Our Providers

Our team of highly qualified and dedicated providers are here to care for you and your family at every stage of life. You can expect that our board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners, mental health providers, dentists, dietitians, optometrists and pharmacists will provide excellent care with dignity, respect and compassion. Our team will work with you to create a treatment plan for your unique needs.

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Family Medicine

Adepalli, Amanda MD

Education:  Wright State University Bachelor’s of science in Biology; Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine;
Residency: Saint Joseph RMC Family Medicine, Global Health Track

Professional Background: Community Preceptor at Grant Family Medicine Residency, Columbus; Hallmark Health Malden, MA Family Medicine/OB

Personal Statement: I truly enjoy building relationships with patients and providing ongoing continuity of care. It is a privilege to walk with people through each stage of their lives and health, working together and learning from them even as I endeavor to provide them with quality care.

Patients seen at the Health Center.

Pharmacy

Ahler, John RPh

Pharmacy Director

Education: Ohio Northern University College of Pharmacy, Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy

Professional Background: CVS/Pharmacy, Medco Health Solutions, Director of Pharmacy Operations

Personal Statement:  I want to give back to the community and to the pharmacy profession that allows me to serve people from all walks of life.

 

Family Medicine

Barnhart, Karen ANP

Education: Sinclair Community College, Associate of Applied Science in Nursing; Indiana Wesleyan University, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Wright State University, Master of Science in Nursing; The Ohio State University, Nurse Practitioner Degree

Personal Statement:  I enjoy caring for the underserved and underinsured.

Patients seen at Health Center.

Family Medicine

Beceiro-Casas, Susana PhD, MS, APRN, FNP-C

Education: Doctor in Veterinary Medicine, ULPGC (Spain); PhD in Immunology, ULPGC, Spain; Master of Science in Family Nursing, The Ohio State University; Family Nurse Practitioner Residency, Mount Carmel College of Nursing and Lower Lights.

Professional Background: Graduate Research Fellow, ULPGC (Spain); Postdoctoral Researcher, Nationwide Children’s Hospital; Research Scientist, OSU; General Internal Medicine Registered Nurse, OSU; Family Nurse Practitioner, Lower Lights; Ophthalmology Nurse Practitioner, OSU.

Personal Statement: I am thankful to be part of a team who is truly involved in serving the community in need. I am originally from Spain and I love providing care to the Spanish speaking community. I am very honored to support and guide my patients in the journey to achieve their wellness goals.

Patients seen at Health Center.

Family Medicine

Bock, Alan MD

Education: The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine; Self Regional Family Medicine Residency.

Professional Background: Family Medicine Physician at Christ Community Health Services and Residency Faculty at Resurrection Health Family Medicine Residency in Memphis, TN; Founder, Instructor of Continuing Medical Education Center in North Africa.

Personal Statement: I am passionate to engage and empower patients, families, and the community to attain wholeness and restoration of health – physically, emotionally and spiritually. 

Patients seen at Cooper Road (Westerville) and German Village.

Psychiatry

Bodamer, Emily MSN, APRN-CNP, PMHNP-BC

Education: The Ohio State University: Master of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. Kent State University: Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Board Certification:
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Professional Background: RWJBarnabas Health (Newark, NJ): Psychiatric Registered Nurse; Cleveland Clinic: Psychiatric Registered Nurse.

Personal Statement:I consider it a privilege to partner with patients on their personal mental health care journey. My aim is that every patient feels safe, heard, and empowered to make their healthcare decisions. 

Patients seen at Franklinton Central, German Village, and Marysville.

Family Medicine

Boone, Brittany CNP

Education: Chamberlain University, Masters in Nursing. Kent State University, Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Akron University, Biology.

Awards/Certifications: AANP Family NP certified; Sigma Theta Tau, Phi Pi Chapter; OAAPN Member

Professional Background: Family Nurse Practitioner for COPC/Vera Primary Care, Observation/Internal Medicine Nurse Practitioner at University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center, UH Interventional Radiology/Cath lab RN, Cleveland Clinic Heart/Lung Transplant ICU RN.

Areas of Interest: Alternative Medicine, Cardiovascular Health, Women’s Health, Postpartum Mental Health

Personal Statement: I am looking forward to caring for a diverse patient population in Central Ohio and giving back to those who need it most. “It is health that is real wealth…” Gandhi said, and I look forward to helping my patients discover, learn, and want to stay accountable for their own health journey despite all the barriers and challenges they face. I grew up low income in Northeast Ohio, and am aware of the struggles to maintain a healthy lifestyle on a budget. My goal is to be a provider you can trust, that hears you and meets you where you are. Though my nursing background is mostly cardiology-based, I’ve found my niche is in primary care where I can educate my patients, help them manage their chronic disease, and prevent unnecessary hospitalizations. I have worked as a caregiver or in a healthcare capacity for the last 18 years, from nursing homes to inpatient ICU and now ambulatory care.

Patients seen at Health Center.

Family Medicine

Boudouris, John MS, CNP, MPH

Education:  The Ohio State University, Master of Science in Nursing, Master of Public Health, Bachelor of Science in Zoology

Professional Background: Ohio Living Nurse Practitioner, Ohio Health Registered Nurse, Ohio Department of Health Epidemiology Investigator

Personal Statement: I aim to help patients determine their health goals and to support their efforts in achieving them.

Patients seen at German Village and Linden.

Family Medicine

Burnfield, Crystal MSN, APRN, CNP

Education: Taylor University, Bachelor’s in Psychology.  The Ohio State University College of Public Health, Master’s in Public Health.  The Ohio State University College of Nursing, Master’s in Nursing

Memberships:  American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Nurses Association (ANA)

Professional Background: I have more than 15 years of experience in healthcare. Most recently as an Adult Nurse Practitioner here at LLCHC.

Personal Statement:  I enjoy walking with others on their healthcare journey, partnering together to improve overall health and wellness.

Patients seen at the Health Center and Cooper Road (Westerville).

Family Medicine

Butler, Delica CNP

Education: Clark State Community College, Associate’s Degree in Nursing. Chamberlain College of Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Walden University, Master of Science in Nursing

Professional Background: I have over 14 years of healthcare experience and worked for seven years as a nurse practitioner in the settings of Pain Management, Internal Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, and Regenerative Medicine.

Patients seen at the Health Center.

Birth and Postpartum Doula

Chapman, Calista CBD

Education: Childbirth International; Kent State University College of Public Health with minor in Women’s Health.

Professional Background: Families Nest Doula Services, Lower Lights Christian Health Center Birth Doula

Personal Statement:  It is my honor to serve such a diverse community. I will continue to educate and support the growing population in every way I can.

Patients seen at Health Center.

Dentistry

Crockett-Miller, Heather DDS, MPH

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Whitman College; Doctor of Dental Surgery from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry; Master’s in Public Health at the Yale School of Public Health

Awards: “Outstanding Commitment to Community” Award, Clinical Excellence Day Award and was recognized by the American Association of Women Dentists for her “Academic Excellence and Outstanding Leadership, ” and named one of America’s Top 40 Dentists Under 40 in 2016.

Memberships: American Dental Association, Ohio Dental Association, Columbus Dental Society, National Network for Oral Health Access (NNOHA)

Professional Background: General Practice Residency at Miami Valley Hospital, externship with the Connecticut Dept. of Public Health, Head Start Program Coordinator for the “Every Smile Counts” Oral Health Surveillance program, Chief Dental Officer for Connecticut-based Community Health Center, Inc., faculty appointment at the University of Connecticut School of Dentistry, Director of Dental Services at Equitas Health.

Associations: Dr. Crockett is a graduate of the Connecticut Health Foundation’s Leadership Fellowship program and The National Oral Health Learning Institute

Personal Statement:  I have been blessed with an exceptional education, technical skills, and a diverse complement of professional experiences. It is my goal to use these gifts not only for disease prevention and treatment, but also to spiritually uplift and serve the community.

Dental Clinic is located at the Health Center.

 

Counseling

Crotty, Mayra MSW, LISW-S

Education:  The Ohio State University, Bachelor of Science in Psychology; Master of Social Work.

Professional Background: The Buckeye Ranch; Netcare Access, The Wexner Medical Center at OSU.

Areas of Interest:  Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Recovery

Personal Statement:  I am grateful to work with an organization deeply involved in serving under-served communities through a Holistic approach. Helping the people we work with to identify, and utilize their own strengths in their healing process is humbling yet empowering.  

Patients seen at Health Center.

Vision Services

Davis, Jacqueline OD, MPH, FAAO, Diplomate

Education: 

  • Doctor of Optometry, The Ohio State University College of Optometry
  • Master of Public Health, The Ohio State University
  • Bachelor of Science in Biology, Central State University


Distinctions:

  • Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO)
  • Diplomate of the American Academy of Optometry


Honors and Awards: 

  • 2023 NOA optometrist of the year
  • 2016 Optometric Educator of the Year, American Optometric Association, –
  • 2009 Student Project Award, Vision Care Section of the American Public Health Association


Professional Background: 
Jacqueline Davis (private practice), Owner; ECCO Family Health Center, Vision Director; The Ohio State University College of Optometry, Professor

Personal Statement:  I believe that there is a strong need for quality vision care services in this community. LLCHC patients are always warm and receptive to our services. My students from The OSU College of Optometry gain valuable experience from their interactions with LLCHC patients.

Patients seen in Vision Clinic at Health Center.

Family Medicine

Degutis, Ashley MSN-FNP

Education:   Walden University, Minneapolis, MN, Master of Science, Family Nurse Practitioner Program; University of Rio Grande, Rio Grande, OH, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Associate of Science in Nursing.

Professional Background:   Nurse Practitioner, Concentra Urgent Care On-site APRN; Center Street Community Health Center, Marion, OH; ECI Healthcare Partners; Jackson Urgent Care, Jackson, OH; RN Holzer Health Systems, Jackson, OH.

Personal Statement:  Hello! I am excited to be a part of Lower Lights. I love learning, and strive to listen. I look forward to meeting you, to work beside you on your health journey.

Patients seen at German Village.

Nutrition

Dilaveris, Clarissa RD, LD, CLC

Education:   University of Kentucky, BS in Dietetics, Nutrition and Food Science Coordinated Program and Dietetic Internships (Lincoln Trail Heath Department, Hardin Memorial Hospital)

Professional Background:   Baylor St. Lukes’s McNair/Sodexo; Nationwide Children’s Hospital, United States Peace Corps

Patients seen at Health Center.

Family Medicine

Dolph, Emanuel MD

Education:  MD, University of Toledo College of Medicine.  BA in Biology with minor in Biblical Studies, Cedarville University.

Professional Background:  Provider, Lower Lights Christian Health Center, 2015 to present; Residency, In His Image Family Medicine (Tulsa, OK)

Personal Statement:  I am grateful for the opportunity to bring hope, health and healing to the communities we serve.

Patients seen at Health Center and Franklinton Central.

Counseling

Eisert, Ryan MSW, LSW

Education: Mount Vernon Nazarene University, Bachelor of Arts in Social Work; University of Kentucky, Master of Social Work

Areas of Interest: Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Anger, Mindfulness, Identity Development, Substance Abuse, Meaning and Purpose

Personal Statement:  I am passionate about helping individuals rediscover their true and authentic selves. I work to connect with people and provide support through individualized interventions. I believe in cultivating creativity and laughter through music and art, and treating people with the respect and compassion they deserve.

Patients seen at Franklinton Central, Marysville, and Cooper Road in Westerville.

Counseling

Epting, Amanda MSW, LISW-S

Education: 

  • BA, Miami University, Oxford, OH
  • MA, Wheaton College, Wheaton, IL
  • MSW, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH

Areas of Interest:  Refugees and Immigrants, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety

Personal Statement:  My desire is to provide an integrative approach to behavioral health  with a combination of body-based modalities, behavioral therapies, and emotional healing work.

Patients seen at Health Center and Cooper Road in Westerville.

Family Medicine

Erb, Stephanie MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Education: Georgetown University, Masters of Science in Nursing with focus on Family Practice; The Ohio State University, Bachelors of Science in Nursing; Columbus State Community College, Associate of Applied Science, Nursing

Board Certification: Family Nurse Practitioner

Affiliations: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses (OAAPN), Emergency Nurses Association (ENA), American Nurses Association (ANA)

Areas of Interest: Immigrant Health, Cardiovascular Disease, and Emergency Medicine

Personal Statement:  I strive to provide patient centered holistic care that improves patient healthcare outcomes by allowing patients to be a part of their own healthcare team.

Patients seen at Health Center.

Counseling

Finnegan, Deborah LPC

Education:  Ohio Christian University, BA education; Liberty University, MA Professional Clinical Counseling.

Personal Statement:  After teaching elementary school for over 20 years, I obtained my masters degree in counseling.  I have spent four years working with women affected by addiction, trafficking and mental illness. I believe that we were created to connect and all are worthy of respect, dignity and love. I am excited to be connected with Lower Lights.

Patients seen at Franklinton Central.

Obstetrics

Gregg, Mary MS RN CNM

Education:   MS, BSN The Ohio State University; BA, University of Dayton

Professional Background:  Assistant Professor, Mount Carmel College of Nursing; Certified Nurse Midwife, Columbus Neighborhood Health Centers, Holly Barrows MD, Inc., Woman to Woman Midwifery Services; RN, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital & Research Institute; Volunteer, The United States Peace Corps, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Patients seen at the Health Center.

Family Medicine

Hampton, Hannah MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Education:  The Ohio State University: Bachelor of Science (Behavioral Neuroscience); Master of Science in Nursing (Family Practice)

Awards/Certifications: HRSA Nurse Corps Scholar, American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Board Certification, OSU Interprofessional Healthcare Academic Certification

Professional Background: Mount Carmel Family Nurse Practitioner Residency, Nationwide Children’s Primary Care Nursing

Personal Statement:  I love what I do as a Family Nurse Practitioner, especially working at Lower Lights.  I have the privilege of caring for a diverse community of patients of all ages both in family practice and as part of the refugee team.  I work every day to deliver compassionate, holistic, patient-centered care.  As the daughter of two teachers, my practice values good communication and patient education – teaching is very much “in my blood”.  And the best part of my job: the trusting partnerships I get to build with my patients, working together to improve their health and quality of life.

Patients seen at Franklinton Central and Cooper Road in Westerville (Refugee Program only at Cooper Road).

Psychiatry

Holesapple, Alexandra MSN, APRN-CNP, PMHNP-BC

Education: Columbus State Community College: Associate Degree in Nursing. The Ohio State University: Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Northern Kentucky University: Master of Science in Nursing.

Board Certification: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Professional Background: OhioHealth Critical Care Nursing Fellow. OhioHealth: Intensive care unit registered nurse. The Ohio State University: Advanced heart failure nurse.

Personal Statement: It is an honor to work with patients towards improving their mental health. My goal is to meet each patient where they are at and tailor their care to their own unique needs. My hope is to create a safe environment where patients feel they are seen and heard and we can walk side by side on their mental health journey.

Patients seen at Health Center, Linden, Newark and Cooper Road in Westerville.

Family Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Care

Johnson, Sarah DO

Education:  DO, Ohio University; MA, History of Art, The Ohio State University; BA, History of Art Major, Life Sciences Minor, The Ohio State University.
Fellowship, Hospice and Palliative Medicine
Fellowship, Geriatric Medicine, The Ohio State University
Residency, Family Medicine, Mount Carmel

Professional Experience:  Peer Reviewer, Journal of Palliative Medicine, OhioHealth; Acute Palliative Medicine Physician, Mount Carmel Health Systems; Clinical Instructor, Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

Personal Statement:  Dr. Johnson is particularly interested in public health, health equity, healthy aging, geriatric palliative care and medication assisted therapy for patients with substance use disorder

Patients seen at the Health Center.

Family Medicine

Jones, Lorena MSN, APRN, FNP-BC

Education:  Northern Illinois University School of Nursing, BS, RN; Lewis University, MSN, FNP

Memberships:  American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Nurses Association (ANA)

Professional Background:  Prior to working at LLCHC, I worked as a registered nurse since 2014 with clinical experience in both primary and acute care settings at: Ohio Health Intermediate Care Unit, Northwestern Memorial Hospital General Medicine Unit, Will Grundy Medical Clinic and Hobson Meadows Family Medicine.

Personal Statement:  I am excited to be joining the clinical team at Lower Lights Christian Health Center. As a Mexican American, I look forward to serving the Spanish speaking community, getting to know patients on an individual basis and working together to achieve optimum health goals.

Patients seen at Union Star in Marysville.

Counseling

Kennedy, Susan MS, LPCC-S

Education:   Hood College – BA;  Loyola College in Maryland -MS in Pastoral Counseling and Certificate of Advanced Study in Pastoral Counseling

Memberships:  Ohio Counseling Association; Association for Contextual Behavioral Science

Professional Background: Great Circle, Springfield, MO – Residential Treatment for Adolescents and Children; Maryhaven – Residential Treatment for Adolescents and Outpatient Treatment for Adolescents and Adults

Personal Statement:  I have the desire to be helpful to others in a Christlike manner.

Patients seen at the Health Center.

Family Medicine

Lauden, Stephanie MD

Chief Medical Officer

Education:  University of Rochester – BA;  Wright State’s Boonshoft School of Medicine – Doctor of Medicine

Memberships: Certificate of Knowledge in Tropical Medicine and Travelers’ Health (CTropMed) from the ASTMH and Certificate in Leadership Excellence in Management Development from Harvard University. Serves on the editorial board for Pediatrics in Review. Associate Professor of Pediatrics.

Professional Background: Program Director for Integrated Pediatric & Psychiatric Consultative Services at the University of Colorado’s Pediatric Mental Health Institute, Medical Director at Nationwide Children’s Behavioral Health Pavilion

Personal Statement: I am a passionate champion of equitable healthcare for vulnerable and underserved populations. I am an active member of a local church and enjoy spending time with my bernedoodle and daughter.

Patients seen at the Health Center.

Counseling

Londeree, Mark LPCC-S

Education: Cincinnati Christian University, Master of Arts in Counseling

Honors and Awards: National Certified Counselor Designation, National Board of Certified Counselors

Affiliations: EMDR Therapist

Areas of Interest: Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, PTSD, grief and loss, anger issues, relationship issues, adolescents and adults

Personal Statement:  During my training, I had a chance to interview some of the providers at Lower Lights, and found that I really identified with the mission and values of the organization and how its mission is carried out by each employee. I was grateful to have the opportunity to complete my training at Lower Lights, and was honored to be offered a position as a clinical counselor.

Patients seen at German Village.

Dentistry

López Deynes, Elenice DMD

Dental Director

Education: Bachelor of Science from University of Puerto Rico – Río Piedras; Doctor of Dental Medicine from University of Puerto Rico – Medical Sciences

Professional Background: General Practice Residency at The Ohio State University; Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Internship/Fellowship at University of Minnesota

Personal Statement:  I was born and raised in Puerto Rico and very proud of my Latino roots. I am excited and honored to be part of a team with a mission to provide access to health care to all who need it. I believe in preventative dental care and patient education to improve patient’s oral health. My goal is to guide patients into learning and understanding how oral health influences overall wellness.

Psychiatry

Mowry, Emily APRN-CNP, PMHNP-BC

Education: Mercy College of Northwest Ohio: Associate Degree in Nursing, The Ohio State University: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialty

Board certification: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Professional Background: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center – critical care RN, The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute – critical care/Intensive care unit, and triage RN

Personal Statement:  I believe that every individual has a unique mental health journey. My goal is to form a therapeutic partnership with each client, and their support system, to improve mental health outcomes.

Patients seen at the Health Center.

Internal Medicine

Nemer, Michelle MD

Education: Yale University Bachelor’s of Science in Biology; Washington University School of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine. Residency: Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Primary Care Track.

Professional Background: Fulbright Fellowship, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Chief Medical Resident, Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Instructor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School. Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Internal medicine outpatient and inpatient physician, residency preceptor, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio.

Personal Statement:  I love getting to know people and supporting them in their journey to wellness, whatever that means to them. I want my patients to feel understood, supported, and cared for as a whole person. I am Mexican-American, and I love serving the Latino community in Spanish. I am grateful to be joining the Lower Lights team to work towards the mission of high-quality, respectful, loving care for all.

Patients seen at the Health Center.

Counseling

O’Brien, Karen LISW-S

Director of Behavioral Health

Education: Kent State University, Bachelor of Arts in Social Work; Case Western Reserve, Master of Social Science Administration

Professional Background: The Ohio State University, College of Social Work Adjunct Faculty; Gladden Community House, Volunteer Program Coordinator and Developer; Central Ohio Youth for Christ, Volunteer Program Coordinator; Parents Encouraging Responsible Choice, Chair and Lead Facilitator

Personal Statement:  My heart is to serve the under-served and to be a pathway for healing. LLCHC provides a unique opportunity to provide quality services to all people. I have the daily privilege to be a witness to the growth patients make when they have access to whole person integrated care.

Patients seen at Health Center.

Vision Services

Osman, Mawada OD, MS, FAAO

Education:

  • Doctor of Optometry, The Ohio State University College of Optometry
  • Master of Science in Vision Science, The Ohio State University College of Optometry
  • Bachelor of Science in Biology; The Ohio State University


Distinctions:  

  • Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO)


Professional Background:

  • Residency trained at Cherry Health Clinic in Grand Rapids, MI. Assistant Clinical Professor and Director of Outreach at The OSU College of Optometry. Clinical provider at Lower Lights Christian Health Center and LSS Health Center.


Personal Statement:
  I am grateful for the opportunity to work amongst a team of providers who hold a shared passion for serving communities in need. Everyone deserves access to quality care and to be treated with compassion, respect and understanding. I enjoy working at a multidisciplinary clinic, meeting a diverse group of patients, and sharing this wonderful experience with my students from the OSU College of Optometry.

Patients seen in Vision Clinic at Health Center.

Family Medicine

Pfeifer, Kyle MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Education:  MSN, BSN Mount Carmel College of Nursing; BS in Biology, Ohio Dominican University

Professional Background: Family Nurse Practitioner, The Little Clinic; RN Pickerington Emergency Care Center/Grant Medical Center; RN, Mount Carmel East Emergency Department.

Personal Statement:  I am thankful for opportunities to utilize the gifts God has given me, to serve and meet the needs of other people.  As a family nurse practitioner, I implement a holistic, evidence-based approach to my practice.

Patients seen at Newark.

Vision Services

Amanda Ransdell OD, MS, FAAO

Education:

  • Doctor of Optometry, The Ohio State University College of Optometry
  • Master of Science in Vision Science, The Ohio State University College of Optometry
  • Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, University of Dayton


Distinctions:  
Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO)

Professional Background: Completed Advanced Practice Fellowship in Community Outreach at OSU. Clinical Associate Professor at OSU College of Optometry. Clinical provider at LLHC.

Personal Statement:  I am consistently thankful for the opportunity to see patients at Lower Lights. I love working alongside students and staff who just want to help people receive the care everyone needs and deserves. I appreciate all the improvements to the health center over the years and I’m excited to continue caring for the wide range of patients we are able to meet.

Patients seen in Vision Clinic at Health Center.

Vision Services

Jonathon Ross, OD, MS, FAAO

Education:

  • Doctor of Optometry, Southern California College of Optometry
  • Master of Science – Vision Science, Southern California College of Optometry
  • Bachelor of Science – Biology: Biomedical Science, La Sierra University


Distinctions:

  • Diplomate, American Board of Optometry
  • Fellow, American Academy of Optometry


Professional background:
To date, Dr. Ross’ career has focused on delivering patient care in both academic ophthalmology and optometry settings. He currently serves, as an Assistant Clinical Professor, at The Ohio State University College of Optometry.

Personal statement: Dr. Ross is a passionate eye care professional with a strong dedication to teaching and lifelong learning in the visual sciences. He is committed to addressing the multifaceted public health and policy issues impacting the diverse populace of Ohio and the United States.

Patients seen in Vision Clinic at Health Center.

Family Medicine

Rowe, Sue FNP

Education:  Mount Carmel College of Nursing, Masters of Science in Nursing

Personal Statement:  One of my favorite quotes is from Mother Teresa: “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.”

Patients seen through Clinical Outreach.

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Supervisor

Smith, Deborah LPCC-S

Education: Malone University. Liberty University.

Professional Background:  In the past I have worked in private practice, in the field of adoption and foster care, was the director of mental health for a substance abuse facility, and was the clinical supervisor for a youth residential.

Personal Statement:  I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals’ healing journey. Inspiring transformation and hope through client-centered methods to address mental health needs including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, grief, anger, communication, and many more. I am passionate about working in collaboration with individuals to build awareness of their resilience and strengths. I work with an integrated team of professionals at Lower Lights to meet the holistic needs of the individual.

Patients seen at Franklinton Central and Newark.

Family Medicine

Stephens, Timothy MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Education:  West Virginia University, Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology; Mount Carmel College of Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Mount Carmel College of Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty

Memberships:  American Academy of Nurse Practitioners

Professional Background:  I have 4 years of clinical experience working in the emergency departments of Central Ohio.

Personal Statement:  I am looking forward to meeting you as your new medical provider at Lower Lights. I have a strong passion for disease prevention and chronic disease management. I am eager to work with you to develop a plan that works best for your individualized health goals! I am originally from West Virginia and have been living in Columbus for the past 6 years, delivering health care to those in central Ohio. In my down time, I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling. I am grateful for this opportunity to develop new relationships in the community and deliver quality, patient-centered care!

Patients seen at Union Star in Marysville.

Family Medicine

Tamura, Evan MD

Education: Barnard College, Columbia University, BA in Neuroscience and Behavior; Albert Einstein College of Medicine; University of California Irvine and UC Davis Train New Trainers Primary Care Psychiatry Fellowship

Professional Background: Harbor UCLA Family Medicine Residency, AltaMed Health Services COMBAT program physician lead, Refugee Health Alliance (RHA) board of directors

Interests: preventative medicine, women’s health, psychiatry, pediatrics, sports medicine, addiction medicine, refugee health.

Patients seen at Health Center and Newark.

Family Medicine

Theiss, Raina, CNP

Education: Mount Carmel College of Nursing, RN; BSN Ohio University, MS, FNP

Memberships: American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio, Sharon Mennonite Church

Professional Background: I worked as an Emergency Room nurse for 5 years at Mount Carmel West, then 5 years in multiple Emergency Rooms at Mount Carmel with Emergency Services, Inc. as a Nurse Practitioner. I have worked at Lower Lights Christian Health Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner since May of 2020.

Personal Statement:  I have worked in medicine in the Franklinton and the Central Ohio area for the last 14 years and feel called here because I truly love meeting new people and serving others. My journey into family practice has just begun but I believe we are all God’s children, and He has asked us to look after each other. The passion for helping one another is unmatched here at Lower Lights and I love being a part of this team!

Patients seen at Franklinton Central and UnionStar in Marysville.

Family Medicine

Traylor, Robert CNP

Education: The Ohio State University, BA Spanish.  The Ohio State University, RN and MSN (Family Practice)

Memberships: American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP)

Professional Background: I have worked in a variety of clinical settings, primarily family practice but I have also worked performing annual wellness assessments for Medicare patients.

Personal Statement:  I consider it a privilege to provide care to underserved populations and get them the care they need without causing them financial hardship. I take great pride in assuring that all patients get the preventive care that they need and that persons with diabetes get the necessary care to maintain control of their condition so that they can prevent future complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness.

Patients seen at Franklinton Central.

Family Medicine

Vallangeon, Dana MD

Dr. Dana started Lower Lights Health in 2002 in response to a need for accessible and affordable health care in Franklinton. More than just a health center, Dr. Vallangeon’s vision was to have Lower Lights be a Christian-based medical home, a place where patients could go for whole-person care and spiritual wellness. She is amazed by what God has continued to do in the life of the health center, and it is an honor to be able to return to Lower Lights Health one half day a week to provide addiction medicine services.

Education: Olivet Nazarene University, Zoology and Chemistry: The Ohio State College of Medicine, MD. Residency at Mount Carmel Health Family Medicine, Chief Resident

Board Certification: American Board of Family Medicine and American Board of Preventive Medicine, Addiction Medicine

Professional Background: Community Preceptor for multiple medical student and resident rotations.  Past Preceptor for Grant Addiction Medicine Fellowship.  Faculty for Weitzman Institute Ohio ECHOs on Integration of SUD and MH Care into Primary Care.

Personal Statement: I enjoy meeting patients where they are and collaborating with them around their goals in recovery and health.

Patients seen at the Health Center. Will only be providing OUD/SUD patient visits and care one half day a week.

Family Medicine

Wamah, Trinean NP

Education:  Indiana Wesleyan University, MS, FNP, University of Cincinnati, BSN

Membership: American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP)

Professional Background: Family Nurse Practitioner, Walk in Urgent Care; Field Nurse Practitioner, United Healthcare-Optum; RN, Mount Carmel MIMCU

Personal Statement: I see my work as a nurse practitioner as my service to people and to God. I strive daily to provide care that is holistic, balanced, and compassionate with the belief that quality care is due to EVERY individual. I look forward to joining the team at Lower Lights Health in serving the community.

Patients seen at the Health Center.

Family Medicine

Ward, Carrie NP

Education: Franklin University, Master of Science in Nursing; Central Ohio Technical College, Associate’s Degree in Nursing; The Ohio State University, Bachelor of Science in Education.

Professional Background: Over 15 years of nursing expertise in emergency care, outpatient surgery, endoscopy, and epidemiological services, along with a year of primary care clinical rotations at Lower Lights in the Franklinton and Linden areas.

Personal Statement: As a provider, my focus is high-quality personalized care to underserved communities. I believe that healthcare should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, and I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my patients. I find it a privilege to be a part of Lower Lights and its impact on the communities.

Patients seen at Franklinton Central.

Family Medicine

Wentzel, Sierra MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Education: Capital University, Bachelors of Science in Nursing; Ohio University, Masters of Science in Nursing (Cum Laude)

Board Certification: Family Nurse Practitioner, American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Memberships: American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP), Alpha Sigma Alpha Theta Tau Alumnae, Holy Family Church

Professional Background: Nurse practitioner, Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio; Emergency room nurse, Mount Carmel Health; Intensive care unit nurse Nationwide Children’s Hospital

Areas of Interest: Holistic chronic disease management, comprehensive women’s health, family medicine.

Personal Statement: I am honored to practice medicine in the community that I have been serving and worshiping in for several years. I have a passion for patient education and advocacy. I strive to provide holistic health and wellness using evidence based research. In my free time I love reading with my dog, traveling, and golfing with my husband.

Patients seen at Health Center.

Family Medicine

Worsham, Katie MSN, APRN-FNP-C

Education:  Columbus State Community College, Associate of Applied Science- Nursing; Ohio University, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Ohio University, Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

Memberships: American Nurses Association (ANA), ANA-Ohio, American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses (OAAPN)

Professional Background: I have been in health care for over 20 years. With a background in both floor and emergency department nursing at Ohio State, most recently I have  focused on working as a FNP in primary care at another local clinic, also a FQHC setting, and advocating for patients and both the nursing and advanced practice nursing professions.  I am on the Board of Directors of the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses (OAAPN).  Also, I am an active member within ANA-Ohio working as a Vice Chair on the Publications and Communications Committee.  I have presented inter-professionally on Hepatitis C and collaborated with the National Kidney Foundation : Ending Health Disparities in Chronic Kidney Disease at the state level.

Personal Statement: Passionate about equal access to care, I regularly engage with interdisciplinary teams to get the right care for the right patient. Using shared decision making and education, I love working with patients to manage their chronic diseases and finding creative ways for them to actively participate in improving their health and quality of life.

Patients seen at German Village, Health Center.

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Young, Elezabeth MD FACOG

Women's Health Director

Education: Bachelor of Science, Molecular Genetics The Ohio State University 1999; Doctor of Medicine, The Ohio State University 2003; Residency Obstetrics and Gynecology William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, Michigan 2007

Awards: Boutselis Teaching award, CREOG teaching award

Memberships: American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology 2003-present; Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Professional Background: Private Practice OBGYN 2007-2009; Mount Carmel Health System: Hospital Laborist 2009-2012; Associate Program Director OBGYN Combined Residency Program Mt Carmel Health and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center 2012-2020

Personal Statement:  I strive to provide excellent medical care and enjoy educating my patients so they can make informed choices about their healthcare.

Patients are seen at Health Center.