Ubuntu Wellness is proud of our incredible team of clinicians and healers. Everyday, we strive to offer loving and compassionate service for our clients, students, community and for each other. Ubuntu’s day-to-day operations, marketing, programming and so much more are done by this wonderful team of motivated, mission-aligned individuals.
Interested in joining our wonderful team? Check out our open positions!
Clinical Team
Jennifer, is the co-owner of Ubuntu Wellness, LLC and stands as a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (E. 0500507-SUPV) in the State of Ohio. Specializing in trauma, she brings a wealth of expertise, with qualifications in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Advanced Clinical Hypnosis, MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction), Motivational Interviewing, and various cognitive behavioral strategies aimed at enhancing personal well-being. Jennifer ardently believes in the transformative power of healing, recognizing the profound impact it can have through various modalities, whether that be through the insightful realms of talk therapy or the embodied release found in somatic expression. Her dedication to facilitating holistic well-being reflects a commitment to guiding individuals on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and personal growth. With a compassionate approach, Jennifer strives to create a therapeutic space where individuals can explore and embrace the diverse pathways to healing, fostering empowerment and authentic connection.
Her educational journey includes earning a BA in Dance from Lake Erie College in 1999 and a Masters of Education in Counseling from Cleveland State University in 2004. Jennifer has been in the mental health field since 2000, initially at community mental health agencies in Lake County, and later returning to Geauga County to continue to serve.
Jennifer's profound passion lies in assisting others in discovering their authentic selves through the powerful avenues of creative expression and mindfulness. Beyond her professional pursuits, she finds joy in attending concerts, exploring nature through hiking, indulging in travel, and cherishing moments with her family.
Erin is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the State of Ohio (E.1901533). Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Erin is a trauma informed person-centered therapist with an eclectic approach to treatment. Erin is also a licensed massage therapist and is certified in Traditional Thai Massage. Erin graduated with her Associates in Massage Therapy from Youngstown College of Massotherapy in 2004 and became licensed by the State Medical Board of Ohio in January, 2005. Erin received her Reiki Masters certification through Usui Shiki Ryoho lineage under instruction of Michelle Gonzalez, RM in January, 2024 and Intermediate Thai Certification in September, 2024 under the instruction of Sarah Cheiky, NLMT, NCTMB, CYT.
Erin has always believed that life is a glorious struggle and can hit us all at different times through multiple uncontrollable and sometimes chosen life experiences. The greatest lesson can be learning how to navigate the process with traits we inherently possess. The integration of mind and body was inspired when asked at her own counseling session “what brings you to counseling?”, her response was “I want to feel better.” And it is just that simple sometimes, we all want to feel good.
Erin lives in Cleveland, OH with her husband, Tim, two children, Elizabeth and Charlie, Roxy the dog, and ET the cat. She enjoys fantasizing about more sleep, food, and outdoor experiences when not working or parenting.
Christelle is a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (E.1800890) through the State of Ohio and the Clinical DIrector at Ubuntu. Christelle utilizes a person-centered, integrative approach towards treatment, primarily incorporating aspects of ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), Brainspotting, and Shadow Work. Christelle primarily focuses her practice with adults and couples but has been known to work with older teens as well. In addition to all her trained methods of treatment, Christelle also believes in the power of healing that animals provide us. Sadie Mae, her labradoodle, is a beloved part of her practice and clients will get to find calmness petting her fluffy coat!
Life is a journey with a lot of twists and turns and Christelle believes that we all may need some assistance at various moments in life to guide us along the journey. As awareness in mental health rises, Christelle believes that understanding the mind-body connection can be integral in healing, especially those traumas that live in our bodies. We all have emotional pain locked in various areas of our nervous system, and learning to move through that pain can be life changing.
When Christelle is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Josh, and her three kids: Julianna, Marijke, and Aveline. She loves having adventures in town and out of town with her family, enjoying delicious food from all over, and creating memories.
Ryan is a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (E.1901460-SUPV) in the state of Ohio. Ryan uses a person-centered approach and is trained in a variety of different therapeutic techniques and strategies to mix and match to help clients discover and achieve the goals that will best contribute to their personal wellness. Ryan works to foster an environment of compassion and caring to provide a non-judgmental space for clients to be able to open up and explore the parts of themselves that will allow them to heal and move forward on their journey, and will personally create an individualized therapeutic approach to help each individual client achieve their wellness goals.
Ryan works with children, adolescents and adults while also offering couples and family therapy sessions. Whether the issues presenting themselves are personal or systemic in nature, Ryan will work to help you adopt a mindset and system of behaviors to allow you to maximize your potential for success.
Dallas is a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio (E.2002034). She works with a wide range of individuals with a primary focus on children and women’s needs. She has training in motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness techniques. Dallas enjoys working with individuals and their families to heal trauma, increase personal insight, and develop skills to assist with reaching their personal goals and become the best versions of themselves.
Nicole is a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor SLPCC, (E.1800808-SUPV) in the State of Ohio. She has a background in understanding and helping clients cope with developmental trauma. Nicole incorporates collaborative problem-solving into her work with clients and she enjoys using creative modalities to help clients express themselves through activities such as movement, yoga, and drumming. She has experience working with individuals, families, and groups. Nicole has worked in various settings including outpatient, foster care, residential programs, group homes, and in schools. She works both with children and adults.
Nicole’s specialty areas and certifications include, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Certified Expressive Art Therapist, Registered Yoga Teacher (200-hour RYT), Dancing Mindfulness Facilitator, Drum Circle Leader, Brainspotting, and Improv.
She is currently seeking certifications as a Registered Expressive Art Therapist and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Emily is a LISW-S in the state of Ohio (I.0900236-SUPV). She works primarily with individuals and couples who are dealing with infertility. She uses an integrative, strengths-based approach to support her clients in coping with the stress, anxiety, and complex impact of infertility, and to improve their overall well-being in order to optimize their fertility, re-establish self-trust, and bring more balance into their lives. Emily has training in a variety of therapeutic techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive-based strategies, EFT, mindfulness, and the like. She is also certified as a holistic health coach and trained in integrative nutrition for mental health.
Natalie is a Professional Clinical Counselor (E.230716) in the State of Ohio and a Board Certified Art Therapist (02-077). She has 15+ years experience working with children and adult clients in crisis. Natalie is passionate about incorporating the creative arts with traditional talk therapy to promote mindfulness, healing and personal growth. As a mother of four children, she promotes a balanced approach to daily living.
Stacey Johnson is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of Ohio ( E.3690). Stacey a person-centered therapist that utilizes a variety of techniques including mindfulness and creative approaches. She works to foster a non-judgmental environment of compassion and caring, for clients to be able to explore themselves. Stacey enjoys working with children, adolescents and their families, to help them develop the necessary skills to empower them to become the best version of themselves. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, being outdoors and spending time with family.
Lindsey is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of Ohio (E.2404699). Are you or a loved one feeling overwhelmed? Lost? Disconnected? Or experiencing feelings of sadness or worry? Asking for support can be a hard part of being able to achieve your personal goals. You deserve a space to express your thoughts and feelings to a qualified, non-judgmental, compassionate counselor. I believe in meeting my clients where you are in life and supporting you in making changes and growing into a healthier, more authentic YOU!
My therapeutic approach is client-centered and eclectic, catering to the individual needs of each client. I have experience in a variety of settings and ages, including in schools, hospitals, and in the community. I like to utilize a variety of evidence-based techniques and incorporate mindfulness-based practices to tailor each session to each client.
I am here to help you process emotions, develop strengths, teach tools to manage and cope, and cultivate a healthy perspective in your life. I will support and help navigate your journey into a deeper understanding and connection with your authentic self. There is always hope for healing and growth.
Becky is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (E.2303767) and Board Certified, Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC) in the State of Ohio.
She is trained in Motivational Interviewing, cognitive/behavioral therapies, and various art assessments and techniques. Becky incorporates the latest research-based information about the brain with the use of art to improve cognitive and sensory-motor functions, foster self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts and distress.
Mandy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (E.2404816) in the State of Ohio. Mandy earned a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from John Carroll University. Prior to her Master’s, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at JCU as well.
Mandy has worked in a variety of settings, with many different populations. Her focused populations include anxiety disorders, depression, and ADHD. She enjoys working with people 10 years old up to young adulthood. Mandy strives to teach her clients to understand their thinking patterns and emotional communication. Mandy takes on a person-centered therapeutic approach incorporating acceptance commitment therapy, CBT, and mindfulness practices.
Len is Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Ohio (C.2204468). Len is a person-centered therapist with an eclectic approach to treatment. He implements Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and Narrative Therapy into his counseling. He believes in the importance of the client taking action in their treatment process through using CBT to change how they think and taking action to change the way they feel. He believes in the importance of the narrative an individual creates for their lives. Len believes that mindfulness and meditation can be an important part of healing and wellness.
Len works with adolescents and adults. His focus over the past few years has been working with young adult males dealing with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Len’s passion is to assist clients in becoming the very best version of themselves and to help them realize their passion, meaning, and purpose in life.
Along with working with clients and athletes over the past seven years, he has also been a teacher and coach for over twenty-five years. Len also works with athletes in the area of mental performance training, teaching skills such as goal setting, positive self-talk, visualization, self-regulation, and a Game-ready routine to help individuals perform at their highest level. Len enjoys playing the guitar, playing different sports, walking his dog, writing books for young adults, and spending time with friends and family.
Jason will be working out of our Chagrin location. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor (C.2204267) in the State of Ohio. Jason works primarily with adolescents and adults, and enjoys helping clients learn new coping skills and experiencing positive life changes.
He is trained in a wide range of therapeutic approaches including; cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, rational-emotive behavioral therapy, gestalt therapy, reality therapy, and mindfulness-based counseling. Jason also has a sub-specialty in addiction and substance abuse counseling, especially for adolescents and young adults. As part of this specialty, Jason enjoys facilitating peer support group work, and a wide range of programs to contribute to long term recovery.
When not at work, Jason enjoys spending time with his family, being on the water, and experiencing the outdoors.
Kristina is a Licensed Professional Counselor (C.2203973). She is also a licensed school counselor in an urban district with 23 years experience working with adolescents. Kristina believes in the well-being of the whole person and thus incorporates mind, body, and spiritual interventions within the counseling construct. She uses a person centered therapeutic approach to counseling with holistic cognitive behavioral therapy interventions suitable for adolescents and adults.
Scott is a licensed Professional counselor (C.2204671) in the State of Ohio, working mainly with adults with an increasing focus on chronic pain which is misunderstood and undertreated. It is natural to think chronic pain is caused by structural (tissue damage) but neural circuits that activate pain can be totally independent from injury. The brain responds with pain in response to its perception of danger but it can learn to interpret normal sensations as threatening. The pain is real and is fueled by fear, stress, and preoccupation. The hurt continues even though the harm is gone. The majority of chronic pain is thought to be neuroplastic and not structural. This is actually good news as you can restore a feeling of safety and eliminate or reduce your pain. Pain Reprocessing Therapy offers a science and evidence based approach that has worked well both in clinical trials and with thousands of clients. Along with Pain Reprocessing Therapy Scott is oriented toward experiential mind-body modalities drawing from Internal Family Systems, Coherence Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Katherine is a Licensed Professional Counselor (C.2304887) in the State of Ohio. Katherine earned a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from John Carroll University. Prior to continuing her education at JCU, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Studies from Ohio University.
Katherine has worked in a variety of settings, with many different populations. Specific populations include, survivors of domestic violence, individuals with substance use disorders, and children and teens with various social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. She enjoys working with people of all ages and strives to teach her clients skills to help process emotions and learn to manage and cope with activities of daily living. Katherine uses a person-centered therapeutic approach and has training in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices.
Elisa is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Ohio (C.2305374). She works through an eclectic lens to suit the individual in understanding the relationship between their life experiences and worldview with their current struggles. As a therapist, she aims toward providing a safe and supportive space where individuals can process their thoughts and feelings while discovering themselves.
Hadley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (C. 2305452) in the state of Ohio. Hadley earned a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from John Carroll University. Prior to continuing her education at JCU, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Neuroscience from Ohio State University.
Hadley previously worked at Cleveland Rape Crisis Center and has experience working with adolescent and adult populations. Hadley tailors treatment to each individual client but pulls from psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and dialectical behavior therapy perspectives.
Cassandra is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Ohio (C.2406053). She earned a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Cleveland State University in the Spring of 2024. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Journalism with a minor in Psychology from Bowling Green State University. Cassandra obtained her Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant Preliminary license in March of 2023. She enjoys working with all ages but specializes in working with adult populations and adolescents. She pulls from person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, integrative, solutions-focused and mindfulness-based approaches. Cassandra is also the editor of the Geauga County Maple Leaf, Chesterland News and Kirtland Chronicle newspaper. She is a certified 500-hour Yoga Instructor with specializations in yoga nidra and therapeutic/chakra yoga; a Reiki Master; and a certified holistic psychotherapy coach.
Becca is a licensed professional counselor in the State of Ohio (C.2406115). She earned her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and the Addiction’s specialization certification from Kent State University. Becca works primarily with young adults up through adults and client’s seeking to increase their overall sense of self-love and self-acceptance. Becca utilizes mindfulness-based CBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness techniques for emotion regulation, person-centered, solution-focused, and EMDR. Primary areas of concern include trauma, depression, anxiety, weight-related concerns, mindful eating, self-esteem, and addictions. Becca is in training to become a Board-Certified Bariatric Counselor and is actively taking on client’s that are looking for counseling post bariatric surgery to promote long term better outcomes. Becca is not currently completing pre-op evaluations. Becca is often described as warm and fuzzy and utilizes a holistic person-centered approach.
Ashley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (C.2406495) with a deep commitment to fostering emotional well-being and resilience in her clients. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University, following her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Kent State University. Ashley is dedicated to supporting diverse populations, with a particular passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community and individuals navigating depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Her therapeutic style is rooted in a person-centered, eclectic approach, allowing her to tailor sessions to the unique needs of each client. Ashley strives to cultivate a safe, accepting, and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions freely, promoting personal growth and healing.
Keegan is a Licensed Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio (C.2506792). Keegan earned her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Kent State University. Prior to her master’s, she also received her bachelor’s in psychology from Kent State University with a minor in Criminology and Social Justice.
Keegan uses CBT as her foundational theory but employs an eclectic approach in sessions including Person-centered, Psychoanalytic, Existential, and DBT aspects. Keegan’s goal is to create a safe space for all clients to grow and heal as their authentic selves. Keegan has a history of working in domestic violence and spent many years working on the 988 suicide hotline. Her special areas of interest are grief and trauma, but she is excited to work with all types of clients.
Sadie Mae is our beloved office therapy labradoodle, a friendly and gentle presence known for her warm greetings at the door and her special fondness for children. With a heart as big as her smile, she has become an integral part of our therapeutic environment.
From the moment clients enter, Sadie is there to offer a welcoming wag of her nub of a tail, often accompanied by an inviting nuzzle. She has a remarkable knack for sensing when someone needs extra comfort, and she’s always ready to offer her soothing presence. Her calm demeanor and soft fur provide a sense of tranquility that enriches the therapeutic experience.
When Sadie is not busy working, she enjoys playing with her doggie sister, Happy. She also has been known to play a game of catch and indulging in her favorite treats. She embodies the spirit of unconditional love and acceptance that we should all strive for.
Healing Team
Erin is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the State of Ohio (E.1901533). Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Erin is a trauma informed person-centered therapist with an eclectic approach to treatment. Erin is also a licensed massage therapist and is certified in Traditional Thai Massage. Erin graduated with her Associates in Massage Therapy from Youngstown College of Massotherapy in 2004 and became licensed by the State Medical Board of Ohio in January, 2005. Erin received her Reiki Masters certification through Usui Shiki Ryoho lineage under instruction of Michelle Gonzalez, RM in January, 2024 and Intermediate Thai Certification in September, 2024 under the instruction of Sarah Cheiky, NLMT, NCTMB, CYT.
Erin has always believed that life is a glorious struggle and can hit us all at different times through multiple uncontrollable and sometimes chosen life experiences. The greatest lesson can be learning how to navigate the process with traits we inherently possess. The integration of mind and body was inspired when asked at her own counseling session “what brings you to counseling?”, her response was “I want to feel better.” And it is just that simple sometimes, we all want to feel good.
Erin lives in Cleveland, OH with her husband, Tim, two children, Elizabeth and Charlie, Roxy the dog, and ET the cat. She enjoys fantasizing about more sleep, food, and outdoor experiences when not working or parenting.
Amy began her Yoga journey as a way to connect with friends and to increase her strength and flexibility. She loved the experience so much that she became a certified yoga Instructor in Feb 2021 (YTT200) to share the love of yoga with you. Amy was certified as a Raindrop Practitioner in 2016 and became a Reiki Master in 2017 under the studies of Meg Marrelli.
Yoga brought Amy a sense of daily peace, strength, growth, flexibility, and a better understanding of her self-worth. She looks forward to being a part of your wellness journey and watching the trust within yourself flourish as you grow together.
Amy is certified in Chair Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Peaceful Babes and Kids Yoga, Chakra Yoga, Laughter Yoga, and Yoga Nidra. She is a Reiki Master and a Certified Raindrop Practitioner. Amy's offerings include a variety of classes and workshops for adults and kiddos. You will also experience the benefits of essential oils to compliment your Yoga practice in her classes. Amy looks forward to growing the community at Ubuntu Wellness. Amy raised her family in Chardon and shares her life, grandparenthood, and as an empty nester with her husband Michael.
Let’s change our world together one breath at a time!
Namaste
Marlo develops Ubuntu’s mindfulness, wellness, and mental health school programming and is excited to be adding even more program offerings for the upcoming 2022-2023 school year. Our growing list of participating school districts include Kenston, Gilmour Academy, Chardon, Middlefield, and Hershey Montessori. Marlo’s passion is helping students thrive and feel empowered in their individual journeys. Marlo is currently completing a Master’s in Clinical Counseling and School Counseling. She completed the Mindfulness Educators Essentials course from Mindful Schools in Emeryville, CA and Restorative Practices for Educators from IIRP Graduate School. When she’s not teaching you will find her mom-ming, entertaining, writing, or watching funny sitcoms with her husband.
Michelle began walking the path in 2011 when she attended her first yoga class as way to help destress from her career in restaurant management. She instantly felt relief and began to dive deeper into the practice. Michelle not only enjoys the physical aspect of the practice but is moved beyond words by the spiritual practice. Michelle’s passion for the spiritual elements of the mind-body continuum led her to become a Reiki Master. In addition to individual Reiki sessions, Michelle incorporates Reiki in her workshops to provide the ultimate experience for clients.
Melanie fell in love with yoga back in 2004 when she was searching for some peace and wellbeing in her life. After practicing regularly, she began to feel the healing effects of the practice. As her body and spirit began to change, she decided that she wanted to share this gift with others. Melanie believes that moving and being present in your body provides profound healing and teaches us to be present with whatever exists in our lives with more peace and comfort. She completed a 200 hour certification in 2013, a 300 hour certification in 2018 and loves to participate in continuing education to fuel her passion. Melanie completed her Basic Thai Massage Certification and Intermediate Thai Massage Certification under the instruction of Sarah Cheiky NLMT CYT NCTMB in December, 2023 and September, 2024 respectively.
Nicole is a 200 hour certified yoga instructor who graduated from Taproot Yoga Studio in Chardon, Ohio. She also has a certification through "Kidding Around Yoga" to teach children's yoga. She has been practicing yoga for over 10 years but truly became passionate about yoga after her first child was born 7 years ago. Subsequently she had physical and emotional challenges she wanted to approach in a more natural and holistic manner. Along the way she discovered the many benefits yoga can have on the mind and body. Yoga is a journey of self discovery and Nicole feels that through asanas and breathwork you can connect deeper with the many layers of one's inner self. Asanas are a moving meditation and her classes will focus on making a mind-body connection through movement and breath work. Her goal is to offer a safe and loving environment for you to move, breath and flow and by the end of class you will leave feeling grounded, balanced and rejuvenated. Off the mat Nicole also enjoys spending time with loved ones, listening to live music, being outside in nature and being close to water. She's a sucker for a good book and a glass of wine and often can be found in her backyard next to a bonfire or soaking up some sunshine.
Laura Bauer is a Momma, former homeschool teacher, ICU Nurse of almost 20 years and fervent soul searcher.
She is a certified Kundalini Yoga Instructor with Trauma Informed background, and is Reiki and Sound Healing certified. She is completing her Spirituality Coaching Certification. She is passionate about interpersonal self-growth, travel, exercise and is a nature enthusiast. Laura leads retreats, sound healings and guided somatic movement journeys.
When not teaching, you can find Laura relaxing fireside with a good book or a drum, exploring nature, or taking adventures with her family. She is devoted to inner peace, healing and helping others find their Return to Wholesome Love. Laura teaches Kundalini Yoga at our Chardon location @ 9AM every Monday.
Come experience a unique deeper spiritual approach to connecting with your Higher Self and your Divinity by this ancient practice that will leave you feeling more connected with a clearer vision of who you are and what your soul's calling is.
Susan began regularly taking yoga classes 10 years ago as a way to improve flexibility, decrease stress, and reduce joint pain from years of high impact exercise. She began to transition to low impact exercise as yoga taught her to slow down and respect the body’s needs. She recognized that the breath work allowed her to reset and slow her mind. Regular yoga practice improved her concentration and helped her to deal more effectively with life stressors.
Susan is a lifelong fitness enthusiast. She has been teaching fitness classes for seven years. Whether Barre or chair yoga she enjoys leading classes of all age groups, with a a special interest in the senior population. She is passionate about helping the senior population realize the physical and mental benefits of regular exercise.
Working in the healthcare field, she saw the negative effects of sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and chronic stress. She is an advocate for promoting gentle movement, mindfulness, and stretching on a regular basis. Her goal is to help clients realize how a regular yoga practice can improve mind, body, and spirit. Susan would be honored in helping anyone along their yoga journey.
Susan graduated from Taproot Yoga’s 200 hour yoga certification program in May, 2022 and also received a certification in Primary Group Exercise from the AFAA (Athletics and Fitness Association of America) in 2017.
Nicole discovered yoga more than just a practice; it became a doorway to community, healing, and radiant energy. Now, as a 300-hour certified yoga teacher and aroma therapist, she helps others unlock that very door through restorative, slow-flow, and trauma-informed yoga.
Nicole's classes are like stepping into a sanctuary. She blends gentle movement, mindful breathwork, and the subtle magic of aromatherapy to create a space where everyone feels welcome and seen, regardless of experience or ability. With open arms and a warm smile, she guides you towards finding your own inner strength and serenity, one mindful breath at a time.
Christina became a licensed massage therapist through the Cleveland Institute of Medical Massage in 2021. With a broad background as a veteran, EMT-B, and level 2 Reiki practitioner, Christina has a thorough and intuitive practice helping her clients achieve their wellness goals. She finds that her genuine intentions and practical knowledge are evident in the individualized care she provides for each of her clients through massage therapy with incorporated PNF techniques and stretching.
When not with clients, Christina spends her time with her son Andreas and their dog, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, and is an avid nature lover and reader.
Bethany, a Chardon native, graduated from Harmony Path School of Massage Therapy in 2016. Bethany is trained in deep tissue, prenatal, cupping therapy, stone massage, and stretching. Bethany completed her Intermediate Thai Massage certification under instruction of Sarah Cheiky, NLMT CYT NCTMB in September, 2024. Working with a diverse population, Bethany helps clients reach their health and healing goals, individualizing their treatment plans.
Lauren began walking her path in 2015 when she left her home in Ohio to embark on her journey of becoming a massage therapist at Pinnacle Career Institute in Kansas City, MO. Lauren left the restaurant industry to work full time as a licensed massage therapist after feeling a deep calling to serve others. Lauren specializes in therapeutic, trigger point, Swedish, sports, cupping, hot stone and prenatal massage. In her spare time, Lauren enjoys the outdoors, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
Noriko became a licensed massage therapist after graduating from Tri-C’s Massage Therapy Program in 2016 and has recently completed Level 2 Craniosacral Therapy through the Upledger Institute. Noriko specializes in CST (craniosacral therapy), myofascial release, hot stone, prenatal and sports massage. Noriko completed Basic Thai and Intermediate Thai Massage certification through Sarah Cheiky, NLMT CYT NCTMB in September, 2024. Noriko also completed Advanced Cupping Techniques certification under instruction of Scott Raymond ℅ AMTA in October, 2024.
Noriko lives in Painesville with her husband and has four beloved adult children. In her spare time, Noriko is a competitive ballroom dancer and enjoys kayaking and being outdoors.
Kate received her massage therapy license in 2005, after graduating The National Institute of Massotherapy. Over the last eighteen years, Kate has worked on all different people, from young to old, from pro-athlete to non, and everyone in between. Her style of massage is a blend of techniques, that are customized to fit your needs & designed to help you on this journey in feeling your best self. Kate has joined the Ubuntu Wellness team to help further her healing practices as she embarks on a new path to become a counselor in the spring!
When she’s not massaging, Kate enjoys reading, concerts, & traveling.
Jennifer attained her Massage Therapy Certificate from Cuyahoga Community College and she is licensed by the State Medical Board of Ohio. She is a believer in a holistic approach to well-being and enjoys helping her clients rejuvenate mind, body and spirit through the power of therapeutic touch. She offers several massage modalities including Swedish, therapeutic, prenatal and oncology massage. She is also a Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapist and has additional training in Post Breast Surgery Scar Tissue Release and Breast Cancer Rehabilitation.
Kelli is a licensed registered nurse and licensed massage therapist who has a passion for holistic health. Kelli enjoys bringing together her love of nursing with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in her massage and manual therapy sessions. In addition to nursing and bodywork, Kelli also has a history of working with individuals and small groups as a personal fitness trainer, educating and guiding clients with strength training, somatic stretching and restorative practices, to help others build and strengthen sustainable approaches to wellness . Upon meeting each individual, Kelli strives to meet each person where they are currently at on their health journey to customize each session with a goal of helping others live better lives for themselves, their family and their community.
Carrie has been a licensed massage therapist since 2012, graduating from the Cortiva Institute of Massage Therapy-Chicago. Earning certifications in prenatal, post partum, deep tissue, and cupping Carrie likes to blend various modalities to create treatments that are specific to each client's needs.
Yelena is a dedicated and compassionate Doctor of Holistic Health with a deep understanding of women's wellness. She offers personalized care, utilizing advanced testing, including functional blood chemistry analysis and lab testing, to uncover the root causes of health challenges.
Her expertise encompasses Functional Lab Testing, including Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis, Hormonal Balance, Thyroid Health, Gut Health (including Candida, SIBO, and Celiac assessments), Toxic Burden (including Heavy Metals, Mold, Environmental), Food Sensitivities, Vitamins & Minerals, and more.
Yelena specializes in Digestive Health, Fatigue, Mood Disorders, and Sleep Problems, addressing the root causes behind these challenges. Her holistic wellness plans, (that go beyond symptom management), supported by Functional Lab testing, empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
Join Yelena on a journey of holistic healing that combines physical well-being and emotional health, unlocking your innate potential for lasting vitality.
Cathy recently left her 35 year Corporate healthcare position to pursue her true passion, becoming a Pilates Instructor. Cathy began her Pilates journey 8 years ago, taking regular classes at least 5-7 times per week. Cathy decided to pursue teaching Pilates, not only because of her passion for practice, but also her desire to help others in achieving optimal strength, balance and control, through precise and intentional movements.
Cathy currently teaches at Club Pilates in Willoughby, as well as teaching private lessons at her in-home studio. She also travels to Assisted Living environments to bring Pilates to residents.
When Cathy is not practicing or teaching Pilates, she enjoys spending time with her 5-year-old granddaughter, and is soon expecting a new grandson in March 2025.
Kelly has lived in Chardon her whole life and loves the community, especially its parks. With 25 years of experience teaching fitness classes, she specializes in Step, Hi-Lo, Circuit training, HIIT, Bootcamp, Weights, and Zumba. For the last 15 years, Zumba has been her main focus. As a certified Zumba instructor and a certified group fitness instructor by the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, Kelly brings extensive knowledge and energy to her classes. She has a BS in Gerontology and Exercise Science from Bowling Green State University, which adds to her fitness expertise.
Passionate about Zumba, she embraces the idea of "Ditch the workout and join the Party," encouraging people to enjoy movement in a fun way.
Administrative Team
Dawn plays a pivotal role in ensuring that our practice operates seamlessly, allowing our team of dedicated mental health and healing professionals to focus on what they do best - providing high-quality care to those in need. Dawn meticulously oversees the day-to-day operations at Ubuntu, seamlessly managing critical tasks such as insurance billing, payroll administration, and essential secretarial responsibilities.
Melanie is a seasoned insurance biller with a focus on mental health services, bringing years of expertise in coding, submitting, and meticulously tracking insurance claims to ensure precise reimbursement. Committed to fostering smooth financial interactions among mental health providers, patients, and insurance entities, Melanie excels in navigating the complexities of the billing process.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Melanie is a devoted mother of three vibrant children aged 10, 11, and 19. While her days are filled with the bustling energy of her family's sports activities, Melanie finds joy in her downtime exploring new destinations with her loved ones and savoring culinary adventures at local eateries. Her passion for travel fuels her zest for life outside the office, enriching her experiences and creating cherished memories with her family.
Aleah is currently enrolled in Kent State’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. She graduated from Kent with a B.S. in Psychology. After completing the program, she hope to work with either adolescents or addicts. In her free time she likes to bake and listen to podcasts.