Our Team

In 2005, Shane began working in services for individuals with developmental disabilities as a Program Director at an agency in Evansville.  While there, he also held the position of Quality Assurance Director, and was responsible for reporting to the state, as well as maintaining and addressing quality concerns. After graduating with a master’s degree from the University of Southern Indiana in 2008, Shane created a startup program for the agency where he began his career.  The program provided behavior management services to individuals with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities, in addition to individuals experiencing mental illness. Due to changes at the local agency, Shane and his business partner took a leap of faith and formed our own organization to provide behavior management services:  APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES opened in 2014. Their hands-on experience in the field made them aware of the lack of services in various waiver areas. This enabled Apex to branch off into providing other waiver services (RETH in 2014) & (Residential Services in 2015). Shane holds a master’s degree in Social Work from USI, where he also received his bachelor degree in psychology in 2006. He also received associates in Arts & Science from Southeastern Illinois College in Harrisburg, Illinois. A native of Eldorado, Illinois, Shane has called Evansville home for the past 11 years. He and his wife, Evonne, have three children.

Robert, the co-founder of APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES, has assisted individuals with intellectual disabilities for the past 12 years. He has supervised multiple operations in Indiana, including programs with over 1,200 employees, and providing waiver group home living services to individuals with intellectual disabilities.  For the past two years, Robert’s focus has been providing high quality behavioral management services to individuals in the waiver program. Robert graduated from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, with a master’s degree in applied gerontology, and a bachelor’s degree in public health. Robert lives in Evansville with his wife, Lindsey, and two children.

Amanda began serving individuals with developmental disabilities in 2005. In 2007, she joined another waiver provider as Service Coordinator. Amanda has been a member of the APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES team since May, 2015. Amanda earned a bachelor’s degree in health services from the University of Southern Indiana.  She resides in Evansville, Indiana.

Kim began working in services for individuals with developmental disabilities in 2008. Prior to joining APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES, Kim worked in waiver services as:

• Operations Manager for Supported Living,
• Program Coordinator for Supported Living,
• Human Resource Coordinator
• Lead staff working with individuals with disabilities

Prior to working with individuals with disabilities, Kim served those with mental illnesses and substance abuse as a Mental Health Tech at Southwestern Mental Health Services, and Stepping Stones. Kim Zimmerman has a master’s degree in social work from University of Southern Indiana. Upon completing her master’s degree, Kim completed her internship with ResCare as a Behavioral Clinician. Kim Zimmerman has her bachelor’s degree in social work and psychology from University of Southern Indiana. Upon earning her bachelor’s, Kim Zimmerman served internships at Evansville Children’s Psychiatric Center, Aurora, and Evansville Juvenile Court System. Kim Zimmerman resides in Evansville, Indiana.

In 2008, Jennifer began professionally serving individuals with developmental disabilities in Crown Point, Indiana. In 2009 she was named “Employee of the Year” by the facility. Shortly after being recognized for her outstanding service, she was promoted to Habilitation Manager.  In this position, she supervised an Assistant Manager, 55 employees, and 25 clients. In 2012, Jennifer relocated to Evansville, Indiana, where she joined an organization providing services to individuals with disabilities. In December, 2015, Jennifer became a member of the APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES team. She serves as Program Director.

Allison brings more than 25 years of professional experience to APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES. Her career serving individuals with developmental disabilities includes these positions:

• Director of Access Services and ADA Compliance at St. Martin’s College
• Learning Specialist for Students with Disabilities at Seattle University
• Educational Research Coordinator at the University of Arizona
• Behavior Interventionist in K-12, as Behavior Clinician; waiver services
• Behavior Interventionist in K-12, as Behavior Services Director; waiver services

Allison holds a master’s in education-counseling and post-secondary disability services. Her undergraduate degree is in sociology, with emphasis on family structure and dynamics. A native of Washington State, Allison has called Indiana home for nearly 10 years.

After graduating from Breckinridge School of Nursing in 2014, Evonne gained experience with the neonatal and pediatric population.  She has always had a special interest for individuals with developmental disabilities, and feels blessed having the opportunity to work with APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES. Evonne has provided wellness services for Apex Behavioral Services since 2015—when the Wellness Program began. As a Registered Nurse, Evonne demonstrates her commitment to providing quality service to each client by serving as dedicated advocate to each individual. Originally from Princeton, Indiana, Evonne is a 2004 graduate of Princeton Community High School. Evansville Indiana has been home for the past six years where she and her husband, Shane, are raising three amazing children.

Bobbie is well known in the community having provided job placement and related services for 29 years and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Southern Indiana.  She has been instrumental in developing several programs in the community and has the philosophy that “everyone deserves the opportunity to try to work in the community”.  Bobbie has always put the clients needs and desires first when in comes to seeking the appropriate level of employment for the individual.  She plans to carry the same values working for APEX.

A 2012 graduate of University of Southern Indiana, Jeanie holds a bachelor’s degree in health services.  Jeanie launched her waiver services career in early 2013, and has held positions in the Evansville area as Service Coordinator and Case Manager. In July 2016, Jeanie joined the APEX Team as a Program Director for individuals living at Jacob’s Village. Outside of serving others, Jeanie enjoys spending time with her fiancé and daughter.

A graduate of Indiana State University, Brian holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Brian worked in the Mental Health field for 8 years and Clinical Pharmacology field for 4 years. Pyers launched his waiver services career in early 2018 and has held Program Director positions in the Evansville area. In July 2018, Brian joined the APEX Team as a Program Director for individuals in the Evansville area. Outside of serving others, he enjoys spending time with his wife and children.

Melissa began her career in 2012 as a Direct Support Professional working with individuals in group homes.  After 5 years of working in this field, she moved to a more low key position.  Soon realizing she needed a more people oriented position, Melissa pursued a career as a Job Developer helping clients find jobs. Her free time is devoted to spending time with her family.

Theresa Stiff studied Accounting at Ivy Tech and USI.  She comes to us with 11 years of experience in this field. Her background consists of client trust funds, burial trusts, ARC trusts, Medicaid eligibility and billing, accounts receivable/payable, payroll and office management.  She has organized a team for Komen Race for the Cure for the last 10 years, a charity she finds close to her heart.  She has also held volunteer positions with the United Way, Girl Scouts, American Legion and Parent/Teacher Organizations.

Chris launched his waiver services career in early 2013 and has held positions in the Evansville area as Field Coordinator and Program Director. In June 2017, Chris joined the APEX Team as a Program Director for individuals in the Evansville area. Outside of serving others, Chris enjoys spending time with his fiancé and son.

In 2012, Jessica began serving individuals with developmental disabilities in the Henderson area. She graduated from University of Southern Indiana in 2016 with a Bachelor’s degree in Health Services. Jessica gained her experience by working as a Direct Support Professional and Residential Manager, as well as assisting with her younger sister who has Down Syndrome. Jessica joined the Apex team in May 2018 as a Program Director.

Before coming to APEX, Van was a job coach for 4.5 years performing evaluations on clients to determine if they are able to work in the community.  After retirement from Vocational Rehabilitation, he worked under a grant for 5 months for Aurora as an intake specialist working directly with the homeless population.  Van was also a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor for almost 35 years. He continues his work with APEX. Van holds a Bachelor’s Degree from IU and a Master’s also from IU with a degree in Counseling and Guidance.  He is married to Patty and they have 5 children and 9 grandchildren.  Van is also known as “Jasper the Clown” with the Hadi Shrine.

Prior to joining the APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES administrative team, Debbie Lefler was gaining in-depth experience in the field of health services. Most recently, she served as Executive Administrative Assistant at Deaconess VNA Plus, LLC. Prior to that, Debbie was a Certification Clerk with the Vanderburgh County Health Department. She has also served as a Clerical Associate at both The Women’s Hospital, and Deaconess Hospital. In every capacity, Debbie’s expertise contributed to the smooth operation of each organization. She brings creativity, enthusiasm, and dedication to her role here at APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES.

In 2000, Carmen began serving individuals in a shelter workshop in Anderson, Indiana. Over the past 26 years she has gained experience in vocational evaluation, community based services, as well as serving as Program Director in a day program. Carmen joined the Apex team in October 2016 serving as Program Director.

In 2002, Shannon began serving individuals in a supported living setting in Ebensburg, PA. In 2004, she moved to Indiana and provided supported living services as a Program Specialist for 12 years. Shannon has gained experience as an Employment Specialist for individuals, as well as assisting with her Brother who has autism. She has served in the home health care field for 11 years. Shannon joined the Apex team in May 2018 serving as Program Director.

Before coming to Apex John worked for Advantage Solutions Merchandising as a Retail Sales Merchandiser for 4 months. Prior to that, he worked for Walmart Stores Inc. in many roles over nine years. John has over 10 years of retail experience.  He is the Chief of Operations for the Evansville – Vanderburgh County Emergency Management Agency. John loves spending time with his wife and family in his free time. Although Johns doesn’t have any kids, he enjoys helping the Hadi Shriners and the Hadi Shrine Funsters during some of their community events such as their Fall Festival Face Painting Booth and Hadi Shrine Circus.

Fania is an experienced Independent Practitioner located in Evansville. In 2001, she received her doctorate of psychology from Yeshiva University, located in New York. She joined APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES in 2015 as their Level 1 / HSPP for the BG10 waiver service program. She provides consultation to APEX via review, approval, and recommendation of behavioral support treatment plans. Previously, she served on staff at River Valley Behavioral Health, as well as Deaconess Clinic. She has also been an Adjunct Professor teaching clinical psychology at the University of Southern Indiana.

Johnance started in this field in 2008 working for another company as a DSP. She has held positions as a Direct Support Staff, Workforce Supervisor, and Program coordinator. She then stepped down to homeschool her son, who is on the autism spectrum,  for 4 1/2 years. Johnance is an advocate for individuals on the autism spectrum. She has been back in the field since 2016 serving in any capacity that is needed. Her spare time is spent singing, writing, and being a mom to an amazing young man. Johnance is always learning more every day about pervasive developmental disorders to better serve our individuals.

Anessa earned her Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy from the University of Evansville in 2017 and shortly after earned her Board Certification in Music Therapy. She has been assisting individuals with disabilities in the Evansville area ever since. In 2018, Anessa joined the team at APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES as a Board Certified Music Therapist. Apart from her work as a therapist, Anessa loves taking her dog to the park, going camping with her family, and learning to play new instruments.

Mattie began working with individuals with disabilities in 2014 through volunteer work at a therapeutic horseback riding center. Since then she took part in a month-long international exchange to Serbia where she got to work and live with various populations developmental disabilities. Mattie attended Indiana University and completed an internship in Utah where she worked with a mental health population. She graduated in 2018, earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Recreational Therapy, along with a minor in Therapeutic Outdoor Programs and since has obtained her certification as a nationally Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist. In her free time, Mattie enjoys outdoor activities, art and spending time with family/friends.

Danielle has always wanted to serve children. She chose a career in social work after seeing the positive results counseling had among the young clients at a youth correctional facility where she was employed. Danielle earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern Indiana in 2006. Her bachelor’s degree is also in social work. Danielle’s professional experience includes working in elementary, middle, and high schools. In these settings, she helped youths who had issues in the classroom, at home, as well as those with behavioral concerns.  While her expertise also encompasses case management, Danielle prefers the rewarding client interaction her position at APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES enables her to have.

William C. Barnes Jr. has been serving individuals with disabilities since 2003. With experience in multiple service areas, he now focuses on Behavior Supports. William holds a master’s degree in social work, and has conducted research, as well as presented on subjects that include, “Addiction and Disabilities,” “Synthetic Pharmacology,” and “Crisis Intervention.” In addition to his clinical work, he is a professor in the department of social work at the University of Southern Indiana. William also serves as Lead Pastor at Sojourn Church. In this capacity, he encourages deepened relationships with God and one another. Personally and professionally, he is committed to elevating the level of community awareness about the special population we compassionately serve at APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES. It is William’s hope that as a community, increased awareness will motivate us all to better serve one another.

Holly began assisting individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health disorders in 2008. Prior to coming to Apex Behavioral Services, Holly was working as a school counselor where she focused primarily on providing individual counseling to students grade kindergarten through high school. In addition to working as a school counselor, Holly worked as an outpatient youth counselor and a care coordinator. She prides herself on working tirelessly to ensure individuals and their families are provided with quality services and connecting them with the resources they need for their success. Holly earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master’s degree in School Counseling from Murray State University.

Born and raised in South Bend, Indiana, Jacob joins APEX with over 8 years of experience. Creighbaum earned his Associates in Psychology from the University of Southern Indiana in 2012. He went on to earn his BSW in 2012 and his MSW in 2013 both through the University of Southern Indiana.

In her involvement with the Department of Child Services, as well as the Juvenile Probation System, Beth has worked in several settings, including home-based, community, and residential. She has also served as an outpatient therapist in a community mental health center. While there, she assisted young children, adolescents, teens, and adults. Beth is very enthusiastic about her role on the APEX team. Beth holds a master’s degree in social work, as well as a bachelor’s in child services, both of which she earned from the University of Southern Indiana.

Todd earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Evansville in 1995.  After graduation, he joined Welborn’s Mulberry Center Addiction Unit in Evansville.  While there, he continued his education, and in 2003, earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern Indiana.  As a graduate student, Todd provided group and individual therapy for adults and adolescents on the Addiction Unit.  It was during this period that he began working on the Mental Health Units at Mulberry Center. Additionally, Todd provided substance abuse assessments for patients in the Emergency Room at Welborn Hospital. After earning his MSW, Todd:

• Worked as a Day Reporting Officer for the Vanderburgh County Drug Court
• Provided psychiatric treatment at Deaconess Cross Point until 2007
• In 2007, he began working for the University of Kentucky’s Targeted Assessment Program in McLean, Henderson, and Union County, Kentucky. This program provided in-home assessment and referral services to parents struggling with substance abuse, mental health, intimate partner violence, and learning problems.

• Was an Adjunct Professor at Brescia University in Owensboro, Kentucky
• Served as Director of the Social Work Program at Brescia University

Todd joined APEX in 2014. He is married and enjoys attending his children’s school and sports activities, including hockey, tennis, and lacrosse.

Jerriann Spradley earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern Indiana in 2003. While finishing her bachelor’s degree she worked at Evansville Psychiatric Children’s Center until 2005. She obtained her Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Sothern Indiana from the one-year advanced program in 2004. After earning her MSW, she took a position as a Case Manager with Ireland and Luzio Home Based Services in 2006. In 2009, she began to work as a Service Coordinator for Bridges of Indiana. In June 2015, she began to work for Apex Behavioral Services as a Behavior Management Clinician.

John obtained a bachelor’s degree in social work from Southern Illinois University. He received a master’s, also in social work, from the University of Southern Indiana.  Over the past 20 years, John has worked in various social services settings and agencies. His extensive experience includes:

• Helping clients of all ages, and their families
• Serving as a Therapist in an inpatient psychiatric hospital
• Being a Social Worker and Program Coordinator/Developer for several geriatric psych programs
• Serving as a QIDP/Behavioral Consultant at long-term care nursing facilities
• Working as a Behavioral Clinician

In his spare time, John spends time with friends, family, and rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Kyle began assisting individuals with developmental disabilities in 2011. Prior to joining APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES, he served as Quality Assurance Director and Program Director at an agency in Evansville. During this period, Kyle was responsible for reporting to the state, in addition to maintaining and addressing quality concerns. Kyle received his master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern Indiana. While earning his advanced degree, he completed internships at ECHO Community Health, and APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES. Prior to moving to southern Indiana, Kyle worked as a Job Coach for those with special needs.

Chris began working with individuals with disabilities in 2008 as direct support staffing. Chris later began working with recovering addicts. He received his Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern Indiana and while earning his advanced degree, he completed internships at Aurora Evansville with the homeless, and VOA Evansville Hope Hall. VOA is a halfway house where he worked in drug treatment for federal inmates. Chris’s familiarity with this field includes life experience with disability within his family.

Air Force veteran, Kai Esty, is conversational in Spanish, Italian, and Japanese. Kai has counseled recovering addicts, and now devotes his career to working with developmentally disabled youth and adults. Kai is proficient in various therapeutic techniques, but often focuses on Cognitive Behavioral and is a strong advocate of music therapy, integrating this whenever possible. A well-read writer, artist, and musician, Kai draws from a variety of past experiences and diverse skill sets to tailor himself to the needs of his clients, bringing the best care possible to even the most challenging situations. He holds two undergraduate degrees in psychology; a master’s in liberal studies, as well as a master’s degree in social work.

Sarah has served children with disabilities in multiple ways. She began her career in 2006 as a Family Case Manager with the Indiana Department of Child Services. In 2009, Sarah joined The Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation as a Behavior Interventionist. In 2012, she accepted a position instructing middle school students with mild disabilities. Sarah is licensed in Indiana to teach special education in grades 5-12. In addition to working part time with APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES, Sarah continues to serve as a special education teacher. In 2006, Sarah completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Southern Indiana. In 2016, she earned a master’s in special education from Indiana University. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys her husband and children, music, reading, travel, and staying active outdoors. She is also a certified yoga instructor, and has been teaching the discipline to others since 2009.

Heath Singleton, Behavior Clinician with APEX BEHAVIORAL SERVICES, has assisted individuals with intellectual disabilities since 2004. He has worked in the residential and group home settings in waiver. He previously worked for Bridges of Indiana, Gibson County ARC in Princeton, and Ireland Home Based Services. Also, he has experience working with Department of Child Services providing in-home services to children and adults. Heath has grown up around immediate and extended family working with individuals having intellectual disabilities throughout his life. Heath earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern Indiana. He lives in Evansville with his wife, Jamie, and two children. Heath’s passion in life is his family, friends, sports, traveling, and enjoying life.