Now accepting new patients!
Meet the Team
Dedicated & Certified
Anne, she/her
M.S., CCC-SLP
Owner and Founder, Speech-Language Pathologist
Anne attended Marquette University for her undergraduate degree and obtained a Master's degree in Communication Disorders from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. While starting a family, Anne continued to work part-time across a variety of settings, including schools, skilled nursing facilities, home-based settings, and outpatient clinics. From this varied experience, Anne learned that the most meaningful aspect of work is connection to families, whether the client being served is a child or an adult.
Anne lives in the Highland Park neighborhood with her husband and three children; her oldest attends college in Chicago. Clients at The Therapy SP/OT may occasionally meet the family pet, a four pound teacup Yorkshire Terrier named Noah. Three of Anne's four children have received both occupational therapy or speech therapy services, solidifying for the Nelesen family the absolute need for talented and caring practitioners in this area.
Alex, she/her
M.A, CCC-SLP
Owner and Founder, Speech-Language Pathologist
Alex earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. She was drawn to the field of speech-language pathology for the opportunity to be part of children's growth in finding their voice. Alex has worked in a variety of pediatric settings and enjoys cultivating confidence in children with communicating their wants, needs, and ideas... all through play. She values being part of a strong team and collaborating across disciplines to provide the best possible care, fostering growth in all the clients she serves.
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In her free time, Alex enjoys reading a book and any opportunity for live music. She teaches piano lessons on the side, where she gets to combine two loves: music and kids. Alex's lovable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Honey keeps her busy. Alex is currently pursuing adoption (solo!), working with an agency in the domestic infant adoption program. She is eager to share any new addition to her family with The Therapy SP/OT family!
Laura, she/her
COTA/L
Rehab Team Lead, Occupational Therapy Assistant
Laura’s passion for working as an occupational therapy assistant began at a young age. Using nature, bubbles, sidewalk chalk and other creative modalities, her passion for uplifting and encouraging the lives closest to her began. Prior to getting her license in occupational therapy, Laura worked in group homes, day programs, senior centers, and in homes to provide care to a diverse population within the Twin Cities. After graduating from Anoka Technical College in 2015, Laura has found her calling working with children and their families using personalized care to cater to child-centered skill development and independence in a fun, creative setting.
Laura lives in St. Paul with her husband John and son Jay.
Colee, she/her
MOTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Colee is a gopher-alum fanatic, graduating from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, coupled with minors in child psychology and family social science. She received her Master’s degree in occupational therapy from The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where she participated in a diverse range of settings, including adult day treatment, orthopedics, and the lifestyle setting at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Colee spent additional time in the brain and spinal cord unit at Courage Kenny, yet she continued to yearn for pediatrics, stemming from prior experience in special education, as a personal care assistant, and from clinical work. She is inspired by the enthusiasm, curiosity, and imagination of children, and loves to find creative, child and family-centered fun that fosters growth and independence!
Emily, she/her
MOTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Emily graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Elementary Education. She then attended graduate school for occupational therapy at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Emily has a variety of experience with children, from working in parks and recreation children's programs as her first job, to leading a cooking club for teens with down syndrome, and completing her fieldwork in the outpatient and inpatient settings of Shriners Children’s hospital. Prior to joining The Therapy SP/OT she worked in a pediatric outpatient setting.
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Emily has found joy through play across her life via creating imaginative worlds with friends, building forts in the woods, running around during capture the flag. She now channels that joy into teaching kids how to rock climb at a local gym, and of course every day in her occupational therapy sessions with kids! Emily believes in the power of play, and strong connections, as well as the intrinsic motivation these bring, to help kids do what they need and want to do throughout their day to day lives!
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Emily enjoys being active throughout all the seasons in Minnesota, whether that be running, hiking, rock climbing, ice skating, or nordic skiing. She also likes to spend time playing board games, and attempting to get a question right at trivia with her friends.
Andria, she/her
M.A., OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Andria holds a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from the University of Wisconsin River-Falls with a minor in psychology and coaching. She received her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from St. Catherine University. During her undergraduate studies, Andria stumbled upon the field of Occupational Therapy, thanks to a family friend. From that moment, she was ignited with enthusiasm for her newfound calling.
Andria has extensive experience working with children in clinical settings and schools. She deeply appreciates the multifaceted role of Occupational Therapy, which she finds both captivating and fulfilling. One area that has captured her deep passion is feeding therapy. Through a play-based approach, she believes she can encourage children to become more adventurous eaters and empower families to create a supportive environment for mealtime routines.
Andria cherishes the opportunity for learning and growth through play. Committed to delivering evidence-based, client-centered care, she focuses on engaging and creative therapy while collaborating closely with families to build strong relationships for optimal outcomes.
Andria lives in Richfield with her husband, Michael, their daughters Ryley and Harper, and their dog Maizee. In her free time, Andria enjoys spending time with her friends and family, playing volleyball and softball, and cheering on her girls in the various activities they pursue.
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Kaylin, she/her
M.A., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kaylin holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences & Disorders from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL, and a Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Minnesota. Her journey into the world of speech therapy was influenced by a chance encounter in high school. After a sports injury, she found herself taking an adapted PE class, where she struck up a friendship with a charming girl. This young friend introduced her to the array of therapies she attended during the week, highlighting how her speech therapist played a pivotal role in understanding and assisting her.
Kaylin's professional and personal experiences have deeply connected her to the profound impact of speech therapy. This passion and understanding have driven her to make a positive difference in the lives of those she serves. As a dedicated speech-language pathologist, Kaylin's commitment to her clients has earned her praise from many families who have benefited from her expertise.
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Kaylin was raised in the suburbs of Chicago, but after attending the University of Minnesota for graduate school, she decided to make Minnesota her new home. Kaylin now lives in South Minneapolis with her husband, Eric, their son, Jeremiah, and their beloved puppers, Nellie. In her free time, Kaylin enjoys quality time with friends and family as well as playing volleyball year-round.
Taryn, she/her
M.A., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Taryn has always loved working with children and knew from a young age that her career would involve supporting kids and families. She discovered the field of speech-language pathology on a chance encounter in high school, and while observing a pediatric speech therapist thought “You can be paid to do this?!” From that moment on, she was set on this career. Taryn holds Bachelor’s degrees in Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences and Spanish from the University of Kansas (Rock Chalk!). She received her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.
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Taryn is passionate about meeting children where they are, working alongside families to foster growth, and using play to support the development of children’s communication skills. She believes in the power of connection and the importance of creating an environment where kids feel safe and heard.
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When she’s not at The Therapy SP/OT, Taryn enjoys traveling, reading, gardening, trying new restaurants, and spending time with friends, family, and her puppy Phoebe.
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Megan, she/her
M.A., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Megan graduated with her Bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of South Dakota and received her Master's degree from the University of Minnesota, Duluth in 2023. She has always loved working with children and getting to be a part of their growth. Megan loves collaborating with her peers and getting to learn all that she can to best help her patients. She especially loves treating elementary age language and literacy, as well as Augmentative and Alternative Communication.
Megan has experience working with pediatrics in many different outpatient settings and has found each so rewarding. She loves continuing to learn and make connections with her patients.
In her free time, Megan likes to spend time with friends and family exploring the cities, reading, walking/biking down Summit, adding to her record collection, and attending concerts when she can! She grew up in the cities, and loves finding new fun things to see and do. Megan loves participating in community activities and trying new restaurants.
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Maddie, she/her
COTA/L
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Maddie graduated from St. Catherine University in 2019 receiving her degree as an Occupational Therapy Assistant. During her clinicals, Maddie quickly discovered her passion for helping others of all ages and abilities. Maddie started her career in the Skilled Nursing setting, though always felt drawn to working with children. Maddie intends to be a positive influence and provide client- and family-centered care through play and creativity. Maddie is also the Head Coach for the Roseville Area High School Gymnastics team. Using her skills as a therapist, Maddie brings awareness to the mind and body connection. Maddie is devoted to giving back to her community and making an impact. When she's not at The Therapy SP/OT or coaching, you can find her spending time with friends and family, traveling, or staying active.
Michelle, she/her
COTA/L
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Ro, they/them
COTA/L
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Michelle is an Occupational Therapy Assistant with years of experience in a variety of fields relating to OT. Before going back to school for OT, Michelle fulfilled an enlistment in the Air Force, worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant, Personal Care Assistant, and provided care and support to individuals in group homes. While attending St. Catherine's OTA program, she worked as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher for ISD 917. Prior to joining The Therapy SP/OT team, she worked as a COTA in the mental health field. Michelle also has Bachelor’s degree in Business & Political Science from Bethel University. Through her many life experiences, Michelle has discovered there is intrinsic value in working with individuals with all different needs in every environment. Michelle loves working with kids and their families because she feels early intervention can be key in helping people reach their highest potential.
In her spare time Michelle loves spending time with her family and friends, doing DIY projects and just playing outside: gardening, hiking, paddle boarding, skiing or running. She lives in Inver Grove Heights with her two energetic rambunctious dogs who also demand much of her free time.
Ro came to The Therapy SP/OT as a student in the occupational therapy assistant program at St. Catherine's University, supervised jointly by Maddie and Laura. They graduated the program in 2024, and they were thrilled to join the team shortly after. Ro is a proud member of the neurodivergence club, gaining respect for their insight and education in all things neuro-affirming.
Ro's gentle, connection-building approach is well valued by the families who get the opportunity to work with them. They have rich and varied experience with children, including their experience as a licensed foster and respite care parent in Ramsey county.
Ro lives in St. Paul with their beloved menagerie of animals, a true lover and caretaker of all small creatures.
Heather, she/her
Administrative Assistant
Heather is a Physical Therapist by training and has been a friend and supporter of The Therapy SP/OT since long before its inception! Seeking a change from the hospital setting and the therapist role, she is now a valued member of the SP/OT team.
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Heather provides valuable insight from the parent perspective as our primary member of the intake and scheduling team. If you are lucky enough to see Heather when you come for your appointments, you will be greeted with a smile, kindness, and compassion!
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Heather lives in New Brighton with her husband, three children, and two lovable dogs.