Staff

Therapists

David Kamande, MSW, LCSW 

David Kamande received his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with an Applied Behavioral Analysis concentration from Purdue Global University. He received his Master's degree in Social Work from Western New Mexico University. David has worked with adults, young children, adolescents, and their families to meet individualized client’s needs. He has experience in outpatient, in-home therapy, and residential settings. 

Using the strength-based perspective, David utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), problem solving models, and motivational interviewing to partner with and assist clients to identify a problem, create an action plan to solve it, and implement the solution to achieve the desired outcomes. David has experience working with clients who have behavioral issues, and he strongly believes that every individual has the resilience to not only bounce back from difficult experiences, but also experience profound personal growth.  

David is fluent in both English and Swahili. At this time, David is accepting clients interested in telehealth services only.


Marc McElligott, LSW

Marc McElligott received his Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Master's in Social Work from Indiana University in South Bend. He has served adolescents and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions in outpatient settings.


Marc is committed to providing a meaningful and impactful therapy experience. Using a strengths-based, solution-focused approach grounded in empathy and respect, he supports clients as they examine their feelings, learn more about themselves, and achieve lasting change.


Marc draws upon Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral, Person-Centered, Narrative, and Psychodynamic Therapies to help them address mood, anxiety, trauma-related, relationship, and substance use challenges. 

Kristen Barnes, LMFT (She/Her) 

Kristen is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapy Associate. She received her Educational Specialist degree in Marriage & Family Therapy from Converse University in South Carolina and has over 15 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She seeks to create a safe, accepting space for her clients and their families, and she uses a person-centered, strengths-based approach to working with clients, along with humor, empathy, and patience. Kristen believes that change is possible for everyone with the right tools, and seeks to create an environment that stimulates and supports growth for all of her clients.

Although Kristen works with all ages and genders, she specializes in working with young children and their families. She has worked extensively with children and families who have experienced traumatic events and disruptions to the family system and is comfortable navigating the child welfare system. In addition, she has significant experience working with children with developmental needs, including autism spectrum disorder and fetal alcohol syndrome, and guiding their parents toward understanding and effectively managing their child’s associated emotional and behavioral needs within a neurodiverse framework. Kristen utilizes an eclectic approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Child-Centered Play Therapy.

Kristen currently accepts Medicaid and most commercial insurance. She works with children and families, especially children ages 3-8.


Elyse Chudzynski, LMHC-A (She/Her) 

Elyse is a clinical mental health counselor with a background in art education and refugee resettlement. She received her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana University South Bend and holds Bachelor’s degrees in Art Education from IUPUI and Psychology from Ball State University. She is committed to culturally competent, trauma-informed counseling and loves to use artmaking as an intervention. Elyse is dedicated to meeting her clients where they are and offering them the time and space to grow, change, and heal. 


Elyse has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and major life transitions. She has worked with individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, recently resettled refugees, and adults with developmental disabilities. Her approach is client-led and informed by Expressive Arts Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.


Alyssa Eubanks, LMHC-A 


Alyssa is a clinical mental health counselor. She holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology and received her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana University South Bend. She has experience working with intimate partner violence, trauma, and addictions. Her clinical interests include working with individuals who have experienced anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-esteem, mood disorders, intimate partner violence, and life transitions. 

She is committed to assisting individuals in their healing and personal growth journey by creating a safe, open, and accepting space for her clients. She is passionate about helping clients tap into their own unique power and agency to create sustainable change and improve their quality of life.  

Alyssa works from a variety of approaches including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. She also promotes the use of meditation and breathwork to help clients with their self-care and healing process. 


Abby Lancaster, LSW (They/Them) 


Abby received their Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work from Indiana University South Bend and has spent the last couple of years working in gender-affirming care. Advocating for those in the LGBTQ2IA+ community at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels is a great passion that translates into their work in the local community through creating safe spaces for people to be who they are without judgment. 


Abby has experience working with adults and is looking to expand by working with children (ages 10 and up) and adolescents. They work from a trauma-informed framework, empower clients by recognizing their strengths, and emphasize whole-person care. Abby utilizes motivational interviewing as well as cognitive behavioral therapy with clients and enjoys opportunities for clients to engage in hands-on work with art and play therapies. 


Abby is interested in working with clients in the LGBTQ2IA+ community, those with ADHD/ADD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. 

Karen Bruening, LCSW, LCACA (She/Her) 

Karen received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Brigham Young University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University South Bend. Karen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Clinical Addition Counselor Associate (LCACA).

Karen acknowledges the courage it takes to seek therapeutic help and works to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where individuals can feel safe discussing difficult challenges. Karen uses a trauma informed, strength-based approach and has experience using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Karen has experience working with Young Adults and Adults who struggle with addiction, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and trauma.

Clare Czolgosz, LSW (She/Her) 


Clare earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Magna Cum Laude from Saint Mary's College and has completed a Masters in Social Work with a focus on mental health and addictions at Indiana University South Bend. Her undergraduate research focused on understanding visual stereotypy neural reward systems in the brain comparing autistic and neurotypical individuals. Additional research focused on support systems necessary for parents and caregivers of children on the Autism Spectrum.  She has worked professionally in clinic and college-based settings with children, adolescence and young adults on the spectrum, and has worked in individual, family and group settings. 

 

Clare is committed to cultivating a safe and empathetic environment for her clients. She is focused on meeting clients where they are on their journey to wellness.  Clare utilizes a variety of methodologies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. She uses a strengths-based approach incorporating mindfulness and meditation within the therapeutic method. Clare engages a person-centered approach to care through supporting the empowerment of individuals in creating meaningful change and growth.  


Mandy George, LSW (She/Her) 


Mandy received her Bachelor's degree in Family Science from Anderson University and her Master's degree in Social Work from Indiana University. Mandy has a wide range of experience working with both children and adults through community-based services, residential care, the child welfare system, and in family preservation services. Mandy has worked extensively with foster youth, foster families, and in navigating the complexity of the reunification or adoption process. 


Mandy utilizes a strengths-based approach to the work she does. She focuses on empowering the client and always strives to create a safe and welcoming environment to all. Mandy believes in building a strong therapeutic relationship with each of her clients through the use of motivational interviewing, exploration of emotions, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Mandy is passionate about working with teenagers, adults, couples, and families from all walks of life. 



Meadow Smith, MSW, LSW


Hi, My name is Meadow Smith. I am a queer social worker and therapist with a background in case management and mental health. I am an advocate for body acceptance, equal human rights, and LGBTQ inclusivity. I am married to my lovely wife and a proud mother of four beautiful children. I have experience with CBT, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. I am excited to help people in their healing journeys. I find therapy to be a calling and I thoroughly enjoy it. 




Emily Horn, MSW, LSW 

Emily received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a Minor in Philosophy from Indiana University South Bend and earned her Master’s degree in social work in 2024, with a concentration on clinical practice in mental health and addictions. She is currently a licensed social worker working full time with hospice  and has spent her career working with the geriatric population. She is trained in memory care and suicide prevention.

Emily has a wide interest in mood disorders, personality disorder, eating disorders, and couples / group therapy.

Justin Lang , MSW, LSW


Justin earned his bachelor's degree in psychology from Indiana University South Bend and completed his master's degree in social work with a concentration on clinical practice in mental health and addictions in 2024. An avid sports fan, Justin has a strong passion for helping individuals who struggle with sports betting and other types of gambling. He also has experience working with depression, anxiety, and stress management. Justin works with adolescents, teens, and adults.


Justin is a NAUI certified scuba diver and a lifelong fan of the New England Patriots, even after Tom Brady left.  Justin also loves plants and is known to aquire some of Psych Pointe's plants from time to time in his infirmary rehabilitating them back to health!


Jaci Lamont,  LCSW


Jaci (pronounced Jackie) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with a wide variety of people who want to improve their lives by healing from the inside out, learning coping and relaxation skills, and using an approach that addresses not only the mind, but body and spirit. Jaci has worked in the mental health field for over 30 years, and has been a therapist for eight, receiving her masters degree in social work in 2016 from Indiana University at South Bend.


Jaci has expertise in helping adults and youth greatly decrease their symptoms of depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), AD/HD and childhood issues. She uses and teaches therapeutic and relationship tools to aid you in becoming the person you want to be and creating a life and relationships you can thoroughly enjoy.


With adults, Jaci utilizes evidence-based practices including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and inner child healing and Internal Family Systems (IFS). She uses all the above and fun therapeutic activities to teach life skills and development of healthy relationships when working with children and families to help them enjoy being together and to create peace in their homes.


Jaci has extensive experience in parenting and families, children’s behavioral issues, trauma, and women’s concerns. She will soon publish her book, Heal Your Heart, Heal Your Child: Release Your Trauma to Become the Mom You Want to Be!


Jaci loves spending time with her family and friends, and in nature, especially at her “happy place,” the beach. 😊


Rebecca Hall,  MSW, LSW


Rebecca is a licensed social worker (LSW) with a Master’s in social work from Indiana University. Rebecca works with teenagers, young adults, adults, and couples, offering tailored support to address a wide range of concerns. Rebecca provides compassionate and evidence-based care to those seeking to heal and grow.


Rebecca's approach is client-centered, integrating various therapeutic modalities to meet your unique needs. Whether you're struggling with past trauma, navigating difficult relationships, or seeking to reconnect with your inner self, she I am here to support you on your journey.

In your sessions, you’ll find a safe and non-judgmental space where your experiences are validated, and your strengths are honored. Together, you will work towards achieving your personal goals and enhancing your overall well-being.


If you're ready to take the first step towards healing, please reach out. Rebecca looks forward to working with you.



Nurse Practitioners

Yolanda Roche MSN, APRN, FNP-BC (She/Her) 


Yolanda is a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in primary care, including mental health. She is licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse by the State of Indiana.


Yolanda earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University South Bend, a Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, and a Post-Master's Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate from the University of Southern Indiana.


Yolanda's experience includes nursing education, primary practice, mental health, pediatrics, medically-fragile pediatrics, and developmental pediatrics, including those with autism and ADHD. 


Cyndi Weyers MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C  (She/Her) 


Cyndi is a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in mental health care since 2022. She is licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse by the states of Indiana and Michigan.


Cyndi earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Indiana University Bloomington. After a few years working various jobs, she returned to Saint Mary's College and earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She worked at Elkhart General Hospital for several years, eventually returning to school for her Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner degree at Ball State University. She completed a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's certificate through the University of Cincinnati in 2024. 


Cyndi has worked in a variety of areas, caring for patients of all ages and income levels. She has experience caring for children, teens and adults and dealing with a wide range of health care issues from acute injuries to chronic conditions, including depression, anxiety, and ADHD. 



Shantelle Burress MSN, APRN, FNP-C (she/her)


Shantelle is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in primary care, including mental health.  She is licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse by the state of Indiana.  


Shantelle earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Nursing and Public Health from the University of Michigan, a Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Purdue Global.  She spent 12 years in the United States Army working in Civil Affairs.


Shantelle's experience includes a variety of health care environments caring for patients of all ages.  She has experience with children, teens and adults dealing with acute, chronic and urgent health care needs including ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, depression, autism and pediatric developmental needs.


Deanna Rucano, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC (She/Her) 


Deanna is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in primary care with a focus on mental health.  She is licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in both Indiana and Michigan.  


Deanna earned an Associate Degree in Nursing (2007) from Lake Michigan College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2012) as well as a Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner Degree (2017) from Indiana University South Bend.


Deanna has experience in primary care where she treated patients across the lifespan for various conditions.  In this setting, she had a particular interest in mental health including anxiety, depression, PMDD, and ADHD.  She has also managed patients in the urgent care setting.  More recently she has treated patients in sleep medicine for various sleep-related conditions including insomnia, hypersomnia, and parasomnia. 


Ekom Essien, CPNP-PC 


Ekom is passionate about advancing health equity for underserved populations, particularly for the Black/African American community. Ekom has nine years of experience working with pediatric patients in a variety of settings and is extremely excited to join in the care of patients at Psych Pointe!


Ekom grew up in Elkhart and returned to the area in 2015 after beginning practice in Nashville, TN. In her spare time, she enjoys both road and international trips, cooking new recipes, and spending time with her twin daughters, partner Jacob, and dog, Addie. 



Iga Aizigov, MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C 


Iga is dual Board Certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Iga earned her Family Nurse Practitioner Master’s degree at Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana and her Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. 


She has been working as a Nurse Practitioner since 2016 and focusing on psychiatric & mental health since 2019. She’s experienced with adults and the older adult population treating a wide range of psychiatric needs. 



Interns

Hailey Young, BA, MHC Intern


Hailey Young is a dedicated intern at Indiana University South Bend, currently in her final year of the Clinical Mental Health program. With a passion for supporting young people, Hailey focuses on working with children and teens aged 10 to 18. She has developed a keen interest in addressing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).


Hailey’s commitment to helping others is reflected in her hands-on approach, where she strives to create a safe and nurturing environment for her clients. She believes in the power of resilience and works to empower youth through evidence-based practices and supportive counseling.




Alicia Weyer, BS, LSW Intern


Alicia Weyer is nearing completion of her MSW at Indiana University's School of Social Work, with a focus on helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. Her areas of interest include trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and addiction. Alicia works primarily with teenagers and adults, fostering trust and creating a safe, judgment-free space for growth and healing. She is committed to a strengths-based approach, integrating evidence-based practices to empower her clients and support them in achieving their personal goals. 


Alicia is an avid board game enthusiast and plays weekly with her husband and friends. She believes structured play and games lead to developing language and social skills while incorporating fun and cognitive challenges. She is always ready for a game of Hungry, Hungry Hippos with her daughter. 




Oriane Courage, BA, MHC Intern


Oriane received her Bachelor's degree in Marriage and Family Studies, with a minor in Psychology from Brigham Young University- Idaho, and is currently in her last year of a Master’s program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Messiah University, PA. 

She is an intern at Psych Pointe with an interest in working with young children (3-10) and families. She also enjoys working with adults in different life stages and adjustments. 


Oriane believes that each individual can create a meaningful life and heal with the right support and resources. She feels comfortable integrating faith into the counseling process if a client wishes to do so. She meets clients where they are and with the use of different evidence-based practices and theories strives to create a safe and compassionate environment for the client to discuss their challenges.


Oriane enjoys spending time with family, the outdoors, and baking and cooking–particularly in recreating childhood recipes/pastries from France."


Office Management

Jessica Browning (She/Her


Jessica is the office manager at Psych Pointe. She graduated from Valparaiso University with a Bachelor of Science in psychology and theology. She spent many years working in social services and finance and has found her niche in a managerial role.  Jessica also handles all billing and insurance at Psych Pointe.


Jessica enjoys spending time (especially traveling and visiting national parks) with her husband, three children, and their pomsky (Pomeranian-Husky mix). She is actively involved in all of her children’s activities, whether it be on a board, committee, or cheering in the stands. 






Office Location

113 Lincolnway E, Mishawaka, IN 46544