Meet Our Team

Founder & Owner

Brianna Bates, MS CCC-SLP

Brianna established Nisma Therapy Services in 2020 with the vision of creating a therapy practice that embodies warmth and renewal. With over a decade of experience as a licensed speech-language pathologist, she specializes in neurological disorders across all age groups. Brianna’s diverse background includes work in hospitals, home health, private practice, schools, nursing homes, consulting, and telehealth. She holds a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Texas A&M University and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado Boulder. Dedicated to advancing the field and positively impacting the Fairbanks therapy clinic community, Brianna leads our team with passion and expertise.

Practice Director

Ariana Bates, CPB

Ariana brings a wealth of experience in healthcare management and marketing to Nisma Therapy Services. Hailing from beautiful Colorado, Ariana is instrumental in streamlining the operations at Nisma and enhancing client experiences. Ariana’s dedication ensures that our practice runs smoothly, allowing our therapists to focus on delivering exceptional care.

client services Team

Lenorah Richards

client services Team

Dana Larson

client services Team

Christina Foster

Occupational therapist

Larissa Hine, OT

Larissa earned her degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern Maine and brings a diverse range of experience to her practice. Before moving to Fairbanks, she worked in schools throughout the Northeast, completed a travel school assignment in Anchorage, and gained valuable clinical expertise in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. Larissa loves working with children and is dedicated to making therapy engaging, creative, and fun. She enjoys incorporating real-life activities into sessions—such as gardening in the summer. Outside of work, Larissa enjoys skiing, hiking, and spending time with her family. She also loves to read and knit whenever time allows.

speech Language pathologist-telehealth

Halah Alteeq, Ph.D., CCC-SLP

Dr. Alateeq is an Assistant Professor at the College of Rehabilitative Sciences, Austin, TX campus. She obtained her master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Texas A&M University-Kingsville and her Doctor of Philosophy in Speech and Hearing Science from Arizona State University. She is also a licensed speech-language pathologist holding the clinical certificate of competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Halah brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience.

speech Language pathologist

Kris Hammargren, MS CCC-SLP

Kris is happy to have joined the Nisma team in 2025 and has extensive experience as a speech/language pathologist. She earned her Master’s Degree in Speech/Language Pathology at Utah State University and her Bachelor’s Degree at Pacific University. Kris enjoys working with individuals of all ages and facilitating engaging therapy activities that are fun while improving skills. When not working Kris enjoys a variety of activities such as playing hockey, tennis, hiking, and camping but especially loves traveling for scuba diving.

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Yvonne Jimenez, COTA

Yvonne graduated from PIMA Medical Institute in Denver, CO in 2016. After becoming certified, she worked in various skilled nursing facilities and nursing homes, helping patients with rehabilitation. She relocated to Fairbanks in June 2025 and is still getting familiar with the area. Outside of work, Yvonne enjoys exploring Alaska with her family. While living in Colorado, she spent much of her free time hiking. Her interests also include photography, scrapbooking, and traveling when she can.

Speech language pathologist

Kayla Robinson, MS CCC-SLP

Kayla earned her Masters of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Lamar in Beaumont Texas. Before moving to Alaska, she worked in various settings to include schools, outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities and home health. She enjoys working with children and adults and is dedicated to making therapy fun and functional for optimal skill carryover. Outside of work, Kayla enjoys hiking, outdoor activities and spending time with her family

Speech language pathologist

Sarah Madsen, MS CCC-SLP

Speech language pathologist assistant

Kristina Kapec, SLPA

Vision

We envision a world where every individual, regardless of age or ability, has access to therapy that feels joyful, inclusive, and deeply human. At Nisma, we strive to redefine what therapy looks like—rooted in connection, creativity, and care—so people can live fuller, more expressive lives.

Mission

At Nisma, we provide compassionate, play-based speech and occupational therapy to individuals of all ages—from toddlers to seniors. Through personalized, activity-centered care, we create a welcoming space where clients feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow. Our approach transforms therapy into meaningful, everyday experiences that foster lasting progress and confidence.