Meet Our Team
Our experienced team is talented and ready to help!
Melissa Fisher, MS/MDiv
Owner/Operator
With more than 20 years of behavioral health experience with the Disabilities Population and those with Dual Diagnoses, Melissa works to improve the lives of those with developmental disabilities and those suffering from Mental Illness. Melissa served as an adjunct professor at Purdue University in the area of Human Services for 3 years, she shared her practical experience to help develop the next generation of those who will work to care for the underserved while making the world a better place. In addition to working in behavior management, Melissa also serves as the Associate Pastor at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Ft. Wayne.
Melissa holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Indiana University, Bachelor of Arts in Human Services with an emphasis in Psychology from Purdue University, a Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary, a Masters in Psychology from Indiana Tech University, and a Certificate in Public Advocacy and Civil Service from Indiana University.
Erica Pearson, MS
Owner/Operator
Erica Pearson partnered with Melissa Fisher, and went against the odds to establish New Wave Wellness, and persevered through the many obstacles of becoming a woman and black-owned business because, to her, there was a better way to do behavioral health management. With more than fifteen years of experience, paired with a Bachelor’s of Science in Human Service Management and a Master’s Degree in Psychology, Erica has a broad perspective and ability to ensure her clients receive the best care plans, and a tailored approach to success.
Throughout her career, Erica has refined and developed a targeted skillset to ensure that even the most unique situations can move towards progress and successes. A few of areas of speciality include: Interviewing and Assessment training, Behavior Modification Techniques, Group Counseling Mediation training, and Leadership/Management training.
Tessa Burris
Office Manager
Tessa has worked at New Wave Wellness as the office manager for two years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Ball State University. She is married with a beautiful daughter and fluffy orange tabby named Oliver. Tessa is heavily involved in the local theatre community. She feels blessed to have the opportunity to work at New Wave Wellness. Tessa has been managing the office at New Wave Wellness for two years. She graduated from Ball State University with a BA in Theatre. She’s happily married and has a wonderful daughter, along with an adorable orange tabby cat named Oliver. Tessa is very active in the local theatre scene. She feels lucky to be part of the team at New Wave Wellness.
Tracey Caldwell
Payroll/Billing
Tracey is the payroll and billing specialist for New Wave Wellness. She has over 15 years experience in the healthcare industry with a special passion for supporting Mental Health and Substance Use providers and programs. Tracey is dedicated to organization and administration, she even loves a great Excel spreadsheet! Tracey enjoys spending time with her three 17 year olds and her older daughter. She is hugely involved with and connected to her Faith community, and thrives on creating, planning, and organizing worship.
Kacy Bailey, MSW
Behavior Consultant
Kacy is a Behavioral Consultant with New Wave Wellness. In 2019, she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Ball State University, along with a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis. She later received her master’s degree in Social Work in 2020 from Ball State University. She has experience working with children and adults of all ages. She works to establish positive relations with her clients and other team members to ensure all needs are being met. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children. Kacy is a foodie at heart and loves discovering new restaurants and dishes while traveling.
Nicole Belcher, MPsych
Behavior Consultant
Nicole Belcher is a passionate and driven mental health professional with a Master of Science in Psychology from DePaul University and a dual Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Trinity Christian College. With a strong academic foundation and extensive hands-on experience, Nicole brings a thoughtful, data-informed approach to behavior analysis and therapeutic support. Since 2018, she has worked in various capacities across the fields of behavior analysis, mental health, and education—ranging from behavior technician and specialist roles to research and clinical leadership positions. Nicole’s professional strengths include data collection and analysis, patient support, and applied behavior analysis (ABA). Her work is grounded in empathy and a genuine commitment to fostering positive change in the lives of the individuals and families she serves. Nicole’s approach focuses on positive reinforcement, skill-building, and fostering independence. She enjoys working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, helping them develop confidence and self-advocacy skills. In her free time, Nicole loves spending time outdoors, playing volleyball, and exploring new research in psychology and behavior analysis.
Brittany Bleeke, MPsych
Behavior Consultant
Hello, and welcome! I am Brittany. I’m passionate about supporting others on their journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. My academic and professional path has been rooted in understanding people, their behaviors, and the systems that influence their lives.
I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Trine University, followed by a Master’s in Psychology with a focus on behavior and personality traits. I am currently completing my Master’s in Social Work at Indiana Wesleyan University, further deepening my commitment to compassionate and informed care.
Throughout my career, I’ve worn many hats—substitute teacher, kindergarten aide, firefighter, family therapist, addiction counselor, couples counselor, and individual therapist. I also work in the justice system within a probation department that focuses on a treatment court, combining therapeutic insight with accountability and support.
Whether in a classroom, counseling room, or community setting, I strive to meet people where they are and walk alongside them as they move toward where they want to be.
Outside of work, I enjoy painting, writing, reading, planting flowers, and spending time with my large, loving family. My faith is an important part of my life. These moments of connection—both spiritual and personal—keep me grounded and inspired.
Marcie Brabender, MS
Behavior Consultant
I have been in this field for more than twenty years. Over 16 of those years were in case management, and that time has been bookended by working for residential providers. I am bringing passion for connecting with people, understanding behavior, and promoting overall well-being. My dedication to helping our clients, their families, and organizations continues through this service using compassion and evidence-based interventions. I am looking to add individuals in St Joe and Elkhart Counties with daytime availability. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Please also feel free to pass along my contact information to anyone that would like to learn more or interview.
Shawna Breitenstein, MA-ABA
Behavior Consultant
Hello, my name is Shawna Breitenstein and I completed my Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Purdue Calumet and my Masters program from Ball State University. I have two very active children and enjoy being on the go. Before becoming a Behavior Consultant I worked as a 1 on 1 ABA therapist for children with autism. My goal is to help others live their best life.
Jetaun Carr, MALS
Behavior Consultant
My name is Jetaun Carr, I’m a wife, mother of 3, and a grandmother of 4. I obtained an Associate in Applied Science degree (Criminal Justice) in 1999, a Bachelor of Arts (Criminal Justice) in 2001, and a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (Human Behavior & Society) in 2007. I began working in the social services field during graduate school in 2007, part-time. As it got close to me graduating with my Master’s degree, I decided to continue working in the social services field instead of the legal field. I worked in various positions such as a Direct Care Professional, Medical Coordinator, QIDP, and then a Lead QIDP. Shortly after, I was promoted to an Assistant Branch Director position and then eventually became a Branch Director. In 2017, I made a lateral move and became a Behavior Specialist at the company where I was employed at that time. In 2023, I contracted with New Wave Wellness as a Behavior Consultant, and it has been exciting and rewarding at the same time. I am involved in ministry at my church as a Senior Director over the Intercessory Prayer Ministry. I enjoy studying the bible, teaching bible studies, mentoring, hosting women’s events, fundraisers, and serving the community. In my spare time, I enjoy time with family, playing games, completing puzzles, watching Christian movies, researching herbal remedies, cooking new recipes, and completing DIY home projects. Being a Behavior Consultant has allowed me to build relationships with my clients and their families, assist them with implementing behavioral strategies and coping mechanisms, and work through behavioral challenges. I look forward to continual growth, prosperity, and blessings in my career and in my life.
Megan Connell, MSW
Behavior Consultant
As a dedicated Behavior Consultant, I specialize in supporting individuals and families in navigating behavioral challenges with empathy and evidence-based strategies. My passion for this work is deeply personal—growing up with a brother who has a disability shaped my understanding of the importance of inclusion, patience, and meaningful communication. I bring this lived experience into every aspect of my practice.
I believe in the power of nature to support well-being and growth, and I often incorporate outdoor settings into my sessions when possible. Whether it’s a walk in the park or structured activities outside, I find that being in nature helps clients feel more at ease and engaged.
Greg Daugherty, MPsych
Behavior Consultant
Hello, My name is Greg Daugherty. I’m from Fort Wayne. I graduated from Snider High School and then St. Francis for my undergrad in Teaching. I was a Social Studies Teacher for 17 Years. I later pursued a master’s degree in educational leadership to become a principal, but after achieving this degree, I decided my passion is not in administration but with helping individuals reach goals and lead happy lives. So, I returned to school one last time to achieve a Master’s in Psychology. I am now blessed to have the greatest job on the planet, Behavior Consultant. My Clients are Family.
Hope Hardt, MS
Behavior Consultant
Hope has been a BC with New Wave Wellness since December 2021 after graduating from Indiana Institute of Technology with her Master of Science in Psychology degree. Hope completed her undergraduate studies at Western Michigan University where she majored in Anthropology and obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree. Hope is enthusiastic with a genuine appreciation for her work and the endeavors of the individuals she serves. She has over 20 years of professional experience working with a variety of diverse individuals with disabilities. This experience includes specifically working with those receiving the CIH and FSW waivers in Indiana since 2013; and in the following roles as Program Instructor, QIDP, Program Manager, and Case Manager. Hope loves the outdoors, fitness, the arts, and animals. She is active in her community and also a mother, with experience parenting a neurodivergent child. Hope is empathetic and dependable with a true passion for life.
Tori Kelly, QBHP, CB
Behavior Consultant
At New Wave Wellness, my role as a Behavior Consultant is not just a job, but a mission to transform lives. Leveraging my expertise in crisis management and intervention strategies, I am committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with challenging behaviors. By collaborating closely with families and staff, we develop and implement effective behavior support plans, ensuring responsive care tailored to each individual’s needs. This work is not just about managing crises, but about instilling hope and inspiring positive change.
My 10 years of experience in the mental health field, providing evidence-based practices, informs the supervision of case management staff and the maintenance of high-quality service standards. Our team’s dedication to mentoring and effective communication fosters a collaborative environment that is conducive to successfully achieving client goals. I am committed to ongoing learning and professional development, ensuring that I stay updated with the latest industry trends and best practices.
As a Desert Storm-era Army Veteran with over 40 years of experience in the human services field, my commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals and families remains unwavering. As a Behavior Consultant, I provide home and community-based services to individuals and families with intellectual disabilities or mental health diagnoses receiving Medicaid Waiver funding. I continue to serve my country by providing Behavioral Modification to enhance the ability of these individuals and their families to live independent, productive, and enriching lives. This commitment is not just a duty, but a deep understanding of the value and potential of every individual and family we serve.
Dina Robinson, MS
Behavior Consultant
I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services with a concentration in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Purdue University Fort Wayne, IN, as well as a Master’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Phoenix. With over twenty years of experience working alongside individuals with developmental disabilities, my passion lies in enhancing lives and fostering the skills needed for independent community living. One of my greatest joys is spending time in the kitchen, cooking for friends and family.
Evita Roby, MSW, LSW
Behavior Consultant
Evita obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from Lincoln University in Jefferson City, MO and her Master’s in Social Work from Indiana University Northwest in Gary, IN. Evita has extensive experience working with individuals with disabilities, mental health, and addictions. Evita’s passion is helping and advocating for others. Evita enjoys traveling, shopping, cooking, festivals, and spending time with family and friends.
Nicholas (Nic) Simmons, MA
Behavior Consultant
I received my BA from Ball State University and began teaching Special Education classes in New Castle. I later received my MA in Behavioral Studies and continued to work for New Castle Schools as a teacher, behavioral consultant, and department head. After nearly 40 years, I retired from teaching in 2023 and began a new chapter as a consultant at New Wave Wellness. I have a passion for theatre as well, and I have taught Theatre Education classes at Ball State and Taylor University. I also enjoy acting, directing, and managing theatre programs at the community theatre level.
Abby Widmer, MSW
Behavior Consultant
Abby is here! In 2000, I received my Bachelor of Social Work with an Interpersonal Relationship minor from Ball State (Go Cards!). After two years as a case manager, I went to graduate school at IUPUI in Indianapolis. With a Master’s in Social Work, I’ve worked in a variety of settings since 2005. I worked as a rape and sexual assault program director, Anthem and Indiana Medicaid social worker, and behavior consultant. I am married with two children (age 7 and 14). My husband sings and plays in our church band. Because my child participates in AAU basketball all year and football in the fall, I spend my weekends at the gym or on the football field. I want to travel and show my children the world! I teach all of my customers, whether they are 8 or 88, that we must work hard in order to play hard! I am continually congratulating myself on goal progress or fulfillment!
Elena Bir, MT-BC
Music Therapist
Elena is a board-certified music therapist at New Wave Wellness. She earned her degree from Purdue University Fort Wayne in the spring of 2023. Elena is passionate about meeting individuals where they are at, empowering them to connect with themselves and those around them through the power of music. In her free time, Elena enjoys attending live music performances, quality time with family, enjoying nature, and learning new skills.
Nicole Chen, MT-BC
Music Therapist
Nicole Chen is a music therapist who graduated from Purdue University Fort Wayne in 2024 with piano as her primary instrument. She enjoys working in both individual and group settings. She has experience working with people with intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, children in crisis, older adults with dementia, and mental health related needs of various ages.
She uses humanistic, person-centered, and holistic approaches. Nicole also incorporates breath-work into interventions for Music-Assisted Relaxation to help decrease anxiety and improve mood. She is passionate about providing a safe environment for people to express themselves, achieve their goals, and improve their quality of life through music. Through her work, she emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship in conjunction with helping people relax and pursue their dreams.
Besides piano, she enjoys playing the harp and guitar, as well as singing. She hopes to travel around the world and practice music therapy in beautiful places. In her free time she loves to skate, bake, make music with her friends, and play games!
Sophia Cohen-Baize, MT-BC
Music Therapist
I graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor in Fine Arts in Music Therapy and General Psychology. I completed my music therapy internship and became board certified in 2021, before entering the professional world of the Indiana Medicaid Waiver the same year. The diversity of the Indiana Medicaid Waiver program is what initially drew me to it, as I had worked with a significant variety of diagnoses while pursuing both my Music Therapy and General Psychology degrees. I hope to continue assisting clients towards their best selves, as I find clients’ empowerment, growth, and progress towards self-actualization to be the most rewarding part of my job. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, working on my garden, and watching documentaries.
Jack Lob, MT-BC
Music Therapist
Jack is a board-certified music therapist who graduated from the University of Minnesota –Twin Cities in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in music therapy. After completing his internship, he moved to Fort Wayne and provided music therapy services for the greater Fort Wayne area for 8 years. Jack then decided to pursue a career as a sales engineer at the well-respected, music and audio gear retailer, Sweetwater Sound. While Jack was there, he received 13 weeks of training on everything there is to know about music and audio gear, music recording and sound engineering. After a year and a half at Sweetwater, Jack decided to return to music therapy, now having the knowledge necessary to provide an elevated music therapy experience. Jack hopes to continue to serve the community as best as he can and is grateful for the opportunity to continue to create connections and improve lives through music.
Madison Magdziarz, MT-BC
Music Therapist
Madison Magdziarz is a music therapist who graduated from Purdue University Fort Wayne in 2021. She has experience working with intellectual disabilities and mental health in all age groups. Her favorite part of music therapy is building a good rapport with her clients as she cares deeply about those she works with. She is also very passionate about helping others reach their personal goals through music. In her free time, she loves to sing and make crafts with friends!
Alli McDonald, MT-BC
Music Therapist
Alli McDonald is a Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) with over five years of experience serving individuals through the Indiana Medicaid Waiver program. Throughout her career, Alli has worked with a wide range of populations, tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Her passion for using music as a tool for connection, growth, and healing is evident in every session.
Whether supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, or complex medical needs, Alli brings compassion, creativity, and professionalism to her work. Her goal is always to create a safe, supportive space where clients can express themselves and thrive through music.
Outside of her work, Alli enjoys spending quality time with her family and attending live music events—experiencing the joy of music both professionally and personally.
Lauren Mitchell, MT-BC
Music Therapist
Lauren Mitchell is a Michigan native who graduated from Western Michigan University with her Bachelor’s of music in spring of 2021. Lauren works with a variety of ages and client diagnoses. She focuses on a person centered approach and encourages others to achieve their personal goals through music. She wants her clients to feel safe and open to trying new things to reach their goals. In her free time she enjoys watching tv shows, playing with her two cats, and going out walking for exercise.
Anjelica Mojica, MT-BC
Music Therapist
Anjelica is a board-certified music therapist who earned her degree in music therapy from Purdue University Fort Wayne. She is passionate about harnessing the power of music to promote healing, connection, and personal growth. Anjelica has experience working with individuals across the lifespan, including those with developmental disabilities, neurological conditions, mental health needs, and more. Her approach is rooted in compassion, creativity, and evidence-based practices. She strives to create a safe, supportive space where clients can explore, express, and engage through music in ways that are meaningful to them. Whether through singing, songwriting, movement, or instrument play, Anjelica tailors each session to meet the unique goals and strengths of those she serves.
Julie Winningham, MT-BC
Music Therapist
Julie Winningham has been a Board-Certified Music Therapist since 2019 when she completed her undergraduate degree in Music Therapy from Indiana Wesleyan University. Julie prioritizes practicing from a trauma-informed, client-led, and anti-ableist framework and is actively pursuing a certificate in Trauma-Informed Music Therapy. She has experience working with neurodivergent individuals, early childhood, and those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Outside of work, Julie enjoys spending time with family and friends, crafting, and being outdoors.
Lexie Akers, CTRS
Recreational Therapist
Lexie became a recreation therapist shortly after graduating from Indiana State University in 2021 with a degree in Recreation & Sport Management concentrating on recreation therapy and minoring in psychology. Lexie began working in crisis care behavioral/mental health while in college. She quickly developed a passion for fostering positive self-esteem, promoting the benefits of mindful practices, and encouraging positive socialization in others while working with a diverse population. In 2023, she decided to venture out into community-based recreation therapy with New Wave. Lexie continues to work in crisis care behavioral health while also working as a CTRS with New Wave. When Lexie isn’t working, her leisure interests include reading, cooking, and finding new ways to challenge herself. Lexie also enjoys gardening and caring for her houseplants, being active in her church community, and discovering new places. She lives life embracing the quote, by Joshua Marine, “challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.”
Shai Bell, CTRS
Recreational Therapist
I studied Recreational Therapy at Indiana University and have been a certified Recreational Therapist since 2017. The beginning of my career was in the inpatient mental health setting. After doing that for a time, I transitioned to FL where I gained experience working with the homeless community in Central Florida, while still continuing to gain experience in recreational therapy by working with teens, military service members, and the geriatric community. I have now been working with individuals on the Indiana waiver since 2023. I enjoy time working out, trying new recipes, meeting new people, and being outside. It matters to me to show mercy and compassion in life, and though I am working at this daily, this is something I strive to do with everyone I have contact with.
Alexandria Cummings, CTRS
Recreational Therapist
My name is Alexandria Cummings, though most people call me Ally. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation and Sports Management from Florida International University (2018) and a Master’s in Education in Foundations of Behavior from the University of Cincinnati (2024). My professional background includes working with the elderly, specializing in Alzheimer’s and Dementia care. In 2023, I relocated to Indiana to join the New Wave Wellness team. I am excited about this opportunity to expand my experience in supporting individuals through the Medicaid Waiver program. I am passionate about delivering excellent care and enhancing the lives of my clients through meaningful activities. Outside of work, I enjoy dancing, watching shows, painting, playing games, and spending time with my family.
Peyton Lessentine, CTRS
Recreational Therapist
Peyton is an open-minded, motivated, and optimistic individual who grew up in “The Region”. He graduated with his bachelor’s in Recreation & Sport Management from Indiana State University in Terre Haute, where he also minored in Psychology as well as Recreation Management & Youth Leadership. He then completed his internship experience with New Leaf Recreation out of Northwest Indiana in 2021. His interests include Chicago’s professional sport teams (especially the White Sox), cooking, experiencing new places and things, watching movies, traveling, random facts, and listening to classic rock. He obtained his CTRS credential in 2021 and truly enjoys his career path as a recreation therapist. Since then, he has been a professional companion for all board games, indoor or outdoor sport, exercise, artistic, and creative experiences of his clients. Peyton is determined to make a positive impact on the lives of his clients as a recreation therapist with New Wave Wellness in Northwest Indiana.
Bridget Metzger, CTRS
Recreational Therapist
I graduated from Indiana State University with a Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Sport Management with an emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation. Over the last 20 years I have had the pleasure to work in a variety of settings including Medicaid Waiver supports, an acute inpatient psychiatric and addiction detoxification hospital, a long-term psychiatric hospital and a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility. I take pride in being an advocate for those that I serve. The main goal of my services is to help individuals live their best life. In my spare time, I spend time with my husband and our animals. I also enjoy traveling to watch as many of my nephews baseball games as I can!
John Newbauer, HSPP
HSPP Oversight
Dr. John Newbauer is a consulting psychologist currently providing supervision for behavioral clinicians working with individuals who are developmentally challenged.
Dr. Newbauer worked at the Fort Wayne State Developmental Center in the late 1960s and with the Allen County Association for Retarded Citizens’ Johnny Appleseed Center in the early 1970s as psychologist and director of vocational services and residential services. After finishing his doctorate at Ball State University, Dr. Newbauer taught at the Rehabilitation Institute of Southern Illinois University and St. Francis College. He then served on the core faculty of the Adler School of Professional Psychology for 18 years until 2008.
In 1981, Dr. Newbauer co-founded a private practice group, Phoenix Associates, Inc. in Fort Wayne, where he practiced psychology for 23 years. He then served as Director of Treatment and Diagnostic Services for the Allen County Juvenile Center.
Dr. Newbauer served as the Executive Director of the North American Society of Adlerian Psychology (NASAP) and Administrator of ICASSI (International Committee for Adlerian Summer Schools and Institutes).
Dr. Newbauer holds a diploma from the North American Society of Adlerian Psychology. He has publications in the area of working with sexual offenders and victims and also spirituality and mental health.