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Mental & Behavioral Health

We provide compassionate, professional care to support the emotional well-being of children and teens. From counseling and therapy to medication management, our services help young people and their families navigate life’s challenges, build resilience and find hope for a brighter future.

We are currently accepting NEW patients with immediate appointments available for Medication Management services.

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Home » Services » Mental Health

Healing Starts Here: Personalized Care for Kids and Families

At Child Saving Institute, our mental health providers use a holistic approach, offering therapy and/or medication management for youth and children’s ongoing health and wellbeing.

Remember, seeking support for your child’s mental health is a courageous step. At CSI, we are here to help your family every step of the way.

Pediatric & Adolescent Therapy

Our mental health therapists provide child and family therapy in a supportive environment, addressing trauma, conflict, and behavioral challenges. Bilingual therapists offer compassionate care for Spanish-speaking families.

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Medication Management

We offer expert evaluations and personalized treatment plans, including medication management. Our APRN provides compassionate care with more than 15 years of experience. CSI has immediate openings, telehealth follow-ups and accepts most insurance.

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Behavioral Health Intervention Services

We provide in-home, skills-based interventions for children and their families to help build better coping, communication and social skills while addressing behavioral challenges through weekly sessions that empower families to thrive.

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Real Journeys. Real Healing.

“

At CSI, everyone has been amazing through our mental health and medication journey! Grateful for our team at CSI.

Liz

Meet Our Providers

Maureen W. Gatere

DNP, MPH, APRN
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

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Accepting New Patients
Clare Campbell

PLMHP, PCMSW
Therapist

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Accepting New Patients
Zach Davison

LICSW
Therapist

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Accepting New Patients
Sabrina Felix

PLMHP, PCMSW
Bilingual Mental Health Therapist

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Accepting New Patients
Jamie Smith

PLMHP, PCMSW
Therapist

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Accepting New Patients
Allison Kirkebak

PLMHP, PCMSW
Therapist

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Accepting New Patients
Lori Komori, PsyD

Child Psychologist

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Accepting New Patients
Samara West

MA, LIMHP
Therapist

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Accepting New Patients
Margarita (Maggie) Ochoa

PLMHP
Bilingual Therapist

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Accepting New Patients
Amanda Simpson

LIMHP
Therapist

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Accepting New Patients

Meet Our Administrative Team

Lora Sladovnik

MS, LIMHP
Vice President of Behavioral Health

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Coral Frazell

PhD, MA, LIMHP, LADC
Director of Outpatient Therapy

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Andrew Powell

LICSW, PLADC
Pediatric & Adolescent Therapy Supervisor

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Daisy Sibrian

Adminstrative Support

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Gina Gardner

Adminstrative Support

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Frequently Asked Quesitons

What type of insurance do you take?

We accept most insurance and Medicaid. Please check with your insurance company to ensure we are in network. 

What ages do you serve?

Our therapists see patients as young as two years old. Our medication management provider sees patients who are six years of age and older.  

What do I need to bring to my first appointment?

Proof of insurance 

What can I expect during my child's first appointment?

Expect to be here for an hour. During your initial appointment, you and your child will complete an intake questionnaire to assess your needs.  

Do I need to be there with my child during their appointment?

Yes, all children must have an adult accompany them during their appointments. 

How long will my child need to participate in therapy?

This varies depending on your child’s needs and the treatment plan created by their therapist or medication management provider. The timeline for your child’s treatment goals can be discussed with your child’s therapist or medication management provider. 

Does CSI offer telehealth?

Yes, telehealth is available for patients. In-person treatment is always recommended, but telehealth is available to fit your schedule. 

How often will my child be seen?

This varies depending on your child’s needs and the treatment plan created by their therapist or medication management provider. The frequency of your child’s appointments can be discussed with your child’s therapist or medication management provider. 

Is CSI accepting new patients?

Please refer to the section above to hear from our therapists and see which therapists are accepting new patients.  

How involved am I in my child’s therapy planning?

This varies depending on your child’s needs and the treatment plan created by their therapist or medication management provider. The extent of your involvement in your child’s therapy or medication management can be discussed with your child’s therapist or medication management provider. 

What therapy techniques are offered at CSI?

  • Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) 
  • Play therapy 
  • Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) 
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) 
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) 
  • Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) 

What’s needed if I share custody of my child?

Both parents must give approval for the child to be seen by our mental health providers and medication management provider. If there is shared custody, please bring court documents which showcase your custody arrangement to your initial appointment. Both parents can be involved in the child’s treatment plan.  

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Felecia Noguera, LIMHP, LCSW

Bilingual Therapist (English-Spanish)

Felecia is a bilingual therapist on the Pediatric and Adolescent therapy team at Child Saving Institute. She connected to CSI’s long-standing reputation of fostering growth, perseverance and humanity in children, youth and their families.

A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Felecia discovered her passion for helping others during her undergraduate years at the University of Missouri - Columbia, where she earned a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Spanish. Her volunteering experiences with Centro Latino, an organization offering support to immigrant and refugee children, inspired her to pursue a career in social work, leading her to complete her MSW in 2018 at Washington University in St. Louis.

Throughout her career, Felecia has actively fostered community among Latinx individuals, including establishing an affinity group to fostering community among Latinx-individuals and allies, called Mi Gente at Washington University. Her work at community organizations and the Children's Advocacy Services of Greater St. Louis has allowed her to develop expertise in providing trauma therapies to youth.

Outside of work, Felecia enjoys exploring the local food scene with her fiancé Tim and spending quality time with their dog Bruno. She is also an avid concert-goer and traveler who embraces opportunities to express her creativity through crocheting and crafting. Felecia's diverse experiences, dedication and strong sense of community make her an invaluable member of the CSI team.

Mickey Crampton

Site Director at Spellman Child Development Center

Mickey Crampton, Site Director at Spellman Child Development Center, has dedicated her career to fostering growth and learning among educators while making a positive impact on young students' lives. With over four years at Spellman and a wealth of experience in early childhood education, Mickey's expertise and passion for teaching make her an invaluable asset to the organization.

Arriving in Nebraska from California to pursue collegiate softball, Mickey discovered her love for working with children through nannying and eventually transitioned to childcare while completing her education. Her unique perspective and hands-on experience as a lead teacher, along with a bachelor's and master’s degree in human development, have paved the way for her success in various roles within the early childhood education field.

Mickey values humanity as the key to a thriving community at Spellman. By cultivating a safe and empathetic environment for students, families and staff, she ensures a nurturing space for all.

In her free time, Mickey cherishes moments with her family, engaging in outdoor activities such as swimming, going for walks, and camping. With her unwavering dedication to education and community well-being, Mickey Crampton's wealth of experience and passion for teaching make her an exceptional leader at Spellman Child Development Center.

Jamie Smith

Therapist

Jamie, a dedicated social worker with over six years of experience, joins Child Saving Institute's Mental Health Services team. Drawn to CSI's values of Humanity, Perseverance, and Growth, Jamie is passionate about helping children and families navigate trauma and behavioral concerns in a clinical setting.

After completing her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, Jamie is excited to bring her expertise to CSI. She believes in fostering an environment where children and families can express their authentic selves, ultimately building trust, strengthening relationships and encouraging open communication.

In addition to her professional work, Jamie is an active volunteer in her church, coordinating community gatherings, helping in the nursery, singing with the worship team and supporting new and expecting mothers. She also contributes her time as a room parent in her child's classroom.

Outside of her volunteer activities, Jamie enjoys spending quality time with her husband and two young children, exploring Omaha's attractions. Her personal interests include playing board games, attending concerts, portrait photography, reading and staying active through exercise.

With her passion for fostering authentic connections and supporting families through challenging times, Jamie Smith is a valuable addition to Child Saving Institute's Mental Health Services team.

Clare Campbell , PLMHP, PCMSW

Therapist

Clare recently joined the CSI as a Pediatric and Adolescent Therapist. Clare's journey to CSI is rooted in a profound admiration for the organization’s community impact and the invaluable services it provides. Passionate about early intervention, Clare is dedicated to ensuring that children and families have access to essential mental health services in order to thrive.

With over six years of experience in social work, Clare brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to her new role. She recently completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, transitioning into a clinical position at CSI. Previously, Clare worked as a case manager for an emergency shelter serving women and families. This experience honed her ability to create trauma-informed and empathetic responses, which she now applies in her therapeutic practice.

Clare firmly believes that relationship building is the cornerstone of effective therapy and organizational success. She aims to foster strong, trusting relationships with the children she works with, providing a safe and secure environment for them to express themselves and achieve their goals.

Having always lived in and around the Omaha community, Clare is deeply passionate about the well-being of its people. Her hope is for the community to reach a point where everyone has access to the services they need for themselves and their families. Her six years in the social work field have provided her with numerous opportunities to connect with organizations and build relationships with other service providers in the area.

Outside of her professional life, Clare enjoys spending time with friends and family, cherishing the company of her cats and dogs. She is an avid reader, loves to bake and finds joy in being outdoors, always looking for an excuse to soak up the sun.

Sydney Bongers

Provisional Mental Health Therapist

Sydney Bongers serves as a Provisional Mental Health Therapist on the Pediatric and Adolescent Therapy team at Child Saving Institute and joined the organization in September 2025. In her role, Sydney supports children and families through relationship-centered, trauma-informed care, helping clients navigate challenges while building resilience and personal growth.

Sydney has been involved in social welfare and youth-focused work since her teenage years. Her career path includes roles in after-school programs, child welfare and long-term case management, providing her with a deep understanding of the systems and supports that affect children and families. She earned her Master of Social Work and brings both knowledge and hands-on experience into her therapeutic practice.

At the core of Sydney’s work is a commitment to connection, empathy and fostering resilience. She draws from multiple evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including PCIT, TF-CBT and Sand-Tray Therapy, and incorporates elements of play therapy, art therapy, DBT and somatic work to best meet the unique needs of each client. Sydney prioritizes creating safe, empowering and non-judgmental spaces where clients feel seen, heard and supported.

Outside of work, Sydney enjoys spending time with her cats, reading, painting, and staying active through sports like soccer and pickleball. She also values time outdoors, engaging in spontaneous adventures with friends, and exploring creative outlets such as writing poetry.

Sydney’s dedication to providing compassionate, client-centered care, her experience navigating complex youth and family systems, and her focus on fostering resilience make her a valued member of the Child Saving Institute team.

Allison Kirkebak

Mental Health Therapist

Allison Kirkebak serves as a Mental Health Therapist at Child Saving Institute and joined the organization in March 2024. Prior to stepping into her current role, Allison gained hands-on experience within CSI through her work in the emergency shelter and KidSquad, building a strong foundation of direct care and relationship-centered support.

Allison has long been driven by a desire to support children and youth. She began her journey at CSI while completing her practicum for her Master of Social Work degree and quickly developed a strong connection to the organization’s mission and the care provided to children and families. That experience solidified her decision to remain with CSI, ultimately transitioning into a therapist role after earning her degree and provisional license.

Her professional background reflects a consistent commitment to youth-focused work. From early experiences in childcare and daycare settings to serving as an on-call youth treatment specialist at HopeSpoke in Lincoln, Allison intentionally pursued opportunities to make a meaningful impact at a broader scale. She earned her MSW from Nebraska Wesleyan University and further strengthened her experience through roles with Boys Town’s summer enrichment program, followed by her practicum placement at CSI.

At the core of Allison’s work is a strong belief in trauma-informed care. She approaches each client with an understanding that past experiences shape present behaviors and prioritizes creating a safe, empowering and non-judgmental space where individuals feel seen, heard and respected. Allison is committed to walking alongside clients on their healing journeys while supporting her team and the organization in delivering consistent, compassionate care.

In addition to her professional role, Allison has demonstrated a commitment to community involvement through volunteer work. During her undergraduate studies, she served as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands and later assisted with weekly volunteer efforts at the Open Door Mission while working with Boys Town.

Outside of work, Allison enjoys spending time with her family, especially her cousins, whether attending movies, going on adventures or playing arcade and pinball games. She also enjoys video games, collecting Funko Pops and is an enthusiastic fan of Taylor Swift and Marvel. At home, she shares her life with two cats she adores.

Margarita (Maggie) Ochoa

Mental Health Therapist

Margarita (Maggie) Ochoa serves as a Mental Health Therapist at Child Saving Institute and joined the organization in 2025, marking her third tenure with CSI in various roles. Throughout her time with the organization, Maggie has been drawn back by CSI’s commitment to supporting the emotional and mental well-being of children and families, finding fulfillment in contributing to this important mission.

Maggie brings a strong background in case management and family support, including prior experience as a Family Specialist with CSI. She earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Nebraska Omaha in December 2024, which enables her to provide therapeutic services to children and families. Her professional focus is on helping clients navigate challenges while promoting wellness and resilience.

A core principle guiding Maggie’s work is being a dependable and supportive team member. She believes that fostering trust and collaboration among colleagues strengthens the team’s ability to deliver high-quality services, creating a positive impact for both clients and coworkers.

Outside of her professional role, Maggie enjoys traveling with her daughters on short trips to destinations such as Chicago and Colorado, valuing the time they spend together sightseeing and sharing experiences on the road. She also enjoys cooking for her family and making the most of quality time with her daughters.

Maggie’s dedication to children and families, her commitment to teamwork, and her passion for supporting emotional and mental health make her a valued member of the Child Saving Institute team and a trusted resource for the families she serves.

Lori Komori 

Child Psychologist 

With 30 years in the fields of mental health and education, Lori brings a deeply compassionate and steady presence to her work with children and families. She is dedicated to creating a supportive therapeutic space where children feel understood, valued and empowered to grow. Lori is passionate about helping families navigate complex behavioral and mental health issues, build resilience and transform challenges into meaningful opportunities for healing and growth.  

Lori spent a majority of her career in Hawaii, where she held several impactful roles. She served as a dean at Punahou School, working closely with high school students to support their personal, emotional and academic growth during critical stages of development. In addition to her work in education, Lori provided therapy to youth within the foster care system, offering stability and guidance to children facing significant transitions and trauma. She also worked as a psychologist at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, further strengthening her expertise in adolescent and young adult mental health.  

Lori is honored to serve as CSI’s psychologist, where she can integrate her extensive experience with her passion for supporting children and families through some of life’s most difficult moments. She approaches her work with empathy, patience and a strong belief in each child’s ability to grow and thrive when given the support to harness their inner strengths. Lori values collaborations with families and is committed to helping them feel confident and valued throughout the therapeutic process. 

Outside of her role, Lori prioritizes balance and wellness in her own life. She enjoys spending time with her daughter, exploring Omaha, exercising, being outdoors and enjoying delicious vegan food.  

Amanda Simpson 

LIMHP 

Amanda joined CSI in 2026 after relocating to Omaha, bringing with her nearly a decade of experience in the mental health field. She offers a well-rounded and compassionate perspective shaped by her work with individuals from many populations including children, teens, adults, older adults in nursing homes and adults in residential treatment centers. This broad experience allows Amanda to meet clients where they’re at, with an understanding of how emotional needs evolve at different stages of life.  

While Amanda has worked with all age groups, her true passion lies in supporting children and families. She is deeply committed to helping young patients develop new skills that promote emotional regulation and build resilience. Amanda values collaboration with caregivers and believes a strong support system is essential to a child’s growth and long-term emotional well-being.  

In her clinical work, Amanda utilizes a variety of evidence-based approaches tailored to each child’s unique needs. These include child-centered play therapy, person-centered therapy, solution-focused behavioral skills and cognitive behavioral therapy. Through these modalities, she works to help children feel safe, supported and empowered as they navigate their mental health journeys. Amanda is especially intentional about creating a welcoming therapeutic environment where children can explore their emotions and build confidence at their own pace.  

Amanda holds her patient’s growth in high regard and believes that learning, self-discovery and personal development are crucial components of the therapeutic process. She views therapy as a partnership and strives to support each child’s progress with patience, empathy and encouragement.  

Outside of her professional work, Amanda enjoys spending quality time with her family, traveling to new places, reading and unwinding by binge-watching her favorite shows.  

Daisy Sibrian

Administrative Support

Daisy Sibrian is drawn to work that makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives. At CSI’s Behavioral Health Center, she plays an essential role in creating a smooth and welcoming experience for both patients and providers, while supporting the delivery of compassionate, patient‑centered care. 

Daisy brings more than twenty years of experience in healthcare and customer service, including time spent working in an OB‑GYN practice. Through these roles, she developed a strong foundation in communication, patient support, confidentiality, and attention to detail—skills that are especially important when assisting individuals and families during sensitive and significant moments. 

Known for her reliability and commitment to teamwork, Daisy values building trust and reducing stress for both her colleagues and the families they serve. Her passion for community wellbeing extends beyond the workplace through volunteer work at her church, where she enjoys helping others feel welcomed and cared for. 

Outside of work, Daisy enjoys spending time with her family, especially cheering on her children in their music and sports activities. She also discovered a new hobby last year by taking salsa classes and enjoys staying active with outdoor walks to relax and recharge. 

Gina Gardner

Administrative Support

Gina Gardner was drawn to CSI because of the many ways the organization supports children and families. In her role at the Behavioral Health Center, she enjoys being part of a collaborative team and values the opportunity to connect with parents and children while scheduling appointments and assisting with check‑in. 

After graduating from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Gina began her career as an elementary school teacher. As she started her family, she transitioned into part‑time roles as a server and assistant manager at a restaurant. Each of these experiences strengthened her ability to communicate effectively and provide thoughtful, high‑quality service—skills she brings into her work every day at CSI. 

Gina believes clear and effective communication is essential in her role and takes pride in supporting families with care and attentiveness. She is also actively involved in her church community, where she has volunteered in children’s and women’s ministries and currently serves as a Fellowship Ministry Leader. 

In her free time, Gina enjoys spending time with family and friends, working on puzzles, playing board games, walking her dog, making crafts, reading, and watching movies. 

Andrew Powell (He/Him) LICSW, PLADC Pediatric & Adolescent - Therapy Supervisor

Andrew Powell LICSW, PLADC

Pediatric & Adolescent Therapy Supervisor

Andrew began his journey with CSI in 2018, marking the inception of a fulfilling career dedicated to mental health and community empowerment with the agency. In his role, Andrew oversees agency practicum students, supervises fellow mental health therapists and conducts therapy sessions.

What drew Andrew to CSI, and continues to do so, is the organization's commitment to supporting and empowering individuals within the community. This driving force has guided Andrew through various roles, diverse training experiences and a profound understanding rooted in trauma-focused practices within a social work framework.

One of the recent transitions in Andrew's career has been stepping into the role of supervisor and mentor. It's a responsibility he approaches with enthusiasm, witnessing remarkable growth, transformation and empowerment in all the individuals he interacts with. The profound impact on the families, children and individuals served, as well as the personal development of his colleagues, fills Andrew's heart with purpose.

Andrew believes that empathy is the most crucial value. Whether supporting those in need or guiding fellow employees, he understands that everyone yearns to be seen and heard, and he strives to provide that essential connection through empathy and compassion.

Outside of the office, Andrew finds joy in a variety of activities. He enjoys diving into the world of literature, engaging in lively board and card games, and cherishing quality moments with family, friends, his partner and two beloved canine companions. In these pursuits, Andrew finds balance and rejuvenation to continue his impactful work at CSI where his dedication to community empowerment shines brightly.

Cameron Koenig-Barker, LICSW - Therapist

Cameron Koenig-Barker (he/him)
LICSW, RPT, MPA

Therapist

Cameron is a dedicated therapist, passionate about his work with both children and young adults, guiding them through their challenges while celebrating their innate strengths and worth. His greatest joys in his profession include fostering meaningful connections with his clients, delving into their unique life stories and witnessing their triumphs as they achieve their goals. He particularly enjoys with working LGBTQ+ youth and adolescents.

Cameron was drawn to CSI by its reputation and emphasis on professional growth and collaborative team environment.

Before his tenure at CSI, Cameron served as a social worker, where he assisted individuals in accessing crucial community services to reduce relapses into criminal behavior. During his graduate studies, he was a vital member of a team conducting public health research on LGBTQ+ health and needs, culminating in the development of the Huespring leadership program for LGBTQ+ young professionals. His pre-graduate school experiences in homeless services further shaped his approach to therapy, highlighting the pivotal role of relationships in facilitating change and recognizing the resilience of individuals.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Cameron is an active member of the River City Mixed Chorus, Omaha's sole LGBTQ+ chorus, where he has lent his voice and support for nearly a decade. He also serves on the board of Omaha For Us, the city's new LGBTQ+ center, and leads a parenting group at Nebraska Medicine for Parents/Caregivers of Gender Expansive youth.

In his leisure time, Cameron finds peace in the great outdoors, often exploring Omaha's biking and hiking trails. With his multifaceted experiences and unwavering commitment to his clients and community, Cameron is a compassionate therapist and dedicated advocate who brings a holistic and empathetic approach to his work.

Coral Frazell, PhD, MA, LIMHP, LADC - Therapist

Coral Frazell, PhD, MA, LIMHP, LADC

Director of Outpatient Therapy

Coral commenced her journey at CSI in 2022. She finds immense joy in her work, particularly in her interactions with clients, which led her to seek out the esteemed environment at CSI.

With a PhD in Developmental Psychology and a master’s in Counseling, Coral boasts dual licensure as both a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Her journey in the field began with her work with families at a prior agency, honing her expertise in evidence-based best practices like Child-Parent Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Her extensive 15-year career has provided expertise to both adults and children, leaving an indelible mark on her path.

Coral's experience in family therapy extends to her role as an educator. She imparts her knowledge as a professor at Doane College, teaching courses that delve into the techniques and theories of family therapy. Her work transcends the classroom, as she has aided families with children who faced separation and assisted in their successful reintegration.

Coral believes in the crucial value of teamwork. Beyond her professional role, she actively engages with her community. She has volunteered at the food shelter and consistently seeks opportunities to offer her services for the betterment of others.

At home, Coral can be found gardening, taking leisurely walks with her dogs, reading, crafting, and participating in a variety of musical endeavors including playing the piano and violin.

Zach Davison, PLMHP, PCMSW - Therapist

Zach Davison, LICSW

Therapist

Zach brings over a year of dedicated therapy experience to the CSI team, and his journey has been nothing short of welcoming and inspiring. CSI's commitment to caring and continuous improvement shines through, making it a place where everyone strives to make a positive impact.

Zach brings a diverse background to his role. His journey began at Boys Town, where he worked in their summer program and eventually became a valuable part of the crisis line team, contributing to training and quality assurance. His path led him to Minnesota, where he worked with individuals with disabilities before the onset of COVID-19. The pandemic reshaped his trajectory, drawing him back into the realm of mental health, where he dedicated himself to working with children and families, fostering positive connections and enhancing lives. This rich and varied experience has molded Zach into a well-rounded therapist, with expertise spanning multiple domains.

The cornerstone of Zach's approach is warmth. Both the organization and its individuals must exude warmth to connect effectively with others. It's this connection that underpins the effectiveness of his work.

Outside of his professional life, Zach is passionate about spending time with people and animals. He has dedicated time to volunteering at animal shelters and actively participates in community events including the Out of the Darkness Walk for suicide prevention and the Heartland Pride Parade. Yet, Zach's greatest fulfillment comes from watching his son grow. While he enjoys various hobbies that fill his free moments, nothing compares to the joy of quality time spent with friends and family.

Samara West, MA, PLMHP - Therapist

Samara West, MA, PLMHP

Therapist

Samara was drawn to the organization's commitment to providing comprehensive services for children and families. Her passion lies in facilitating connections between children and their emotions while guiding them on their path towards achieving their goals.

Her academic journey began at Iowa State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Child, Adult and Family Services. After completing her undergraduate studies, Samara embarked on a career as a Visitation Specialist, eventually transitioning to a Child Support Specialist. Her desire to make a deeper impact led her back to school, culminating in the achievement of a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Westminster College in Pennsylvania.

Before her role as a therapist, Samara made significant contributions in the field as a Registered Behavior Technician within the Pediatric Feeding Disorders program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Munroe Meyer Institute. Her unwavering commitment to working with children and families eventually paved the way for her current role as a therapist at CSI.

Samara finds fulfillment in witnessing the "light bulb" moments in her clients' journeys. She believes that effective communication is a cornerstone for success.

Outside of her professional life, Samara is an active participant in women's and coed volleyball, channeling her love for sports and team dynamics. She has recently taken up the art of crafting handmade bar soaps, showcasing her creative side. Additionally, Samara enjoys spending time outdoors, cherishing moments with friends and family, and indulging in her passion for watching TV series and movies.

Sandra Cervantes - Bilingual Office Manager

Sandra Cervantes

Bilingual Office Manager

Sandra is the dedicated bilingual Office Manager within CSI’s Mental Health Services department. Her journey with CSI is a testament to her unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy, particularly within the Latino community in Omaha.

When asked about her role at CSI, Sandra enthusiastically shares, “What drew me to CSI was my genuine concern for the mental well-being of children and their families, and the strong desire to create a safe haven for them." Sandra's passion shines as she explains what she enjoys the most about her role: Breaking mental health stigmas within the Latino community.

Sandra's professional journey has been characterized by her involvement with various non-profit organizations in the Omaha community. However, what truly sets CSI apart, in her opinion, is the unwavering dedication of the entire staff to the well-being of their clients.

Sandra believes teamwork is the key principle for success and feels that being able to collaborate effectively allows CSI staff to provide the best care possible for its clients.

Sandra's commitment to community well-being extends into her personal life. She is an active volunteer and has been involved in various community organizations. In her free time, Sandra enjoys the simple pleasures of life—socializing with friends and family, traveling, attending concerts and immersing herself in music.

Maureen W. Gatere DNP, MPH, APRN - Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Accepting New Clients!

Maureen W. Gatere, DNP, MPH, APRN

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

Maureen is a dedicated clinician whose journey to CSI began in August 2023. With a profound commitment to the mental well-being of children, she was drawn to CSI, captivated by its comprehensive services and a vision for even more vital services for the community in the future.

Maureen specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with medications. Her deep empathy and passion for connecting with families is what sets her apart from others in her field. She finds great satisfaction in understanding the context surrounding the mental health and wellness of her patients. This profound comprehension aids in customizing medication services and psychotherapy to achieve optimal outcomes for everyone that walks through her door.

Maureen's impressive journey to this pivotal role commenced with her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) specializing in psychiatry, achieved at UNMC. Her education journey is further enriched with a master’s degree in public health from UNMC, a BSN from Nebraska Methodist College and a bachelor's degree in biology from Northwest Missouri State University. With 15 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health, her career spans various capacities.

Throughout her journey, Maureen has had the privilege of collaborating with exceptional professionals who generously shared their expertise, enriching her clinical skills. For Maureen, the ultimate reward lies in witnessing patients not only recover but thrive in their daily lives.

Beyond her clinical duties, Maureen extends her passion for community well-being into her role as a reserve mental health nurse in the US Air Force. Additionally, she imparts her knowledge and experience as a clinical assistant professor of nursing at UNMC College of Nursing and has served on the board of directors at the Nebraska Diaper Bank.

Maureen is currently excepting new clients!

Accepts most major insurance plans.

Lora Sladovnik, MS, LIMHP - Program Director

Lora Sladovnik, MS, LIMHP

Vice President of Behavioral Health

Lora, who oversees the Behavioral Health program, has been an invaluable member of CSI since 2020. Her commitment to the organization’s mission is unwavering, as she tirelessly serves children and families, fully aware that her work directly impacts the well-being and mental health of those in the Omaha and surrounding communities.

Lora's role at CSI is multifaceted, providing her with a constant source of interest and fulfillment. The collaborative environment allows her to work closely with like-minded professionals who share her profound passion for helping others, which she finds deeply rewarding.

Before joining CSI, Lora's career in the human services field included diverse positions in case management, foster care, therapy (including private practice) and a director role at an eating disorder program. Her unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of those she serves is a testament to her empathetic and nurturing nature.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Lora is an eager advocate for community well-being, regularly engaging in volunteer work and contributing to various community organizations. Her active involvement in her children's school and church underscores her commitment to fostering a better world.

In her free time, Lora finds joy in spending quality time with her family, prioritizing exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle, embarking on journeys that allow her to explore new places and indulging in her passion for cooking.

Rebecca Masat, LCSW, MCRCJ - Therapist

Rebecca Masat, LICSW, MCRCJ

Therapist

Rebecca has been an integral part of the CSI team since 2022. Her commitment to the work is driven by the profound complexity, vulnerability and sense of fulfillment it brings to her. Child welfare is her niche, and she consistently recognizes CSI as one of the leading agencies in this field.

What Rebecca enjoys most in her role as a therapist is working with teenagers and the ongoing encouragement to learn and grow as a practitioner. Building trust with youth and being a reliable source of support is incredibly rewarding. Moreover, the opportunity to delve into advanced modalities of therapy only enhances the reward. Recognizing the intricacy of trauma in the clientele she serves, Rebecca values continued opportunities for ongoing training, enabling her to address and heal deep-seated wounds.

Before joining CSI, Rebecca worked as a forensic interviewer at Project Harmony, conducting forensic interviews with children who may have been the victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect or witness to violence. In addition to her work at CSI, Rebecca also works as an on-call crisis response therapist with Lutheran Family Services, providing crisis coverage for law enforcement and area shelters during behavioral health crises.

These experiences have shaped Rebecca into the therapist she is today. She possesses a passion for connecting with individuals who have experienced trauma, recognizing that sometimes, all it takes is one person to provide unwavering support and guide them toward the light at the end of the tunnel.

Outside of work, Rebecca values time spent with family. She's an avid Chiefs fan and has a deep love for sports, both as a spectator and a participant. Concerts, travel, and outdoor activities are some of her favorite pastimes. Her love for learning and personal growth is unwavering, and she enthusiastically embraces challenges and new experiences in life.

Sabrina Felix, PLMHP, PCMSW

Bilingual Mental Health Therapist

Sabrina brings a wealth of experience and passion for children's mental health to her role as a bilingual therapist.

Her journey with the organization began in the KidSquad, where she completed her practicum. While awaiting her official credentials as a Mental Health Therapist, she also gained valuable experience working as an educator at the Spellman Child Development Center. Regardless of the program, Sabrina consistently found Child Saving Institute’s (CSI) supportive team environment allowed her to fully focus on the children she served.

At the core of Sabrina's passion lies her deep desire to create a safe space for children. This allows them to simply be themselves and feel comfortable enough to express their emotions freely. Having been a first-generation Latina college student raised in a single-parent household, Sabrina understands the importance of creating spaces where children can thrive and be themselves. Her own upbringing as the only minority in her town inspired her to pursue a career where she could empower children to embrace their inner selves and navigate challenges with confidence.

Sabrina sees her role as a beacon of support for children who may not have had someone to listen to or empower them. Recognizing the critical importance of the first five years of development, she strives to equip children with the tools they need to build a positive trajectory into adulthood.

Beyond her professional work, Sabrina is actively involved in volunteering as a director in children's ministry and youth coordination. In her free time, Sabrina enjoys quality moments with her husband and their two dogs, indulging in activities like visiting the dog park, exercising, traveling and exploring different cuisines.