About Us
At Enrichment Alternatives, we believe that true progress happens when families grow together. As a family-centered practice, we prioritize the involvement of parents and caregivers in every step of the therapy process. Our approach is built on collaboration, ensuring that children receive the support they need not only during sessions but also in their daily lives.
We use a coaching model that empowers parents to be active participants in their child’s development. During therapy sessions, our skilled therapists work closely with both the child and their family, providing guidance, strategies, and real-time coaching to build confidence and skills that last beyond the session. By equipping parents with the tools they need, we create meaningful learning opportunities that extend into everyday routines, strengthening the child’s progress in natural settings.
We are committed to fostering growth, connection, and success—one family at a time.

Meet the Team!
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Kari: SLP-CCC, Owner
I have been working as a Manager of Speech and Language Pathologists since I started my career. I have supervised therapists in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and homes. For many years, my job was to set up therapy departments for different agencies. I have also consulted with businesses in the area of accent modification and effective communication.
Working with a charter school in Minneapolis, that's when my passion for working with children took off. In the areas of auditory processing and dyslexia that was my primary focus. After that experience, I was able to work with infants to 3-year-olds and continue to grow my own business, specializing in supporting parents with special needs children and consulting with other professionals.
I am passionate about helping people, but my primary focus is to help parents with special needs children. This is because I have firsthand experience with my own children having special needs, and I know how much it meant to have the help I needed to get them through school and into adulthood. I understand how much parents struggle to get the necessary help for their children and I want to help them along the way by offering specialized services and compassion.
As a business owner and family supporter, my schedule is always full. But I make sure to find time for things that bring me joy, like crafting and fixing up homes. I also love exploring new places and traveling, but my favorite moments are spent at home with my family. Life has taken me to many different places, and I believe that my experiences have contributed to my passion for adventure and exploration. Despite the challenges, I have learned to appreciate the journey and cherish the memories along the way.
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Kassie: Office Manager
Throughout my life, I have worked in various roles ranging from managing factory inventory to working as a phlebotomist/medical assistant, chiropractic, and managing a vehicle detailing company. However, my favorite and by far the most rewarding job has been working with our wonderful therapists at Enrichment Alternatives.
I take immense joy in watching people come in with the issues they face in their day-to-day life and seeing how they improve as they receive the care they need. Witnessing the progress they make and the happiness they experience when they learn new skills to help their children function better is what makes this job worth it.
Personally, I am a married mother to three children aged 8, 5, and 1. I enjoy kayaking, though I don't get to go as often as I would like. Most of my free time is spent with my family, enjoying the outdoors or remodeling. I was born in Alabama, where I lived until the age of 7, and then relocated to Missouri to be closer to my great grandmother.
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Kayla: OTR/L, Therapy Manager
I have been working as a pediatric occupational therapist since graduating from the University of Central Arkansas in 2008. I have experience and training with Floortime Therapy, Rhythmic Movement Training, Primitive Reflex Integration, and Vision/Occulomotor skill development. My primary focus has been on assisting children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sensory Processing Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Dyspraxia, and learning challenges.
It is truly a gift to be able to work with tiny humans every day. I love teaching families how to encourage development of skills while still having fun and being a kid. I am passionate about training parents and caregivers in how to recognize sensory processing challenges and how to provide sensory support and environmental changes to help their child grow into who they were born to be. Children are going to change the world. Let's give them the confidence and skills they need to be awesome, kind humans who can be there for others while still taking care of themselves.
I am originally from Arkansas. Since becoming a grown-up, I have lived in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, and now Missouri. I am married and a mother of two playful boys. We love camping and campfires, playing games of all kinds, catching bugs and frogs, playing with our doggies, and cuddling on the couch. Every day is a gift, and I try to remember we are all doing our best with what we have at that moment. Giving grace to others and myself is one of my personal goals, and I try to bring that into my therapy sessions, as well.
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Leah: OTR/L, Marketing Specialist
From the moment I was a junior in high school, I knew I wanted to be an Occupational Therapist. I chased that dream all the way to earning my Masters in Occupational Therapy from Cox College in 2020. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in various settings, including outpatient, school-based, and early intervention which allowed me to grow and deepen my expertise in supporting children and families.
When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me at home with my sweet baby boy, my husband, our Bernedoodle, and two cats. Outside of work, I love trying new recipes, gardening, and tapping into my creative side, whether it’s through photography or crafting. My favorite place to unwind is sitting on our boat, enjoying Table Rock Lake.
I’m truly passionate about helping children thrive, and I feel so fortunate to be able to do what I love every day!
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Hannah: OTR/L
After earning my Bachelor's degree from John Brown University, I returned home to Springfield to pursue my Masters of Occupational Therapy degree at Missouri State University. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working with children of all ages across a variety of settings, including early intervention, outpatient, home, and school-based. I have been an Occupational Therapist in Arkansas and Florida before returning home to Springfield. I truly couldn’t have found a more perfect job—I feel so fortunate to spend my days helping children develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive, all while having fun and playing games during therapy sessions!
When I’m not working or spending time with loved ones, you can find me running, reading, or taking care of my garden.
Helping children build independence and confidence through occupational therapy has been such a rewarding journey, and I’m excited to continue that journey here at Enrichment Alternatives.
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Brendynn: SLP-CCC
I was born in St. Louis but have spent most of my life in Springfield. After attending Missouri State University, I’m now in my 4th year as a Speech Language Pathologist. I have worked in school-based and outpatient settings. I couldn’t be more passionate about working with pediatric patients. I love helping children reach their full potential, watching them grow and thrive.
Outside of work, you can usually find me reading, exercising, or catching up on my favorite TV shows. I also enjoy snuggling with my cats, spending quality time with family and friends, and soaking up the outdoors on weekends.
One area I’m especially eager to expand my knowledge in is Dyslexia, as it ties to my love for reading. My ultimate goal is to help people of all kinds enjoy stories and books—because as Jeanette Winterson said, "Books and doors are the same thing. You open them, and you go through into another world." I’m excited to continue this journey of learning and helping others open those doors!
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Kathryne: SLP-CCC
I am a Speech-Language Pathologist and mom to two littles. I earned my master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Missouri State University in 2017. I began my career with early intervention services in the home health setting, while also serving students with severe disabilities in the state school setting. I have a big heart for children who have speech and language delays, as well as families with mealtime and picky eating concerns.
I was born and raised in Southern California, but I have lived in Springfield for 10 years and it is a wonderful place to call home. Currently, I spend one day a week at Enrichment Alternatives, while my other days are filled with seeing private clients for therapy in their home, homeschooling, and having outdoor adventures with my husband and kids. I am so grateful to work closely with families and the other specialists at Enrichment Alternatives to support your child right where they are!
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Sarah: PT
I’ve been a Physical Therapist for 25 years. I earned my degree from Rockhurst University, and since then, I’ve dedicated myself to expanding my knowledge and skills to better serve my patients. Over the years, I’ve specialized in aquatics, neurodevelopmental treatment, and electrical stimulation, each of which has allowed me to offer more personalized and effective care. I completed my Aquatic Training through the American Physical Therapy Association’s Aquatic Section.
When I’m not working, I’m enjoying a variety of hobbies. I’m an avid reader, so you’ll often find me immersed in a good book, especially on weekends when I have some downtime. I also love spending time outdoors—whether that’s hiking, running, or just getting my hands in the dirt gardening. Baking is another one of my favorite hobbies, and I love experimenting with new recipes to share with my family and friends.
I’m always passionate about learning and exploring new treatment concepts to ensure I’m offering the best care possible. I’m committed to providing the highest level of care to help my patients. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow in this field every day.
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Tara: PTA
As a Physical Therapist Assistant, I graduated from Ozark Technical Community College in 2015 and have worked in pediatric outpatient and school-based therapy. I find primitive reflex integration and the impact of dysfunction on our movement patterns, learning, behaviors, and health fascinating. My second love is aquatics, as I believe swimming should be an inclusive activity. The water is freeing for individuals with mobility issues and soothing for our sensory systems, and it is fun!
Having grown up in this area, I have two adult children, a supportive husband, and Flash, my poodle. My daughter's multiple disabilities affect our daily lives. I am grateful that my role as a therapist allows me to connect with families on a similar journey. I strive to be a listening ear and a heart of encouragement to them. My family enjoys anything outdoors, traveling, thrill-seeking, and jigsaw puzzles.
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Candace: LPC
As a therapist, I work with individuals of all ages, starting from 2 years old. My clinical focus mainly revolves around trauma and behaviors, but I also provide support to clients struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression. I have received training in various therapy models, which include but are not limited to:
PCIT - Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
PMT - Parent Management Training
DBT - Dialectical Behavior Therapy
TFCBT - Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy
EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing
Theraplay
I absolutely love being able to help others and guide them on their journey towards success! And the best part? I get to play with awesome toys all day long. How cool is that?
When I'm not busy, you can usually find me hanging out with my furry friends, reading a good book, or exploring new and exciting places. Although I'm originally from Kansas City, MO, I don't get to go back as often as I'd like to.
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Stephanie: BCBA-D
I specialize in conducting psychological evaluations and find it incredibly fulfilling to hear each person's unique life story, filled with ups, downs, and aspirations for the future. These assessments allow me to identify the root causes of my client's issues and develop a plan of action to promote growth and relief. Graduate training in behavior analysis, embedded within a school psychology program, encouraged me in my mission to "teach the teacher." To this day, I still apply this philosophy when working with clients in ABA therapy. My goal is to empower parents to take the lead in their child's treatment, providing them with the knowledge and tools to support their child's progress. By working closely with parents, I can gain valuable insights into their child's behavior and develop tailored strategies to help the child succeed. Learning from caregivers and discovering their clever tricks that promote positive behavior is something I am passionate about. My ultimate goal is to help families become self-sufficient in supporting their children, allowing them to flourish and succeed without my assistance.
Behavior analysis has been associated with negative connotations recently, but I am determined to change that perception. Behavior analysis can assist individuals of all ages in achieving their important goals. Essentially, it involves understanding the reasons why certain behaviors occur and then making adjustments to help individuals reach their objectives. It should never involve punishment or force, and it must always be aligned with something personally significant to the individual. I am passionate about my career because I strive to make a positive impact on every family I work with and make the world a better place.
I am a mother of five wonderful children, and I also take care of a bunch of chickens, two cats, and my loving husband. Every moment of my life I truly cherish because it is a gift, and I strive to make others happy. My hobbies include reading, gardening, crocheting, playing silly gaming apps, baking, and riding the motorcycle with my husband. I also enjoy shopping, looking at architecture, working out, solving jigsaw puzzles, playing with my kids, listening to music, dancing, browsing jewelry online, and seeking opportunities to share and grow my faith. I'm eager to learn calligraphy and sign language. I grew up in Kearney, Missouri, which is located just north of Kansas City. I have also lived in Mississippi, Nebraska, and Alabama. Currently, I have been living in Willard, Missouri, for 11 years, and I do not plan on moving anytime soon. Although I hope to visit Germany someday, for now, a weekend in Hermann, Missouri, will suffice.
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Diane: RDN, CSR, CDCES, CLC, LD
I have more than 35 years of experience in various fields of nutrition, including behavioral health, weight management, lactation, health promotion and wellness, kidney disease, and gut health. I have worked across the U.S. and internationally.
My main objective is to assist individuals in optimizing their health through healthy lifestyle habits.
I enjoy expanding my knowledge and keeping up-to-date with emerging evidence-based concepts in nutrition and health. I have basic knowledge of Spanish and refresh my skills periodically. Additionally, I am an army brat, and my family has lived in the Northeast, Southeast, and Midwest regions.
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Holly: Therapy Dog
Holly is a 3-year-old Standard Golden Doodle who is a big puppy. She has completed training for being a therapy dog with flying colors and loves to be around people. She can be energetic when she first meets someone, but knows that she needs to be calm and sit before she can get the desired rubs and hugs. Holly’s specialty is playing ball, she loves to catch it in the air, chase after it, bring it back, and drop it at your feet. She also likes to show off other tricks she has learned and can even follow some ASL signs. She is always trying to learn new things and share them with others.
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Buddy: Therapy Dog in Training
Buddy is a 1-year-old Poodle who was given to us as a “let’s try it and see”. He must have known this and has been a wonderful fit. He passed his intermediate class before he even took the beginner one. Buddy is learning how to be a therapy dog, and in the meantime, he loves to welcome everyone and get as much attention as possible. He will snuggle up to anyone who shows him attention and follow their lead on walks around the building.