Now accepting new patients!
Meet the Team
Dedicated & Certified
Anne Nelesen
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 Kuch
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 and neuro-affirming care. 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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Alex lives in St. Paul with her son Chase and her lovable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Honey. They both keep her busy, but when she finds herself with any free time, she is an avid reader and loves any (now rare) opportunity for live music.
Laura Skalitzky
COTA/L
OT 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, two boys, and their dog Penny.
Taryn Stevenson
M.A., CCC-SLP
ST Team Lead, 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.
Colee Ekegren
M.A., OTR/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!​
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Andria Davis
MOTR/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.
Emily Bendelsmith
M.A., OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Emily graduated from St. Catherine University in 2019 with a Bachelor's in Psychology and in 2021 with a Master's in Occupational Therapy. Emily has always loved working with children, gaining experience through nannying, working in a mental health day treatment center, and working in outpatient pediatric clinics. Emily has experience working with premature infants through a NICU follow-up program, which provides testing to track developmental progress through early childhood. In addition to early childhood development, Emily has a special interest in feeding therapy. Emily takes a client-led approach with emphasis on building a safe and trusting relationship with the child and their family. She works to create a therapeutic approach that is client-centered and neuro-affirming with strong client advocacy.
When not at work, Emily enjoys cooking/baking, traveling, talking walks, curling up with a book, and spending time with her family. Emily has a huge travel bucket list, most recently visiting Spain with her family!
Delor Sander
M.A., OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Delor graduated from St. Catherine University initially with a bachelor’s degree in biology. After traveling the arctic circle mentoring and guiding student research at St. Kate’s, she learned about the occupational therapy program from her colleagues. Following continued educational work, she was exposed to the great impact OTs have with students and joined the OT program at St. Kate’s, graduating in 2021. She has worked across a variety of settings, both clinic and school-based, helping families grow together and thrive. Focusing on evidence-based and client-centered intervention, Delor’s positive attitude, problem-solving skills, and nurturing mentality fosters joyful achievement with her clients and peers. Safety and trust are a priority in Delor’s therapeutic relationships and work.
When not working Delor is an avid crafter with any materials, especially paint and fabric arts. She loves to spend time in the garden and watching birds with Zelda, her calico cat.
Kaylin Horne
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.
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.
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Megan Dierking
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.
Erin Shannon
M.A., CCC-SLP, CED
Speech-Language Pathologist
Erin found her passion for speech-language pathology through her interest in Audiology starting in her undergraduate career working in a pediatric cochlear-implant lab at UW-Madison. The combination of science and channeling her inner-personal skills by making meaningful connections with children and their families compelled her to pursue speech-langauge pathology. She received her bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Communication Sciences & Disorders from University of Wisconsin-Madison, a master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, and a master’s degree in Deaf Education from Fontbonne University in St. Louis, MO. Her professional experience has allowed her to work with children and their families in a wide range of settings. She has a passion for family-centered intervention, caregiver coaching, and supporting children and caregiver’s self-advocacy.When she’s not at SP/OT, she can be found somewhere outside on a hike, run, bikeride, or camping. If not there, she’s probably at a thrift store. She loves exploring her new home of St. Paul, and resides in Highland Park with her husband, daughter, and pup.​
Maddie Pearson
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.
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Heather Iverson
Lead Scheduler
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.
Ro Violette
COTA/L
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Ro graduated from St. Catherine University in 2024. With rich experience supporting children in both therapeutic and everyday settings, Ro is known for a gentle, connection-focused style that is deeply appreciated by the families who engage in care.
Rooted in lived experience, Ro brings curiosity, creativity, and deep care to each session. The therapeutic approach is grounded in a child-led philosophy, a belief in presuming competence, and a commitment to meeting families where they are with empathy and flexibility. As a proud member of the queer and neurodivergent communities, Ro is passionate about supporting queer families and neurodivergent individuals.
Ro lives in St. Paul with their partner and beloved cats Judah, Tovah and Basil. A lifelong nurturer of small creatures, Ro fosters kittens (and the occasional unexpected animal), explores all kinds of crafts, and is usually halfway through a DIY project or ten.
Becca Swiler
Clinic Manager
With a never-ending fascination for child development, Becca earned a degree in Child Psychology from the University of Minnesota and then spent the next four decades working in early education. Along the way, she worked as a classroom teacher, teacher trainer, program consultant, special needs coordinator and program director. Becca was the founding director of three developmentally focused, relationship-based early education centers in St. Paul. After retiring from early ed in 2024, Becca was thrilled to join The Therapy SP/OT where she could continue to pursue her passion for all the wonders of childhood.
Becca is the proud mother of an adult daughter who lives in Colorado but comes home to visit often. When she's not working, Becca enjoys spending time with family and friends, gardening, checking out new restaurants and indulging her obsession with the MLS.
Jordan Gomez
Office Support
Jordan is a fun, outgoing mom of three. She loves owls, loves food, and loves trying new restaurants. Jordan enjoys being a friendly face to greet families when they arrive, and working closely with both providers and patients.