Melinda Howe

CRNA, FNP-C, APRN

Melinda Howe, CRNA, FNP-C, APRN is the owner and lead provider at Ascend Wellness. She is double board-certified in Nurse Anesthesiology and Family Practice, bringing together a rare blend of advanced clinical training, functional medicine expertise, and a deeply patient-centered approach. A dedicated lifelong learner, Melinda is an active member of the Mayo Clinic Alumni Association, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, the Society for Opioid-Free Anesthesia, the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, and the North Dakota Association of Nurse Anesthetists.

Born and raised in Minot, Melinda began her nursing career at Minot State University before advancing her clinical experience in the Intensive Care Unit and CriticAir Flight Program at Trinity Medical Center. Her passion for physiology, pharmacology, and patient advocacy led her to pursue anesthesia at the prestigious Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences, where she earned her Advanced Practice Nursing degree specializing in anesthesiology. She later expanded her scope of practice by earning her Family Nurse Practitioner certification through the University of Cincinnati, allowing her to provide comprehensive primary and integrative care.

Melinda has completed the full Functional Medicine certification pathway through the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) and holds specialized training in ketamine therapy, IV hydration and nutritional therapy, peptide therapy, hormone, thyroid, and gut optimization. She is also a certified 9D Breathwork facilitator, allowing her to support patients through mind-body healing techniques that complement her medical expertise.

After gaining years of diverse clinical experience in hospitals and surgical practices across the United States, Melinda returned home to serve the Minot community with a mission: to offer root-cause, whole-person care that blends the best of holistic and Western medicine. Inspired by her father’s long struggle with untreated chronic pain, Melinda is passionate about making innovative, effective treatments more accessible—especially those targeting chronic pain, mental health conditions, and nervous system regulation.

At Ascend Wellness, Melinda is committed to caring for the whole person—mind, body, and soul. She strives to create a safe, fully monitored environment where patients feel seen, supported, and empowered in their healing journey.

Her proudest accomplishments are her family—her husband Wayne and their three beautiful children—who are grateful to call the Minot community home. And of course, you may occasionally meet Ziggy Stardust, their beloved pup who never turns down a hug.

Wayne Howe

CFO

Wayne is our Business Manager and “jack of all trades” at the clinic, the glue that holds us all together! Wayne holds a Bachelor degree in Finance from Minot State University. Wayne was born in Louisiana. His father served in the Air Force so he has lived all over the US. He came to Minot while in high school and considers Minot home. He is a proud veteran of the Army National Guard. Happily married to Melinda and blessed with three kids. In his free time, he enjoys trying to golf, playing pool, getting nutritional infusions, and getting massages from Monica.
Dog’s name: Ziggy Stardust (but he mostly claims Melinda…)

Abigail Howe

Director of Operations

I’m thrilled to introduce myself as Ascend Wellness’s Director of Operations and Creative Design. With a background in creating visually impactful
displays, I have had the opportunity to work at renowned locations such as Anthropologie on Newbury St in Boston, Rockefeller Center in NYC, and even at URBN headquarters in Philly.
Throughout my career, I have been known for my ability to design and execute visually stunning displays that captivate audiences and drive sales.
I have a keen eye for detail and a knack for creating immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression. I am committed to delivering exceptional results and exceeding expectations.
In addition to my experience in visuals, I have also had the opportunity to work on prototypes at
URBN headquarters in Philly. This experience has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding
of the display development process and contribute innovative ideas to enhance the overall
customer experience.

I am excited to be a part of the wonderful team at Ascend Wellness contributing my expertise. Together, we can create memorable and engaging experiences that resonate with customers and drive business success. Be well and create.

Alyssa Christianson

Clinic Manager

Alyssa has worked in the mental health field for the past 11 years and is passionate about the connection between mental health and gut health. As a dedicated advocate for celiac disease in her local community, she strives to raise awareness and support those navigating dietary and health challenges.

Her enthusiasm for functional medicine led her to this clinic, where she is excited to expand her knowledge and contribute to a holistic approach to wellness. Outside of work, Alyssa enjoys traveling with her husband and son and spending time with their dog, Boone.
She is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for both patients and staff, ensuring the clinic runs smoothly and effectively to provide the best possible care.

Breann Schell

FNP-C

Breann Schell is a dedicated nurse practitioner who was born and raised in Minot, ND. She completed her undergraduate studies at Minot State University and advanced her education at Maryville University, equipping her with the necessary skills to provide exceptional healthcare.

As a fully qualified nurse practitioner, Breann offers comprehensive primary care services to individuals of all ages. Her expertise includes conducting annual physicals, managing acute care visits, treating chronic health conditions, and educating patients on self-care techniques to promote disease prevention and management.

With a strong commitment to her hometown, Breann is eager to work with patients in the community that has shaped her. She looks forward to promoting health and wellness, making a meaningful impact on the lives of those around her.

Hannah Bunk

PMHNP-BC

Hannah Bunk is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals improve their mental health and overall wellbeing. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from North Dakota State University’s School of Nursing in Bismarck and completed her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree through Maryville University.
Hannah’s nursing career has included extensive work with women in the perinatal setting, where she developed a strong appreciation for the importance of mental health during life’s most vulnerable and transformative seasons. She enjoys working with adults across the lifespan and believes deeply in a thoughtful, individualized approach to care. Hannah values taking a holistic view of mental health and works collaboratively with patients to help them find treatment approaches that fit their unique needs and goals.
Hannah is excited to be joining the Ascend Wellness team and will be seeing patients in both the Minot and Bismarck areas. As a Bismarck resident, she is especially looking forward to helping expand Ascend’s reach and connect more individuals in the Bismarck community with supportive mental health care.

Outside of work, Hannah enjoys spending time outdoors with her family. She lives in Bismarck with her husband and children and loves walking, gardening, and caring for their animals, which include dogs, cats, horses, and chickens.

Morgan Perrin

Laser Technician

Morgan, is our Laser Technician at Ascend Wellness, she is a student at Minot State University pursuing a Pre-Medicine degree, aspiring to become a functional medicine doctor. Outside her academic pursuits, she cherishes moments with her family, friends, and three puppies. Morgan is an avid
traveler and loves a good book. With a personal journey through health challenges, Morgan is driven to offer a unique perspective on care, aiming to
make people feel better by redefining health.

Katie Heupel

Clinical Counselor

Katie Heupel is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. Katie is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), trauma-sensitive yoga, and emotionally focused therapy (EFT). Before she became a counselor, Katie was an English teacher and also taught group yoga classes and private yoga sessions with a focus on trauma-sensitive emotional regulation. She has been providing counseling services since 2022 and works with adults of all ages, adolescents, and couples. Katie’s approach focuses on providing an integrative counseling experience utilizing many forms of evidence-based treatment modalities to fit the needs of her clients. One of the most important pieces to Katie’s approach with counseling is to provide a non-judgmental space for clients to feel heard, to help them face difficult situations and symptoms, process past and current distressing or traumatic experiences, and improve their quality of life overall. She works specifically with people who struggle with trauma/PTSD, anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship issues, stress, ADHD, and more. Katie is offering individual and couples counseling services in-person & virtually at Ascend starting in September 2025!

When Katie isn’t working, she is often spending time with her husband and two children. Katie enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, learning, traveling, and being outside.

Kira Mackay

MSN, PMHNP-BC

Kira MacKay is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). She grew up in Minot, North Dakota, and began her nursing career at Minot State University. It was during her time working with at-risk youth and families at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch that she discovered her passion for mental health. This led her to the University of North Dakota, where she earned her PMHNP degree. Kira is a proud member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA), connecting with professionals who share her commitment to mental health care and advocacy.

Many people might recognize Kira from her days as the “OG Infusion Lounge Nurse” at Ascend, where she had the privilege of meeting and connecting with countless patients. While she misses the bonds she built in that role, Kira is excited to take her passion for mental health care into a new chapter. Her approach to mental health is all about blending compassion with practicality. Kira knows life can be tough, but she believes in finding light in the dark and helping her patients do the same.

Kira is committed to empowering her patients to not only manage their symptoms but thrive by supporting them in becoming their best selves. For Kira, mental health care isn’t just a profession—it’s a way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most. Her practice takes an integrative approach, combining medication optimization, mindfulness techniques, and supportive therapy to treat the whole person—mind, body, and soul.

When Kira isn’t working, she’s busy at home with her husband, three children, two dogs, and two cats, which is just enough chaos to keep life interesting. She enjoys camping, traveling (especially Disney cruises, because who doesn’t love a good Mickey Mouse sighting?), and recently, she’s been diving into new hobbies like sourdough bread baking and gardening. Kira is excited to continue her journey in mental health and to support her patients as they grow, heal, and maybe even laugh a little along the way.

• Dog names: Lucy and Lilo
>Cat names: Mac and Cheese

Chandra Flammang

RN

Chandra began her nursing career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Ascend Wellness before graduating as a Registered Nurse in 2024. Prior to pursuing nursing, she worked as a Medical Laboratory Scientist in various hospital and clinic settings, providing a strong foundation in patient care.
At Ascend Wellness, Chandra is passionate about continuously learning in the field of functional medicine, where she can combine her love for patient care with a holistic approach to wellness. She is deeply committed to helping patients achieve their health goals and celebrating their positive transformations along the way. Chandra is also ACLS/BLS certified and IV nutrition certified, further enhancing her ability to provide comprehensive care.
Outside of work, she enjoys reading, coffee, taking walks, yoga/pilates, spending time at the lake, cooking, eating, and spending time with her family, cat, and friends.

Sara Lucas

BSN, RN

Sara is a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Wyoming, where she graduated in 2018. Prior to joining Ascend, she spent three years as a bedside nurse on the medical floor and two years in the operating room, assisting with a variety of surgeries, including open heart and brain surgeries. She is excited about her role at Ascend, and is passionate about being part of a team that makes a meaningful difference in patients’ lives.
Sara was born and raised in Wyoming, and moved here to further her nursing career in 2018. Outside of work, she enjoys embracing her “grandma” side, whether it’s getting lost in a good book, crocheting a new project, tending to her garden, or attempting to golf.
Sara is ACLS/ BLS and IV Nutrition Certified and loves interacting with clients in the Infusion Lounge. She will assist in selecting and customizing infusion plans for you
Dog names: Greg and Bernice
Cat names: Ronald and Howard

Racia Toben

RN

Raised in Burlington, ND, Racia has dedicated her career to healthcare and wellness. She earned her BS in Addiction Studies from Minot State University in 2013, providing support for women in group settings and assisting those going through transitional living. She later pursued an Associate Degree in Nursing from Dakota College of Bottineau, graduating in 2022.
She has worked in the ER before joining Ascend and holds certifications in ACLS, PALS, TNCC, and IV Nutritional Therapy. Additionally, she has extensive training in Mental Health Crisis Management, ASSIST, and DBT.
Beyond her professional life, Racia enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time outdoors—especially at the lake. She stays busy with her husband and two kids, wholeheartedly supporting their activities.
Racia is excited to be a part of the Ascend team, where she can incorporate both holistic and Western approaches to patient care. She values the opportunity to build strong connections with patients, take the time to understand their needs, and witness their progress firsthand.
Dog name: Millie

Christa Pecoraro

RN

Christa’s passion for health and wellness began early in life. She was drawn to nursing not only for her love of helping others but also for the emotional, physical, and spiritual healing the profession offers. Born and raised in Minot, Christa is married to her high school sweetheart and is a proud mom of two beautiful children, with a cat and a dog completing the family.

Christa is a Registered Nurse who began her career on the Postpartum floor before transitioning to an OB/GYN clinic. She earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from Dakota College at Bottineau in 2020 and holds certifications in NRP and BLS.

Outside of work, Christa enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, and making memories with family and friends. In the summer, she can often be found golfing or going for bike rides, and in the winter she’s happiest curled up with a good book, watching movies or spinning her favorite vinyl records.

Platinum Mink Tonkinese Cat: Sophie
Doxipoo Dog: Chloe

Ally Miller

Patient Service Coordinator

Ally is the friendly face you’ll often see as our Patient Service Coordinator here at Ascend Wellness MBS. She is currently a student at the University of North Dakota, pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and is deeply passionate about mental health and patient advocacy.

With a heart for helping others, Ally’s long-term goal is to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), specializing in working with children with special needs. She brings compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to make every patient feel heard, supported, and valued from the moment they walk through our doors.

When she’s not coordinating care or studying psychology, you can find Ally spending quality time with her family, curled up with a good book and her cat, or jamming out to Mötley Crüe—often with an Alani energy drink in hand to keep up with her busy schedule.

We’re so grateful to have Ally as part of the Ascend Wellness team!