Meet Our Speech-Language Pathologists
Jennifer Kingan, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Owner
Chelsea Watercutter, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Kalispell
Jennifer Kingan, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Owner
Jennifer is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) She earned her bachelors degree in communication disorders from Northern Michigan University and masters degree from the Eastern Washington Univer
Jennifer is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) She earned her bachelors degree in communication disorders from Northern Michigan University and masters degree from the Eastern Washington University. Professionally she started her career in 2009 and has worked in the schools, home, skilled nursing facility, acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient clinics. She started her private practice in 2011 and provides collaborative family focused care to the Flathead and surrounding communities.
She has experience with a variety of disorders and specializes in feeding aversions/swallowing disorders, childhood apraxia of speech, hearing impairments, developmental delays, cognitive disorders, early childhood autism and assistive technology in relation to communication.
She works closely with a team of therapists including: physical therapy, occupational therapy, dietitians and specialists to form a tailored therapy program unique for each child.
In her free time, Jenni loves to be on the river, ski, and get out exploring with her two dogs and husband.
Molly Jones, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Columbia Falls
Chelsea Watercutter, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Kalispell
Jennifer Kingan, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Owner
Molly is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Molly has completed her bachelor's degree and in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Montana and earned her master's degre
Molly is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Molly has completed her bachelor's degree and in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Montana and earned her master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Montana in 2016. Go Griz!
Molly has worked in a variety of settings including schools (ages 7-18), skilled nursing facilities, and private practice. Her clinical interests include social/pragmatic skills, expressive and receptive language skills, AAC, and dysphagia. She has a passion for helping others find their voice and participate in life to their fullest!
In her free time Molly enjoys anything outdoors: hiking, skiing, biking, rafting and fishing!
Chelsea Watercutter, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Kalispell
Chelsea Watercutter, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Kalispell
Chelsea Watercutter, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Kalispell
Chelsea is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Chelsea attended The Ohio State University where she received a bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Science. She completed her master’s de
Chelsea is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Chelsea attended The Ohio State University where she received a bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Science. She completed her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
Chelsea has worked as a Speech-Language Pathologist since 2011 serving clients in the pediatric and adult outpatient, inpatient, and home health settings. Chelsea has experience with medically fragile children in both NICU and PICU settings. Chelsea’s clinical interests include expressive and receptive language development, cognitive intervention, and feeding and swallowing deficits. She is trained in a variety of modalities including FEES, VitalStim, and the SOS approach to feeding.
In her free time she enjoys hiking, skiing, and adventuring throughout northwest Montana.
Mandy Erickson, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Eureka
Mandy Erickson, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Eureka
Chelsea Watercutter, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Kalispell
Mandy is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Mandy completed her bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Montana and earned her master's degree in Speech-
Mandy is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Mandy completed her bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Montana and earned her master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Montana in 2022. Go Griz!
Mandy has experience working in the school setting (ages 3-15) and completed her clinical rotations at the Eureka Public schools, Cabinet Peaks Rehabilitation, the Youth Engagement through Intervention Intensive summer program in Missoula and Healthy Beginnings. Her clinical interests include expressive and receptive language, feeding and swallowing disorders, early intervention, childhood apraxia of speech, executive functioning and AAC.
She has a passion for helping others succeed through strengthening confidence and helping them find their voice. Mandy strives to provide neurodiversity-affirming practices utilizing child-led therapy that is engaging and rewarding.
In her free time Mandy enjoys anything outdoors: hiking, rock climbing, backpacking, running and fishing!
Jenna Bingman, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist
Mandy Erickson, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Eureka
Jenna Bingman, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist
Jenna is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
She earned her bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Idaho State University and her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pat
Jenna is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
She earned her bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Idaho State University and her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Eastern Washington University.
Jenna completed her clinical rotations at Spokane Public Schools, a private practice in Spokane, and at Healthy Beginnings. Her clinical interests include expressive and receptive language, feeding and swallowing disorders, early intervention, childhood apraxia of speech, and AAC.
Being born and raised in northwest Montana, Jenna is very happy to be back living in the area that she loves so much. When not in the clinic, Jenna enjoys spending time outdoors – camping, hiking, kayaking, skiing, spending time with family, and going on adventures with her husband and her dog.
Kacy Feagan, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist
Mandy Erickson, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Clinic Director, Eureka
Jenna Bingman, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist
Kacy is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida in Orlando.
Kacy has
Kacy is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida in Orlando.
Kacy has worked with children in the outpatient, school, and home health settings since starting her career in 2017. She enjoys working with children of all ages and has extensive experience in AAC, medically fragile populations, bilingual assessment and therapy, articulation disorders, and developmental delays. Her sessions incorporate literacy and play-based interventions so children feel like they’re having fun while also learning new skills! She works closely with families and other providers to support children to thrive in their everyday lives.
Outside of work, Kacy enjoys spending time with family and friends and getting outside hiking, camping, rafting, or skiing.
Jaime Morelli, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist
Jaime Morelli, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist
Jaime Morelli, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist
Jaime is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Jaime attended the University of Montana where she completed her bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and earned her master's d
Jaime is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and Audiology board and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Jaime attended the University of Montana where she completed her bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and earned her master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology.
Since 2017, Jaime has worked in a school district in Southeast Alaska, serving children ranging from 3-20 years of age with a variety of speech and communication needs. Some of her clinical interests include expressive and receptive language development, social/pragmatic language skills, and AAC. Jaime recently moved from Alaska back to her home state of Montana. Outside of work Jaime enjoys exploring the outdoors, reading, searching for the best cup of coffee, and spending time with friends and family.
Hannah Thomas, M.S., CF-SLP Speech Language Pathologist
Jaime Morelli, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist
Jaime Morelli, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist
Hannah is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and
Audiology board.
Hannah earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology from Montana State University and her master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Ithaca College.
Hannah completed her clinical rotations at a private pediatric clinic in Charleston, South Carolina wh
Hannah is licensed through the state of Montana Speech-Language and
Audiology board.
Hannah earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology from Montana State University and her master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Ithaca College.
Hannah completed her clinical rotations at a private pediatric clinic in Charleston, South Carolina where she gained experience in the areas of AAC, expressive and receptive language development, social/pragmatic language skills, and early intervention. She has a passion for helping others reach their full potential through rewarding and fun child-led therapy.
As a native Montanan, Hannah is happy to be back in her home state. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends, family, and her dog Cleo doing things such as hiking and paddleboarding.
Meet Our Occupational Therapists
Brittney Balbas, MOT, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Josee Pendleton, OTD, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Josee Pendleton, OTD, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Brittney is licensed through the state of Montana Occupational Therapy Board and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. Brittney earned her Bachelor of Science in Movement and Sport Science from Purdue University and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from East Carolina University.
She began her professional
Brittney is licensed through the state of Montana Occupational Therapy Board and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. Brittney earned her Bachelor of Science in Movement and Sport Science from Purdue University and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from East Carolina University.
She began her professional career in 2015 and has enjoyed working in a variety of settings including pediatrics, skilled nursing facilities, home health, and the hospital. Working with children has a special place in Brittney's heart and is why she was excited to join the team at Healthy Beginnings. Being an occupational therapist was a career dream of Brittney's since she was a little girl, but her life dream was to be a mommy. When not at the clinic, Brittney enjoys caring for her young son and daughter and entering their world of play, reading storybook after storybook, dancing together in the kitchen, and building pillow forts. Brittney also enjoys crafty outlets, reading, music, and gardening.
Josee Pendleton, OTD, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Josee Pendleton, OTD, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Josee Pendleton, OTD, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Josee is licensed through the state of Montana Occupational Therapy board and the National Board of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Josee earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from University of Providence and her Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy from Rocky Mountain College.
She is a volunteer with DREAM Adaptive
Josee is licensed through the state of Montana Occupational Therapy board and the National Board of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Josee earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from University of Providence and her Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy from Rocky Mountain College.
She is a volunteer with DREAM Adaptive and Eagle Mount of Montana helping kids and adults access their favorite recreational activities.
When Josee isn’t working in the clinic you can find her in the mountains skiing, hiking, or kayaking with friends and family.
Marissa Roderick, MOT, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Josee Pendleton, OTD, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Marissa Roderick, MOT, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Marissa is licensed through the state of Montana Occupational Therapy board and the National Board of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Science and Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from
Eastern Kentucky University.
Prior to joining the Healthy Beginnings team, Marissa began her
Marissa is licensed through the state of Montana Occupational Therapy board and the National Board of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Science and Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from
Eastern Kentucky University.
Prior to joining the Healthy Beginnings team, Marissa began her career in Wyoming as a travel OT where she worked in the acute and inpatient setting. With the desire to expand her skills and knowledge, Marissa was ready to transition to the pediatrics setting which led her to Montana.
Outside of work, you can find her hiking in Glacier, fly-fishing, running, or traveling with friends.
Jessica Berzins, MOT, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Jessica Berzins, MOT, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Marissa Roderick, MOT, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Jessica is licensed through the Montana Board of Occupational Therapy and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Jessica earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Canisius College where she also played Division I Softball, and her Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy at D’Youville Colle
Jessica is licensed through the Montana Board of Occupational Therapy and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Jessica earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Canisius College where she also played Division I Softball, and her Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy at D’Youville College. Her desire to become an occupational therapist began after working multiple summer camps at the Institute for Autism Research (IAR) where she developed a passion for promoting occupational engagement through
evidence-based interventions.
Prior to joining the Healthy Beginnings team, Jessica worked at the University at Buffalo Center for Assistive Technology where she provided evaluation and training services to clients referred by the New York State Commission for the Blind, Adult Career and Continuing Education Services- Vocational Rehabilitation, and school districts. She additionally assisted in the New York State Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) Program, which is the equivalent to the
MonTech Program here in Montana!
When not in the clinic, Jessica enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and skiing.
Jessica Berzins, MOT, OTR/L Occupational Therapist
Meet Our Physical Therapists
Jinise Trueblood, PT, DPT Physical Therapist
Brenda Howke, PT Physical Therapist
Brenda Howke, PT Physical Therapist
Jinise is licensed through the State of Montana Board of Physical Therapy Examiners. Jinise earned her Bachelors degree in health and human performance from Montana State University-Billings in 2016. In 2019, she graduated from the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences program with her doctorate in physical therapy.
Jinise brings experien
Jinise is licensed through the State of Montana Board of Physical Therapy Examiners. Jinise earned her Bachelors degree in health and human performance from Montana State University-Billings in 2016. In 2019, she graduated from the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences program with her doctorate in physical therapy.
Jinise brings experience working with children of all ages as well as adults with neurological conditions in the outpatient setting. Jinise returned to her home state of Montana in 2021 and is excited to add physical therapy to the services offered at Healthy Beginnings. She loves working alongside families to help children develop the mobility, strength, and coordination required to complete new gross motor skills.
When not at the clinic, Jinise enjoys being outside hiking, kayaking, cross country skiing, swimming, and walking her two dogs along with her husband and family.
Brenda Howke, PT Physical Therapist
Brenda Howke, PT Physical Therapist
Brenda Howke, PT Physical Therapist
Brenda is licensed through the State of Montana Board of Physical Therapy Examiners. She completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Iowa State University in 1991 and her Master of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from Des Moines University in 1994.
Brenda has worked in a variety of settings including acute care, skilled
Brenda is licensed through the State of Montana Board of Physical Therapy Examiners. She completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Iowa State University in 1991 and her Master of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from Des Moines University in 1994.
Brenda has worked in a variety of settings including acute care, skilled nursing facilities, home health, inpatient rehab, and private practice. For the last 5 years she has been serving families and children (ages birth to 21) through the Central Rivers Area Education Agency in Iowa, serving them both in the home and school settings. Helping families and children reach their fullest potential and have success in their learning environments at home, school, and in the communities has become her favorite career experience by far!
Brenda is excited to have moved back to Montana, where she met her husband, Steve, and had all three of her children. Besides spending time with her family and her dog Monty, she enjoys all things outdoors, such as hiking, cross country skiing, running, and cycling.
Meet Our Office Coordinators/Therapy Assistants
Madison Commers, B.S. Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, Office Coordinator/SLPA
Madison Commers, B.S. Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, Office Coordinator/SLPA
Madison Commers, B.S. Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, Office Coordinator/SLPA
Madison graduated from the University of Montana with a bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders, and plans on returning to school to get her master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology.
She's excited to continue to learn and grow at Healthy Beginnings because she has always wanted to work with children.
When she's not
Madison graduated from the University of Montana with a bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders, and plans on returning to school to get her master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology.
She's excited to continue to learn and grow at Healthy Beginnings because she has always wanted to work with children.
When she's not working, she loves being outdoors; hiking with her Great Pyrenees pup, camping, fishing, and is obsessed with drinking coffee and doing puzzles!
Allie Jellison, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Madison Commers, B.S. Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, Office Coordinator/SLPA
Madison Commers, B.S. Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, Office Coordinator/SLPA
Allie is completing her last year in her undergraduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders through the University of Montana. After graduating she plans to return to school to get her masters in Speech Language Pathology. In her free time, she loves to be outside, skiing, hiking, sailing, and swimming, taking her dog Aspen along for the adventures!
Darian Truman, Office Coordinator
Madison Commers, B.S. Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, Office Coordinator/SLPA
Codi Dunn, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Darian's background in customer service and health insurance knowledge translates very well into her position as office coordinator.
She previously held the CAC certification from NAAC for ambulance coding and billing.
Darian is a Montana native who spends most of her free time with her family, including 3 dogs and a cat. Darian enjoys swimming, camping, hunting, crafting, etc.
Codi Dunn, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Codi Dunn, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Codi Dunn, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Codi is in her last year of her undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders through the University of Montana. She is planning to pursue her master's program after she graduates before starting her career as a speech-language pathologist and expanding her own family.
When she isn't working, doing school, or spending time
Codi is in her last year of her undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders through the University of Montana. She is planning to pursue her master's program after she graduates before starting her career as a speech-language pathologist and expanding her own family.
When she isn't working, doing school, or spending time with her loved ones, you can find Codi volunteering in her community. Whether it be counseling at summer camps, coaching middle school basketball, or spending time with her friends with disabilities, she loves to spend time helping others!
When Codi has free time, she loves to read, go thrifting, explore outside, and spend time with her husband, family, friends, and especially her two kittens Ozzie and Riley!
Annie Kraisinger, DC, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Codi Dunn, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Annie Kraisinger, DC, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Annie graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, she then went on to obtain her doctorate in chiropractic at Cleveland University in Kansas City. She has a passion for working with kids and is excited to join the Healthy Beginnings team.
Annie is also a chiropractor at Whitefish Chiropractic Center wh
Annie graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, she then went on to obtain her doctorate in chiropractic at Cleveland University in Kansas City. She has a passion for working with kids and is excited to join the Healthy Beginnings team.
Annie is also a chiropractor at Whitefish Chiropractic Center where she treats kiddos and pregnant mamas.
In her free time, she loves adventuring through the park with her boyfriend Connor, hiking, going to live music, and experiencing new food!
Sierra Swanson, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Codi Dunn, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Annie Kraisinger, DC, Office Coordinator/Therapy Assistant
Sierra is pursuing her Human Resource Management Degree at Hawkeye Community College. She is then planning on getting her Bachelor's Degree in Human Resource Management as well.
When not at work or doing homework she enjoys hanging out with her two dogs, Lilo and River, and her boyfriend, Cade. You can also find her at either a local coff
Sierra is pursuing her Human Resource Management Degree at Hawkeye Community College. She is then planning on getting her Bachelor's Degree in Human Resource Management as well.
When not at work or doing homework she enjoys hanging out with her two dogs, Lilo and River, and her boyfriend, Cade. You can also find her at either a local coffee shop or a farmers market. She also enjoys hot yoga, gardening, cooking, and all things outdoors!
Meet Our Administrative Staff
Deb Pacheco, Patient Accounts
Cara Rathke, B.S. Child Development & Family Services, Community Outreach Coordinator
Cara Rathke, B.S. Child Development & Family Services, Community Outreach Coordinator
Deb has many years of experience in outpatient clinics and strives to create a long-lasting, healthy culture within the team.
She has a great connection with people and an understanding of children with special needs. She is a mom of two amazing boys, and loves to get outside with them!
Cara Rathke, B.S. Child Development & Family Services, Community Outreach Coordinator
Cara Rathke, B.S. Child Development & Family Services, Community Outreach Coordinator
Cara Rathke, B.S. Child Development & Family Services, Community Outreach Coordinator
Cara earned her bachelors degree from Purdue University in Child Development & Family Services and Organizational Leadership. After many years in non-profit work, travel and community engagement, she has focused her time and attention on her two young children the last few years. Her son benefitted from speech therapy services at Health
Cara earned her bachelors degree from Purdue University in Child Development & Family Services and Organizational Leadership. After many years in non-profit work, travel and community engagement, she has focused her time and attention on her two young children the last few years. Her son benefitted from speech therapy services at Healthy Beginnings, and Cara gained an understanding of different therapies and child development, including the importance of understanding sensory processing in children.
Her goal and drive is to provide more readily- available, comprehensive resources for caregivers and community organizations in understanding the importance of early intervention and evaluation, as well as the benefits of speech, occupational, and physical therapy by developing new avenues and resources in sharing the wealth of knowledge available from our amazing team.
Cara also currently serves on the Early Childhood Coalition as well as the Perinatal Mental Health Coalition of Flathead Valley.
She loves any outdoor adventure from backpacking, kayaking, cross-country skiing, hiking and more with her family and friends!
Pam Zimmerman, Human Resources
Pam Zimmerman, Human Resources
Pam Zimmerman, Human Resources
Pam assists with the hiring process, updates staff on laws, regulations, safety and coordinates and assists with our employee benefits.
Pam has worked with adults with special needs and has been a great leader and mentor for many positions and people within the community.
Pam Zimmerman, Human Resources
Pam Zimmerman, Human Resources
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