Meet the Staff | Sunny Horizons

Speech Therapy Team

Occupational Therapy Team

Physical Therapy Team

Meet the Staff!

Administration

Alyssa White, M.S. CCC-SLP
Athens Speech Lead

I am from Millbrook, AL, but I now reside in Harvest with my boyfriend and our 4 dogs, Riley, Callie, Odie, and Timber. My dogs are my world! I graduated from Auburn University at Montgomery with a Bachelors in Communication Disorders and a Minor in Psychology in 2019. I graduated from the University of Montevallo with a Masters in Speech Language Pathology in 2021. I love shopping, sports, and spending quality time with family!

Lauren Howe, M.S. CCC-SLP
Albertville Speech Lead

I am from Centre, AL, but I now reside in Boaz, AL with my husband and son. I graduated with my bachelors degree with a major in Communicative Disorders, and a minor in Human Development at The Univeristy of Alabama. I continued my studies there with a masters degree in Speech- Language Pathology. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my friends/family, and always being outdoors and traveling.

Trish McKenzie-Kennedy,
M.S. CCC-SLP
Scottsboro Speech Lead

I received my B.S. from Auburn in Communication Disorders and my M.S. from Alabama A&M in Communication Disorders. I have been a speech therapist since 2008. I have special certifications in SOS and Vital Stim. I am a certified autism spectrum disorder clinical specialist. I am from Section, Alabama! On the rare occasion I have free time, I love spending time with my husband and kids, reading, and thrifting!

Hilliary Bailey, Executive Director

Hi, I'm Hilliary Bailey, the Executive Director at Sunny Horizons. A native of Scottsboro, AL, I graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor's in Communication Disorders. I began my journey with Sunny Horizons as an SLPA in 2015, and on May 5th, 2017, I was fortunate to take ownership of the business. Since then, I've been blessed with an incredible team and lasting friendships. I've been married to my husband, David, since October 2015, and together, we have three wild boys—Reynolds, Taylor, and Sullivan. We also have three dogs and two cats. Outside of work, I love spending time on the water with my family, traveling, and attending concerts.

Magnolia Hall, M.S. CCC-SLP,
Clinical Director

I am from Henagar, AL, and I completed my Bachelor's degree at Auburn University and my Master's degree at Alabama A&M. I started working with Sunny Horizons in 2019 as a SLPA and returned following my clinical fellowship as an SLP in 2022. I have held the role of Clinical Director for 1 year and have loved my new position. I enjoy traveling to each clinic and working alongside our amazing therapists! I often fill in for speech staff at each clinic so it is fun to see all the patients at each clinic as well! I have special interests in Pediatric Swallowing disorders and AAC use. I am FEES trained and use this knowledge to help understand the swallowing disorders that we work with. I love play and incorporate all sorts of play to meet patient's goals in my therapy sessions. I have 2 kids, 2 dogs, and 2 cats and spend most of my time playing with them and spending time with my family on our farm or traveling. My husband and I enjoy going to soccer matches and Broadway shows. In my free time, I like to read and listen to musicals.

Jill Patalas, Administrative Director

I have been with Sunny Horizons for 4 1/2 years. I’m from Stevenson, AL. I’ve been married to my husband, Austin, for 20 years. We have two daughters, Lily, who is studying Pre Med at the University of Alabama, and Paisley, who is a junior at Pisgah High School. I enjoy reading and spending time with my family.

Bambi Troxell, M.S., CCC-SLP

I attended undergrad at Faulkner University (BS, Psychology) and grad at AL A&M University (MS, CSD). I have been practicing for 19 years. My first job in speech was at DAR School in Grant, AL. My hometown is Bridgeport, AL. I love to travel, spend time with family/friends, read/listen to audio books/podcasts. I'm an aunt and great aunt to 10 precious nieces/nephews. I have a labradoodle named Hairy Pawter who also happens to be the very best boy. I also love holidays and hostessing seasonal events.

Barbara Doorenbos, M.S., CCC-SLP

I originally went to college with plans to become a Music Therapist. After receiving my music degree, I took a year off before deciding to go to grad school to be a Speech-Language Pathologist instead (best decision ever!). I finished my graduate degree at Mississippi University for Women and have been working with children since I joined the Sunny Horizons team in 2023. I'm from Saltillo, MS, but my husband and I have been living in Athens, AL with our dog and 2 cats for a few years now. In my free time I enjoy playing video games, walking my dog, reading, exercising, playing my flute in the Madison City Community Orchestra (MCCO), and playing with my hair color at home with temporary color depositing conditioners!

I’m a native of Alabama. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education (English and History) from the University of North Alabama and Master’s Degree in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from Alabama A&M University. After completing my graduate degree, I moved to South Carolina to complete my clinical fellowship. While in the Upstate, I worked in outpatient and hospital settings primarily with children. It’s been a whirlwind, but I’ve been a speech-language pathologist for over 20 years! I have a daughter, Laela. I enjoy helping her practice soccer and softball as well as attending her games. We enjoy dining out, laughing, listening to music, and shopping together. In my spare time, I also read, sing, and visit family in Florence. I’m very thankful to be a part of the team here at Sunny Horizons, LLC. It’s a joy to work with children. With therapy, the forecast appears brighter!

Charlita Lattimore, M. S., CCC-SLP

Holly Cobb, CCC-SLP

I earned my B.S. in Rehab and Special Education/Speech-Language Pathology from Auburn University and my M.Ed. in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Georgia. I began my career as a Speech-Language Pathologist over 25 years ago, with the majority of those years serving public schools. I have worked with Sunny Horizons for 6 years! I am passionate that all children have a voice and it is my great honor and privilege to be a part of helping our clients find their voice. My husband, Marty, and I have two children, Samuel and Ruby. I enjoy spending time with my family, attending their school events, beach trips, reading, and shopping!

After two years at Snead State Community College, I completed my Bachelor's degree at Auburn University and my Master's Degree at Alabama A&M University. I have been a therapist for 13 years. I'm originally from Crossville, Alabama, but now live in Boaz with my husband and two sons. Most of my free time is spent at the ball fields watching my boys play, but I do like to read, travel to new places, and decorate when I can. I have two booths with vintage and antique items, so that's fun!

Kelli Kidd, M.S., CCC-SLP

I attended the University of Alabama for my Bachelors of Arts degree and Alabama A&M University for my Masters degree. I’m in my 5th year of being an SLP. I am from Flat Rock, AL! I spend my free time exercising, baking, reading, traveling, and needlepointing!

Kennedy George, M.S., CCC-SLP

Rachel Cobb, M.S., CCC-SLP

I received my undergraduate degree from Auburn University and my Masters degree from Alabama A&M University. I have been working in the field of Speech Language Pathology for 9 years and have been employed at Sunny Horizons for 6 years. I am from Bridgeport, AL. In my free time, I love to travel, camp, read and spend time outside with my dog, friends and family!

Sara Beth Johnson, M.S., CCC-SLP

I earned my bachelors degree in Communicative Disorders and master's degree in Speech Pathology from The University of Alabama. I have been an SLP for 2 years. I am from Gurley, AL. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband, 1 year old daughter, and 2 labs.

Caitlin Terrell, SLPA

I received an Associates Degree at Lurleen B Wallace Community College and I have a B.S. Degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences. I started at Sunny Horizons in May 2024 and this is my first career job! I am born and raised in Scottsboro, AL. I am very big on family. My family is my everything and I love spending my free time with them, friends, and my boyfriend. I also coach softball and give softball lessons. I love my little 10u girls and they make me so happy even after a long day of work at Sunny Horizons with my amazing kids, I get to see those girls and teach them about the game that I love and guide them to fall in love with it as well!

Caroline Troup, SLPA

In my free time, I love diving into new books, experimenting with recipes in the kitchen, and exploring new destinations. Each adventure, whether through a story or a journey, inspires my creativity and passion for life.

Daja Suttles, SLPA

I’m from a small town called Marion, Alabama. I graduated from Alabama A&M University with my Bachelor’s in Communicative Sciences and Disorders. The love of my life is pepperoni pizza! My favorite things to do in my free time are watching Anime and reading Korean comics.

Drew Brunner, SLPA

I graduated from Alabama A&M University with a degree in Communicative Sciences and Disorders in 2023 and have been with Sunny Horizons since May 2024. I grew up in Madison Alabama and have lived close by all my life. In my free time I enjoy watching movies, sports, and cooking! I love animals but currently only have 1 fish named Poncho.

Cindy Linderman, OTR/L, CHT Scottsboro Occupational Therapy Lead

I attended UTHSC for my Master's in OT. I have been a therapist for 17 years. I worked in inpatient rehab for 2 yrs, outpatient- hand therapy for 12 yrs, and at SH for 3 1/2 yrs. I am a CHT (certified hand therapist). I grew up for the most part in Stevenson, AL. I enjoy spending time with family, traveling with family, and watching my kids play all of their various sports!

Kristal Moman, OTR/L, Albertville Occupational Therapy Lead

I attended UAB to receive my degree in Occupational Therapy and found it to be my true calling! I love OT! I have 20+ years experience and am the longest running employee at Sunny Horizons. I may be one of the oldest therapists here but don't worry - I hold my own alongside my younger coworkers! I strive to make a difference in the lives of the children and family I serve. I have worked in most settings available to OT but pediatrics is where I'm happiest! The experiences I've gathered over the years have equipped me with valuable knowledge and skills that I continue to apply in my practice. I have training with Handwriting Without Tears, SOS Approach to Feeding, Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialty, Managing Crisis Safely, and DIR Floortime. Some of my greatest accomplishments outside my work of OT are my marriage of 29 years, my 3 adult children and their significant others, and my soon-to-arrive grandchild! I'm happy to say my daughter and daughter- in-love both work in OT, and I think I had some influence in their career choice! Outside of work, I enjoy family time, traveling, Alabama football, camping and outdoor activities, and reading.

Caitlyn Strope , OTR/L,
Athens Occupational Therapy Lead

I received my master's degree in occupational therapy at the University of South Alabama in 2021. Since then, I have provided OT services to both adults and children. I have found that pediatrics is where my heart is, and I absolutely love getting to know our clients and their families. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, reading, and running.

Anna Livingston, OTR/L

I graduated in December of 2023 with my Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have been an OT at Sunny Horizons for six months and am originally from Oxford, AL. In my free time, I love to hang out with my family and my fiancé, cuddle with my dog Phoebe, bake, and spend time at my second home, Compassion City Church!

Emily Wigley, OTR/L

I graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in 2014 and from UAB with a masters degree in Occupational Therapy in 2016. I have been a practicing occupational therapist for 7 years, but have been in pediatrics for 1 year. I am from Dutton, AL. I spend my free time with my 2 daughters and husband on our small farm! I enjoy the sunshine and being outdoors!

Stephanie Yother, OTR/L

I attended Brenau University to receive a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. I have been a practicing pediatric therapist for 2 years. I specialize in feeding using the SOS approach. I grew up in Phil Campbell, AL and currently live in Huntsville, AL. I enjoy traveling and spending time with my husband and my daughter. In my free time, I also enjoy playing tennis with my husband and reading.

Teri Jo Edwards, OTR/L

I graduated from The University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science, Minor in Nutrition. I graduated from The University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Master of Science for Occupational Therapy and a Low Vision Certification. I have been an OT for 16 years. I live in Pisgah with my husband and four kids. My kids are very active so I spend most of my free time with them at sporting events! I love to travel and visit new places.

Courtney Rutledge, COTA/L

I graduated from Wallace State in 2015. I have currently been an occupational therapist assistant for 9 years and been with Sunny Horizons for 8 of those years. I began working as a part time therapist for Sunny Horizons in 2016 then began working full time in 2018. I am a Certified Handwriting Specialist through the Learning Without Tears Program. I live in Rainsville, where I reside with my wonderful husband, beautiful two year old daughter, and another beautiful little girl on the way! When I am not at work, I enjoy all of my free time being a wife and mother!

Debbie Rafferty, COTA/L

I received an associate degree from Santa Fe community College, and I have been a COTA/L for 23 years. I am certified in Kinetic taping. I am from Metro Detroit area, Michigan. I love spending time with family and friends, shopping, and attending small town festivals.

Hali Garcia Peralta, COTA/L

I attended Wallace State Community College for OTA school. I’ve been a part of Sunny Horizons for four years. I have been providing services for kids in Scottsboro City Schools through SH for 4 years as well. I am certified in Size Matters Handwriting program. I am originally from Asbury, a small community near Albertville, AL. I like to spend my time listening to music and reading. I plan to take up more outdoorsy activities and baking in the near future.

Jonathan Smith, COTA/L

I am a northeast Alabama native growing up in Henagar, AL. I have been an occupational therapy assistant since 2020 with the majority of my experience in pediatrics. Since then, I have done additional training in the Zones of Regulation, childhood trauma, and I am currently in a master’s program to earn a Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy. When I am not helping children reach their goals toward independence, I enjoy tending to my house plants, playing mini-golf, and watching Disney movies!

Julia Claire Allums, COTA/L

I am in occupational therapy at Sunny Horizons as a COTA/L. I graduated from Wallace State in August 2023 and I started at Sunny Horizons right after. I am from Hollywood, AL and have lived there all my life. On my free time I love to be outside, hangout with my family, and ride horses!

Justin Maroney, COTA/L

I’m a former graduate of Wallace State and have been working in the field of OT for over five years! Along the way I’ve also picked up a certification to train a course on Managing Crisis Safely. When I’m not working, I’m usually listening to some good music and watching one of my favorite sports teams break my heart.

Karson Crabtree, COTA/L

I attended Wallace State Community College. I have been a COTA/L for 2 years. I'm from Stevenson, AL. In my spare time I love to travel and spend time with my family!

Maddi Woodward, COTA/L

I graduated from Wallace State Community College in July of 2024. I did my fieldwork at Sunny Horizons during school and fell in love. I am so excited to have the opportunity to work here as a new grad! I was born and raised in Athens and am so thankful to continue working in the city that I know and love. When I'm not working I am most likely to be found at home with a book or out with my friends.

Office Staff & Translators

Gracie Holsonback, SLPA

I am currently at Alabama A&M University to obtain my Master’s Degree in Communicative Sciences & Disorders to become an SLP. I have worked at Sunny Horizons since May 2023! I am from Sardis City, AL! During my free time, I like to go on walks with my family, play with my golden retriever, study the Bible, listen to worship music, and play piano!

Hannah Hastings, SLPA

I’m from Huntsville, Alabama and am currently an SLPA at the Albertville clinic. I graduated with my Bachelor’s Degree in Communicative Disorders from The University of Alabama in May of 2023 and have since been working at Sunny Horizons. I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family, and cheering on the Tide!

April Mason, Scottsboro Administrative Assistant

I received a Bachelor of Arts in History & Social Sciences from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with Secondary Teaching Certification. I have been employed by Sunny Horizons since August 2022. I am a lifelong resident of Scottsboro! I enjoy spending time with my children and traveling!

Ava Selby, Student Worker

I currently attend Scottsboro High school and will graduate in the spring. I started working at Sunny Horizons in August as a Student Worker. My favorite thing to do is read!

Ilsa Maldonado, Albertville
Administrative Assistant / Translator

I am originally from Tula, Tamps Mexico, but I was raised in the Oneonta area. I will be going back to Snead State this coming up Fall to finish my degree in medical billing and coding w/ office administration. I love to spend time with my friends and family!

Kelsie Shelton, PTA

I am from Pueblo, Colorado! I went to school at Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tennessee. I graduated December 2023. I have worked in a skilled nursing facility and now pediatrics! I enjoy spending time with my husband and dogs at the lake, as well as traveling home to Colorado to see my family!

Tonia Taylor, PTA

Emily Estes, PT, DPT,
Physical Therapy Lead

I obtained a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology in 2020 from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2023 from The University of South Alabama. I am from Huntsville, AL! I love to hike, spend time with family, work puzzles, and watch hallmark movies. I enjoy vacationing in the Smoky Mountains and going to the beach!

Holly Whetzell, PT, DPT,
Physical Therapy Lead

Pediatric physical therapy is my passion and I’m thankful to work with such amazing kiddos at Sunny Horizons! I have been practicing physical therapy for 5 years. My undergraduate degree is in exercise science from the University of North Georgia. I received my Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. In my free time, I love spending time with my family and trying out new restaurants. My favorite part of each day is to watch kids gain confidence in themselves while having fun in therapy!

Brady Flippo, PTA

I have been a PTA for 5 years with 3 years of experience in Pediatrics. I graduated from Calhoun Community College PTA Program in 2019. I am also a graduate of Pisgah High School and Northeast Alabama Community College. I am from Pisgah, AL. I love spending my free time with my wife, Sydney, and daughter, Murphy, traveling as much as I possibly can, biking, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors. Roll Tide!

McKenzi Hubbard, COTA/L

I’m an occupational therapy assistant at the Albertville Sunny Horizons. I graduated from Albertville High School, then attended Wallace State Community College for my degree. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, spending time with family and friends, and binge-watching a good Netflix series!

Memphis Natter, COTA/L

I am from Blountsville, AL, and I have been an Occupational Therapy Assistant at Sunny Horizons for almost a year. I am certified in mental health and am continuing my education to become an occupational therapist. Besides being at Sunny Horizons, I love spending my free time with my two cats and enjoying the outdoors.

Nicole King, COTA/L

I received my Associates in Applied Science in Occupational Therapy from Wallace State and have been a COTA for 10 years, 5 of which have been with Sunny Horizons. I love OT because of the relationships I have with my patients and their families, as well as, seeing my little friends work hard and accomplish their goals! I have been married to my sweet husband Clayton for 14 years and we have two beautiful children, Rhyder and Cora. I love spending time with my family, traveling, good music, and being involved with my church.

Sydney Flippo, COTA/L

I have been a Sunny Horizons employee for 4 years, my entire occupational therapy career! I have special interests in emotional regulation, implementing a strengths-based approach, and creating a trauma-informed space for kiddos with diverse experiences. Most of my time is spent with my daughter, Murphy, and my husband, Brady, who also works at Sunny Horizons! We love playing outside, being creative, going on trips, and staying as active as possible(:

Tonia Hendrix, COTA/L

I have been a COTA/L for 10 years. I am certified in Handwriting Without Tears and Size Matters Handwriting. I live in Snead, AL and I love to spend time with my grandkids.

Monse Salas, Athens Administrative Assistant / Translator

I've been in my office/admin position since January 2023. I'm from Athens, AL. I love to spend my free time by going to the gym, traveling, listening to music, and spending quality time with my family/friends.