West Des Moines | Axis Therapy Centers

Axis – West Des Moines

Phone: (515) 505-7283

info@myaxistherapy.com

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

DirectorS

Kristin Hanson

M.A., BCBA, LBA

CEO / Executive Director

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Kristin’s Bio

Kelsey Schabold

M.S., BCBA, LBA

West Des Moines Clinic Supervisor

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Kelsey’s Bio

Kelsie Leshen

MSOT, OTR/L

Certified Occupational Therapist / OT Supervisor

Kelsie’s Bio

Casey Smith

M.A., CCC-SLP

Lead Speech-Language Pathologist

SLP Supervisor

Casey’s Bio

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)

Kiley Johnson

M.A., BCBA, LBA

West Des Moines Technician Supervisor

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Kiley’s Bio

Brooke Wilson

M.S., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Brooke’s Bio

MJ Holmes

M.Ed., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

MJ’s Bio

Occupational Therapists

Kaili Aiello

MSOT, OTR/L

Kaili’s Bio

Speech Therapists

Amy Deist

M.S., SLP-CF

Speech-Language Pathologist

Amy’s Bio

Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs)

Shayna

Registered Behavior Technician

Lead BT Mentor

Shayna’s Bio

Taylor

Registered Behavior Technician

RBT Trainer

Taylor’s Bio

Kylee

Registered Behavior Technician

Kylee’s Bio

Kendra

Registered Behavior Technician

RBT Trainer

Kendra’s Bio

Alexis

Registered Behavior Technician

Intern

Alexis’ Bio

Savanna

Registered Behavior Technician

Savanna’s Bio

Kati

Registered Behavior Technician

Trainee

Kati’s Bio

Zelda

Registered Behavior Technician

Clinic Assistant

Zelda’s Bio

Jessica

Registered Behavior Technician

Jessica’s Bio

Anna

Registered Behavior Technician

Anna’s Bio

Alex

Registered Behavior Technician

Alex’s Bio

Giselle

Registered Behavior Technician

Giselle’s Bio

Melissa

Behavior Technician

Melissa’s Bio

Delanie

Registered Behavior Technician

Delanie’s Bio

Jenna

Behavior Technician

Jenna’s Bio

West Des Moines Admin Team

Kaitlyn VanderPloeg

Clinic Coordinator

Kaitlyn’s Bio

Genna LeRoy

Clinical Scheduler Supervisor

Genna’s Bio

Candy Gaedke

Clinic Coordinator Supervisor

Lead Facilities & Maintenance Manager

Candy’s Bio

Kami McDonough

Human Resources Specialist

Kami’s Bio

Myra Adams

OT & Speech Authorization Coordinator

Myra’s Bio

Kayla Cornelius

ABA Authorization Coordinator

Kayla’s Bio

Kim hennick

Client Benefits & Services Coordinator

Kim’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.

Kelsey Schabold (BCBA : Clinic Supervisor)

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Destiny Y West Des Moines Behavior TEchnician

Kaili is an Occupational Therapist certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and licensed in both Iowa and Arizona. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology, with a double minor in Human Relations and Psychology from the University of Iowa and completed her Master’s in Occupational Therapy at Midwestern University in Arizona. Kaili lived in Arizona for six years while completing her education and then practiced as a pediatric occupational therapist prior to moving back to Iowa. She is passionate about helping children reach their full potential, with a focus on child-led approaches and sensory processing. She especially enjoys feeding therapy, focusing on the SOS approach and helping children develop their oral motor skills. Outside of work, Kaili loves spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors, and trying new restaurants.

Amy 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 Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Utah State University, and her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Emerson College in Boston. She also has a Bachelor of Arts in vocal music from Drake University, and sings with a local alumni choir. Amy is a Des Moines native, and enjoys music, reading, and spending time with her family in her free time.

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.

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.

Kylee is originally from Indianola, Iowa, and holds a degree in Health and Exercise Science from Simpson College. During her time at Simpson, she was a member of the softball team and also coached a 12U travel softball team in her hometown. These experiences sparked her passion for working with children and supporting their growth through physical activity, mentorship, and relationship-building. Kylee enjoys staying active, spending time outdoors, and connecting with her community, family, and friends. She is excited to be part of the Axis Therapy Centers team and looks forward to continuing her professional development in the field.

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.

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.

Savanna is currently pursuing a degree in Elementary Special Education. Her future plans include obtaining her teaching license and eventually earning a master’s degree. Savanna has always had a passion for working with children and knew from a young age that she wanted to become a teacher. In her free time, she enjoys visiting home to spend time with her nieces and nephews. She also loves being outdoors, especially on nice days, and one of her favorite things to do is relax in her hammock and enjoy the weather.

Kati graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a bachelor's degree in psychology. She has worked with children for the last ten years and has learned that they are her favorite people to work with! She is currently working on her master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. In her free time, she enjoys reading, crocheting, and spending time with my dogs and family.

Zelda has been working with kids of all abilities since she was 14 years old, and she can’t imagine doing anything else. Throughout high school, she spent time volunteering in the special education classroom, which really confirmed her passion for helping everyone reach their full potential. Her goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the kids she works with, helping them grow and feel confident in themselves every step of the way. When she's not at work, you can usually find Zelda volunteering or spending time with her friends and family.

Jessica is originally from Missouri and has called Iowa home for the past 18 years. She discovered her passion for teaching and helping children grow through volunteering at her church, where she cared for children during services. She is a proud mom to a smart, sassy, and loving little girl who keeps her on her toes. On the weekends, they enjoy going on little adventures together—exploring new parks, attending community events, and trying new foods.

Anna is very passionate about life. She enjoys doing work that brings others happiness and thoughtful experiences. Outside of work, she's an artist that paints, draws, and writes. Anna enjoys making the world around her as colorful as possible.

Alex is currently finishing his bachelor’s degree in psychology at Iowa State University and plans to continue his education in the field, with the long-term goal of earning a doctoral degree in psychology. He has always been fascinated by how the brain works and how people think and behave. Alex enjoys supporting kids as they learn new skills, build confidence, and grow in their own unique ways. Outside of work, Alex enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading about psychology, playing chess, and working on or riding motorcycles. He has also been learning American Sign Language in his free time. Alex mainly loves spending time with his wife and their pets, two corgis, a golden retriever, and a cat.

Giselle has been working with kids since 2018 and has loved every second! She's excited to continue her education in the child development field and loves helping children build confidence and an understanding of the world. In her free time, she likes to go hiking or hangout with her cat.

Melissa grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, then relocated to Iowa in 2021. She worked with children for about four years before transitioning into caregiving. She enjoys teaching, leading, and continuously learning. Melissa comes from a big family and has 11 siblings. In her free time, she enjoys painting, drawing, arts and crafts, building Legos, traveling, and exploring different hobbies. She also has a Persian cat!

Delanie graduated high school in 2023 with the passion to help little minds grow and develop. She also grew up in a big family, and as the family babysitter and has proceeded to always work with children and adolescents. In her free time she and her boyfriend like to go side by side riding and take their dog on hikes around Iowa.

Jenna graduated from Simpson College with a degree in Education Studies. From her time at Simpson, she found a passion for working with kids of all abilities. Her goal is to make a positive and meaningful impact on the kids. When she's not working, you can find her spending time with family and friends.

Kaitlyn comes to us from Clear Lake, IA. She graduated from North Central University in Minneapolis, MN with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a minor in Christian studies. While at NCU, Kaitlyn was a captain on the women’s basketball team. Go Rams! Community connection is a passion of Kaitlyn’s, and she loves meeting new people. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies, being on the lake, spending time with her five sisters, and shopping.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.