Children's Therapeutic Group Home
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Meet The Team
Our team of highly trained medical professionals is dedicated to delivering exceptional care to patients and families with special needs. With expertise comparable to a top-tier hospital, we specialize in the comprehensive analysis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder in youth ages 6-17.
Our Executive Team
Alex Fedorowych
CEO & Co-Founder
Alex Fedorowych is the CEO of Heartland Center for Autism. With more than a decade of experience in leadership roles within adolescent residential care, he has dedicated his career to improving outcomes for this population. Driven by a vision to address the cycle of adolescents being admitted to Emergency Departments and discharged without the necessary intervention and treatment, Alex aspired to create a specialized residential facility. His vision was realized when the State of Michigan licensed Heartland Center for Autism as the first residential facility of its kind, exclusively serving adolescents with Autism.
Jacqueline Carrick, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Executive Clinical Director & Co-Founder
Jacqueline is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with comprehensive experience in implementing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) treatment plans for individuals across age groups. Possess strong skills in behavior assessment and intervention, family training, and team collaboration. Known for creating effective individualized strategies that yield positive behavioral changes. Previous work has consistently led to enhanced quality of life for clients and strengthened understanding of ABA among families and teams involved. Jacqueline has been working with youth with severe behavior for over 15 years and brings her knowledge of implementing a trauma informed approach to treatment for youth with an IDD diagnosis.
Gavin Pappagalo
Operations Manager
Gavin is an experienced Operations Manager with a strong background in human services, equipped with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree and expertise in leadership and management. Gavin is a Certified Mandt System Instructor, demonstrating a commitment to fostering a positive and safe work environment through conflict resolutions and de-escalation techniques. With a proven track record in overseeing daily operations, streamlining processes, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Gavin brings a strategy and result-driven approach to team management and organizational performance. Gavin is known for his dedication to optimizing resources and improving service delivery in dynamic, mission-driven environment at Heartland Center for Autism.
Natalie Juell
Clinical Support Supervisor
Natalie is a Special Education professional with a strong foundation in behavioral intervention and support for individuals with developmental disabilities. She came to Heartland from Ramsey County’s Lake Owasso Residence, where she supported individuals with disabilities in achieving greater independence and quality of life. Prior to that, she was a Special Education Teacher at River Trail Learning Center in the Anoka Hennepin School District, where she created individualized programming for K–12 students with diverse learning, physical, and mental health needs. Natalie holds a bachelor’s degree in Elective Studies focused on Special Education from Saint Cloud State University and a Master’s Certificate in Academic Behavioral Strategy. She is also a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP) and has a strong record of promoting inclusive workplace practices. Natalie brings strengths in behavioral planning, data analysis, team collaboration, and most importantly—a deep passion for empowering individuals with disabilities.
Kelley Gavigan, LMSW
Master Social Worker
Kelley is a Licensed Master Social Worker with over eight years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents, and adults in both individual and group settings. With specialized training in crisis stabilization,
de-escalation techniques, and working with ASD populations, Kelley brings a depth of expertise to her practice.​ Proficient in multiple therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care, she tailors her methods to meet each individual's unique needs. Kelley values and respects the diverse experiences and perspectives of her clients, ensuring that their personal values and backgrounds inform and shape the therapeutic process.
​Kelley holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Kalamazoo College and a Master's degree in Social Work from Wayne State University. With a solid educational foundation and a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of everyone she encounters, Kelley has achieved exceptional results with her clients and has contributed to the development of more effective program strategies. Kelley's dedication and expertise have earned her a nomination for NAMI's 2024 Clinical Professional of the Year award.