Meet The Team

Meet Julia Sass, an accredited board-certified nurse practitioner and lifelong learner dedicated to providing quality, comprehensive mental healthcare to patients in Muscatine, Iowa, and surrounding areas. Julia completed her undergraduate studies at Muscatine Community College and the University of Iowa College of Nursing earning a Bachelor in Science Nursing in 2016. Upon graduation she worked as a Registered Nurse at the Iowa City VA Medical Center, during that time she also obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2022 and has since completed continuing education courses. Prior starting at Calamity Rose Ranch, she gained valuable experience in a community health center. She is proud to have returned to her roots to serve her community and provide compassionate care to patients of all ages. Outside of the office, Julia enjoys spending time with her family and traveling. She can often be found cheering on nieces and nephews at their sporting events.

Laura, is a compassionate and skilled Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatry. With a strong background in neuro and inpatient care, Laura is passionate about working with geriatric and substance use patients, bringing a specialized focus to these unique populations. Recently entering the field of psychiatry, Laura combines her fresh perspective with a deep commitment to evidence-based, holistic care. Dedicated to reducing stigma and improving access to mental health services, Laura creates a supportive environment where patients feel heard and empowered. Her empathetic, patient-centered approach is particularly valued in her work with older adults and those navigating substance use challenges, allowing her to form meaningful connections and support individualized care plans. Outside of her practice, Laura enjoys hiking and traveling, finding inspiration and relaxation in the outdoors and exploring new cultures.

Meet Spencer, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with diverse experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. A graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, WV, he has been serving the Muscatine community for three years, catering to patients of all ages, from 5 years old and up. With a background in addiction medicine from his work in Huntington, WV, Spencer approaches mental health issues with compassion and understanding. He is particularly interested in the connection between hormone therapy and mental health symptoms, constantly seeking advancements in this area for his patients’ benefit. Beyond his professional pursuits, Spencer finds solace in nature and enjoys weight lifting. His commitment to providing holistic care and fostering mental well-being makes him a trusted and caring resource for individuals seeking mental health support in the Muscatine area.

Hi, my name is Kayla Carlsten and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have a passion for mental health that goes back to one of my first jobs in 2007. I was just out of high school and looking for a job as I went back to college. I worked with the mentally disabled to help set goals to help them in life. I received my CNA at Muscatine Community College and my second job was with Lutheran Homes in the Alzheimer unit. As I went back to school for nursing I did not realize the impact mental health had in each aspect of my previous positions. I began my nursing career in 2012 and became a travel nurse in early 2014 working in hospitals and clinics. My agency called to ask if I would like to work at the inpatient state hospital. After working there I realized that I had always worked with mental health. As I continued the last 8 years as a nurse I have cared for mental health from the emergency room to the intensive care unit and in mental health units across Iowa. Mental health has a negative stigma even though at some point in our lives we will ALL battle with some aspect of it. As I continued my education I set my sights on starting my own practice. The goal of this practice is to meet patients where they are at with their mental health needs. The system has its flaws, and that’s why at Calamity Rose Ranch I like to do things a little differently. Rather than a quick in and out visit, I like to spend a little extra time getting to know every patient. We may even step outside to cuddle a horse or goat.

Meet Stacey Morrell, a Licensed Independent Social Worker (Iowa), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Illinois), Nationally Certified School Social Worker, and lifelong learner dedicated to helping others reach their highest level of potential. Stacey completed her undergraduate studies at Western Illinois University, earning a Bachelor of Science in 1992. Upon graduation, she held various jobs in Therapeutic Recreation, Addiction Recovery, and Crisis stabilization in the Emergency Room at Methodist Medical Center. She also earned two Master’s Degrees from the University of Illinois, the first is an advanced degree in Social Work (2004), and the second is in Educational Leadership (2011). Before starting at Calamity Rose Ranch, she gained valuable experience working in the public school system and is excited to start providing compassionate care to clients of all ages. She and her husband, John, have 5 children, ranging in age from 29 years to 9 years, and have 1 grandson. Outside the office, Stacey enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, riding motorcycles, reading, and gardening. At this time, she will only be working with clients remotely. Her hours will be, by appointment, Wednesdays 5 PM-9 PM and Sundays 8 AM-2 PM.

Hi, I’m Nicole Ogan, an LMHC-T under supervision through Calamity Rose Ranch. I really have two passions – education and mental health. I began my career in the field of education back in 2005 and continue to teach elementary students today. There came a time in my career working with children that I realized there was a strong need for advocacy for those struggling with mental health – inside and outside of my classroom. I liked the idea of working with adults and children to meet their goals in therapy so I changed my path. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Minnesota State University – Moorhead in 2018. I have experience working in the inpatient and outpatient setting as well as school-based therapy with individuals and groups. In my free time you will find me spending time with my kids and family, gardening, riding my Harley, cooking, or loving on my pets.

Autumn is a dedicated and knowledgeable virtual dietitian residing in Tennessee. With a deep passion for nutrition and a wealth of experience, she offers personalized guidance to individuals seeking a healthier lifestyle. Autumn leverages technology to connect with clients across the state, providing evidence-based advice tailored to their unique needs. She emphasizes balance, variety, and moderation, empowering clients to make sustainable dietary changes. With Autumn’s compassionate approach, clients receive the tools and strategies necessary to overcome obstacles and achieve lasting results.