Our Team

Kara Welke

CEO/Founder, OTR/L, CLT, Skills2Care, PWR

Kara founded Home Therapy Solutions in Grand Forks to offer quality, personalized care in clients’ homes, aiming to keep people independent and healthy as they age. Unlike traditional healthcare, which often overlooks caregivers, her approach includes both clients and their caregivers for better outcomes. Recognizing the value of local resources, her company emphasizes collaboration and connects clients with community support. Home Therapy Solutions prioritizes client needs over productivity and profit, ensuring therapy is conducted in their natural environments for optimal independence.

Nicole Krostue

Occupational Therapist, Therapy Manager

Nicole Krostue has been an occupational therapist for Home Therapy Solutions since August 2021 and the therapy manager since April 2022. Prior to this, she worked for 9 years in a skilled nursing facility with older adults who experienced a variety of illnesses/disabilities. She received her Masters of Occupational Therapy degree at the University of North Dakota. Nicole is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and is certified in Skills2Care ® programming for clients with dementia and their caregivers. She also has prior training in Dementia Capable Care and is currently working on becoming a Falls Prevention Specialist. Nicole enjoys working with older adults, or clients of any age, for healthy aging methods. She also enjoys hearing the life lessons that the various clients have to share while teaching them current strategies to stay independent and in their homes. Growing up on a farm in rural MN, Nicole appreciates the value of legacy and sustainability through generations. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and going to the lake. Her 4 children, and spouse, keep her on her toes. Her favorite saying is “If there is a will, there is a way.” because part of being an OT is coming up with ideas that are sometimes “out of the box” in order to get clients back to doing what they need or want to do.

Tricia Reimann

Physical Therapist
Pelvic Health Manager

Tricia primarily practices in outpatient orthopedics. Over the past several years, she has discovered a profound passion for women’s health and pelvic floor physical therapy. Tricia graduated from the University of North Dakota with her doctoral degree in 2014 and holds certifications in Astym and dry needling. Specializing in women’s health and pelvic floor therapy, she guides women through pregnancy, postpartum journeys, and addresses issues such as stress incontinence, urge incontinence, pelvic pain, constipation, painful intercourse, and pelvic pain. Tricia finds fulfillment in helping women with issues often dismissed as “normal” or something they must endure for life. Beyond the clinic, she relishes spending time with her husband and two sons, engaging in various workouts including lifting, running, and spinning. Tricia also enjoys the outdoors, frequently visiting the lake for activities like hiking, camping, and canoeing.

Emily Henneman

Physical Therapist

Emily completed her clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) at the University of Minnesota. She earned board certification as a Geriatric Clinical Specialist (American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties) in 2021 and was certified as an Exercise Expert for the Aging Adult (CEEAA) from the Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy in 2022. Emily has many years of experience and has worked with patients across the lifespan, emphasizing her passion for working with the older adult population.

Mandy Williamson

Physical Therapist

Mandy Williamson graduated from the University of North Dakota with a doctorate in physical therapy. She also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Nutrition and enjoys integrating her nutrition knowledge into her physical therapy practice when able, to help support the overall wellness of her clients. Mandy has a wide variety of interest areas including pediatrics, women’s pelvic health, geriatrics, and the sport/fitness athlete population. Her goal is to provide individualized, evidence-based care that is both purposeful and meaningful for individuals across the lifespan. She is certified as an LSVT BIG provider for individuals with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s, MS, CP, and DS, and holds a Level 1 HawkGrips certification, which enhances her ability to use instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization techniques in treatment. During her graduate training, Mandy took additional electives in pediatrics, pelvic health, and movement assessment to further develop her clinical expertise, and she remains committed to lifelong learning through continuing education and other opportunities to grow her knowledge and skills to best serve her patients. Mandy’s interest in the field of physical therapy began when she received PT to treat injuries she experienced as a middle and high school athlete. She was drawn to the profession not only because she enjoys learning how our bodies are designed to move, but also because of the profound impact she can have on her patients’ lives. She values getting to know each one of her patients and is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care that allows individuals to reach their goals and progress toward a healthier future. A native of Grand Forks, ND, Mandy enjoys running, lifting weights, being active outdoors, cooking, and baking a variety of meals and treats for her family and friends.

Hannah Belquist

Physical Therapist

Stephanie Barstad

Physical Therapist

Stephanie graduated from UND with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2008. She specializes in dementia care and orthopedics. Her journey into physical therapy began in high school when she underwent knee surgery, which sparked her passion for understanding the interconnectedness of the human body and its healing processes. Stephanie finds joy in deciphering how to aid in the body’s recovery. Outside of work, she cherishes spending time with her husband, two children, and their lab. Her hobbies include running, biking, gardening, and reading. A mantra she frequently shares with family, friends, and clients is, “Our bodies were meant to move,” encouraging everyone to prioritize movement for overall well-being.

Kirby Capp

Physical Therapist

Kirby graduated from the University of Mary in 2009. Her areas of specialty include orthopedics, geriatrics, and neurology. When she is not at work, Kirby enjoys attending all her kiddo’s activities.

Madysen Rehovsky

Physical Therapist

Madysen Rehovsky graduated from the University of North Dakota in 2022 with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and has been practicing since. She particularly enjoys working with pelvic health patients, both men and women. She treats conditions such as hip and low back pain, urinary incontinence, constipation, pelvic pain, pregnancy and postpartum, prolapse, and post-prostate symptoms. She also enjoys treating other orthopedic conditions as well. Madysen has taken multiple hours of continuing education to help gain valuable knowledge and skills to better serve her patients. Courses include Herman & Wallace Pelvic Health Levels 1 and 2A, Herman & Wallace Rehabilitative Ultrasound for Pelvic Conditions, Herman & Wallace Mobilization of Visceral Fascia, and the Grey Institute’s Certification in Applied Functional Science. She is also certified in Level 1 Dry Needling. Madysen was inspired to become a physical therapist when she would accompany her younger sister to medical appointments, with PT being the most fun to watch and participate in. She enjoys being able to help people maximize their mobility and function to help them feel their best. In her free time, Madysen enjoys golfing, exercising, playing pickleball, going to the lake, reading, and spending time with her family and friends. She lives by the quote, “It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop.”

Adam Pietruszewski

Physical Therapist Assistant

Adam grew up in East Grand Forks and graduated from Sacred Heart High School, where he actively participated in football, basketball, and baseball. Adam has been practicing as a PTA with Home Therapy Solutions as of 2024. He spent the first 5+ years of his career working at a transitional and long-term care facility in the Twin Cities. Adam’s decision to pursue physical therapy stems from his fascination with working with the body and his passion for assisting others in becoming better and stronger to enhance their quality of life and happiness. He firmly believes in making therapy a fun and enjoyable experience. Beyond his professional endeavors, Adam finds joy in watching and attending sporting events, visiting the lake, and trying new foods.

Greta Haslekaas

Physical Therapist Assistant

Greta graduated from Northland Community and Technical College in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, in the spring of 2023. Shortly after, she began working for Home Therapy Solutions in August of the same year. Greta finds immense joy in meeting new people, fostering rapport, and exchanging jokes with one another. She firmly believes in the healing power of laughter. During the summer months, Greta enjoys golfing and grilling, while in the winter, she indulges in her passion for snowboarding.

Tamara McClintock

Physical Therapist Assistant

Tamara received her Physical Therapist Assistant degree in 2013 and has been practicing in various settings ever since. She has developed a particular affinity for the outpatient setting, where she has concentrated her ongoing education and expertise. Tamara’s passion lies in orthopedics, women’s health, and chronic pain management. Prior to pursuing physical therapy, she worked as a Fitness Trainer and found fulfillment in alleviating people’s pain and enhancing their well-being. This rewarding experience steered her towards a career in physical therapy, which continues to bring her daily happiness. Tamara is deeply committed to supporting women through life’s transitions and challenges. She is Tai Chi certified and holds a specialization as a Therapeutic Pain Specialist. Currently, she is engaged in several projects, including a 200-hour Yoga Teacher training, a Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist course, and Pilates Reformer training.

In her leisure time, Tamara revels in outdoor activities such as walking, biking, snowshoeing, skiing, and enjoying bonfires. She frequents the gym and hot yoga studio and finds solace in reading and painting. In her dreams, Tamara envisions owning a horse ranch while also residing on a tropical beach.

Amanda Vingelen

Occupational Therapist

Amanda Vingelen has been an occupational therapist for Home Therapy Solutions since July 2022. Before this, she worked for 9 years in a location that allowed her to expand her skills in a variety of settings including outpatient, skilled nursing, and home therapy services for individuals ranging from 3 years of age to 100+. She has experience with a wide variety of illnesses/disabilities. She received her Master of Occupational Therapy degree at the University of North Dakota. Amanda is also a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. Amanda greatly enjoys working with the adult population in their home environments to help them achieve their maximal functional potential. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her daughter and remaining active.

Janaye St. Michel

Occupational Therapist

Janaye has held a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of North Dakota since 2013.  Her certifications include being a Certified Lymphedema Therapist and LSVT BIG Certified. Janaye’s areas of specialization encompass lymphedema, Parkinson’s disease, hand therapy, and pelvic health, with a particular emphasis on women’s health. Her passion for aiding individuals in achieving success and returning to their beloved activities motivated her to pursue a career in occupational therapy (OT). Janaye was drawn to the holistic approach of OT and the field’s diversity, which offers a wide array of areas to work in and a diverse clientele to serve.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Janaye is an enthusiastic traveler, exploring destinations both within the US and internationally. She harbors a keen interest in culinary experiences, delighting in trying new foods and drinks wherever she ventures. Janaye is married and a mother to two little girls, as well as a proud owner of a Bernese mountain dog. Family time holds immense value for her, and she relishes cooking, baking, and crafting specialty cakes and cupcakes. Born and raised in Grand Forks, Janaye recently returned to the community following her husband’s job, further deepening her connection to the local area and its people.

Sarah Smaaladen

Occupational Therapist

Sarah attended the University of North Dakota, where she was part of the first cohort to graduate with a Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy. She began her career in pediatrics before transitioning to working with older adults in their homes at Home Therapy Solutions. Sarah’s passion lies in assisting individuals to remain safely at home for as long as possible. She particularly enjoys working with individuals with dementia and their caregivers, holding certification as a Skills2Care practitioner. Outside of her professional pursuits, Sarah finds joy in walking her dogs and supporting UND sports. She also indulges in crafting and sewing, skills that prove valuable when creating home modifications for various clients.

Inspirational words from Maya Angelou resonate deeply with Sarah: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Tammy Olson

Occupational Therapist Assistant

Tammy has been practicing as an Occupational Therapy Assistant for many years after graduating from the first class at Northwest Technical College in EGF, MN. She has worked in various areas in the local school systems, outpatient pediatrics, long-term care, home health, and acute and swing beds in northern Minnesota and eastern ND. Tammy loves working with clients in their own homes to help maximize and individualize each person’s independence and quality of life. In 2014 she was North Dakota COTA/L of the Year nominated by peers. Outside of work, she likes to spend time with her adult kids and 6 grandkids. She also enjoys her time scrapbooking, biking, flower gardening, water aerobics, and being outdoors.

Jada Welke

CNA

Jada Welke is an Occupational Therapy student at the University of North Dakota. Alongside her studies, she works as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) for Home Therapy Solutions and is a Qualified Service Provider for the state of North Dakota. Jada is actively involved in the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) and serves as the Vice President of the Pi Theta Epsilon (PTE) honor society chapter at UND. Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Jada enjoys traveling, playing intramural sports, exercising, attending concerts, and spending quality time with her friends and family.

Kylee Blankespoor

Business Manager

With a unique background in government and business communication, I have been a part of the Home Therapy Solutions for the past five years. Although my expertise does not lie in occupational or physical therapy, I focus on supporting our team behind the scenes. I find great satisfaction in watching our therapists progress and thrive. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, watching sports, and sneaking in a nap when I can!

Jasmine Welke

CNA

Jasmine Welke is a Nursing student at the University of North Dakota. Alongside her studies, she works as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) for Home Therapy Solutions and is a Qualified Service Provider for the state of North Dakota. Jasmine enjoys traveling, yoga, thrift store shopping, and creative media such as painting/decorating and spending time with her friends and family.