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Kathryn Ferro, MS, CCC-SLP, Founder/CEO
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kathryn Ferro has spent her career providing therapeutic support to both children, and to their families in various capacities and settings. Specializing in early childhood language development and disorders, Kathryn shines while working with young language learners! She makes it her mission to help parents and caregivers learn about their child’s unique communication style, including their strengths and ways to promote growth outside of therapy sessions!
Kathryn graduated from Towson University in 2010 with a Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Her favorite part of working in this field is watching people have “ah-ha” moments, whether it’s a young client, a parent, or a member of the Basal Therapies team! Kathryn currently resides in Mt. Airy, Maryland where she enjoys spending time with her three children and husband, teaching fitness classes and working out, as well as coaching Linganore Youth Cheerleading.
With a passion for high-quality services and innovative solutions, Kathryn has brought Basal Therapies to life. By supporting a talented team of professionals, families are provided with support they need to thrive! Kathryn works tirelessly each day to help bring Basal Therapies’ vision to life: Progress through passion for the whole child and family!
What drives Kathryn’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“Building relationships that foster growth and change motivates me every single day! I’m also a huge proponent of reflecting on situations to help make future experiences even better for myself, my clients and families, and for the team, and I try to encourage others to do the same!”
Angie Keeney, M Ed, Director of Operations
Special Educator/ Preschool Director
Angie Keeney attended West Virginia Wesleyan College where she received her degree in Primary and Elementary Special Education. Angie has taught Early Education and Special Education since 2007, spending two years as a special educator for the Infants and Toddlers program. Angie has also spent time as a teacher for students with behavioral disorders and Autism diagnoses. Angie’s certifications include MSDE certified Special Educator Birth-Adult, she holds a Early Intervention Certificate, LSCI- Life Space Crisis Intervention Training and is trained in Social Thinking. Angie has also completed MSDE’s Child Care Directors course. Angie’s favorite part of working in this field is seeing a child make progress and watch their confidence and independence grow. Angie currently resides in Middletown, Maryland where she enjoys being a mom to her two children, Ryker & Emberleigh. She also enjoys hiking and spending time on water.
What drives Angie’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I am extremely passionate about learning about and supporting children of all unique abilities. I believe that when provided the tools to feel successful a child can make progress beyond what families and doctors may expect. “
Michele Schultz, MS, CCC-SLP, Clinical Director
Speech-Language Pathologist
Michele Schultz graduated with her Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology from Molloy College. With a diverse clinical background, Michele has worked in various settings, including early intervention, home-based care, the public school system, and private outpatient practice. She holds specialized training and certifications, such as the Beckman Oral Motor Assessment & Intervention, Lori Overland’s Sensory Motor Approach to Feeding Therapy, Oral Placement Therapy, PROMPT (Level 2), and NDT-based courses with Lois Bly. Michele’s favorite aspect of her work is educating and collaborating with families to create personalized treatment plans and effective strategies for carryover at home and across generalized settings.
More recently, Michele has expanded her role as Clinical Director at Basal Therapies, where she leads a team of professionals and oversees clinical operations to ensure the highest standards of care. Michele currently resides in Lake Linganore, Maryland, where she enjoys spending her free time outdoors with her husband and two boys.
What drives Michele’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“Growing up in New York, I was lucky enough to be raised, alongside my three siblings, by two incredible parents who taught us by example the power in helping others. I knew early on I wanted to find a career where I was able to not only foster the development of children but also be a source of support for their families throughout their journey. I truly believe there is nothing more rewarding than being a part of that first smile, first wave, first sound, first word, first bite and I feel humbled to be given the opportunity to be a part of the journey.”
Lauren Fraser, MS, CCC-SLP, Senior Therapist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Lauren earned her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Towson University in 2010 and has since spent her career supporting pediatric clients in a variety of settings. With a strong passion for supporting autistic children with complex communication needs, her focus is on supporting professionals and parents on their journey in learning about gestalt language processing, child-led therapy, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and neurodiversity-affirming practices. Lauren is deeply committed to helping children develop meaningful communication skills that enable them to thrive in all aspects of life. She finds immense joy in making a difference—whether big or small—in the lives of those she works with.
Originally from Sykesville, Lauren now resides in Frederick with her two sons, Elliott and Cooper. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, cheering on her two boys in their sports endeavors, and exploring new travel destinations.
What drives Lauren’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I love what I do and I love learning new techniques and implementing new technologies to facilitate the needs of each individual client. I believe it is truly a team effort and I am committed to working closely with families and other professionals to promote the highest level of progress in each individual.”
Caroline Santos, LCSW-C, Senior Therapist
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Caroline Santos is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) with a passion for helping children and families navigate life’s challenges and achieve emotional well-being. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Salisbury University, graduating in 2015.
As a clinical social worker, Caroline is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals and families. She specializes in supporting clients through life transitions, mental health challenges, and personal growth. Her empathetic approach and deep understanding of human behavior allow her to create a safe and supportive space for healing and empowerment. As a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C) in Maryland, Caroline also provides comprehensive clinical supervision for Licensed Graduate Professional Counselors (LGPCs) and Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSWs) working toward full licensure.
Outside of her professional life, Caroline enjoys staying active, spending time with loved ones, and continuing to expand her knowledge in the field of mental health. She remains dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those she serves, ensuring that everyone she works with feels heard, valued, and supported.
What drives Caroline’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
Caroline’s #ProgressThroughPassion is driven by her deep commitment to helping others grow, heal, and succeed. For Caroline, progress isn’t just about moving forward—it’s about moving forward with purpose, passion, and a heart for others. #ProgressThroughPassion
Lindsey Bugg, MS, OTR/L, Senior Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Lindsey Bugg received her Master’s in Occupational Therapy from Towson University. Lindsey was formerly a secondary school teacher, but soon realized her love for occupational therapy. Lindsey’s favorite part of her job is being able to use play to develop skills and confidence. She has a special interest in supporting self-regulation, addressing sensory challenges, promoting school readiness, especially handwriting, and increasing independence in self-care skills. Lindsey is passionate about building relationships with children and their families. Lindsey currently resides in Frederick, MD where she enjoys reading, hiking, and dancing.
What drives Lindsey’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“Passion creates commitment, and commitment leads to progress. I believe that when we are engaged in a work that excites us, a work that we are passionate about, we are more committed to its success and committed to making progress. This is a guiding principle in both my personal and professional life and one of the reasons I chose to start my career at Basal Therapies.”
Holli Meissner, MS, OTR/L, CKTP, Feeding Services Coordinator
Occupational Therapist
Holli Meissner received a Master’s in Occupational Therapy from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine Arizona School of Health Sciences in 1999. Holli is a clinician with extensive experience serving children from birth to five years old, especially in addressing disorders related to feeding and oral motor delays. Holli has certifications of clinical enhancement in both baby treatment and feeding/swallowing. She has training in Handwriting without Tears Training, and Size Matters Handwriting Programs to improve handwriting skills related to formation and legibility. Holli has specialized training in the treatment of Plagiocephaly and torticollis, as well as training in Pediatric massage. Holli’s favorite part of working in this field is working with the family as a whole. She currently resides in Eldersburg, Maryland where she enjoys exercising, reading, and family game nights.
What drives Holli’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I feel that without passion about what you are doing, there is little buy-in from families and little carryover. When you are passionate about what you do it shows in your creativity, commitment, and relationships with families and I feel that families often are more invested when they can see you are passionate about their family’s success.”
Olivia Benson, MS, CCC-SLP, Senior Therapist
Speech Language Pathologist
Olivia Benson received her Master’s from Clarion University of Pennsylvania. Olivia joins our team with experience in outpatient pediatric clinics where she has worked with a variety of diagnoses including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Speech Sound Disorder, Language Delay, and Apraxia of Speech.
Her favorite part of working in this field is being able to play an important role in a child’s life through the power of communication. Olivia is also passionate about advocacy and providing parents with the tools and knowledge to seek and find care that matches their individual needs. Olivia currently resides in Frederick, MD where she enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys.
What drives Olivia’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“In order to provide the necessary and quality of care to both the families and the children for progress to occur, the passion has to be present and felt. For every single family I meet, I am constantly driven to help them progress in both the understanding of their child’s diagnosis as well as ways to help enhance their lives in all aspects.”
Jolee Raines MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Jolee received her Master’s from Towson University where she completed her degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 2022. Jolee joins our team with experience in various pediatric settings where she has worked with students from both the early education setting and the high school setting. Jolee has a special interest in early speech and language development where her passion lies with helping children to find their own voice and feel heard. Jolee’s favorite thing about her job is supporting children as they develop new skills and become successful and confident communicators. Jolee is a Montgomery County native where she enjoys being outdoors, traveling to new places, and having game nights with family and friends.
What drive’s Jolee’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I have always known I wanted to work with children and be a part of their growth journey in some way. Being able to support a child as they learn to effectively communicate and connect with the world around them drives my passion.”
Samantha Sinisi, MA, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Samantha Sinisi earned her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from George Washington University in 2018. With experience in school, home, private practice, and hospital outpatient settings, Samantha has worked with diverse populations and age groups. Her special interests lie in phonological disorders, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, early intervention, and childhood fluency disorders. Samantha holds certifications in PROMPT Level 1, DTTC, and PECS Level 1. She has completed the Meaningful Speech program for gestalt language processing, and is trained in the Beckman Oral Motor approach and AEIOU approach for feeding therapy.
The highlight of her job is witnessing the excitement of children and their families during breakthrough moments, both in and out of therapy sessions. She finds great joy in empowering children to express themselves and helping families feel confident in supporting their child’s progress beyond therapy.
Originally from Harrisburg, PA, Samantha now resides in Frederick, MD, where she enjoys hiking, reading, and watching documentaries.
What drives Samantha’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I am incredibly lucky to be a part of a child’s support team. It is passion that inspires motivation and motivation that inspires “outside the box” thinking, as every child and family deserves their own personally tailored approach and strategies for success. Improving communication is a crucial factor that impacts quality of life for the individual and everyone around them.”
Moira Yanik, M.S. CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Originally from Scranton, Pennsylvania, Moira Yanik moved to Frederick after a stretch as a traveling therapist. This role took her around areas of Alaska and Washington state for nearly a decade, after which she moved to Frederick. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from East Stroudsburg University. Like many speech language pathologists who work with children, she has a deep-rooted passion for members of the youngest generation.
Her special areas of interest are early intervention, early literacy, and functional life skills, and she fully dedicates herself to every child she works with. There aren’t many things that can make her happier than seeing the moment when a child “gets it”—when everything clicks and they are able to functionally use the skills they’ve been working towards.
When Moira isn’t working with children, she’s out exploring the world with her goldendoodle, solving escape rooms, and finding the best places to get pizza and wings.
What drives Moira’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“When passion dictates your attitude, thoughts, and actions, then progress is naturally what follows. Finding joy and purpose in what you’re doing will go hand in hand with propelling you forward. As my favorite girlie Leslie Knope once said: ’Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is a chance to work hard at work worth doing.’”
Anna Atwood, M.S. CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Ask anyone to describe Anna Atwood in one word, and they’ll probably say “devoted.” She’s devoted to her kids. She’s devoted to her job here. She’s devoted to her community. We could go on and on, but it boils down to this: When Anna has a passion for something, it shows. A Speech-Language Pathologist since 2015, she has an obvious love for her craft that results in joyous patients and effective therapy.
When Anna isn’t working with the kids at Basal Therapies, she’s probably nose deep in a book or cooking a great meal for her family. Originally from New Jersey, she’s a beach girl through and through. Give her a chance to go out of town, and she’ll head straight for the coast.
What drives Anna’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I love the community outreach aspect of Basal Therapies. I truly cannot wait to be a part of community education programs that allow us, as professionals, to provide families with easy-to-follow strategies in their own day-to-day lives.”
Emma Clarke M.S., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
For Emma Clarke, the best part of the job happens in the small moments: a first word, new sign, or a child finally making themselves understood. A speech-language pathologist who holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence, Emma earned her Master of Science at Jacksonville University and has been a practicing pathologist since 2025.
Emma specializes in early intervention and AAC, or augmentative and alternative communication: the tools and strategies that give children other ways to express themselves when spoken words are hard to come by. Whether she’s working toward a first sound or a fuller sentence, her goal is the same: to help each child feel confident communicating anywhere, with anyone. And she’s convinced the surest path there runs through play. Per Emma, when therapy is fun, progress follows.
Away from the clinic, Emma is usually tending a sourdough starter, snuggling with her cats, or spending time with family and friends. Ask her where she’d go tomorrow if she could, and she’ll tell you Ireland without missing a beat.
What drives Emma’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I always knew I wanted a career that helped others. Supporting clients and families with personalized plans is very important, and providing personalized therapy while having fun shows progress being made. Having the opportunity to be a part of such an incredible team of clinicians and professionals who all have the same mission drives my passion every day.”
Tracy Jensen, MS, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Tracy received her degree from Shenandoah University. She has worked for more than 13 years as an Occupational Therapist in various settings including a skilled nursing facility, assisted living facility, school system, and as an outpatient pediatric OT. She’s also worked in children’s schools, specifically working with preschool-age children.
Tracy’s favorite part of the job is connecting and making a difference. Being able to witness a child’s growth and quality of life persevere is rewarding. She loves making true connections with children and their families to make a difference throughout their entire life. Originally from Walkersville, Tracy is currently living in Frederick County with her husband and 2 children, where she enjoys reading, dance parties with her family and being outdoors. Her favorite place for a family vacation is Bethany Beach!
What drives Tracy’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I feel most passionate about helping others, being part of a positive and collaborative team, and connecting with a child to help them develop motor and adaptive skills. I love seeing the progress within a child and their family when they succeed and make gains in their daily life. Fostering a child’s development and seeing them truly happy after conquering a goal is what I am passionate about.”
Lydia Bischof, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapy is a crucial part of what we do, and Lydia Bischof brings field expertise to the table in droves. After receiving her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from West Virginia University in December 2024, she moved to Frederick and joined the team at Basal.
Though she’s incredibly skilled in all aspects of occupational therapy, she has a particular interest in fine motor development, reflex integration, and feeding therapy. The joy she sees on kids’ faces when they “get it” can’t compare to anything else. She considers it a gift to help in such a crucial part of the childhood development journey, and feels that seeing success unfold is a privilege.
With that all said, Lydia does take her attention away from therapy. When she’s not helping kids achieve their potential, she’s probably hiking, playing violin, or trying her hand at an exciting new recipe.
What drives Lydia’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“OT is my passion, and seeing kids grow brings me so much joy! In addition, I want to help kids progress through the things they like doing, whatever they are passionate about! Incorporating this into activities makes sessions fly by for the kiddos and fun for them!”
Marleigh Beck, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Caregiving and group leadership have always come naturally for Marleigh Beck. She’s worked in one of the most demanding (yet rewarding) roles out there during her time as a caregiver for adults with developmental disabilities. That’s not the extent of her experiential qualifications, though.
This Frederick native knows how to instruct. Thanks to her time as a group fitness instructor for Mommy and Me yoga classes, kids’ boot camps, and classes for teens with special kids, she knows what it takes to facilitate group programs that require patience and perseverance. She has a brother with autism, and growing up with him has played a huge role in shaping her career path. She knows what life looks like through that lens, and uses her experience to better the lives of the children we care for at Basal.
With a seemingly endless drive to stay healthy and creative, Marleigh divides her time between baking, working out, and honing her skills on the piano and guitar. Needless to say, she likes to stay busy!
What Drives Marleigh’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“Passion is unique to every person and it drives so much of what we do at any age. I love how using what each kiddo enjoys or is passionate about can unlock new opportunities for growth as they keep developing new skills!”
Melissa Shipley, OTA/L
Occupational Therapy Assistant
With over three decades in the field, Melissa Shipley brings a wealth of experience and compassion to Basal. Driven by the joy she feels when clients succeed, she has made it her mission to ensure providers incorporate the whole person approach into their practice. This results in an improvement in the outcomes of our services overall—and healthy, happy kids.
When she’s not caring for the wonderful children Basal welcomes, Melissa can probably be found relaxing in the Outer Banks of North Carolina with her husband Mike, her daughters Caitlin and Riley and son in law Brennan.
What drives Melissa’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I feel I can connect as a therapist to the Basal mission through using the “whole person” approach in my daily practice.”
Meghan Georgoff
Preschool Teacher
Meghan Georgoff received her bachelor’s degree from Towson University in Deaf Studies. Meghan cannot wait to incorporate her sign language skills into part of the preschool program! Meghan’s favorite parts of working at Basal Therapies are seeing families getting support and working alongside passionate clinicians. Meghan currently resides in Emmitsburg, Maryland where she enjoys golfing, running, and reading.
What drives Meghan’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“Working with families to help and support them fuels my passion to work in early childhood education. Basal Therapies exudes a passion that families feel when they walk in the door.”
Courtney Brusoe
Preschool Teacher
Courtney Brusoe is no stranger to helping children. A New Jersey native, she currently calls Frederick her home, where she pours her heart into her role at Basal. She has a dual bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education from York College of Pennsylvania, which she used to teach Preschool Special Education in Rockville for eight years. Following her Rockville role, she took leave to have her two children, who she can’t imagine life without.
Aside from being a strong addition to our team, what else does she bring to the table? Her specialization in DIR/Floortime! It’s a therapy approach implemented when working with children who have various developmental challenges. Courtney knew that receiving certification in this practice would allow her to help children in a big way, so she jumped right in! And it’s certainly been worth it. To her, there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the “light bulb moment” when something finally clicks in a child’s mind.
What drives Chrissy’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I truly believe you should show up with heart everyday because when students feel seen, they grow.”
Paige Henry
Preschool Assistant
A Frederick native who still calls the city home, Paige Henry first came to know Basal through its work; her nephew arrived with a speech delay and worked with the team until he was thriving. Now she’s here to pay it forward for the next child.
Paige brings years of hands-on experience to the classroom, having spent six as a full-time nanny to children at every stage. She holds a degree from Southern New Hampshire University with a focus in forensic psychology, a field that fed a lasting curiosity about how people think, learn, and grow.
What she loves most is the moment a child starts to believe in themselves: that flicker of confidence you can watch settle in, one small win at a time. To Paige, no challenge defines a child. Every child has it in them to become the person they’re working toward, and she sees her job as handing them the tools to get there.
When she’s off the clock, Paige is almost certainly reading, out on a run, or tending her garden. And should the topic of Christmas come up, be warned: few people love the season more than she does.
What drives Paige’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I connect to the mission through passion, because I believe it takes just one person to change a child’s life. One person who believes in them, and accepts them for exactly who they are, can set a child on the path to achieve whatever they put their minds to.”
Lauren Mitchell, MS, CCLS, LGPC
Mental Health Therapist
Lauren Mitchell, LGPC, holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Community Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. With over 20 years of experience supporting the emotional well-being of children and families—primarily as a child life specialist in the hospital setting—she brings a deep understanding of child development and family dynamics to her practice. Driven by her passion for mental health, she now focuses on serving families in the Frederick community. Lauren is committed to fostering meaningful connections with each child and teen, empowering them to recognize their strengths, and guiding them toward positive growth and lasting change.
She currently resides in New Market, MD, with her husband and two children. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys hiking, traveling, and actively engaging in her community.
What drives Lauren’s mission, #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I believe in the power each child/teen has to cope with the many challenges that life brings. I use a trauma-informed approach to best understand each child’s/teen’s unique worldview and am committed to working together to help them build up their sense of resilience and well-being.”
Stephanie Schulman, MS, LGPC
Mental Health Therapist
We love the energy that those new to the field bring, and Stephanie provides it in droves. Having recently received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Hood College, she’s ready to enrich the lives of every child she works with and enable them to succeed.
Though she’s new to the field, she does have experience working as a therapist in schools and clinics. In fact, she’s been working with kids in some capacity since 2018 in different settings—Inclusive Pre-K, behavioral treatment centers, and a neurological treatment facility. At Basal, she looks forward to teaching children to become their own advocates for their mental health, especially through play therapy. She loves seeing the changes the kids are able to make on their own—even the small steps they may not notice.
Stephanie is a worldly person at heart, excited by the thought of visiting new places. She visited Cambodia when she was in the 5th grade and no vacation since then has topped it. If she could choose one skill to have, it would be the ability to speak more languages. Wouldn’t it be great to have a built-in Google translator?
What drives Stephanie’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I believe that the relationships built in therapy allow for growth in the world. The way I show up and support my clients translates to the work we are able to do together. I believe in using a holistic approach with clients, meeting them where they are comfortable and allowing them to grow at their own pace. Celebrating the changes, big and small, is why I love this work!”
Chrissy Mahoney, MS, LGPC
Mental Health Therapist
A native of the beautiful state of Maryland, Chrissy Mahoney has spent much of her life in other East Coast states—namely North Carolina and Pennsylvania. But her home state never stopped calling her back, and she eventually returned to set roots in Frederick and attend graduate school.
Once she finished there and received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Hood College, she discovered Basal, where she could do what she’s always wanted to do: Help children. This isn’t her first experience with that, though. She’s held other roles assisting children and families, such as her role as a paraeducator to elementary school students in special education.
Of course, she has interests outside of these endeavors. Ever the artist, she loves drawing and theater. When she’s not doing that, her devotion to friends, family, and her two cats shines through by way of her spending time with them and enjoying their company.
What drives Chrissy’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I believe in the power of the connections built in therapy and their ability to create change throughout a client’s life. I find there is great meaning in showing up for others and developing relationships built upon trust, respect, and patience. In my work as a therapist, that means learning and growing with my clients, getting excited about their progress, and celebrating them for who they are, in and out of the therapy room, through passion and connection.”
Lucy Sokoloff, LGPC
Mental Health Therapist
Lucy Sokoloff has built her career meeting people where they are and helping them find steadier ground.
A licensed graduate professional counselor with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Slippery Rock University, Lucy has worked in a wide range of settings: residential care for adolescents, counseling for veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs, school-based support for students navigating big behavioral and emotional challenges, and community mental health for adults.
What Lucy loves most is building the kind of space where a person feels safe enough to try something new. She’s especially drawn to the ripple effect of early intervention: the idea that supporting a child’s emotional health today shapes how confidently they move through the world tomorrow. Watching a skill click into place and then travel out of the therapy room into everyday life is what keeps her coming back to this kind of work.
Lucy is a lifelong learner outside the office. A nationally ranked diver turned coach, she’s currently training for a half Ironman. And when she’s finally off her feet, you’ll find her deep in a good book or rewatching an episode of Ted Lasso.
What drives Lucy’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“My favorite part of the profession? I’m never finished learning. I’m always learning more about different aspects of counseling and how to better help the people in my care. Continuing to foster my passion to help people in new ways is the best part of my job!”
Jenny Grey, LCPC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Jenny received her Masters in Clinical and Community Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. In various settings during her career, she has worked with a variety of populations, including military families, troubled youth, couples, individuals and children of all ages. Prior to becoming a professional counselor, Jenny spent over a decade working with Juvenile Services, both in and out of school systems and was involved in a great deal of specialized programming to include Spotlight on Schools, Break the Cycle, The Angel Network, and Charity Basketball Events. She has worked with individuals experiencing a wide range of diagnoses and challenges, including esteem building, bullying, socialization, processing pieces, anger management, Executive Functioning, a narrative of self, identity confusion, LGBTQ, transitioning and much more. Jenny has a passion for sports and enjoys helping athletes work on a sense of self, which can be inflated or deflated, since athletics is a high pressure, high performance area where they may struggle with mental and emotional components of their game. Jenny is most passionate about connection, helping someone in any way she can on their journey, and helping to understand and improve a child’s world from the inside. In her free time, Jenny enjoys hiking, basketball (as a coach, teacher, and mentor), music/arts, and also loves a good movie or just being with family!
What drives Jenny’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“My approach to the therapeutic process is a passionate one. I believe strongly in a connective process, building relational blocks that will hopefully extend beyond the therapeutic setting.”
Aubrey Mohler
Administrative & Billing Coordinator
Aubrey completed her degree in Sports Management and Commercial Recreation Tourism at Shepherd University. Aubrey joins the Basal Team with experience working in both the elementary and high school setting with students in the special education setting for 12 years. Aubrey’s favorite parts of her job at Basal Therapies are supporting families, interacting with staff, and seeing the kids each day. She believes the most important part of her job is working with kids, and their families, to support them through this journey. She loves seeing the progress each week! Aubrey is a Frederick native where she enjoys coaching volleyball, hanging out with her family, and traveling.
What drives Aubrey’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I feel the most passionate about helping others. I love being a part of this journey for families as a way to connect them to our providers and support their experience at Basal. Kids recognize when you are excited and love what you do and our team strives to ensure that we show that.”
Christine Sheets
Medical Billing Specialist
Christine Sheets, a resident of Western Loudoun County, VA, brings a blend of administrative expertise and a passion for family well-being to Basal Therapies. With a background rooted in small practice administration and billing/claims, Christine has spent the last 19 years dedicated to working alongside families.
A graduate of George Mason University, Christine is dedicated to diminishing the burdens families face when handling complex insurance issues. She enjoys being able to alleviate their stress so they’re free to focus on their child’s development.
In her free time, Christine likes going roller skating, indulging her creative side through art, and she cherishes moments spent with her husband and children. Her dedication to supporting families extends beyond the workplace, and she describes herself as being a “family well-being nerd.”
What drives Christine’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“When we operate from a place of passion, we’re more open to pursuing the best ways of serving our clients and community and do so with a sense of fulfillment.”
Kathy Sennewald
Intake & Service Coordinator
Kathy is a devoted intake & service coordinator with over twenty years of administrative experience. She grew up in Bethesda, MD, and currently is living in Walkersville. Passionate about working for a company that’s helping local families, Kathy loves seeing the kids each day and looks forward to getting to know each of them.
When she’s not at work, Kathy enjoys traveling, bike riding, and spending time with family and friends.
What drives Kathy’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“Supporting children to achieve success is infectious. My hope is that I am able to help someone each day to make their day a little brighter.”
Katie King
Intake & Service Coordinator
Nothing beats seeing the smile on a kid’s face and making a positive impact on their families. At least, that’s what Katie King thinks, and we doubt many people would disagree. A native of Maryland, Katie comes to us from a career in clinical research. It’s quite the shift, for sure, but she couldn’t ignore her passion for helping children.
As an Intake Coordinator, Katie gets to interact directly with patients and their families. Making these kinds of connections is a highlight of her role here, and we’re all the better for it. She makes patients feel comfortable right from the start. She doesn’t need to tell us how much she loves what she does; her positive demeanor are a good enough indicator.
When Katie isn’t chatting up patients and their families and guiding them through the intake process, she’s probably walking her dogs (Chihuahuas Oliver, Toby, and Manolo) or indulging in various arts and crafts.
What drives Katie’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I’m passionate about getting to see the progress kids make, and the positive impact our therapists have in their lives. Getting to be even a small part of that experience is amazing.”
Julie DeRohner
Family & Community Engagement Liaison
Julie DeRoner has been working in childhood education in some capacity for several years now. Though she hails from New Jersey, she’s been living and working in Maryland for more than three decades—holding roles as dental assistant, event planning, and family caregiving support. In short, she knows how to interact with and enrich the lives of children. With certifications in reflective coaching and sibshops, she’s a perfect match for our mission at Basal.
Julie’s passion lies in providing whatever support she can to better serve families and the community as a whole. Working with a team of professionals who have plenty of passion and creativity allows her to do just that.
Of course, Julie has hobbies outside of her professional aspirations. She can often be found volunteering with her dog Mookie at Go Team Therapy Dogs, spending time with her grandchildren and family, or hiking and kayaking.
What drives Julie’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“Whether we’re children, parents, or professionals, we all bring something to the table that lends itself to continual learning through collaboration. I always see myself as wanting to continually learn more from others. I’m excited to bring that passion to Basal.”
Killean McCarthy
HR & Administrative Generalist
Killean has always loved being a part of small businesses. Ever since she sat behind the sales counter at her mother’s store, she’s enjoyed helping out others in a supportive role. Even after years and multiple lifetime milestones, that passion hasn’t worn off, except now she gets to do it for a small business that focuses on children. For her, it’s the best of both worlds.
Originally from Boonsboro, MD, Killean moved to Walkersville to attend Hood College. Though she loves to travel, it’s clear she has a soft spot for Frederick and its surrounding areas. When she isn’t nose to the grindstone in her HR role at Basal, she’s probably out hiking or planning her next big trip.
What drives Killean’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“My mother owned a kids store and currently is a CPST and a postpartum doula. Seeing the needed support for families and giving that to them is something I’ve become very passionate about, making my position here at Basal Therapies perfect.”