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 / Founder / Owner

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

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)

Kiley Johnson

M.A., BCBA, LBA

West Des Moines ABA Supervisor

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Kiley’s Bio

MJ Holmes

M.Ed., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

MJ’s Bio

Brooke Wilson

M.S., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Brooke’s Bio

Michaela Watson

M.A., BCBA, LBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Licensed Behavior Analyst

Michaela’s Bio

Occupational Therapists

Kelsie Leshen

MSOT, OTR/L

Certified Occupational Therapist / OT Supervisor

Kelsie’s Bio

Kaitlyn Munsterman

OTD, OTR/L

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., CCC- SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Katlyn’s Bio

Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs)

Shayna F.

Registered Behavior Technician

BT Mentor

Shayna’s Bio

Kathryn K.

Registered Behavior Technician

RBT Trainer

Kathryn’s Bio

Savanna S.

Behavior Technician

Savanna’s Bio

Lauren R.

Registered Behavior Technician

Lauren’s Bio

Kendra C.

Registered Behavior Technician

RBT Trainer

Kendra’s Bio

Kylee T.

Registered Behavior Technician

Kylee’s Bio

Zelda D.

Registered Behavior Technician

Zelda’s Bio

Allyson W.

Registered Behavior Technician

Allyson’s Bio

Alexis E.

Registered Behavior Technician

Intern

Alexis’ Bio

Kati O.

Registered Behavior Technician

Trainee

Kati’s Bio

Allie B

Registered Behavior Technician

Alie’s Bio

Kristy P.

Behavior Technician

Kristy’s Bio

Breeley O.

Registered Behavior Technician

Breeley’s Bio

Justice M.

Behavior Technician

Justice’s Bio

Kelanie C.

Behavior Technician

Kelanie’s Bio

West Des Moines Admin Team

Kim hennick

Client Benefits &

Services Coordinator

Kim’s Bio

Charlise Williams

Billing Specialist

Charlise’s Bio

Tamira Fitzjohn

Billing Specialist

Tamira’s Bio

Christine Villalobos

Lead Billing Specialist

Chirstine’s Bio

Myra Adams

OT and Speech Authorization Coordinator

Myra’s Bio

Kayla Cornelius

ABA Therapy Authorization Coordinator

Kayla’s Bio

Genna LeRoy

West Des Moines Scheduler

Lead Clinical Scheduler

Genna’s Bio

Candy Gaedke

Clinic Coordinator Supervisor

Candy’s Bio

Kami McDonough

Human Resources Specialist

Kami’s Bio

Kaitlyn VanderPloeg

Clinic Coordinator

Kaitlyn’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.

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!

Destiny Y West Des Moines Behavior TEchnician

Michaela 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 of Arts in Communicative Disorders at San Francisco State University and master's in special education with an emphasis in Autism at San Diego State University. She has a passion for early intervention and celebrating victories, big or small, with her clients and families. In her free time, Michaela enjoys spending time with her husband and Golden Retriever, Doug. She enjoys going on long walks, reading, and finding new restaurants to try.

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.

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.

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 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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Allyson has been working with kids since 2021 and has developed a real passion for special education. She’s excited to keep learning and growing in this field as she plans to further her education. When she’s not working, she enjoys going for walks, spending time with her family, and hanging out with her cat.

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.

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.

Allie is an Iowa native originally from the Boone area. Most of her experience with children has been working as a nanny. Most recently, she had the opportunity to teach English to children in Mexico —an experience that deepened her passion for working with young learners. In her free time, Allie enjoys going for walks, exploring Thai cuisine, attending musicals, and singing.

Kristy has a background in education and a strong commitment to supporting children with autism. Prior to joining the Axis team, she spent three years as a Physical Education Teacher at an Autism Academy in Tucson, Arizona. It was during this time that she discovered her passion for working with neurodiverse children and helping them thrive through structure, encouragement, and individualized support. Outside of work, Kristy enjoys spending quality time with her husband and daughter, often exploring the outdoors as a family.

Breeley has been working in childcare since 2018, along with volunteering in children’s ministry. She is passionate about helping children learn, grow, and reach their full potential in a nurturing and supportive environment. She grew up in Iowa and recently moved back to town after living in St. Louis, MO area for a few years. Breeley graduated from Des Moines Area Community College with an associate's degree in liberal arts. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and dog, being outdoors, and baking.

Justice has been working with children since the age of 16 and brings valuable experience from her time as a Special Education Associate in a school district, where she developed a deep passion for understanding and supporting each child’s unique needs. She holds an Associate degree in Psychology from Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) and is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Counseling at Upper Iowa University. Justice is committed to further specializing in the support of children with autism and other special needs. Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, Justice enjoys reading and spending quality time with her family. She shares a lively home with her boyfriend, two dogs, and a cat.

Kelanie is a graduate of Drake University with a degree in International Relations and minors in Economics, Arabic, and Psychology. She is deeply passionate about heart-centered service and strives to help people feel uplifted and authentically seen. Her professional background includes working as a direct support professional with youth in emergency care, serving as a family support worker for families in need of additional assistance, and working as a paraprofessional in a school district. She chose her current role because it represents the perfect blend of her skills, expertise, and passions. Outside of work, Kelanie enjoys going to the gym, exploring nature, spending quality time with her friends and family, taking her cat on adventures, and hosting sound baths.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.