Melinda Howe

MNA, CRNA, FNP-C, APRN

Melinda Howe (MNA, CRNA, FNP-C, and APRN) is the owner and provider here at Ascend Wellness. She is an active member of the Mayo Clinic Alumni Association, 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 journey at Minot State University in Minot and worked for Trinity Medical Center in Minot’s Intensive Care and Criticair Flight Program for several years. Melinda decided to pursue anesthesia as her specialty because of her intense interest in the field, and she attended the prestigious Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences, earning her Advanced Practice Nursing degree with a specialization in anesthesiology. Adding to her training, Melinda underwent specialized instruction in ketamine therapy and IV hydration and nutrition at the online Ketamine and IV Nutritional Academy. She is also AFMCP certified in Functional Medicine via the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM). She spent several years gaining invaluable experience at a variety of hospitals and surgical practices across the United States before bringing her skills home to the Minot community.
Melinda has a personal interest in therapies for conditions like chronic pain, as her father struggled for several years without finding any treatments that truly improved his quality of life. She believes there are better options available now, and she wants to make them more widely available. She looks forward to delivering expert therapies in a safe and fully monitored environment and hopes that these novel treatments will help patients in their recovery from psychological and physical pain. She has a strong interest in working towards root cause exploration while working with patients and combines Holistic and Western medicine methodologies to help you feel your best. She is most proud of her family- husband Wayne and 3 beautiful children. She is happy to have been able to bring them back to the Minot area as it is such a special community to raise a family.
Dog’s name: Ziggy Stardust (you may see him from time to time at Ascend. He loves hugs!)

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.

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.

Dr Samantha Kemmer

DC

Dr. Sam is a nervous system centered chiropractor who specializes in the perinatal period, pediatrics, and family wellness. Dr. Sam is a graduate of Parker University where she received both her Doctorate in Chiropractic and her Masters in Neurology. Dr. Sam also holds a degree in Biomedical science from Texas A&M University.
Dr. Sam utilizes multiple adjusting techniques including; Thompson, Diversified, Activator, Craniosacral, and Tonal Techniques. Dr. Sam is also certified in Webster technique through the ICPA which she primarily utilizes on her pregnant practice members. While Dr. Sam has a passion for serving chiropractic to all populations, serving families seeking preventative wellness care has always been her greatest passion.

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

Monica Sivertson

RMT, FMCHC

Monica is a 2005 graduate of The Boulder College of Massage Therapy in Boulder, CO. Her main area of focus is sports and orthopedic massage with an emphasis on deep tissue, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy. Monica was a teaching assistant at The Cortiva Institute of Massage Therapy from 2007-2008, where she helped students develop their skills in sports and orthopedic modalities.
Her passion for massage therapy stems from the ability to help people reach their full potential in their journey toward maximum health and wellness. Tracking the progress of her clients and seeing the positive results that massage therapy can have is what drives Monica to continually learn and grow as a massage therapist. Monica has much experience helping athletes with injuries, concussions, prevention of injury, and overall wellness.

Monica was born and raised in Westhope, North Dakota, and is excited to be home after 16 years in Colorado. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and going for walks with her sweet puppy.
Dogs Name: Hank (but he is really a human… we swear!)

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