Staff

Toni Maxey

Toni Maxey, raised in Denver, CO, has lived coast to coast, and now resides in Nebraska. She has given 25 years to ministry with her husband serving in ministerial leadership and administrative capacities for both urban and suburbia cultures through co-pioneering church plants. She has completed several ministry training courses including business courses through the SBA. Toni is also a former small business owner. She formerly owned two coffee shops while living in Philadelphia, catering to the commuter and the community in a missional capacity. Toni currently volunteers for the Norfolk Rescue Mission. Her journey at Oasis began as the COO and she now serves as Executive Director.

Shari Neumann

Shari Neumann was born in Fairbanks, Alaska and grew up in Okinawa, Japan. She graduated from Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska with an M.S. in Human Resource Management, a B.S. in Political Science and a minor in Economics. Shari and her husband have two grown children. She was initially hired by Oasis Counseling International as front desk staff and since then has served in nearly every department at Oasis, working her way up from Receptionist to COO. Shari oversees the operation of the organization as well as supervising the finance department and front desk administrative staff.

Dr. Connie Petersen

Dr. Petersen is an experienced licensed psychologist who provides compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals navigating mental health and addiction challenges. She emphasizes helping individuals and couples strengthen communication, rebuild trust, and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Dr. Petersen integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients develop practical skills, increase psychological flexibility, and achieve meaningful change. She is also trained in Brainspotting, an innovative therapeutic approach that helps clients process trauma, reduce emotional distress, and support lasting healing. For those who desire, Dr. Petersen also incorporates spiritual beliefs and practices into the therapeutic process, providing care that honors the whole person and aligns with their values and faith.

Dr. Mark Stortvedt

In the early 1980’s, Mark established a church-based counseling center through his pastoral job at Christ is King Community Church (now known as LifePoint Church) in Norfolk, Nebraska. Due to growing demand, and in order to serve the community as a whole, that ministry became Oasis Counseling International which officially opened for business in March of 1990. Mark is a pioneer in developing innovative programs in mental health and community engagement and has formed vital collaborations with many local agencies as well as state, educational and legal institutions. He and his wife, Colleen, continue to travel internationally providing intensive pastoral and professional counselor training seminars in other countries including Turkey, Sweden, Romania and Cuba.

Dr. Monte Middleton, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Dr. Monte Middleton, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than four decades of experience in Nebraska’s mental health system. He started his career in psychiatry in 1985 as a Psychiatric Mental Health Technician at the Norfolk Regional Center (NRC). He became a registered nurse (RN) that specialized in psychiatry in 1992. He worked at NRC for 25 years, the last 10 years there as the 3-11 shift hospital supervisor.

He continued his education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and earned a Master’s Degree in Nursing Practice (APRN) in 2009. He then started practicing psychiatric medication management for mental illness and alcohol and substance use disorders at Catholic Charities in Columbus, Nebraska. He worked at the facility for 3 years. He continued his education and earned a doctorate degree at the University of Northern Colorado in May 2014.

He has worked at Oasis Counseling International (OCI) since October 1, 2014. He is currently the supervisor of the Psychiatry Department at OCI.

Dr. Middleton’s clinical practice encompasses comprehensive assessment and treatment of individuals across the full range of mental and behavioral health conditions. This includes neurodevelopmental and attention-related disorders; psychotic and bipolar spectrum illnesses; depressive and anxiety disorders; obsessive-compulsive and trauma-related conditions; dissociative and somatic symptom presentations; eating and sleep-wake disorders; sexual and gender-related concerns; disruptive and impulse-control disorders; substance-related and addictive disorders; neurocognitive disorders; personality disorders; and paraphilic disorders. His work reflects broad expertise in managing complex and comorbid psychiatric presentations across the lifespan.

He notes that his greatest accomplishments are becoming a born-again Christian and marrying his best friend in 1986, noting they have now celebrated 40 years of marriage in September of 2026. He and his wife have raised two sons whom he describes as “great men,” both now happily married and establishing families of their own.

Dr. Middleton believes in the power of spirituality and the practice of evidence-based care. Evidence-based care includes patient-centered care. That means when you come to see Dr. Middleton, he will work with you in a close collaborative manner. Patient-centered care is the delivery of healthcare that is respectful and responsive to an individual patient’s preferences, needs, and values and ensures that these values guide all clinical decisions. He likes to tell his patients that you’re his boss, he works for you.

He will always respect your core beliefs. His core beliefs are found in Matthew 22:37-40.

Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

Karen Reiser

Karen has been with Oasis since November 2025. She does medication management for drug and alcohol addiction as well as for various other conditions. Karen has experience practicing as an APRN for over 10 years; registered nurse for 32 years. When requested by the client, Karen incorporates faith directly in the session. She is passionate about helping people experience God’s healing love as they overcome painful problems and experiences.

Kim McCarthy

Kim has been with Oasis for over 14 years.  She completes prior authorizations for medications, schedules medication management clients, medication refills and assists clients with patient assistance for medications.  Kim is the voice on the phone and a smile behind her desk that keeps the medication management department running smoothly.

Dr. Connie Petersen

Dr. Petersen is an experienced licensed psychologist who provides compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals navigating mental health and addiction challenges. She emphasizes helping individuals and couples strengthen communication, rebuild trust, and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Dr. Petersen integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients develop practical skills, increase psychological flexibility, and achieve meaningful change. She is also trained in Brainspotting, an innovative therapeutic approach that helps clients process trauma, reduce emotional distress, and support lasting healing. For those who desire, Dr. Petersen also incorporates spiritual beliefs and practices into the therapeutic process, providing care that honors the whole person and aligns with their values and faith.

Dr. Chelsea Race

Dr. Chelsea Race has been at Oasis since 2021. Dr. Race went to Adler School of Professional Psychology where she received her Doctor of Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Military Clinical Psychology. She specializes in working in rural and urban environments as well as with various diagnosis from day-to-day adjustment concerns to neurodevelopmental concerns like ADHD and Autism to Personality Disorders. Dr. Race is trained in different evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She provides individual therapy for adults 19+, psychological assessments for children and adults, and couples/marital counseling.

Colleen Stortvedt

Colleen has been working at Oasis since its inception over 35 years ago. She specializes in trauma work and also has experience with marriage counseling and a host of other issues. She is trained in Brainspotting, EMDR, and IFS (parts work). Colleen is passionate about helping people get to the root of what is causing their struggles and in integration of faith as clients are interested.

Laurie Morrow

Barbara Mutayoba

Katie Ronk

Dominic Wolff

Dominic has been with Oasis since 2020. He has cerebral palsy and has grown up having to balance being dependent on others while growing in his own independence. Dominic has experienced unique hardships but also has overcome many obstacles with the help of a caring support system and his faith in God to help him through. He has a passion for serving others, especially those with developmental disabilities, and is sensitive to their unique needs and abilities. As a mental health counselor, Dominic feels grateful and truly blessed to assist all the clients he serves on their journey of healing and wholeness.

Autumn Patrick

As a substance use and mental health therapist, I believe healing is about more than reducing symptoms—it’s about finding purpose, connection, and hope. I am passionate about integrating spirituality into the counseling process and strive to create a space where spiritual growth and emotional healing can work together. I have experience working with a diverse range of individuals, including youth struggling with behavioral, emotional, and substance use concerns, adults navigating mental health challenges, and couples seeking marriage counseling. I am trained in Brainspotting and enjoy helping clients process and heal from trauma. I especially enjoy working with individuals involved in the criminal justice system, helping them navigate challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful change in their lives.

Cindy Oltmer, MSE, LIMHP, LADC

Amber Bargstadt

Amber has been with Oasis since 2023, specializing in using Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior strategies to approach Anxiety and Depression. Amber enjoys working with all ages, especially teens as they navigate the unique development through emotional and social challenges.

Janie Marx

Since joining Oasis Counseling in 2024, I have been dedicated to supporting individuals on their recovery journey. As a PLADC and a current student at Wayne State College pursuing my PLMHP, I provide substance use evaluations, individual counseling, and work within the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). I am passionate about working with people facing substance use challenges and believe that building genuine, trusting relationships is an important part of the healing process. I enjoy meeting people where they are and supporting them as they work toward lasting change and recovery.

Berenice Casillas

I have been with Oasis Counseling International for the past three years, serving as a Family Support Specialist and working alongside individuals and families to promote resilience, stability, and overall well-being. This experience has strengthened my commitment to providing compassionate, client-centered care and supporting individuals through life’s challenges. As I transition into my new role as a Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP), I look forward to expanding my clinical skills to children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am dedicated to fostering a safe, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to achieve their personal goals and improve their overall quality of life.

Kasey Summerer

Jessica Clyde

Jessica has been with Oasis since 2018. She specializes in supporting children and families working towards reunification and helps them to build life skills and develop parenting skills. She facilitates group classes for individuals striving to maintain sobriety and make positive life choices. She also connects people to needed community resources and assists them in finding financial stability. When requested by a client, Jessica integrates faith during visits, to aid healing and growth.

Dr. Daniel Schartz

Dr. Dan has been with Oasis Counseling since 2021 in the Family Support department after retiring from fifty years in education. After retirement, Dr. Dan worked with persons on probation for ten years in different locations in Nebraska. His experience also includes being a chaplain at the Alvera Grand Island, Nebraska hospital. He is a strong advocate of Oasis Counseling because of its spiritual dimension integrated into the emotional/psychological dimension of our lives.

Julieth Kruse

Julieth has over four years of experience working in Family Support, Supervised Visitation, and Community Services. She is deeply passionate about supporting family reunification, promoting the well-being of children, and walking alongside families during challenging times. With a compassionate heart for serving those who feel overlooked or vulnerable, Julieth is dedicated to connecting individuals and families with the community resources and support they need to thrive.

Kenny Hart

Kenny has been with Oasis since 2025. He specializes in Family Support and ensures client comfort with his empathy and nearly 4 years of experience. Kenny strives to help families institute rules and structure to help their daily lives.

Reese Johnson

Reese has been with Oasis Counseling since 2025. She specializes in working with families and children. Reese is very passionate about the clients she serves.

Justice Des Champs

Justice is a new member to our Family Support team at Oases Counseling International, providing hands-on assistance, transportation, and guidance to children and caregivers. Justice is currently studying Human Services, utilizing a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach to each interaction, working closely with the Oasis support team to help families feel safe, respected, and empowered.

Lindsay Ottis

Rana Haakenson

Rana has been with Oasis Counseling since 2014. She has over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector including roles in grant writing, marketing, fundraising, gift processing and administrative support. Rana graduated summa cum laude from Wisconsin Lutheran College in Milwaukee with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. She is passionate about finding funding to help support Oasis’ mission of offering quality, Christian counseling to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

April Yracheta

April is an experienced finance and payroll professional with over 7 years of dedicated expertise in managing financial operations and payroll systems.  For the past three and a half years, April has been a vital asset to Oasis’ Payroll & Billing Department, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in every process.  Outside of the daily numbers, April truly enjoys being a part of the Oasis team, working together with colleagues and contributing to the organization’s success!

Sharon Keifer

Natalia McNeill

Natalia serves as the Administrative Assistant at Oasis Counseling International and is one of the friendly faces helping to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.  Whether she’s helping at the front desk, supporting the COO, or lending a hand wherever she’s needed, Natalia loves being someone others can count on.  Natalia also assists with Region 4 and is always happy to help answer questions about Region 4 funding, paperwork, or the process.  If you have any questions, clients are always welcome to stop by her office!  She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and hopes to become a Christian counselor, combining her faith and passion for helping others in her future work with clients.  Natalia is grateful to be part of a team that creates a welcoming space where people can feel supported, encouraged, and cared for throughout their healing journey.

Rylee Frohberg

Rylee Frohberg is a receptionist at Oasis Counseling and brings a warm welcome to each client. Grounded in the ministry Oasis offers, she treats every client with respect and dignity.  Rylee is eager to help answer any questions you may have!

Christyna Prochaska

Christyna serves as the HR/Admin Assistant at Oasis Counseling International, where she loves bringing organization, encouragement, and a helping hand wherever it’s needed.  With a background in business management, human resources, and administration, she enjoys supporting the Oasis team so they can focus on what they do best – caring for others.  A woman of faith and a busy mom of four, Christyna has a heart for people, loves finding ways to make things run a little smoother, and is grateful to serve alongside a team committed to bringing hope and healing to the community.

Becky Heiser

For over twenty years, I worked at Oasis Counseling International as a Family Support Specialist.  It was meaningful work that I cared deeply about, and I was grateful for the opportunity to help families find hope and a better path forward.  After retiring from Family Support, I chose to accept the role as Office Manager at Oasis Counseling in O’Neill.

Laurie Morrow

Kasey Summerer

Dr. Daniel Schartz

Dr. Dan has been with Oasis Counseling since 2021 in the Family Support department after retiring from fifty years in education. After retirement, Dr. Dan worked with persons on probation for ten years in different locations in Nebraska. His experience also includes being a chaplain at the Alvera Grand Island, Nebraska hospital. He is a strong advocate of Oasis Counseling because of its spiritual dimension integrated into the emotional/psychological dimension of our lives.

Becky Heiser

For over twenty years, I worked at Oasis Counseling International as a Family Support Specialist.  It was meaningful work that I cared deeply about, and I was grateful for the opportunity to help families find hope and a better path forward.  After retiring from Family Support, I chose to accept the role as Office Manager at Oasis Counseling in O’Neill.