(608) 400-9070
Meet the Team
Our agency comprises a team of CCS certified and seasoned mental health professionals committed to assisting you in understanding and managing your mental health complexities.
Founder, Director & CCS Service Facilitator
Jennifer Brown, CAPSW
Jennifer Brown earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work, with a minor in Social Policy, from University of Wisconsin–Whitewater in 2015 after returning to college following a career transition. She later obtained her Master of Social Work degree through the Health and Aging Program at the Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work in 2018. Jennifer originally began her studies in psychology at University of Wisconsin–Stout before stepping away from higher education to build her professional career.
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Prior to entering the field of social work, Jennifer worked extensively in accounting and finance within the agricultural industry. In 2012, she made the decision to pursue a career focused on community support and mental health services. Following graduation, she spent eight years serving older adults throughout the Madison and Monona communities, gaining extensive experience in care coordination, advocacy, and community-based support services.
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Jennifer founded Caring Connection LLC with the goal of creating a more compassionate, person-centered approach to community mental health services. She recognized the need for providers to have the time, flexibility, and support necessary to build meaningful relationships with clients while helping individuals achieve greater independence, stability, and recovery within their communities. Her vision for the agency centers on providing high-quality, ethical, and individualized care while fostering a supportive environment for both clients and staff.
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Born and raised in Whitewater, Wisconsin, Jennifer developed a strong work ethic through her upbringing on her family’s farm. She and her husband currently reside in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, where she enjoys gardening, outdoor activities, creative projects, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Accounting & HR Manager
Deb Temerbekova
Deb brings a wealth of experience and a positive, can-do attitude that perfectly aligns with our commitment to excellence in providing compassionate care and support. As our Administrative Support Specialist, she will be an integral part of our team, ensuring smooth operations and contributing to the overall success of Caring Connection.
Clinical Services Manager
Larry Kahl, MSED, LPC, CSAC, ICS, FACHE
Education
Larry earned his Bachelor of Business degree from Iowa State University, majoring in Business and minoring in Psychology. He later pursued a Master of Education in Counseling and Guidance at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. His passion for the program led him to teach within it for 10 years. Larry also served as an adjunct faculty member at Grays Harbor College in Aberdeen, Washington.
Work Experience
Larry has extensive experience in behavioral health, working across public and private systems with diverse populations, including adults, adolescents, children, families, and the elderly. His roles have spanned outpatient, residential, and hospital-based inpatient programs.
In addition to clinical work, Larry has consulted businesses and government organizations on behavioral health matters and played an active role in advocating for legislative changes within the field.
Larry’s leadership journey began in 1990 as the director of a clinical unit, and he has since excelled in various leadership roles. As a program development specialist, he has implemented numerous revenue-generating departments and service lines. Notably, he successfully turned around two struggling organizations, returning them to profitability and stability within two years.
In healthcare leadership, Larry progressed from VP of Support Services to VP of Operations and ultimately Chief Operating Officer (COO). As COO of a community hospital, he led his team to achieve top quartile efficiency in operations.
Public Speaking
Larry has delivered over 2,000 presentations to more than 180,000 individuals since 1985. He has spoken at national conferences, including in Washington D.C., as well as at regional and local events. His audience sizes have ranged from small groups to large gatherings of 300 people. Larry has also appeared on live radio and TV formats.
Additionally, he has consulted schools and colleges in the Midwest on addiction issues and their impact on school operations. His expertise extends to consulting businesses, where he developed an Employee Assistance Program and designed an Occupational Health program.
Awards and Certifications
Larry is recognized as a respected practitioner in the behavioral health field, holding state, national, and international addiction counseling credentials. He is a licensed professional counselor and a certified Independent Clinical Supervisor.
Transitioning into healthcare leadership, Larry became a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE), achieving board certification in Healthcare Leadership. His work was acknowledged in 2009 when his team was recognized as the Top Leading Team in Healthcare by Healthcare Magazine.
Larry's most recent leadership role was as COO of Nebraska's Department of Health and Human Services (5,000 employees and a $6.5 billion budget). Now "mostly retired," Larry dedicates time to supporting clients of Caring Connection in Dane County, Wisconsin.
CCS Service Facilitator & ISDE
Megan Kulinski, CSW
Megan is a certified social worker with five years of experience in the field. She holds a bachelor's degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and has a strong background in case management and supporting older adults. Megan is committed to a strengths-based approach in her practice, recognizing that each individual has unique strengths that can enhance their mental well-being. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and their Goldendoodle.
CCS Service Facilitator & ISDE
Tracey Yang
Tracey Yang is a dedicated CCS Service Facilitator and ISDE provider with a strong passion for community service with five years of experience in the field, particularly within the Hmong community. She is committed to fostering meaningful connections and addressing the community's unique needs. Tracey tirelessly works to provide support and resources that empower individuals and families. Her experience and cultural understanding enable her to advocate effectively for those she serves, positively impacting their lives. Tracey is passionate about helping and serving the community and constantly strives to learn and grow. She is a detail-oriented, analytical, and innovative individual committed to delivering excellent results. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends.
CCS Service Facilitator & ISDE
Lisa Siegel, MS
Lisa Siegel completed her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, with a bachelor of science in Sociology. She earned her post-graduate degree from the University of Wisconsin - Platteville, with a master of science in Criminal Justice. Lisa has 12 years experience working in the Corrections field, six of those years as a Probation Officer helping individuals navigate the criminal justice system, or life after incarceration. She also has four years experience working as a Case Manager in Family Care long term care, helping to connect clients to care and resources in the community. Lisa has experience working with individuals from a wide array of backgrounds and experiences at all stages in their lives. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, the outdoors, playing sports, trying new experiences, and meeting new people.
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CCS ISDE Provider
Judy Gump, MA
A Wisconsin native, Judy has spent most of her adult life working with Madison’s youth. She graduated from UW - Madison with a degree in Secondary Education and began working in the Madison Metropolitan School District in 1995 as a secondary English teacher. She earned her master’s degree in 2000 and worked continuously as a high school English teacher until June of 2024, spending eighteen years at Memorial High School and eleven years at East High School. In her time in the high schools, she was the founding advisor for Memorial’s Gay/Straight Alliance and was awarded the 2001 Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network Wisconsin Educator Award. In 2002, she was awarded the Memorial High School Senior Teacher Award and was inducted as an honorary member of the National Honor Society in 2024. She has worked extensively with students with Individual Education Plans and has striven to be compassionate and respectful in her approach to students, families, and colleagues.
While work has always been important, Judy strives for balance in her life. She has volunteered at Three Gaits Therapeutic Horsemanship, helping out with the therapeutic riding lessons and leasing two of her horses to the program. She spends time with her significant other and her large extended family, and enjoys her dogs, the eight chickens that live in the backyard, and tending to her garden.
CCS Service Facilitator
Alexandrea Jones
Alexandrea Jones is an experienced school counselor, educator, and multimedia content creator. With a Master’s in Clinical Counseling in progress and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from UW-Madison, Alexandrea is passionate about supporting people's mental health and personal development.
Beyond the education and mental health field, she is a skilled videographer and photographer, collaborating with organizations such as UW-Madison Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin, and Anesis Family Therapy Center. As a YouTube content creator and award-winning entrepreneur, Alexandrea specializes in promoting emotional and spiritual wellness through creative digital media.
CCS Service Facilitator
Terra Allen BS
Terra brings over 20 years of experience in leadership roles, having supported teams across a wide range of fields, including education and the U.S. Army. As the Director of an Academic Learning Center, she focused on creating personalized support plans and fostering partnerships with families and the community to make a lasting impact. Her experience in the Army Reserves has honed her abilities in crisis intervention, team management, and supporting individuals in challenging situations.
In addition to her professional experience, Terra is a dedicated community leader and pastor's wife. Her primary role is to lift and support the community through service. A servant leader with a servant’s heart, she is passionate about uplifting the least, the lost, and the left out. Terra thrives in environments where she can work with a team committed to making meaningful progress. She is excited about the opportunity to bring her skills and experience to Caring Connection.
Service Facilitator & ISDE Provider
Housing Specialist
Jodi Evans, BSW
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Upper Iowa University and have over a decade of experience in mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness services. My career began in group homes, where I assisted men with mental health challenges in developing independent living skills and securing stable housing. I also spent three years as a caregiver in an independent living community, supporting residents in their daily lives. Later, I transitioned to working with elderly clients, helping them manage benefits, avoid homelessness, and regain independence. I am a dedicated professional with extensive experience assisting individuals with mental health challenges. My expertise includes supporting clients in securing housing, developing job skills, finding meaningful employment, managing finances, and organizing their living spaces. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve greater independence and stability, tailoring my approach to meet each person's unique needs and goals.
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Areas of Focus: Housing
CCS Service Facilitator
Brittny Retzlaff
Brittny has several years of experience in supporting individuals with varied needs. She is passionate about creating a positive, supportive, & unique environment for growth. Brittny’s approach is person-centered, focusing on each individual’s strengths and unique goals. She believes in building trusting relationships & working alongside clients to help them thrive. Brittny also specializes in crisis prevention & emotional regulation and coping skills development. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active by participating in a co-ed soccer team and snowboarding in the winter. She also likes to spend time at home with her two cats and husband.
Education & Certifications: Bachelors Degree majoring in Psychology from Ripon College. Certified Community-Based Residential Facility (CBRF) Instructor. Brittny is currently pursuing her Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University.
CCS Service Facilitator
Isabelle Brotz
Isabelle began her career working in a high-aquity CBRF supporting individuals with diverse needs. This shaped her passion for advocacy and working with vulnerable populations. Her approach is person-centered and strengths-based, focusing on building trust, supporting emotional regulation, and helping individuals navigate systems and access resources. She has experience supporting individuals with developmental and communication needs as well as providing provocation services to support employment and independence. Isabelle strives to create a supportive and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and capable of growth. Outside of work Isabelle rescues and cares for her 5 cates and enjoys spending time outdoors with her daughter.
Education & Certifications: Bachelor's Degree from the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh. Certified in Community-Based Residential Facility (CBRF). SAFE/TSAFE Trained. Isabelle's education background includes training in trauma-informed care, evidence based practice, and culturally responsive practice.
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Areas of Focus: Mental Health Support, Culturally Responsive Care, LGBTQIA+, IDLS/IADLs, Prevocational Support & Employment Readiness, and Children, Family Support, & Parenting Resources.
CCS Service Facilitator
Meredith Lindeman
Meredith has focused her career before Caring Connection working with children with autism doing intensive one-on-one ABA therapy. Meredith practices person-centered care with an emphasis on authenticity, communication, and trust. She is passionate about making people feel cared for and getting them the help they need. She has also worked locally with The Beacon on a project supporting homeless advocacy focusing on connecting guest to and navigate services. Outside of social services, Meredith has also done various forms of English tutoring and taught English-language classes to those who are learning English as a second language. Outside of work, Meredith likes to unwind by playing video games, figure skating, trying new foods and reading.
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Education & Certifications: Bachelor's of Art from the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in Psychology and Linguistics. Meredith is also certified in teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
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Areas of Focus: ASD, ADHD, Neurodivergence, OCD, Culturally Responsive Care, & LGBTQIA+.
Psychoeducation Graduate Intern
Corrina Fuller, BS
Corrina Fuller earned her B.S. in Psychology
from UW–La Crosse and is currently
pursuing her Master of Social Work at
Arizona State University (expected
December 2026). She brings 5+ years of
experience in community mental health
and a background in ABA therapy with
youth on the autism spectrum.
Corrina uses a compassionate, strength-
based, and client-centered approach,
creating a space where individuals feel
heard, respected, and empowered. She is
committed to cultural competency and
provides LGBTQIA+ affirming, inclusive
care.
Outside of work, Corrina enjoys traveling,
board games, pickleball, the outdoors, and
time with her husband and two dogs.
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Education & Certifications: Bachelors Degree majoring in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin- La Crosse. Corrina is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree from Arizona State University
Client Services Specialist
Stephanie Brandsma, MSW
Stephanie is a certified Client Rights Specialist through the State of Wisconsin. At Caring Connection, she works with clients with issues related to their rights and grievances.
Stephanie has worked with older adults for over a decade. She has developed and led several programs focused on mental fitness and health for the community, having even coordinated a research study for Alzheimer's and other Dementias. After finishing her Masters degree, Stephanie spent two years traveling around the United States with her husband and dog, while living and working out of their camper. Now she is happily back in Wisconsin full-time.
Education & Certifications: Stephanie earned her Masters of Social Work (MSW) focusing on Aging, Health, and Policy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She also attended UW-Madison for her undergraduate studies in Social Welfare and Gerontology.
Fostering a Caring Connection: "Our mission is to provide compassionate support, understanding, and personalized care, empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges with dignity and resilience."
Partnerships
Comprehensive Community Services
The Dane County Department of Human Services
Compressive Community Services (CCS) program "is a voluntary, community-based program."
For additional information click here.
