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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
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.”
Hannah Nicholson, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Hannah obtained her degree from Towson University. She has been practicing as a Speech-Language Pathologist since 2020. Hannah has worked with a variety of clients with special interests in early intervention, articulation disorders, speech-generating devices, and hearing loss. For children and families who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Hannah provides services in both Spoken English and American Sign Language. Her favorite part of this career is seeing the progress! She loves seeing children learn how they can communicate and conquer their challenges. Originally from Westminster, Maryland, she currently resides in Taneytown, Maryland. Outside of work, Hannah loves traveling, reading, hiking, kayaking, and Crossfit.
What drives Hannah’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I look forward to those moments when the child says their first word, when they learn how they can use a device to say what they want, and when they begin to hear new sounds they haven’t heard before. I love those moments when the child conquers a hard skill and says “I did it!” I know I am helping children learn new skills early in their life which they will carry with them throughout the rest of their life.”
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.”
Mallory Evans, M.S., CF SLP
Speech Language Pathologist
Mallory Evans brings valuable expertise to the Basal team as a speech language pathologist. Originally from Lancaster, PA, she completed her education at Penn State University before moving to Frederick.
When she isn’t helping kids develop their speech skills, she can be found hiking the many mountain trails in Frederick and its surrounding counties, or sitting by a campfire, her tent pitched nearby. On the days when she wants to keep it a little more lowkey, you’ll find her tending to her garden (she has a knack for helping things grow).
One thing that drives Mallory to help children is seeing the progress they make. Whether it’s a small step or a big milestone, witnessing the triumphs of children is one of the most rewarding parts of her profession. Her passion for helping every child find their voice and communicate effectively knows no bounds!
What drives Mallory’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“Something I do in my everyday life, and with the clients I see, is always try to find and focus on small wins. The bigger picture is important, but it’s also important to see the small steps of progress. Finding small wins every day keeps me motivated and passionate, and I think can also help clients and families stay motivated and positive as well.”
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.’”
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!”
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.”
Kelly Krichten, M.A.T.
Preschool Teacher
Coming to us from just down the road in Mount Airy, Kelly Krichten has spent the last eight years working as an inclusion teacher with children from Pre-K to 1st grade. The children she works with always get the attention and expertise they need to succeed. Why? Because not only does Kelly have a master’s degree from James Madison University, but she’s just great with kids!
Kelly is a big proponent of inclusion for all students, because nobody should miss out on an opportunity to be the best they can be. For her, one of the most valuable measures of success is seeing the enthusiasm children have for learning and watching them make leaps and bounds in their learning.
Her compassion isn’t limited to her professional career, either. She cares deeply about rescue animals, and will help them whenever she gets the opportunity. When it’s time to wind down, she does so through reading and yoga.
What drives Kelly’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I’m very passionate about teaching and connecting with children, to help them to make progress in all areas.”
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 Wendler, BSW
Preschool Teacher
Safety. Support. Celebration. These are the three pillars Paige Wendler upholds when providing care for children. She wants them to thrive in an environment built around these values, and it’s certainly something she champions at Basal Therapies. Having earned her bachelor’s degree in social work in 2016, she’s had the privilege of working in a variety of settings that support children and families—family preservation case management, foster care, schools, and specialized teaching for children with dyslexia and learning differences.
Her drive doesn’t stop there, though. In addition to pouring her heart and soul into her work here, she’s pursuing a trauma-informed Master of Social Work at Widener University. Obtaining this degree will further deepen her ability to create a supportive, healing environments for young learners and their families.
So what does Paige do when she isn’t working or studying? Somehow, she finds time to go to concerts, travel to new and exciting places, and do a bit of thrifting. Needless to say, she likes to stay busy!
What drives Paige’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“For me, #progressthroughpassion means showing up wholeheartedly for the children I work with. My passion for supporting children and families pushes me to go the extra mile and reminds me that progress, big or small, matters when it’s built on genuine care and commitment.”
Autumn Maxwell
Preschool Assistant
When it comes to creating an environment in which kids can truly learn, grow, and celebrate their victories, you won’t find anyone more passionate about it than Autumn Maxwell. Originally from Greenville, South Carolina, she recently made the move to nearby Mount Airy and wasted no time seeking a professional environment where she could nurture that passion.
It’s early in her career, but that doesn’t mean she lacks experience. She’s already proven herself as a mental health specialist at a psychiatric hospital, and she plans to specialize in trauma counseling, where she knows she can make a difference. At Basal, she’s right at home. The moments in which she can witness children’s small victories are the moments she lives for.
But what about when Autumn needs to relax for a bit? She can probably be found with her nose in a book or her feet on a hiking trail. Either way, she’s going on an adventure!
What drives Chrissy’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“My passion for seeing these kids grow in all areas (emotionally, physically, and mentally) helps drive me to bring patience and care to work everyday with the goal of seeing meaningful progress as a result.”
Portia A. Cann
Assistant Teacher
Portia A. Cann is originally from Ghana and now calls Frederick, MD home. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Liberty University and brings several years of experience as an assistant teacher, behavioral therapist, and paraprofessional. In addition to her degree, she has completed 45 hours of specialized training focused on infants and toddlers.
Passionate about working with children, especially those with special needs, Portia finds joy in seeing children progress, achieve their goals, and excel. She is dedicated to playing an active role in each child’s development and is proud to be part of a team that shares her commitment to supporting children and families.
Outside of work, Portia enjoys cooking, spending time with family, and going to the movies. She loves gospel music and can often be found binge-watching Hallmark movies on her days off. One of her greatest aspirations is to travel the world and learn about different cultures. Portia is excited to continue making a positive impact at Basal Therapies and helping children reach their full potential.
What drives Portia’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“I connect with this mission because I believe in the mission and what it stands for.”
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.”
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.”
Denise Oseneek, BSW
Intake & Service Coordinator
Our personal experiences often have a big impact on our career paths. Denise Oseneek’s are a prime example of that. Because of her experiences with private therapists who gave valuable care to her sons, she’s wanted to help families in similar situations. That’s exactly why she joined the Basal team!
A lifelong Maryland resident, Denise was born in Silver Spring. After attending college in Frostburg, she moved to Frederick with her family, where she’s lived for the last 25 years. This isn’t her first time working as an Intake Coordinator. She’s been involved in early intervention for 30 years, serving in intake roles in Montgomery and Frederick counties. If you’re a parent looking for someone to be a champion for your child’s needs, Denise will step up every time.
When she isn’t pouring herself into connecting children with the rest of the Basal team, Denise can probably be found taking her dog on a walk, diving into a book, or simply relaxing while spending time with her family.
What drives Denise’s #ProgressThroughPassion?
“As a mother of two boys who required intervention in their early years of school, I welcomed the support of private therapists who made such an important difference in our lives. I have personal experience with therapists who created change and helped families like ours through real struggles. I want to connect families to services that can help their children in the same way.”
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.”