The READY Clinic Team

Amber Bruns is the Clinical Director of Behavioral Health Services and Director of The READY Clinic at SWWC. She holds a Doctorate in Interdisciplinary Leadership (EdD) from Creighton University, where her dissertation, “A Phenomenological Study on Principal Behaviors During Staffing Shortages in Rural Public Schools,” explored the intersection of leadership and workforce challenges in rural education. She has a MS in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State and completed a graduate certificate in Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) through the Florida Institute of Technology. 

Amber brings over two decades of experience working with children and adults with autism and related developmental disabilities, including individuals who engage in severe problem behavior. Her expertise lies in behavioral assessment, the design of individualized interventions, and systems-level consultation. Amber oversees strategic planning, clinical operations, and service delivery across Behavioral Health Services at SWWC. She is responsible for program development, staff supervision, compliance, and cross-sector collaboration to expand access to high-quality behavioral health services throughout the region. Her work is grounded in data-driven decision-making, sustainable systems change, and a commitment to equity and inclusion in behavioral healthcare and education.

Melissa has a degree in Elementary Education and Special Education from Winona State University and a master’s degree in the Foundations in Behavior Analysis from the University of Cincinnati. Melissa has worked with children with autism and related developmental disabilities for the over 16 years. Melissa’s professional interests include staff and caregiver coaching, developing individualized programs and support for individuals with autism, and fostering inclusive and collaborative organizational cultures. 

Ana has a BA in Youth and Family Ministry and Psychology with a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis from Midland University in Fremont, NE and an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State. She has worked with individuals with disabilities at respite camps and in home, school, and center-based settings.

Emily received a master’s degree in applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State University. She began her career in Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention (EIDBI) in May 2022, providing in-home services before joining The READY Clinic later that year. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, being outdoors, being active, and has recently taken up golf. 

Emily has a degree in Elementary Education and K-12 Special Education from the University of South Dakota and has a MN teaching license in K-12 Developmental Disabilities. She has a MA in Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis from Arizona State University. Emily has worked with children and adults with various disabilities and support needs in residential, educational, and clinical settings.

Michelle is a licensed professional clinical counselor, as well as a licensed school counselor. Michelle obtained her undergraduate degree in psychology from Iowa State University and her graduate degrees from St. Cloud State in Community Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy and School Counseling. Michelle has worked with children ages 3-18 years old providing in-home therapy and outpatient therapy since 2008. She has a specialized interest and background in evaluation and early intervention for children with autism spectrum disorders, behavioral disorders, anxiety and depression disorders and ADHD.

Caroline is a child clinical psychologist specializing in early childhood mental health and development. She obtained her doctorate in psychology from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology in the Twin Cities. She has worked with children from age 2 through adolescence conducting assessments and intervention services, including applied behavioral analysis. She has a specialized interest and background in evaluation and intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorders.