ADVANCED PRACTICE PROVIDERS
Michelle Coffey, APRN, ACNS-BC, MSN
Regional Market Director
Michelle received her RN and MSN as an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist from UT Austin and joined Austin Geriatric Specialists in 2011. Michelle specializes in both geriatrics and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She enjoys promoting quality of life in the setting of chronic disease. In her spare time, Michelle enjoys traveling, swimming, and spending time with her husband and three young children.
Stacey Hamilton, APRN, GNP-BC, MSN
Clinical Director of Home Program
Stacey has been part of Austin Geriatric Specialists since 2002 after receiving her Geriatric Nurse Practitioner certification from UTMB in Galveston. Originally from Dallas, she received her BSN from UT Austin in 1983 and began a 15 year career at Seton Medical Center. Outside of work she is an avid runner and looks forward to spending time with her grandchildren.
Ryan Carpenter, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Clinical Director of Assisted Living
Ryan is a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist with a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. He is a member of the AAPN, NACNS, and Sigma Theta Tau National Nursing Honor Society. During his two year orthopedic rotation, Ryan trained under two top orthopedic surgeons in Austin, where he earned his surgical first assistant certification. With this, he brings wealth of knowledge and experience in Sports Medicine and management of acute and chronic orthopedic conditions affecting the geriatric population. Prior to returning to school, Ryan obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology at UT Austin. As a two-time UT graduate, he is a proud Longhorn who loves sharing the Central Texas outdoors with his wife and two boys.
Michelle Murray, APRN, GNP-BC, MSN, ACHPN
Clinical Director of Palliative Care
Michelle received a Bachelor of Science in Health at Texas A&M Univ., prior to attending UT Health Science Center for a degree in Nursing. Her background is focused in geriatrics, most extensively in hospice. She served as a Director of Nursing of a local hospice while obtaining her MSN at UT Medical Branch. As a Geriatric Nurse Practitioner her experience has included hospital, post-acute & home based care. She is an Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (ACHPN) and is passionate about palliative/end-of-life care and helping patients and families during that transition.
Mary Mann, APRN, GNP-BC, MSN
Clinical Director of Hospital Consults
Mary graduated with a BSN in nursing from the University of Mary-Hardin Baylor in 1986. She gained experience in the Cardiac Intesive Care Unit and also as a hospital supervisor before returning to school to get her MSN. She graduated in 2000 from the University of Texas at Arlington with a dual degree in Adult and Geriatric care, and continues to hold duel certifications as an Adult and a Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She has gained further education and experience and is now an ACHPN, Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse. She is passionate about excellent care of all people, especially of our oldest citizens. She is married and loves caring for her grandson and mother who live with she and her husband.
Rachel Bell, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Rachel is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner who received her Masters of Science in Nursing from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, Rachel received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She joined our practice with over 16 years of experience as a critical care registered nurse. As a native Austinite, Rachel is passionate about providing dignified holistic care, while treating acute and chronic conditions for the aging population in our community. In her spare time, she enjoys watching her two son’s play in various sporting activities, and traveling with her husband and children to exciting new places.
Kazandra "Kacy" Benavides, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Kazandra is a Family Nurse Practitioner certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas A&M International University and attained her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She joined Austin Geriatric Specialists in 2022 with a goal to provide compassionate, patient-centered, and high quality care to the aging population as well as managing chronic disease conditions. Kazandra enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and staying active outside.
Debbie Biskobing, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Debbie is a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. Throughout her nursing career she has worked in long term care and skilled nursing. She takes great personal pride in providing compassionate care for an older population while promoting quality of life. Prior to a career in nursing she was a high school biology teacher. She is also a proud Texas Longhorn with a Bachelor’s Degree in Molecular Biology, in addition to her RN and Masters in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. Debbie is a member of Texas Clinical Nurse Specialists, Austin Advanced Practice Nurses Association, and holds a leadership role in Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society, Epsilon Theta Chapter. In her spare time, she is an avid runner and enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and traveling to National Parks with her husband and two boys.
Stephanie Blanch, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Stephanie is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. She received a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing and sociology from Texas State University. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, she worked for five years as a RN in the Surgical Trauma ICU at Dell Seton Medical Center. Stephanie is passionate about caring for our elderly population, advocating for her patients, and giving back to her community. In her free time, Stephanie loves to travel, read, float the river with friends and family, and spend time with her husband and their three dogs.
Debbie Blinkhorn, APRN, AGNP-C, MSN
Debbie completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at William Paterson University in New Jersey. She was a Registered Nurse for 25 years before completing her Master Of Science in Nursing at Maryville University of St. Louis. As a Nurse Practitioner she has worked in Internal Medicine at a Federally Qualified Healthcare Center in Connecticut. After moving to Texas, she has worked in a nursing facility and house calls. Debbie enjoys spending time with her family and dog (Bella), traveling, camping, and reading.
JoAnna Brand, PA-C
JoAnna is a native Austinite, growing up between Austin and Bastrop, attending Southwest Texas State University for her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She received her degree in Physician Assistant Studies from UTMB Galveston in 2001 before joining Austin Heart, where she worked in cardiovascular medicine for over 20 years before joining Austin Geriatric Specialists in 2022. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, trail running, work outs with her CrossFit Austin tribe, and spending time with her family and friends.
Lori Brown-Duncan, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Lori is a Family Nurse Practitioner, receiving her degree for the University of Texas at Arlington. Lori began her RN career in 1999 working as a cardiac and renal transplant nurse. She realized her love for geriatrics and transitioned to working as a director of nursing and chief nursing officer for nursing homes in Central Texas. She is an advocate for those having special needs and individuals without the capacity to advocate for themselves. She has been married to her husband since 1991 and they have one daughter. Boston Terriers are always part of their family, and they also foster dogs in need or their furever home. Lori became a published author when her book, 52 Weeks to A Better World, was published in 2005. When not working, Lori enjoys traveling with her family in their RV, going on cruises, swimming, church activities, and reading.
Adam Brunson, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Adam is a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist with a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. Prior to a career in advanced practice nursing, Adam served as a local pastor in the Austin area for 10 years. As a pastor, he recruited nurses, doctors and pharmacists to run mobile clinics in villages in rural India and Haiti, which is a passion of his. Adam shares the sensitivity of many in this field that elder-care is of critical importance. He approaches his work with compassion, integrity and with a focus on quality of care. He is proud of his 3 beautiful daughters and enjoys time with his wife. He is often reading, gardening and volunteering outside of work.
Susan Burrow, APRN, AGACNP-BC, MSN
Susan is a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University in Minnesota. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, Susan had a successful career as a nurse at Seton Medical Center as a cardiac nurse for over 13 years. Over the years as a cardiac nurse, Susan has developed a passion for caring for the geriatric population and joined Austin Geriatric Specialists in 2017. Susan is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic care to the geriatric population. In her spare time, she enjoys the great outdoor activities that Austin offers with her partner and two children.
Elva Cantu, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, MSN
Elva is from the Rio Grande Valley and started her nursing career in 2000 as an LVN working in long-term care. She received her associates degree from South Texas College in 2005, followed by a bachelor's from Grand Canyon University in 2014. Elva is an Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and is passionate about palliative and end-of-life care. Elva enjoys management of chronic illness to lead a better quality of life. She also loves spending time with her sons, crafts, running and yoga.
Tori Clements, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, MSN
Tori is a board certified Adult Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She worked as a Registered Nurse for 16 years in Houston, Texas, her hometown. She considers it an honor and a privilege to care for aging individuals. She enjoys spending time with her husband, and two daughters, while exploring Central Texas and boating on the beautiful lakes.
Alison Conway, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Alison is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a master’s in nursing from Texas Tech University Health Science Center. Alison has over 10 years of experience as a Registered Nurse in a variety of settings including inpatient cardiology, outpatient cardiac rehabilitation, and home health. She is excited to be a part of Austin Geriatric Specialists as she enjoys building relationships with and providing caring, individualized treatment for elderly patients and their families. In her free time, Alison likes to read, bake, and spend time with her family and friends.
Megan Dean, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, MSN
Megan is a board-certified Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. Megan graduated with her MSN in Nursing Education from UT Tyler in 2019 and then received her Post-Master’s Certificate in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner from UT Arlington in 2021. Megan began her career in 2010 as an acute care nurse, working in a variety of units, including cardiac telemetry, intermediate and progressive care, and travel nursing. Having worked in the acute care setting she has gained a full spectrum of meaningful experience in general patient care and the specific needs of the geriatric population. As we all age, our needs change and Megan’s passion is to address and provide an individualized and empathetic approach to health care. Outside of work, Megan loves to spend time with her family, enjoys puzzles, traveling, and music events.
Liliana Damron, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Lili is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from Texas State University. Lili joins AGS team with 4 years of experience as a critical care registered nurse. She double majored and received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Business Administration from Tarleton State University. Lili has always been passionate about caring for the adult and geriatric population and is also fluent in Spanish. In her spare time, she enjoys painting, paddle boarding, hydroponic gardening and spending time with her husband, son and two dogs.
Stacey Garcia, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Stacey was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley and has lived in Austin for seven years. Stacey is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from Lubbock Christian University and a Family Nurse Practitioner Post Masters Certificate from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. She received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Pan American. She has twelve years of nursing experience with a background in geriatric home health, orthopedics, neurology, medical-surgical acute care, and clinical education. Stacey believes in building relationships of trust and collaboration with her patients and their families. In her spare time, Stacey enjoys volunteer work, playing with her three dogs, and cooking for her family.
Stacey Gonzalez, APRN, FNP-C, DNP
Stacey is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Texas Christian University. Prior to becoming an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, she served as a Registered Nurse in the US Air Force. During her military career, Stacey provided nursing care to hospitalized service members and their families both in the United States and abroad. Stacey’s approach to care involves enabling patients and family members to become active participants in their healthcare decisions. In her spare time, Stacey enjoys gardening and spending time outdoors with her husband and two sons. .
Tara Gordon, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Tara is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing from Maryville University, and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society. Prior to pursuing her masters degree, she worked as an Emergency Room Nurse for 14 years. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialist Tara worked as a medical provider for a mobile urgent care. Tara is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based and holistic care to the geriatric population. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with her husband and children, reading books and anything that involves nature.
Becky Hamilton, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Becky is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree of Science in Nursing from Texas State University. She has over 7 years of experience as a critical care registered nurse and is passionate about caring for the adult and geriatric population. Outside of work, Becky enjoys spending her time with family and friends, biking, reading, and cooking.
Erin Haug, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Erin is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing from The University of Texas at Arlington. She previously worked as a palliative care nurse practitioner in a hospital setting. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, she worked in a variety of areas as a registered nurse in acute care. Erin has a passion for working with the geriatric population and providing high quality, evidenced-based care with a focus on the whole person. When not working, Erin enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, running and baking. She also enjoys riding her horse, thinking about horses and talking about horses.
Angela Henninger, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Angie is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Masters of Science in Nursing from Texas State University at Round Rock. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, Angie was a Registered Nurse for 15 years with a background in pre and post-surgical care, Oncology, and Hospice. She enjoys caring for and working with her patients and their families to provide evidence-based, holistic care that is compassionate and aims to increase quality of life. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter going to movies, enjoying good food, and cheering her daughter on at volleyball games.
James Kim, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
James is a board-certified nurse practitioner. He attended the University of Houston where he received a bachelor's degree in business administration. He then pursued his career in nursing by graduating from Midwestern State University with a bachelor of science in nursing. While working in the cardiology and intensive care unit at a hospital, he completed a master of science in nursing with a specialty in family nurse practitioner at the University of Texas - Arlington. James is passionate about preventative care and doing his part to maintain a healthy community. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, hiking and spending time outdoors with his family.
Danielle Kislin, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, MSN
Danielle is a board-certified Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Arlington, and her Associates of Science in Nursing from Vernon College. She has 7 years of nurse case management experience caring for patients on hospice and individuals with high medical complexity. During her time as a hospice nurse, she developed an affinity for caring geriatric care, and feels privileged to continue to serve this population. She focuses her practice around providing compassionate and individualized care for the whole person and family unit. Danielle loves fly fishing, baking, thrift shopping, and home improvement projects. She has 2 fun dogs- Simon and Sage.
Heidi Kook-Willis, APRN, AGNP-C, MSN
Heidi is a board certified Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s of Science in Nursing from UT Medical Branch at Galveston. During her 15 years of nursing experience, which includes ICU, cardiology, hospice and palliative care, she developed a passion for Geriatric and Palliative medicine.
Her practice focuses on using a holistic approach to maximize health and quality of life in the older adult population. She considers it a privilege to support and care for patients and families as they navigate the challenges of aging and chronic illness. In her spare time, she enjoys volunteering at a free medical clinic, running, traveling, and enjoying the best of Austin’s food and music with her husband, two kids, and dog.
Marci Landin, MSN, APRN, AGPCNP-BC
Marci obtained degrees in psychology and biology before obtaining her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing through Texas Tech’s accelerated BSN program. She worked as a bedside nurse in critical care before pursuing her Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston. She is a board certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) with a special interest in geriatrics and research. Marci is excited to join Austin Geriatric Specialists and work with this population whom, she feels, deserve individualized and holistic care that is delivered in a compassionate and dignified manner. When Marci is not working she enjoys traveling, trying out new restaurants, and spending time with her husband and two daughters.
Haiyan Liu, APRN, ACNS-BC, MSN
Haiyan received her BSN from the University of Texas at Austin in 2003 and worked for 5 years on the cardiovascular floor at Seton Medical Center. She then received her MSN from the University of Texas at Austin in 2008. She is a certified Adult Clinical Nurse Specialists who worked in cardiovascular disease management for Austin Heart for 2 years before turning her focus toward the geriatric population and joining Austin Geriatric Specialists in the spring of 2010.
Beth Lynn, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Beth received her undergraduate degree in education from Texas Tech University. She earned her Master’s Degree in Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, and completed a clinical rotation at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Beth is a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Prior to joining the practice, Beth worked in the field of endocrinology. She enjoys gardening, boating on area lakes, and especially spending time with her husband and son.
Shannon Marsh, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Shannon is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing from Texas State University. Prior to pursuing her masters degree, she worked as an ICU nurse for over 7 years. Before joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, Shannon worked as a provider in a rural primary care clinic. She developed a love for geriatric care during her first job as a nurse in a long term care facility. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking with her husband and 3 year old red heeler, named Pepper, traveling, and exploring Austin and the surrounding hill country.
Megan Meseck, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Megan received her RN and MSN as an Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist from UT Austin in 2022 and joined Austin Geriatric Specialists soon after. She has worked in Orthopedics/Med-Surg for 2 years prior to graduating. Megan is very passionate about working in the geriatric population. In her free time, she loves to go on hikes with her husband and dog, Sage.
Arlene Meyer, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Arlene is a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist with a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. She really enjoys working with the aging population by providing patients holistic care, counseling to patients and families about disease processes, supporting staff nurses, and ensuring quality of care. Prior to joining the team at AGS, she worked as a registered nurse in critical care. She also obtained a Bachelor of Interior Design from Texas Tech University. In her spare time Arlene enjoys hiking with her dog Clementine, DIY projects, traveling and spending time with friends and family.
Maggie Martin, APRN, FNP, MSN
Maggie is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio. Prior to joining Ausin Geriatric Specialist, she worked in family medicine for 4.5 years. She started her nursing career at University Medical Center Brackenridge in the ICU and worked there for 7 years. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three young daughters.
Vicki Matava, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Vicki is a board certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist with a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. She received her undergraduate degree in biochemistry from Texas A&M. Through her clinical experience in hospice and cardiology, she realized the vital role that advanced practice nurses play in meeting the unique care needs of the growing geriatric population and is excited about providing quality compassionate and holistic care to her patients. In her free time, Vicki enjoys camping, kayaking, swimming, antiquing as well as spending time with and unapologetically bragging on her three absolutely fabulous grown children.
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Sarah McBride, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Sarah is a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist with a master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. She is originally from Wisconsin and moved to Austin in 2010. She worked as a register nurse in critical care and transitioned to the field of wound care and hyperbaric medicine once becoming an APRN. Sarah has always felt a connection to the geriatric patient population and has a desire to provide holistic and compassionate care within this population. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband and son, hiking with her dog, and exploring the ever-growing city of Austin with her friends.
Tiffany Miller, APRN, AGACNP-BC, MSN
Tiffany Miller is a board certified Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner who received her Masters of Science in Nursing from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, Tiffany received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Stephen F Austin. She also holds a Bachelors of Science in Biomedical Science from Texas A&M University. Tiffany joined our practice with over 13 years of experience as a critical care registered nurse. She is passionate about promoting quality of life and palliative care while treating acute and chronic conditions for the aging population in our community. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her daughter and husband. She also enjoys reading and exploring hiking trails and parks with her family.
Kiah Morgan, APRN, AGNP-C, MSN
Kiah is a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. Before joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, the majority of her career was spent as a home health RN. During this time, she developed a passion for geriatrics with a focus on prioritizing her patients' quality of life with evidence-based care. Kiah was raised in Austin and is dedicated to serving the community by providing compassionate, holistic care as a geriatric nurse practitioner. In her free time, she loves exploring all that Austin has to offer with her husband, friends, and family. She loves seeing live music, gardening, collecting vinyl records, and traveling.
Sam Morgan, APRN, DNP
Sam is a Doctor of Adult/Geriatric Nursing Practice. Sam graduated from the University of Michigan-Flint in 2017. Prior to joining the Austin Geriatric Specialists team, Sam had a 10-year history as a registered nurse in the skilled nursing and long-term care environment, and continues to have a passion for providing individualized and evidenced-based healthcare to the geriatric community. When he is not working, Sam enjoys all sports, traveling, reading, and spending time with family.
Teadra Nealy, APRN, AGACNP, MSN
Teadra is a board-certified Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. Originally from Tallahassee, Teadra has two sisters - one of which is her identical twin. In her spare time, Teadra enjoys visiting with friends and family, reading romance novels, and going to the gym. Teadra always desired to go back to school and obtain her Master's Degree. She is honored to have become a nurse practitioner and Teadra’s desire is to dedicate her talents and love for people to serve the community here in Central Texas.
Kim Nunez, APRN, NP-C, MSN
Kim is a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the care of older adults with chronic health issues. She holds her board certification from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and is licensed by the State of Texas. She earned both her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in nursing at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Kim gained experience in critical care as a registered nurse. She is passionate about working with the older population. In her free time, Kim enjoys spending time with family and friends, boating, and reading.
Rebecca Nycz, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Rebecca received her undergraduate degree in Anthropology from the University of North Texas. She later turned her focus to nursing and went on to obtain an ADN from Blinn College, followed by her BSN through Angelo State University. Her background in nursing was focused on critical care and vascular access. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, she completed her MSN from the University of Texas at Arlington and is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, cooking, reading, and spending time with her friends and family.
Hong-Ngoc Pham, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Hong is a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. She obtained her RN and MSN from the University of Texas at Austin. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, Hong worked in the field of oncology. She has a long-held interest in health promotion and wellness since serving as a Peace Corps Health Volunteer in 2008-2010. Hong is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based and holistic care to aging individuals. She enjoys traveling, spending time her friends and family, and is an outdoor enthusiast.
Doris Poston, APRN, FNP-C, DNP
Doris Poston earned her BSN from the University of Texas Arlington and her MSN and Family Nurse Practitioner from the first cohort FNP program at Texas A&M University. She will be graduating from Baylor University August 13, 2022, with her DNP. Doris completed her Associates Degree of Nursing at Blinn University. She has 20 years of experience as a Registered Nurse, working mostly in rural and
underserved areas for this vulnerable population. Doris has always shown an interest in understanding how using evidence-based research can provide the best care for her patients.
Jody Powell, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Jody is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree in Nursing from The University of Texas at Tyler. He has been working with the geriatric population as a Nurse Practitioner since 2012. Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner, he worked as an Emergency Room nurse for 10 years. He enjoys working in the field of geriatrics and strives to provide quality, evidenced based care to provide the highest quality of life for the patients he serves. He enjoys mountain biking, canoeing and spending time with his family.
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Audra Puffer, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Audra is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. Prior to pursuing her master’s degree, she worked for 4 years as a registered nurse caring for hospitalized patients. Audra is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based and holistic care to the geriatric population. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, reading, and exploring more of Austin.
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Courtney Ratheal, APRN, A-GNP, MSN
Courtney is a board certified Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, her career began on a Geriatric Trauma Unit, she then transitioned on home health and home care for many years. Courtney’s focus has always been on the geriatric population and she is honored to provide holistic and compassionate care. Outside of work, she enjoys time spent outside with her husband and their two dogs, collecting plants, and travelling.
Vanessa Schiafone, APRN, AGACNP, MSN
Vanessa is a Board-Certified Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner who received her Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at El Paso. Originally from New Jersey, she received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Villanova University where she met her now husband who persuaded her to become a Southerner and move to Texas. Vanessa has worked in Critical Care in various ICUs in Austin for 8 years as a registered nurse and more recently, as a nurse practitioner specializing in Rehabilitation. Vanessa is passionate about providing quality, evidence-based care to the aging population of Austin as a member of the AGS team. In her spare time, she can be found camping and exploring new places with her husband and two children in their Airstream.
Marilu Sanchez, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Marilu Sanchez is a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist with a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. As an advanced practice nurse, she is passionate about, improving quality of life through compassionate, holistic care to patients and their families. In her free time, she enjoys long naps, puzzles, new foods, and exploring national parks.
Bianca Schmidt, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Bianca graduated with a BA in Health and Society from The University of Texas at Austin in 2019. Bianca received her RN and MSN as an Adult Geriatric Clinical Nurse Specialist from UT Austin and joined Austin Geriatric Specialists in 2022. She enjoys promoting quality of life in the setting of aging and end of life care. In her spare time, Bianca enjoys rock climbing, paddle boarding, reading, and spending time with her friends and family.
Kristina Trembly, AGACNP-BC, ACHPN, MSN
Kristina is dual board certified as an acute care adult gerontology nurse practitioner and advanced hospice and palliative nurse. After graduating from Nebraska Methodist College in 2008, Kristina’s nursing career started in the ICU at Immanuel Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska. In 2012, she relocated to Texas and transitioned to the ER at Parkland Memorial in Dallas, Texas. After graduating with her MSN from the University of Texas at Arlington in December of 2015, she joined the Hospitalist team at Parkland in 2016. In 2017, she joined the Supportive and Palliative Care team at Baylor Scott and White in Temple, Texas. She is thrilled to join Austin Geriatrics Specialists and continue to follow her calling. She believes with her whole heart that seriously ill people benefit from the support of Palliative care. In her free time she enjoys travel and time with her family and friends.
Joyce Tseng, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Joyce is an advanced practice registered nurse and Adult Health-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist - board certified. A proud Taiwanese-American, born and raised in Texas, Joyce is a two time graduate of The University of Texas at Austin. Joyce is a member of the Austin Advanced Practice Nurses Association and Sigma Theta Tau. Through her work, Joyce offers a holistic, patient-centered approach with a focus on health promotion, acute and chronic disease management, and patient education. Prior to joining AGS in 2017, Joyce has worked in Skilled nursing facilities, long term care, and home health/transitional care. She has a passion for geriatric care and palliative care. In her downtime, Joyce enjoys hiking, gardening, and spending time with her family, friends, her dogs and chickens.
Natalie Vallot, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Natalie is a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist with a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. Her health care career began as a Respiratory Care Practitioner gaining experience in critical care and chronic disease, which she brought into nursing while working in skilled nursing and long term care. As an advanced practice nurse, she is passionate about serving the community and providing compassionate, holistic care to patients and their families. In her free time she enjoys traveling, gardening, and exploring the outdoors with her husband and two beloved dogs.
Emily Wallace, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Emily is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner accredited by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Emily received her Bachelor’s and Master’s in nursing from Texas A&M University. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, Emily worked as a critical care nurse for eight years specializing in trauma and surgical patients. She developed a love for geriatric care throughout her nursing career. Emily’s mission is to deliver exceptional patient-centered care across the lifespan that focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and empowers individuals to become actively involved in their health care choices.In her free time, Emily enjoys spending time outside with her husband, son, and two dogs.
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Catherine Ward, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Catherine Ward is a board certified Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist who earned her MSN degree from the University of Texas at Austin in 2018. A native Detroiter, Catherine attended Michigan State University for her undergraduate studies in English Literature. After relocating to Austin in 2007, she taught middle and high school Reading & Language Arts for several years before attending graduate school and has also served as a Clinical Instructor for UT Austin's School of Nursing. Catherine is passionate about providing holistic, patient-centered care for the geriatric population, as well as educating future nurses. In her free time, Catherine enjoys spending time with her husband, two children, and friends, is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and loves to travel, roller skate, read horror novels, go out dancing, play video games, and craft.
Vanessa Weaver, APRN, AGCNS-BC, MSN
Vanessa is a board certified Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin. Prior to joining Austin Geriatric Specialists, Vanessa had a successful career as an Inpatient Rehabilitation Registered Nurse in Austin, TX. Her primary passions have always been to help patients restore their independence, strength, and overall well-being. As an AG-CNS, Vanessa is dedicated to providing holistic and compassionate geriatric care. She strives to be an advocate for the vulnerable and underserved. And her primary goal is to provide each patient with the individualized care that is specific to their health needs and goals.
Ryan Webb, APRN, ACNS-BC, MSN
Ryan received his RN and MSN from the University of Texas at Austin and is a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. He is passionate about providing a holistic approach to treating acute and chronic conditions for the aging population in Central Texas. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife, son and daughter and staying active outside.
Shonita Wilson, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Shonita served honorably in the US Army for seven years, including a tour of duty in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, before pursuing a nursing degree. In 2011 her nursing career began, providing her experience in various healthcare settings, including acute care, case management, outpatient cardiac rehab, hospice, and home care. During her time as a hospice and home care case manager, Shonita developed an interest in chronic care management, particularly in the aging population. To contribute more effectively to improve patient outcomes, she continued her education and, in 2022, received her Master’s degree from Texas A&M University, becoming certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She is committed to providing holistic, patient-centered, quality care in her community, focusing on health promotion and disease prevention whenever possible. Shonita enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, reading, kayaking, and weight training.
Carolyn Wisco, APRN, FNP-C, MSN
Carolyn is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from Texas State University in Round Rock. She received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin in Madison. She has a background in primary and urgent healthcare as Nurse Practitioner and over ten years of experience as Registered Nurse in the hospital setting. Carolyn is a devoted patient advocate and uses a holistic approach to provide comprehensive, quality, and compassionate care to all her patients. In her spare time, she enjoys being outdoors with her dogs, swimming, running, biking, and spending time with family and friends.
Ping Ye, APRN, ACNS-BC, DNP
Ping graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a MSN in nursing in 2007 and DNP in 2021. She is a certified Adult Clinical Nurse Specialists who has worked primarily in long term care, taking care of frail elders since her graduation. She joined Austin Geriatric Specialists in May 2009 and continues to focus her practice in the area of Geriatrics.