spending time with her husband, and her two dogs, Arlo and Harvey. She also enjoys baking, crafting, and cheering on the Cyclones in her free time. Let's work together to achieve meaningful progress and enhance quality of life through ABA!

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.

Destiny Y West Des Moines Behavior TEchnician

Jackie is an Occupational Therapist certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. Hailing from the Chicago suburbs, Jackie is excited to be back in Iowa and working with the Axis team. After attending the University of Iowa for her undergrad and receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Physiology, she returned to the Chicago area to attend Lewis University for her Master's of Science in Occupational Therapy. Jackie brings a wealth of experience working with children and is passionate about seeing them succeed and reach their greatest potential. Jackie has been involved as a caregiver acting as a personal nanny and working as a daycare lead for 5 years in Iowa City. Additionally, she has coached multiple age groups across various lacrosse teams around Chicago. Jackie is an avid sports fan, most notably of the Detroit Lions or anything Iowa - Go Hawks!! She knows her way around a golf course and a basketball court, but feels most comfortable on a lacrosse field as a former player up through club play at Iowa. When not working, Jackie enjoys getting outside, going walking, traveling, reading, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her cat, Piper. Jackie is excited to join the therapy team at Axis and work with families to foster relationships and explore fun and unique ways to meet their goals!

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!

Casey is a Speech-Language Pathologist 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, family, and friends. She enjoys exercising, singing, watching movies, eating good food, and participating in her local church.

Amy 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 in Speech-Language Pathology and her Master of Arts in Communicative Disorders from the University of Northern Iowa. Go Panthers! Amy has always loved working with children and has a vast background working with kids in the schools, clinical settings, and private practice. She lives in Urbandale with her husband, Steve, and loves visiting her three grown children in Florida and Iowa City. During her free time, Amy enjoys playing pickleball, playing the piano, reading, and going to movies. She is excited to be a member of the Axis team!

Katlyn is a Clinical Fellow-Speech-Language Pathologist licensed by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing and seeking certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders and her Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Northern Iowa. Katlyn, her husband Clayton, and their dog Bentley all live in Urbandale and love being outdoors! She also enjoys crafts, movies, and music. She has experience working with children and can’t wait to build her caseload with more clients!

Gabby is a Registered Behavior Technician credentialed through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. She previously attended Grand View University and plans on continuing her college education. Gabby is originally from Dubuque, Iowa, and recently moved to Des Moines. She has worked with children and adolescents since 2017 and ever since has continued to enjoy it. She loves working hands-on with clients daily and reaching milestones with them and being a part of it. In her spare time, Gabby enjoys working on projects, traveling, and going to concerts. She also enjoys spending time with her friends and family, especially her nephew and her dog Roscoe.

Taylor grew up in Nebraska and recently moved to Iowa after getting married in June 2022. She previously studied at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with plans to continue her education. She has loved working with kids for the past eight years through church, camps, and mentorship programs. I’m her down time, Taylor enjoys spending time with her husband, Chris, family, and friends. She loves baking, reading, painting, camping, and doing anything outdoors.

Brent is a Registered Behavior Technician credentialed through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from Crown College in Minnesota. He has had experience as a teacher and Special Education Associate for the last 8 years, and has worked with children in some capacity for the last 22 years. Brent realized he wanted to work with special needs children when he volunteered in the special needs ministry at his church. He believes that all children have the ability to learn, and it is his duty to help them achieve that. When not working, he can be found hanging out with his wife and two children. He enjoys swimming, playing minor league football in Des Moines, staying active, and going to different parks with my children.

Shayna is originally from California but has enjoyed the calmness of Iowa. She has experience working as a respite worker, as well as a paraeducator for an elementary and high school. In her free time, she enjoys going on scenic drives, trying new foods, and yoga.

Kathryn was born and raised in Iowa City, IA. She attended the University of Iowa her freshman year of college and later completed her Liberal Arts AA at Des Moines Area Community College. Kathryn spent 4 years working in mental health services and another 4 years as a private nanny before beginning her time at Axis. She has a passion for working with children and helping others. In her free time, Kathryn loves spending time outside, gardening, crafting, and attending farmer's markets where she sells her handmade candles and soaps.

Kenzie graduated from the University of Iowa in 2022 with a degree in Entrepreneurial Management but, has decided to change courses based on her passion of working with children and it has led her here! Kenzie’s experience working with special needs individuals started in the 9th grade when she began using her free class periods as an opportunity to help out in the special education classrooms and into her adulthood through substitute teaching. In her free time, she coaches gymnastics and tumbling at a local gymnastics gym, volunteers for Dance Without Limits, is involved in a young adult ministry and loves spending time with her family.

Lauren recently graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Kinesiology. In her free time, she loves to go on walks and be outdoors if it's nice out. She also loves hanging out with her family and friends as well as seeing her two dogs whenever she’s back home. Her future goals include going back to school for nursing and traveling.

Brooke graduated from Iowa State University with her bachelor's degree in human development and Family Studies. Since then, she has been working and gaining experience as an RBT while also working towards her master's degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her miniature dachshund, being outdoors, and spending time with family.

Makenzie has been working with children with autism since October 2021. Prior to joining the Axis team, she had worked in school and clinic settings as an Instructional Aide and a RBT. Makenzie’s favorite part of being a RBT is watching children have their light bulb moment with different tasks. Makenzie is originally from Indianapolis, IN, but moved to Iowa to study at University of Northern Iowa. In her free time, she enjoys hanging with her friends, reading, spending time outdoors with her dog, and is involved in a local young adult ministry.

Alexis is from small town Bryant, IA, which is located on the very eastern side of the state. She is currently a senior at Simpson college majoring in health and exercise science. At Simpson, she is on the softball team and anxiously awaiting her senior season! She will be joining us for her internship for the fall semester. Alexis has experience working with kids over the last few years and has found a passion for working with them! Her hope after college is to attend occupational therapy school.

Kendra has been working with individuals with special needs since 2014. Some of her experience includes working in HCBS settings providing direct support care and working as a special education associate in an elementary school. In her free time, Kendra enjoys spending time with her son and nephew, walking and playing with her Golden Retriever, Ace, and relaxing outside in her hammock.

Sami attended Drake University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in clinical and applied science. She wishes to continue her education in the field of ABA. Sami is passionate about working with children and young people. She has been working with children since 2015, starting with kids coming out of foster care. In her free time, she loves spending time with her husband Konnor, and two dogs Max and Cooper.

Erica is originally from Orlando, Florida. She has worked with children since 2019, and has worked in ABA since 2023. She is a big sister of four, and is a huge advocate for any and all underdogs in life. Speaking of dogs, Erica is a proud dog mom of a rescued pit mix named Bailey Mae. In her free time, she enjoys nature walks with Bailey, reading adult fiction books, and spending quality time with family and friends.

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 the Lead Clinical Scheduler and the Scheduler for our Ames, Fort Dodge, West Des Moines clinics. Genna started her career at Axis as one of our technicians and recently shifted her passion towards the administrative side of things. In her free time, Genna enjoys playing with her kitties Pepperjack and Chicken Sandwich, drinking coffee or listening to true crime podcasts. Genna loves seeing the kiddos come through the door everyday and saying hi to them in the hallways!

Kim has been involved with helping children and adults achieve their highest potential for the past 28 years. First, as a teacher in the Des Moines metro, she was a classroom teacher with a passion to support all children in learning, growing, and developing into the best version of themselves. Now, in her second career, Kim has been successful in guiding and cultivating relationships for adults with their career journey. She believes in listening to employee concerns to make their work environment one that is conducive to safety, fairness, and culturally acceptive. When not working, Kim is passionate about reading, being outside and crafting. She is a beach lover and wants to explore as many white sandy beaches as possible. Kim’s two grown children are often a topic of conversation she is more than happy to brag to anyone about.

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.

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.

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.

Renea is one of our Authorization Coordinators. She brings her background of working as a technician, and is expanding her passion and enthusiasm into a new role to serve the kids at Axis. When not working, she loves to chase her cats (Marlene and Cher) around her apartment, be outside, and travel.