Meet Our Team Now

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

karen

KAREN FESSEL

DR PH, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Karen founded the Autism Health Insurance Project after struggling to secure services for her son, who has Asperger’s.
Lisa Valerio

LISA VALERIO

TREASURER
Lisa is a mom, wife, daughter, sister, and friend – all which gives her drive, inspiration and passion in life.
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LAJOYCE PORTER

DIRECTOR
LaJoyce L. Porter is a sole practitioner in Walnut Creek, CA

STAFF

karen

KAREN FESSEL

DR PH, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Karen founded the Autism Health Insurance Project after struggling to secure services for her son, who has Asperger’s.
Debra Nelson

DEBRA NELSON

APPEALS SPECIALIST
Debra Nelson has a background in policy analysis, philanthropic advising, fundraising, and advocacy for mental health and autism issues.
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MARCY SMITH

APPEALS SPECIALIST AND NEWSLETTER
Marcy and her family were clients of MHAIP several years ago and she has been eager to help other families in the same way ever since.
Allison Clark

ALLISON CLARK

M.S., PATIENT ADVOCATE
Allison lives in California where she has worked as an instructor at a small community college, teaching General Psychology and Child Psychology for 11 years.
person-

SARA DU TERROIL

Appeals Specialist
Sara Du Terroil is a mother of three, healthcare advocate, and licensed insurance consultant. She has long followed MHAIP and is delighted to join Karen’s team in working to improve access and funding for necessary care.