Meet Our Admin

  • Stacy Kozlowski, Owner, CEO

    OTR/L

    Stacy is a dedicated pediatric occupational therapist with over 25 years of experience working with children and families. She has had the privilege of supporting children facing various developmental challenges, including Autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADD/ADHD, traumatic brain injuries, and pediatric feeding disorders. Through her work, Stacy strives to understand each child’s individual needs and create a supportive environment that encourages progress, resilience, and independence.

    At Abil-OT Kids Therapy, Stacy has focused on contributing to the community by promoting greater accessibility and inclusion for children with diverse challenges. She is also passionate about supporting the growth of future therapists by sharing her knowledge and experience.

    Stacy is trained in a various therapeutic approaches and specialties, including training in the areas of Neurodevelopmental Treatment, Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation, Handwriting Without Tears, Therapeutic Listening, Interactive Metronome, The Wilbarger Protocol, Sensory Integration and Meditation. Stacy is also trained in the AEIOU Systematic Approach to Pediatric Feeding, the Merry Mealtime Guide, the Safe and Sound Protocol, and is SOFFI certified. 

    Outside of her professional work, Stacy is happily married and enjoys raising her three daughters.

  • Julianne Russo, Clinical Director

    MS, CCC-SLP, Level II Prompt Trained

    Julianne Russo is a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist originally from New York. She has been helping children of all abilities communicate and thrive for over 10 years. Julianne brings a fun and effective approach to therapy, using play based strategies and sign language to support each child's unique needs. She has experience working with a variety of diagnoses and implementing individualized care. Julianne’s approach is all about making learning a positive experience for both kids and their families. Outside of work, Julianne loves spending time in her garden and playing with her son.

  • Tabitha Talley, Director of Opperations

    Tabitha attended Campbell University and received a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. She spent 12 years in law enforcement as a fingerprint agent and then a police officer. She stepped away from the law enforcement world to be able to take care of her daughter, Emmie, who was born with down syndrome. 

    In her free time she loves CrossFit. She also loves to go on hikes and bike rides with her daughter and husband of over 10 years.  She is an integral part of the Abil-OT team handling authorizations and billing.  Tabitha understands first-hand the challenges of caring for a medically complex child with special needs and takes pride to ensure all families and children are warmly welcomed into the Abil-OT family and receive the assistance they need.  Staff often say she is the pulse of Abil-OT Kids Therapy, and we are so fortunate to have her.

  • Katy Hall, Clinical Coordinator

    Katy is a dedicated professional with seven years of experience as a phlebotomist at a local hospital. After stepping away from her former career to focus on her family in 2021, she has embraced the rewarding journey of caring for her two children: Gere, who has ADHD, and Addie, who has Down Syndrome. Katy is passionate about advocating for children with diverse needs and is committed to fostering a supportive environment for her family and community.

  • Victoria Worrells

    Patient Care Coordinator

    Victoria, “Tori”,  graduated with her associates degree in science in 2019, and graduated from the Dental Assistant program in 2020 from the Sunrise School of Dental. She recently stepped away from the dental world to join our team as Patient Care Coordinator in our Clayton office. Tori worked for the Clayton Recreation Center for seven years as an after school care director and camp counselor serving children of all ages and abilities. She spearheaded programs for special needs children including dances, events and summer camps. She has experience working with children with various disorders including ADHD, Autism, and Down Syndrome. As a child, she received speech therapy and has had a passion for helping children feel included and celebrated ever since.  Tori is a proud Dog Mom to Goose and enjoys her weekends at the beach with her husband, Jackson.

Meet Our OTs

  • Jessie Thomson MS, OTR/L

    Jessie earned her Master of Occupational Therapy degree from Lenoir Rhyne University after completing her undergraduate studies in Recreational Therapy with a minor in Psychology at East Carolina University. Prior to her OT journey, she worked as a Recreational Therapist and Assistant Inclusion Coordinator for the City of Raleigh’s Special Recreation and Inclusion Services, where she developed tailored programs for children and adults with all abilities and individualized support plans for children requiring additional accommodations or support to be successful in summer camps and after school programs. Passionate about working with children, Jessie strives to ensure every child feels heard and understood to facilitate their success in meaningful activities. Her fieldwork experiences in both school systems and long-term care facilities provided her with a comprehensive view of development and care throughout the lifespan. Jessie resides in Clayton with her cat, Uno, and enjoys listening to music, reading, attending Carolina Hurricanes games, and spending quality time with friends and family. With a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of others, she continues to make a positive impact in her community.

  • Amanda Rokicka, COTA/L

    Amanda is a licensed, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. She graduated from Pitt Community College where she gained clinical experience in acute care, inpatient rehab, and school-based therapy.  She served in the United States Army for five years and that is where she ended up discovering her passion for Occupational Therapy. Amanda always knew she wanted to work with kids, but her passion grew after volunteering at a handwriting camp and hemiplegia camp while in school.

    She values collaborating with families because she knows it’s vital for maximizing carryover and aides in helping a child reach their full potential. She strongly believes in the importance of building a therapeutic relationship with a child. It allows them to build trust and feel safe, so they feel empowered to try new things and engage in activities to help them reach their goals.  Amanda is from Pennsylvania but moved to North Carolina in 2020. She lives in Clayton with her husband and young son. In her free time, she loves to travel, spend time with family, go on hikes, and be outdoors.

  • Meghan Machin, COTA/L

    Meghan, a certified occupational therapy assistant, discovered her passion for the field while teaching and quickly realized it was her true calling. Meghan has extensive experience working with children aged 2-21 in various settings, addressing challenges like Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, sensory processing issues, visual perceptual, and fine motor deficits, ODD, and Down Syndrome. Meghan has experience with specialized tools such as Weighted Vest, Proprioceptive Vest, and Therapeutic Listening. Meghan has special interest and training in ADHD management strategies. She values close collaboration with families, believing it's crucial for effective therapy. Meghan recently relocated to Clayton with her husband and their son from Long Island, Meghan is enjoying discovering new places and trying out local coffee spots and restaurants. In her free time, she loves traveling, listening to music, and spending quality time with family and friends.

  • Brittany Smith COTA/L

    Brittany is a highly passionate and skilled Occupational Therapy Assistant. Brittany is passionate about working with children and their families to help a child reach their full potential and thrive in their daily life. Brittany has experience working with various age groups and diagnosis such as Autism, hemiplegia, developmental delays, Down Syndrome, sensory processing disorder and feeding. She believes in a holistic approach that includes building positive relationships with the children that she treats as well as their families. Brittany has certifications in AEIOU, DIR Floortime, Building Blocks for Sensory Integration, Safe and Sound Protocol and many more. 

  • Staci Rightmyer, COTA/L

    Staci Rightmyer is a passionate Occupational Therapy Assistant who graduated from Pitt Community College in Greenville, NC. She enjoys using play as a means to facilitate confidence and independence while working towards the goals of children with all abilities. Staci strives to tailor sessions to each kid making it a positive and motivating experience for both the kids and their families. Outside of work, Staci enjoys time with her family and friends and watching new movies. 

  • Sarah Davis MS, OTR/L

    Lead Occupational Therapist

    Sarah is a dedicated Pediatric Occupational Therapist with over 6 years of experience in pediatric care. Her expertise lies in utilizing play as a therapeutic tool to engage children and facilitate skill development in a multitude of fun and motivating ways, for supporting independence in everyday activities. What sets Sarah apart is her genuine enthusiasm for getting to know her clients and their families. She believes that understanding each child's personal interests and family dynamics is key to crafting effective and engaging therapy interventions. Her warm, empathetic approach helps build strong therapeutic relationships, creating a supportive environment where children can thrive. Outside of her professional life, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband and young daughter, in addition to visiting family in upstate New York.

  • Amber Pinsky, MS, OTR/L

    Amber Pinsky is a dedicated occupational therapist with a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from East Carolina University. Amber’s career spans both inpatient rehabilitation, where she assisted adults recovering from strokes, and the school system, where she supported preschool through middle school-aged children. Her areas of expertise include feeding techniques using the AEIOU approach, sensory integration, and the Learning Without Tears curriculum, along with fine motor, ocular motor, praxis, and visual motor integration. In her free time, Amber enjoys dancing to Disney tunes with her three young children, running with her husband, and chasing their energetic labradoodle, Elsa.

  • Sharyn Marcisak MS, OTR/L

    Certified Hand Therapist

    Sharyn received her Masters Degree in Occupational Therapy from Boston University in 2008. She has spent most of her career working in NY, in outpatient orthopedic and neurologic settings for both children and adults. Sharyn became a certified hand therapist in 2017. In 2019, she relocated with her family to NC where she continues to work full-time as a certified hand therapist. In addition, she enjoys working per diem at Abil-OT, helping kiddos improve their quality of life. Sharyn enjoys being outside and spending time with her husband and two boys.

  • Bethany Lenox, MS, OTR/L

    Smithfield Site Lead

    Bethany is an enthusiastic occupational therapist dedicated to providing client-centered care, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and goals guide her practice. Bethany's approach is deeply rooted in empathy and personalized support, helping clients achieve meaningful outcomes in their daily lives utilizing a primarily child-led approach. Outside of work, she finds relaxation and joy in swinging in a hammock swing and immersing herself in a good book. This blend of professional passion and personal interests fuels her commitment to holistic, compassionate care

  • Amber Golden-Parker, COTA/L

    Amber’s journey into occupational therapy began after her own child received services, sparking a passion that led her to earn an Applied Associate’s Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant from Durham Community College. She believes that forming a strong, trusting relationship with each child is key to effective therapy, as it helps them feel at ease, explore their surroundings, and stay motivated. Amber’s diverse experience includes working in pediatric outpatient clinics and daycares, addressing challenges like autism, ADHD, Anxiety, ODD, and more. She values a child-led approach and a multidisciplinary team to ensure holistic and client-centered care. Amber currently lives in Smithfield with her family and two dogs. She enjoys testing out new restaurants, drawing, and relaxing by a campfire.

  • Janine Fogarty, COTA/L

    Certified Infant Massage Instructor

    Janine is a licensed and certified Occupational Therapy Assistant and certified educator in infant massage, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and an Applied Associate’s Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant.  She has a diverse background working in home, community, and clinical settings with children who have developmental delays, autism, cerebral palsy, sensory processing disorders, and more. She employs a holistic approach, tailoring interventions to each person’s unique motivations to ensure they are both encouraging and appropriately challenging. This approach enhances a child’s ability to play, participate, and achieve their full potential, which she finds deeply rewarding.

  • Jenny Bednar, COTA/L

    Feeding Coordinator

    Safe and Sound Protocol Provider

    Jenny is a dedicated Occupational Therapy Assistant with nine years of experience in empowering children and their families to reach their fullest potential. Her passion shines through her expertise in feeding therapy, where she utilizes a responsive feeding approach to foster both skill development and growth. Outside the clinic, Jenny enjoys exploring parks with her husband, daughter, and their dog.

  • Alexis Abbott MS, OTR/L

    Alexis obtained a Bachelor’s of Science in Therapeutic Recreation from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Following her undergraduate studies, Alexis earned a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from Wingate University. During this time, she completed fieldwork experience in acute care and pediatric outpatient settings. Alexis’s passion for working in a pediatric setting originates from personal experience of having a younger sister with Down syndrome. Currently, she volunteers as an advocacy committee member with the Down Syndrome Network of Greater Greensboro (DSNGG). In her free time, Alexis enjoys playing with her two Siberian huskies, spending time with family and friends, and learning fun facts about Disney!

Meet Our Speech Therapists

  • Julianne Russo, Clinical Director

    MS, CCC-SLP, Level II Prompt Trained

    Julianne Russo is a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist originally from New York. She has been helping children of all abilities communicate and thrive for over 10 years. Julianne brings a fun and effective approach to therapy, using play based strategies and sign language to support each child's unique needs. She has experience working with a variety of diagnoses and implementing individualized care. Julianne’s approach is all about making learning a positive experience for both kids and their families. Outside of work, Julianne loves spending time in her garden and playing with her son.

  • Caroline Allen, M.S. CF-SLP

    Caroline is a Speech Language Pathologist Clinical Fellow with a B.S. in Child Development Studies from Appalachian State University and an M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders from North Carolina Central University. She began her career as an Early Childhood educator before pursuing her master’s degree after seeing the impact of communication on learning. Her clinical training includes work in public schools, private clinics, and university-based settings, with experience across various age groups and populations. Her interests focus on Early Intervention, expressive/receptive language disorders and articulation/phonological disorders. Outside of work, Caroline likes traveling, reading, live music, walking her dog, and spending time with loved ones.

  • Tory Byrd MS, CCC-SLP

    Myofunctional Trained

    Tory Byrd is a dedicated Speech-Language-Pathologist at Abil-OT Kids Therapy specializing in pediatric care with interest areas in natural language acquisition, myofunctional therapy and early intervention. She uses a total communication approach to make therapy both fun and functional for children. Tory is passionate about working closely with families to help their children succeed. Outside of work, she is a military wife, an avid reader and an on-the-go mom of two energetic kids.

  • Suzanne Fike MS, CCC-SLP

    Autism Level III Trained

    Assistive Technology Certified

    Suzanne is a certified and licensed Speech Language Pathologist with over 37 years experience. She has had experience working with children from Birth-22 years of age who present with various speech and language disorders. Suzanne’s experiences have included private practice, contracting and public schools.  Suzanne received her BS in Speech and Language from Indiana University of Indiana, PA and her Masters Degree from Miami University of Oxford, Ohio. Suzanne went on to receive her Assistive Technology Certification from the Research Institute for AT, Albuquerque, NM. In addition to her experience with AAC, Suzanne has extensive experience with Autism and is Level III Autism Trained through TEACCH, UNC Chapel Hill NC. Suzanne has provided many trainings and workshops pertaining to autism, structured teaching and AAC/ Assistive technology. Suzanne and her husband relocated to NC in 2016. They have 2 grown sons, 2 daughter-in-laws and a very sweet granddaughter.  Suzanne enjoys spending time with her family, her 2 fluffy dogs, traveling and sitting on the beach.

  • Allison Szendry MS, CCC-SLP

    Allison’s journey in Communication Sciences and Disorders began at The University of Toledo, where she earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. With a deep passion for early intervention, Allison enjoys working with young children and their families to help them learn how to facilitate their child’s communication skills. She has evaluated and treated children of all ages with various diagnoses including receptive and expressive language disorders, AAC, articulation and phonological disorders, autism spectrum disorder, apraxia of speech, hearing impairment and Down Syndrome. Allison continues to seek out new opportunities to grow as a therapist and incorporate team-based approaches into her therapy sessions. In her free time, she enjoys working out, going for walks with her dog, traveling, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

  • Celina Skrtich, MS, CCC-SLP

    Celina Skrtich is a Speech-Language Pathologist with a background in special education and personal experience as a parent of two children who benefited from early intervention services. She uses a child-centered and play-based approach to address goals in sessions. Her professional interests include early intervention (0-3 years), articulation, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and working with bilingual families.

  • Alex Longo MS, CCC-SLP

    Alex knew at a young age that she wanted to be a Speech-Language Pathologist after seeing the impactful work her cousin did in the field. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders from East Carolina University and North Carolina Central University. Alex has since immersed herself in helping people of all ages with various communication challenges. She has worked with individuals facing issues from language delays to voice disorders and has experience with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and Down Syndrome. In her free time, Alex enjoys unwinding with her Shih Tzu, Mille, and spending quality time with friends and family. Alex's dedication to improving communication skills and making a difference is evident in every aspect of her work.

  • Julia Shingleton MS, CCC-SLP

    Julia Shingleton is a passionate speech-language pathologist who grew up in North Carolina. She takes pride in providing a neurodiversity-affirming approach, using child-led therapy to support children's speech and language development. Julia's fun, family-centered approach emphasizes building strong rapport and motivation to enhance communication. Outside of work, Julia enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.

  • Tristan Hubbard MS, CCC-SLP

    Tristan Hubbard is a Speech Language Pathologist from Stokes County, NC. She focuses on engaging child-led, neurodiversity affirming therapy to support kids of all ages and their families. Tristan specializes in complex communication needs and AAC, utilizing a strength-based approach. In her free time, Tristan enjoys a day in with her two cats, sipping an iced coffee.

Meet Our Physical Therapists

  • Madison Sain PT, DPT

    Madison Sain is an enthusiastic Doctor of Physical Therapy with a passion for patient-centered care with special interest in pediatric and neurological conditions. She attended the University of North Carolina at Charlotte to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. She followed that up with her clinical doctorate in physical therapy at Western Carolina University. Throughout her academic career, she sought out opportunities to serve as a student clinician for underinsured and underserved populations in local pro bono clinics and traveling abroad. During her third year of DPT school, she practiced in three clinical placement settings: outpatient orthopedic and neuro, long-term acute care hospital, and outpatient pediatric. In her pediatric rotation, she performed skilled physical therapy for patients’ birth-21 years old with neuromuscular conditions, developmental milestone delays, and gross motor and mental disabilities to help them grow and thrive. She also had the opportunity to assist with hippotherapy and aquatic therapy sessions. In her free time, Madison enjoys exploring the outdoors, spending time with friends and family, and attending fun group fitness classes.

  • Sonia Kelkar PT, DPT

    Sonia is physical therapist originally from New Jersey. She enjoys helping children to meet their full potential, by creating engaging and playful therapy sessions that help to make physical therapy fun. Sonia prioritizes collaboration with parents and caregivers and encouraging parents to support their child's development. Outside of work, Sonia enjoys trying out new restaurants and coffee shops and spending time outdoors.

Meet Our Counselors

  • Skyla Lowe, LCSW-A

    Safe and Sound Protocol Provider

    Skyla (she/her) is a dedicated and passionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) with a strong focus on empowering young minds. Originally from New York, she has brought her passion for mental health to North Carolina! 

    Skyla values creating an inclusive and approachable environment where children feel both supported and heard. She uses a variety of different techniques from various interventions to meet the individual needs of each client but primarily pulls from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

    Skyla’s passion for supporting children and their needs has led her to want to obtain certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Play Therapy. She is eager to incorporate these modalities into her sessions with the intention of allowing children to express their emotions and work through challenging obstacles in a more creative and self driven manner.

    During her leisure time, Skyla enjoys hanging out with friends, exploring the RDU area, trying new restaurants and listening to music.

  • Logan Jones, LCSW-A

    Logan Jones (she/her) is a passionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate with a strong focus on supporting children's mental health and well-being. 

    Logan is deeply committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where children feel safe and supported. Logan primarily draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in her interventions, tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each child she works with.

    Her passion for helping children has led Logan to want to pursue certifications in Play Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy. She is excited to integrate these therapeutic modalities into her practice, providing children with creative and effective ways to express their emotions and navigate their challenges.

    Logan's ultimate goal is to empower and support children, helping them build resilience and thrive in their personal and academic lives.

    In her spare time, she enjoys trying local coffee shops, dancing, and spending time with her fiancè.

  • Jennifer George LCSW-A

    Safe and Sound Protocol Provider

    Jenni George is a passionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSW-A). Formerly a teacher, Jenni has the expertise to assist children, adolescents, and adults in navigating complex mental, emotional, and social issues. Jenni is trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy, is a Certified Provider of the Safe and Sound Protocol, and provides a combination of play-based therapy and talk therapy. 

    Jenni strives to create a warm, inviting, and non-judgmental atmosphere for all types of therapy sessions and can also connect families with necessary community resources.

    Outside of the office, Jenni enjoys reading, playing video games, weight-lifting, and spending time with her family.

Join our team

Ready to make a meaningful impact? At Abil-OT Kids Therapy, we’re a passionate, collaborative team dedicated to helping children and families thrive. We’re looking for skilled Speech Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Mental Health Counselors, COTAs, and Clinical Fellows to join us. If you’re committed to professional growth, value a supportive environment, and want to contribute to a dynamic, client-centered approach, we’d love to hear from you! Join us and be part of a team that empowers children to reach their fullest potential every day.