Payton oversees the Direct Supports department. Payton graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a Special Education license in 2023. Payton is currently working towards her masters degree in Special Education with a certificate in Emotional Behavior Disorders. Payton’s advocacy for the individuals she supports is impeccable.

Raeanna graduated from IUPUC and received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 2023. Raeanna is a high energy person who loves to bring her classroom knowledge to the individuals she supports in the community setting.

Piper received her CTRS in 2024 after graduating from Indiana University. Ms. Boyer has experience in supporting individuals with acute mental illnesses, youth at risk, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In her personal time, Piper is an avid reader, enjoys the outdoors, spending time with her family, traveling and cooking.

Jess received her CTRS in 2024 after graduating from Indiana Univeristy. Jessica has experience working as a Direct Support Professional and camp counselor for individuals with varying disabilities. Jessica enjoys doing activities outdoors, playing games, exercise, and trying new activities.

Mary received her CTRS in 2014. Mary is an experienced recreational therapist with youth at risk, mental health, and developmental disabilities.

Elizabeth received her CTRS in 2016. Elizabeth is a strong advocate of people with disabilities, using her experience to raise awareness to the general public. Elizabeth is the founder of the Assisted Independence Support Group for caregivers, parents, and others.

Miranda received her CTRS in 2023 after graduating from Indiana Univeristy. Ms. Seguin enjoys being outdoors and being creative. Engaging in new ideas excites her! Since Ms. Seguin began the journey in Recreational Therapy, Ms. Seguin truly feels aligned with her life’s purpose. Ms. Seguin finds ultimate intrinsic satisfaction in helping others feel connected to their purpose too. Ms. Seguin is also a board member working with the Gennesaret Free Clinic organization to help provide free healthcare to Hoosiers who don’t have access.

Laura received her CTRS in 2011 after graduating from Indiana University. She has experience in various Geriatric settings, behavioral health, and community-based waivers. Ms. Nickell is a proud mom of two girls. Some of Laura’s leisure interests include spending time with her family, wanting to adopt every dog, house hunting/remodeling, gardening, bird watching, various art/graphic design, and newly learned golf. Laura is driven to adapt activities and technology to meet the needs of individuals.

Sammi received her CTRS in 2016 after graduating from Indiana University. Since graduation, Sammi has experience in Boulder, Colorado, in community-based services, Tampa, Florida, in a psychiatric hospital, and Bloomington, Indiana, in home and community-based waiver services. Sammi loves anything related to Indiana University. In her free time, Ms. Pierce attends various sporting events. Ms. Pierce loves to complete jigsaw puzzles, binge-watch television shows with her husband, and cuddle with her cat, Oliver.

Tess received her CTRS in 2023 after completing her internship with Assisted Independence and graduating from Indiana University. Tess enjoys the outdoors and trying new activities.

Katie received her CTRS in 2023 after graduating from Indiana University. She is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy. Katie has experience working as a camp counselor and Direct Support Professional (DSP) for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In her personal time, she loves to travel and be with friends and family. Katie also enjoys being outside, cooking, playing games, and exercising.

Hannah received her CTRS in 2022 after graduating from Indiana State Univeristy. Hanna has worked as a Recreational Therapist in the community-based field and at an inpatient Psychiatric Unit. Mrs. Morris is a family of three with her husband, and their daughter. Hanna’s hobbies include all things that include physical activity, and she loves spending time with family! Hanna absolutely loves the Recreational Therapy field and serving others will always be her passion.

Patti received her CTRS in 2010. Ms. Whitener graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation and a minor in Psychology in 2009 and received her Master’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Clemson University in 2021. Patti began her professional experience in physical rehabilitation, psychiatric care and substance abuse. Ms. Whitener has a passion for research and evidence-based practices. While working with older adults, Ms. Whitener received an award for the WVN Wheelchair Bike Program with the Duet Wheelchair Tandem Bike. Patti became certified within the Dementia Practice Guidelines while working in long-term and memory care for almost ten years before transitioning to home and community-based programming for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Patti is dedicated to the field of Recreational Therapy and is currently a board member for the Recreation Therapists of Indiana (RTI) and co-chair of the Licensure Task Force. She teaches the CPR certification classes for Assisted Independence and supports individuals within the Indianapolis area. Patti’s interests include nature, biking, archery, flow arts, dancing, board games, mediation/mindfulness, and spending time with her family and animals.

Gianna received her CTRS in 2024 after completing her internship at Assisted Independence and graduating from Indiana University, She has more experience with youth as a previous camp counselor and gymnastics coach. Gianna enjoys hiking, listening to music, playing tabletop games, and doing arts and crafts!

Shelby received her CTRS in 2024 after graduating from Indiana University. Shelby has experience working with geriatrics, mental health, and addiction populations. Shelby enjoys spending time outdoors, listening to music, and spending time with her family.

Nhi received her CTRS in 2025 after graduating from Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI. She has worked with a variety of populations, including seniors, adults in behavioral health, and individuals with disabilities. In her free time, Nhi loves being outdoors and getting creative with arts and crafts.

Katie received her CTRS in 2025 after graduating from Indiana University. Katie has experience with a variety of populations/ settings, such as assisted living, mental health, home and community- based settings, children’s summer camps, and substance use. Katie is passionate about advocating for people with disabilities and improving their quality of life. In her free time, Katie enjoys running, collaging, music, spending time with friends, and traveling.

Linley received her CTRS in 2025 after graduating from Indiana University, where she developed her passion for supporting individuals in achieving their goals through meaningful and enjoyable activities. Linley has gained experience from completing her internship at a children’s hospital, working in various summer camp settings, as well as working with individuals through her university coursework. Linley loves dance, music, art, sports, travel, spending time outdoors, and sharing quality time with family and friends.

Josh received his CTRS in 2022 after graduating from BYU-Idaho. He’s done work in Adaptive Sports and Behavioral Health. During his free time, he loves to hike, kayak, ski/snowboard, and spend time with his wife & daughter.

Greer received her CTRS in 2018 after graduating from Indiana University. She recently completed her Master’s degree in Global Urban Health from the University of Freiburg, Germany. Greer began her career working in behavioral health and has transitioned to working in the community. Greer is passionate about improving the quality of life for all people and loves making a positive impact on her community. Her interests include hiking, cycling, walking her dog, playing music, baking, and spending time outdoors.

Abigain received her CTRS in 2024. She graduated from Indiana University in 2019. Abigail has experience in mental health setting, behavioral health and adapted swim lessons. She enjoys getting outdoors gardening and swimming. She also likes hanging out with her family and taking her dog, Gideon for walks.

Micah graduated from Eastern Kentucky University in 2018 and received her CTRS in 2019. Majority of her career has been working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in programming, community, and psychiatric settings. She loves being active by hiking, kayaking, camping, water skiing, and wakeboarding. Micah has two cats.

Ally received her CTRS in 2025 after she graduated from Indiana University and completed an internship with Assisted Independence. Ally has worked as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) for individuals with varying disabilities. In her personal time she loves to try new recipes, exercise and create art.

Kaleigh received her CTRS in 2025 after graduating from Indiana University. Kaleigh loves to help others reach their goals and grow from where they are to where they can be. Kaleigh has had experience from volunteering in nursing homes, working with children in summer camp setting, and shadowing in community-based settings. Kaleigh completed her internship with Assisted Independence. Kaleigh loves exercise, cooking, and fashion, along with helping others find their passions as well.

Lindsay works as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) as well as an Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with hospice. Lindsay teaches Medication Administration training for Assisted Independence staff. Lindsay is a hard worker and a mental health advocate.

Noah works in Columbus, IN. Noah is active at the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Columbus and is dedicated to supporting others.

Norma has 17+ years experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Norma works part-time with Assisted Independence, while also working through the local school system. Norma’s tenure is unmatched. Norma is reliable, trustworthy, and thorough. Norma’s care and compassion for the individuals she supports is strong, as she has built strong bonds. Norma is fluent in English, American Sign Language, and Spanish. Her organization and time ma

Kathy is works in Columbus, IN. Kathy is a joy to be around, as she puts a strong effort into assisting those with Autism.

Kat is an outgoing and dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP). Kat is innovative when it comes to helping others reach independence. Kat holds others accountable and is a valued employee at Assisted Independence.

Belinda is a Direct Support Professional (DSP), mother, and grandmother. Belinda is a hard worker that advocates and supports her individuals to be an independent as possible.

Darla is a wife and mother of 3. Darla is dedicated to making sure the individuals she supports reach and maintain their goals. Darla goes above and beyond to make sure the individuals she supports have their needs met.

Katie is a physical therapist who works part-time as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). Katie is a joy to be around, always sporting a smile and befriending those around her.

Ashley is a wife and mother. Ashley is a hard worker that is dedicated to ensuring the individuals she supports reach their full potential. Ashley is a great team member.

Laurie is passionate about assisting individuals with disabilities. Laurie has been a member of the Columbus City Council. Additionally, Laurie has helped with many community projects in Columbus, including Freedom Field and the R.E.A.C.H. program.

Mrs. Eagle is a retired school teacher who takes her work as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) seriously. Mrs. Eagle recognizes the need for Autism supports in our community.

Amy is a former nurse at Eskenazi Health. Amy supports facilitated communication, which has empowered so many individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to communicate freely.

Amber is dedicated in helping individuals with developmental disabilities. Amber is thorough and does not miss a beat.

Abbigail has a wide range of achievements some including National Honors Society, President of Student Council, and Columbus Youth Development Ambassador. Abbigail recently received her Associated degree from Grace College while still attending High school. Abbigail has experience with children from working at a daycare and providing support to her sibling.