Our Team | CHATTER PEDIATRIC THERAPY

Our team is here to serve your family.

At Chatter Pediatric Therapy, your child is important to us. We are driven to provide our patients with highly researched therapy techniques in a welcoming atmosphere so that each child receives the best personalized care they deserve! Get to know the dedicated professionals at Chatter. These individuals come from all walks of life and are united by their passion for helping children and providing outstanding therapy.

KATIE A. KRINGEN

MS CCC-SLP

Owner, Speech & Language Pathologist

A native of Bottineau, ND, Katie received her Master's degree in Speech & Language Pathology from Minot State University. Katie worked in the public school system for six years until relocating with her husband and three children to Williston, ND. Katie enjoys spending her time at Lake Metigoshe, a place near and dear to her heart since childhood. She is a hockey fan and loves watching her kids on the ice or competing in other sports and participating in school activities. Family, sports, spending time with her closest friends and her large, extended family are her favorite things about life!

JENNIFER LARSON

BS Business Administration

Business Manager

Growing up in Dickinson, ND, Jenny received her Business Administration, Management & Marketing degrees at Dickinson State University. Jenny married her college sweetheart and shortly after they moved to his hometown, Williston, ND. Jenny enjoys spending time at home with her husband, daughters, two cats and a dog. Photography, hockey, and coffee are a few of her favorite things.

RAYEL M. McCOY

MSOTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Rayel was born and raised in Upton, Wyoming. She moved to North Dakota to attend Dickinson State University where she ran track and cross country for the Bluehawks. Rayel received her Master’s Degree from the University of Mary. She has been an occupational therapist for almost seven years and has worked in a variety of settings. She is excited for the opportunity to provide therapy services to children in Dickinson and the surrounding area. Rayel enjoys spending time with her husband and daughters. Some of her hobbies and interests include going to the lake, fishing, visiting family and friends, reading, and watching sporting events.

JERRICA R. ALBERT

Psychometrist

Jerrica was born and raised in Williston, ND, and attended Williston State College. She loves working with children and has flourished working underneath the direction of Dr. Willert. In Jerrica's free time you can catch her doing anything and everything with her son! A few of her favorite things include being a mom, coffee, and spending time with friends and family.

MATTHEW T. McDONALD

LAPC

Mental Health Counselor

Originally from the Brainerd Lakes area of Minnesota, Matt moved to North Dakota in 2019. He has worked with children, adolescents, and their families for over 6 years, and has recently completed a degree in Clinical Mental Health from The University of The Southwest. Matt enjoys playing music, reading old books, cross country skiing, and going on adventures with his family!

HANNAH R. RASMUSSEN

MS CCC-SLP

Speech & Language Pathologist

Originally from Minnesota, Hannah moved to Williston, ND in 2010. Hannah worked as a Speech Language Pathology Assistant for three years before going back to school. She received her Masters degree in Speech & Language Pathology from Emerson College. Hannah completed two externships at Chatter Pediatric Therapy and knew it was a great fit. She married her high school sweetheart in the summer of 2018. She enjoys warm weather and BBQ's, hanging out with family and friends, and traveling.

KELSEY L. KUEHN

MS CCC-SLP

Speech & Language Pathologist

Originally from Malta, Montana, Kelsey obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Biology from Rocky Mountain College in Billings, MT. She taught science in Westby, MT for two years before completing her Master's Degree in Speech & Language Pathology from Minot State University in 2022. During her externships, Kelsey gained valuable experience and enjoyed her time in an outpatient clinic setting working with adults along with the pediatric population at Chatter Pediatric Therapy. She knew Chatter was the perfect fit the first time she walked in the door! In her free time, Kelsey enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling back to Montana, and hanging out with friends and family.

SAMMY L. NEVA

MS CCC-SLP

Speech & Language Pathologist

A native of Bismarck, ND, Samantha received her Master's degree in Speech & Language Pathology from the University of Mary in 2021. She has work alongside children with speech & language difficulties across the school setting as well as a private practice during her schooling. She finished her degree with an externship at Chatter Pediatric Therapy and is excited to be a part of the team! Sammy enjoys going to the lake, fishing, spending time with friends and family, and traveling.

LAYNEE R. KUDRNA

MS CCC-SLP

Speech & Language Pathologist

Laynee was born and raised in South Heart, North Dakota, received her Bachelor's and Master's in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Mary, Bismarck, ND. It has always been Laynee's goal to return home and serve her rural community. Laynee is eager to join the Chatter team and support pediatrics and their families! Laynee enjoys spending time with her family and friends, golfing, listening to music, and traveling.

ABBEY M. AIDE

MS SLP

Speech & Language Pathologist

Originally from Bottineau, ND, Abbey received her Master's Degree in Speech & Language Pathology from the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. She has worked with children in public schools and private practices throughout her education. She completed her degree with an externship at Chatter Pediatric Therapy where she fell in love with the kids and staff. A few of Abbey's favorite things include traveling with her wife, spending time at Lake Metigoshe with her family and friends, and attending her nephew's and niece's sporting events.

ERIN L. McCURRY

MSOTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Erin is a North Dakota native who has been an occupational therapist for 10 years. Erin has practiced in a variety of settings with all ages, but her favorite is pediatric mental and behavioral health. With extensive experience with ADHD, anxiety and depression, trauma and conduct disorders, it is Erin’s passion to help children and their families manage the daily struggles they endure. Erin is a Certified Youth Mental Health Specialist and a Trauma Treatment for Kids therapist. When she's not at work Erin enjoys spending time with her two boys, anything outdoors and DIY/craft projects.

CASSIDY L. TOMLINSON

MS SLP

Speech & Language Pathologist

Cassidy is originally from Turtle Lake, ND, and now resides in Velva, ND. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from North Dakota State University and then went on to get her Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Cassidy is passionate about caring for others and has had lots of experience working with children with autism spectrum disorder. She enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending time with her loved ones - especially her niece and nephew! Cassidy is excited to start giving back to the community she cares so deeply about.

LEXI M. BIGGERS

COTA

Certified Occupation Therapy Assistant

Originally a Texas Native, Lexi fell in love with North Dakota and decided to call it home! Lexi graduated from St. Catherine University following her passion in helping others meet their full potential. She completed her first externship at Chatter Pediatric Therapy in Dickinson and her final externship in Williston. Outside of Chatter, you can find Lexi outdoors, in the gym, or spending time with family and friends!

Dr. MERYL WILLERT

Ph.D.

Child & Adolescent Psychologist

Dr. Willert completed his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of North Dakota and Spokane Mental Health in Washington. He attended NDSU for his undergraduate degree in psychology. He has 28 years of experience in evaluating and treating children and adolescents for various mental health and behavioral problems in hospital, residential, and outpatient settings. He specializes in psychological testing for ADHD, autism spectrum, mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, emerging personality issues, and learning problems. For therapy, he primarily uses evidence-based methods such as cognitive behavioral and acceptance approaches. He also uses play therapy, clinical hypnosis, dynamic/insight-oriented therapy, emotional freedom tapping, and percussion/music therapy when indicated. On the creative side of things, Dr. Willert has played drums and percussion professionally since he was 12 years old and still performs with a classic rock band. When he’s not working with kids or playing music, he enjoys being with his family, barbecuing with charcoal (old school style), and hanging out in Cabo San Lucas, MX.

JOAN M. ZANDER

LCSW

Mental Health Counselor

Originally from Minot, ND, Joan received her Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, ND. Joan worked in a variety of Social Service Agencies before beginning her career in Mental Health Therapy in 2012. She works with children and adolescents struggling with depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant behavior, conduct disorder and other mental health issues. Joan has trained extensively in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and integrates play therapy into her sessions as well. When she is not at work, Joan and her husband keep busy raising their boys, spending time at the family lake house, and visiting family in Minot!

GRACIE HOLTAN

AA, AS

Assistant Business Manager

Raised in the outskirts of Williston, ND, Gracie received her Business Management and Accounting degrees from Williston State College this spring. She is excited to jump into a career that utilizes her love for math and business! Gracie loves to be creative and has a lot of hobbies, including reading, painting, and spending time with her nephews. Gracie also enjoys working with animals, and being outdoors.

AUTUMN R. PATTERSON

COTA

Certified Occupation Therapy Assistant

Autumn was born and raised in Fenton, Michigan, and moved to North Dakota in May of 2021. She graduated from the Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Mott Community College in Michigan and completed both externships at Chatter Pediatric Therapy in Williston, ND and Dickinson, ND. Autumn's passion for occupational therapy began after watching someone close to her receive therapy and recognizing the importance therapy can have on someone’s psychological and emotional well-being, as well as their physical needs. From that experience, Autumn decided she wanted to be in a profession where she can spend quality time with patients, and help them to improve their quality of life in all aspects. Outside of work, Autumn enjoys spending time with her husband and family, loves to be outside in nature and travel to new places. When she is not out hiking, she enjoys photography, painting, and music.

BROOKE M. SANFORD

COTA

Certified Occupation Therapy Assistant

Brooke was born and raised in Watford City, ND. She graduated from the Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Northland Community and Technical College in East Grand Forks, MN in 2018. She joins Chatter with previous experience working alongside children with a variety of special needs. Brooke enjoys spending time with family and friends at her family's lake cabin.

JANE E. McCOY

MOTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Jane is originally from Bismarck, ND and after a tour around the country has returned back to North Dakota. She is so excited to be in this community, near family and making new friends. Jane graduated with her Masters in Occupational Therapy from University of Saint Augustine located in St. Augustine Florida. She has worked in a variety of settings including private pediatric outpatient clinics, hospital settings, nursing homes and most recently school based services in California. Jane loves to work with kids of all ages, and really enjoys helping kids and families reach their full potential through play. Jane is so happy to be a part of the Chatter family, serving those in the community. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and exploring her new home in western ND.

AUBREY M. BJORDAL

MS CCC-SLP

Speech & Language Pathologist

Originally from Sioux Falls, SD, Aubrey received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Augustana University and a Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. While attending school, she had the opportunity to work with a variety of patients of all ages but enjoyed working with kids the most! Aubrey likes being with friends and family, doing anything outdoors or traveling. Her favorite things include cleaning/organizing, country music, and shoes! While Sioux Falls will always be home, Aubrey looks forward to exploring Dickinson!

LAURA M. HALL

RD, LD

Registered Dietician

Laura graduated from South Dakota State University with a degree in Nutrition and Food Science (Dietetics) and completed her post graduate internship at The Ohio State University. After receiving her registered dietitian credentials, Laura worked in the Minneapolis-St Paul area as a clinical dietitian including 3 years at Children’s Minnesota. While at Children’s, Laura spent most of her time working in the feeding clinic, epilepsy clinic, and outpatient nutrition counseling. Laura has experience with helping children with allergies and intolerances, picky eating, tube feeding management, baby-led weaning, failure to thrive, malnutrition and education on healthy eating and balanced meals. Outside of work, Laura enjoys spending time with her husband Levi and their two dogs, Tate and Boze. Laura spends her free time cooking, baking, gardening, and traveling to see friends and family.

SUMMER J. VAN ROOYEN

MSOTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Summer is a North Dakota native, born and raised on a farm in Parshall. She graduated from the University of North Dakota (Go Sioux!) in 2003 with a master’s degree in occupational therapy. Summer has practiced in skilled nursing facility, assisted living, outpatient rehabilitation, acute care, ICU, acute physical rehabilitation, work hardening, ergonomic and work site analysis, home health, hospice, psychiatric residential treatment facilities, and currently out patient pediatrics. Professional interests include trauma informed care, neuroscience, sensory processing, pediatric mental health, and the treatment of challenging behaviors in pediatrics. Summer enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends especially her two boys, reading, gardening, going to concerts, lake time, hockey and enjoying nature.

CHANTELLE C. KUNTZ

LMSW

Mental Health Counselor

Originally from Dickinson, ND. Chantelle received her master’s degree in social work from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, ND. Chantelle has worked for variety of agencies providing services to children and families in the state of North Dakota before beginning her career in Mental health Therapy in 2020. Chantelle works with children and adolescents struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorders, complex trauma, and other mental health issues. Chantelle has trained in Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical behavior therapy, Group Therapy, Play Therapy, and Family Therapy. When not at work Chantelle and her husband keep busy with their three children, spending time with family, going camping, and being outdoors as much as possible!

KACEY M. SYKORA

MSOTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Originally from Dickinson, ND, Kacey received her Master's degree from the University of Mary. She has worked in a variety of pediatric settings including outpatient clinics and schools. While working in these settings she has discovered a passion for using sensory and play based approaches to assist children of all ages. She also has experience in assisting children with mental health concerns after receiving her Youth Mental Health Certification. She enjoys educating families and caregivers to facilitate the child's success within daily routines. When not at work, Kacey enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, yoga, reading, biking, hiking, and skiing.

MADDIE MILLER

Office Assistant

Maddie was born and raised in Williston, North Dakota. She is currently attending the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota and pursuing a degree in Health Studies with a special emphasis on health promotion and health administration. Maddie enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors during the warm weather months, and attending concerts.

JENNY L. LANDENDORF

MS SLP

Speech & Language Pathologist

Jenny was born and raised in Minot, ND. She received her bachelor’s degree in communication disorders then went on to pursue her master’s degree in speech language pathology at Minot State University. She has worked with children in public schools and private practices throughout her education. Jenny spends most of her free time trying to keep up with her two boys. She and her family enjoy going to the lake, exploring the outdoors, and visiting family in Minnesota. Jenny is passionate about caring for others and looks forward to giving back to the community that she and her husband are happy to call home.