TIPS Trainees
Meet the trainees in the TIPS for Kids 2023-2024 cohort!
Cameron Cosens, Psychology
Cameron Cosens is a fourth-year undergraduate student at Mizzou, on track to graduate in the spring with a Bachelor of Health Sciences and a Bachelor of Science in Psychological Sciences. Originally from Blue Springs, Missouri, Cameron discovered a profound passion for assisting those encountering various barriers in their daily lives. This dedication blossomed during an internship at the Thompson Center in Columbia, where Cameron’s commitment to advocacy for individuals facing obstacles grew. Working at the Missouri Psychiatric Center has further deepened this commitment, highlighting the significance of mental health. Cameron’s experiences at the Thompson Center and the Missouri Psychiatric Center have underscored the importance of breaking down societal barriers and advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Cameron’s future objectives include becoming an advocate for vulnerable children and continuing to promote the recognition and accessibility of mental health care in society. Participation in the TIPS for Kids program is seen as a vital step towards becoming a well-rounded professional, equipped with the interdisciplinary knowledge needed to achieve career goals.
Jenny Huynh, Psychology
Jenny Huynh, a third-year doctoral student in the Counseling Psychology program at the University of Missouri – Columbia, hails from Columbus, Ohio. She holds a M.A. in Counselor Education (School Counseling Track) from The Ohio State University and earned her B.A. in Psychology and B.S. in Communication (Advertising Track) from Boston University. Jenny’s research focuses on the psychological well-being of children, adolescents, and emerging adults, with particular attention to enhancing their sense of mattering and improving access to mental health care for marginalized individuals. She is deeply committed to interdisciplinary care and looks forward to continued growth and learning as a TIPS for Kids trainee.
Molly Love, Applied Behavior Analysis
Molly Love, currently in the second and final year of her master’s program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Mizzou, holds a bachelor’s degree in Health Science from the same institution. Molly’s passion for working with individuals with autism traces back to her diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of 10. Under the guidance of an occupational therapist (OT), Molly developed her social skills, ultimately leading her to the field of ABA. As a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) at the Thompson Center, Molly has found her calling in assisting children with autism. Her experience as an RBT has equipped her with valuable insights into working with individuals diagnosed with autism and effectively communicating with families. Beyond her professional pursuits, Molly enjoys reading and video games. She eagerly anticipates the opportunities that the TIPS program will bring, enriching her skill set for a fulfilling career ahead.
Daja Neal, Occupational Therapy
Daja Neal, a second-year occupational therapy doctoral student at the University of Missouri, grew up primarily in Tri-Cities, Washington, and later settled in Kansas City, MO. Deja earned her associate’s degree from Maple Woods Community College and a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science with an emphasis in Rehabilitation from Mizzou. Her interest in working with children with autism blossomed during her senior year when she took an applied behavior analysis class, which led her to become a Registered Behavior Technician at the Thompson Center. Daja’s research within her program centers on child-chosen goals and their impact on children with autism, with a focus on their satisfaction and motivation in participating in desired occupations. Daja’s aspirations as an occupational therapist span various settings, including schools, outpatient rehab with children, community centers, and psychiatric facilities for both pediatric and adult populations. Outside of her studies, Daja enjoys swimming, pilates, reading, trying new foods, and spending quality time with loved ones. The TIPS program offers an exciting opportunity for her to enhance her interdisciplinary teamwork skills and her ability to serve children and their families effectively.
Charlotte Steimle, Occupational Therapy
Charlotte Steimle is currently a second-year occupational therapy student at the University of Missouri. Her passion for working with neurodivergent populations ignited during high school when she volunteered at a respite program for children with autism spectrum disorder. Her journey in this field expanded as she became a Registered Behavior Technician during her undergraduate years. Recently, Charlotte had the privilege of co-treating with a speech pathology student, reinforcing her commitment to holistic care through an interdisciplinary lens. Charlotte is open to various possibilities in her future as an occupational therapist, with research interests including the transition from high school, sexual health education, and family/caregiver support. Outside of academics, she enjoys teaching Zumba/Dance Fitness classes, cooking, creating Spotify playlists, and spending quality time with family and friends. Her participation in the TIPS program represents an exciting step toward furthering her training to work with children with neurodevelopmental disabilities and their families.
Skylar Walk, Occupational Therapy
Skylar Walk, a second-year occupational therapy student at the University of Missouri, hails from Mary’s Home, Missouri. Her passion for helping individuals with developmental disabilities was sparked by her cousin, NJ, which motivated her to volunteer at the Special Learning Center and intern at Theracare Outpatient Services. Skylar’s work experience includes positions at Eugene Public Schools, CoxHealth, and Four-Leaf Clover Preschool, further enriching her knowledge of pediatrics. Outside of her professional commitments, Skylar enjoys working out, spending time outdoors with her dog, and baking. Skylar is eager to participate in the TIPS program, excited about the opportunities it will provide for her to enhance her skills in serving her clients effectively.
Lexie Chirpich, Physical Therapy
Lexie Chirpich is currently a second-year physical therapy student at the University of Missouri. Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Lexie’s passion for serving individuals with developmental disabilities was kindled during a shadowing experience at a local grade school. This experience underscored the significant impact that physical therapy can have on individuals with developmental disabilities. Lexie also completed her undergraduate internship at a pediatric occupational therapy clinic and volunteered at an Augmentative and Alternative Communication social group, deepening her understanding of and engagement with those with developmental disabilities. Beyond her studies, Lexie enjoys hiking, cooking, working out, baking, and traveling. Lexie is excited to be a part of the TIPS program and looks forward to gaining valuable knowledge that will benefit her future patients.
Maddie Holtman, Physical Therapist
Maddie Holtman, a second-year physical therapy student at the University of Missouri, discovered her passion for working with the pediatric population while giving swim lessons during her high school years. This experience, coupled with coaching youth swim teams and soccer, nurtured her enthusiasm for working with children. Maddie’s dedication to pediatric care led her to volunteer at the Disabled Athlete Sports Association (DASA), where she had fulfilling experiences coaching and helping children practice swimming. Beyond her studies and coaching, Maddie enjoys exploring the outdoors, visiting greenhouses, cooking with friends, and spending quality time with family. Maddie is excited about the new experiences and opportunities that the TIPS program will offer her as a trainee.
Olivia Rose, Physical Therapist
Olivia Rose, a second-year physical therapy student in Mizzou’s DPT program, hails from Kansas City, Missouri. Her commitment to working with children with developmental disabilities originated from her experiences watching her little sister, who has Down Syndrome, undergo various therapies throughout her upbringing. Olivia’s involvement in volunteering at Girls Can Camp, Adaptive Gymnastics, and DanceAbility further ignited her passion. In her free time, Olivia enjoys working out, participating in sports, hiking, and socializing with friends. Olivia is thrilled to be part of the TIPS program and eagerly anticipates the insights and knowledge she will gain to better serve her future clients.
Katie Blount, Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics
Katie Blount currently serves as a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics fellow at the Thompson Center. Prior to joining the Thompson Center, she completed her pediatric training at the University of Missouri in 2018 and practiced as a general pediatrician in Jefferson City for five years. During her time as a general pediatrician, Katie developed a strong interest in patients with complex needs. Her desire for specialized training led her to become the first fellow in the Thompson Center’s Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics program. Katie values the opportunity to gain formal training within a multidisciplinary team and continues to be dedicated to providing the best care for her patients.
Elly Ranum, Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics
Elly Ranum is currently a first-year Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics Fellow at the Thompson Center. Originally from Waunakee, Wisconsin, Elly completed her undergraduate and medical school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her journey to working with children with autism began during her undergraduate years when she worked as an in-home autism therapist. Elly looks forward to her participation in the TIPS program and is eager to expand her knowledge and skills to better support her patients.
Emily Rudicel, Speech-Language Pathology
Emily Rudicel is a second-year Master’s student pursuing a degree in speech-language pathology at the University of Missouri. Over the course of her Master’s program, Emily has had numerous opportunities to work with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. She is excited about serving these clients and their families through the TIPS program. In her free time, Emily enjoys reading, outdoor activities, spending time with loved ones, and traveling.
Gina Samuelian, Speech-Language Pathology
Gina Samuelian is a second-year graduate student in the Speech Language and Hearing Sciences program at the University of Missouri. Originally from Waukegan, Illinois, Gina gained extensive experience working with children with autism as a registered behavioral technician for about two years. Her work deepened her connection with this population, making it her favorite to work with. Gina is enthusiastic about continuing to work with children with autism through the TIPS program and as a certified Speech Language Pathologist. In her free time, she enjoys walks, listening to podcasts, and reading.
Emily Schell, Speech-Language Pathology
Emily Schell, a second-year graduate student studying speech-language pathology at the University of Missouri, grew up in Saint Thomas, Missouri. Her passion for helping others began during her employment at an at-home healthcare agency. Emily’s experiences have also involved working with children diagnosed with autism and other developmental disabilities. Her future goals include working with children through early intervention. Outside of academics, Emily enjoys playing sand volleyball, traveling, and spending quality time with friends and family. She is excited to be part of the TIPS program and looks forward to learning how to better serve others.
Makenzie Hirschinger, Family Advocacy
Makenzie Hirschinger joins the TIPS for Kids program as a parent advocate. She also works as a Paraprofessional at the Special Learning Center and is a mother of three boys, each with different needs, including ADHD, cerebral palsy and autism, and Down Syndrome. Makenzie’s extensive experience includes active involvement in research opportunities, participation in advocacy groups, and taking a proactive role in her children’s medical and educational needs. Her hobbies include reading, art, spending time with her children, and gaming, particularly tabletop RPGs. Makenzie is excited to be part of the program and is eager to share her experiences and knowledge as a parent of a child with autism. She believes in the exchange of knowledge and experience between parents, individuals with autism, medical professionals, and therapists to revolutionize healthcare and promote inclusion and equity within the autistic community. Awareness is not enough; the ultimate goal is inclusion and equity.
Jaskaran (Jaz) Bhogal, Dentistry
Jaz Bhogal is a second-year pediatric dental resident at the NYU Langone – Columbia, MO site. Originally from Phoenix, AZ, Jaz completed both undergraduate and dental school in his hometown. Following dental school, he practiced as a general dentist in Phoenix before deciding to specialize in pediatric dentistry. Jaz’s interest in special needs dentistry was ignited during dental school when he worked with patients at the Special Healthcare Needs Clinic. The more time he spent with this unique population, the more his passion for helping and treating special needs patients grew. As a TIPS trainee, Jaz is eager to deepen his understanding of this community and their families. Beyond his professional pursuits, Jaz enjoys playing tennis, exploring the culinary arts, and honing his latte art skills.