Meet the Leaders at Mala
At Mala, we believe that transformational care starts with transformational leadership. Our multidisciplinary leadership team brings together experts across psychology, psychiatry, occupational therapy, nursing, social work, diversity and inclusion, clinical training, and play therapy — all united by one mission:
to break intergenerational cycles of trauma and help individuals and families thrive.
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Hasti Ashtiani Raveau, PhD
Owner, Founder, CEO
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Ryleigh Strong, MSW
Chief of Operations
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Antoinette Ulmer, MSW
Director of Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
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Richard Dopp, MD
Medical Director
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Katie Sawchuk, PsyD
Director of Psychological Assessment
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Brooke Landry, PhD
Director of Clinical Training
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Katy Bachleda, MOT, OTRL
Director of Occupational Therapy Program
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Melissa Thorson, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Director of the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Training Program
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Doug Gardner LMSW, RPT
Director of the Play Therapy Training Program
Each leader at Mala is not only highly accomplished in their field but deeply committed to trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and culturally sensitive care. Together, we work to create an environment where staff, clients, and the broader community feel safe, supported, and empowered.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
At Mala Child & Family Institute, we believe that true healing and growth happen in spaces where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program was formed and directed by Antoinette Ulmer, MSW, whose vision and leadership have made DEI a cornerstone of everything we do.
Antoinette’s work ensures that Mala’s practices are not only inclusive but actively affirming of all identities and backgrounds. From clinical services and staff training to community outreach and organizational policies, her DEI leadership shapes how we serve, support, and uplift every person who walks through our doors.
Our DEI initiatives include:
Culturally Sensitive Care: Tailoring therapeutic approaches to honor the diverse cultural backgrounds of every client.
Inclusive Training Programs: Educating staff and trainees on the importance of equity, inclusion, and anti-oppressive practices in mental health.
Community Engagement: Collaborating with diverse communities to ensure our services remain accessible, relevant, and impactful.
Meet the Administrative Team Who Keeps Mala Running
Behind every great mission-driven organization is a team of dedicated administrators who make sure the daily operations run smoothly, compassionately, and efficiently. At Mala Child & Family Institute, our intake coordinators, billing experts, office manager, and support staff work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that every client, clinician, and family receives the highest level of care and support.