top of page

About Us

11 c.png
2022 Headshot_edited.jpg

Krista Caffrey

DNP, APRN, FNP-BC

Krista has over 12 years of experience in the medical field, working with various patient populations including pediatric, adult and geriatric patients.

​

Krista worked at Sarasota Memorial Hospital for ten years before transitioning to outpatient care. She earned her Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Florida State University in Family Medicine. She is currently in the process of becoming dual board certified nationally as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with anticipated certification in April of 2025.

 

Her method to psychiatric care is holistic and focuses first on the client's overall health. She aims to encourage feelings of safety and acceptance when providing care to her patients. She provides open, honest communication and empowers her clients to ‘steer the ship’ of their own treatment.

​

She has always had a passion for Mental Health and decided to pursue that passion through acquiring her dual licensure; she is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner candidate with anticipated completion in April 2025.

​​​

​In her free time, she enjoys baking, camping, and spending time with her family. She is passionate about cultivating work/life balance and is grateful to be part of your wellness team.

Meet the Behavioral Health Integration Team

We are proud to offer BHI Services at our partnering communities.

heather.jpeg

Behavioral Health Integration Care Manager 

Heather Puhr-McNinch


Heather is a dedicated professional with over 20 years of experience in geriatric
care, specializing in dementia and behavioral health. Holding a degree in social work with a
focus on gerontology, she has worked across diverse settings, including hospitals, long-term care,
assisted living, memory care, and as a geriatric concierge care manager and behavioral healthcare
manager.


Heather’s expertise includes the study and treatment of mental health conditions specifically
affecting older adults, such as depression, anxiety, dementia, and other cognitive impairments.
She takes a holistic approach that considers the unique physical and psychosocial factors
associated with aging, focusing on comprehensive care strategies to enhance the quality of life
for the elderly population.

 

She emphasizes a holistic approach to care that addresses the
emotional, psychological, and cognitive needs of older adults.
Her passion lies in integrating the principles of Montessori for Dementia, using evidence-based
approaches to promote dignity, independence, and engagement for individuals with memory
impairments. She is the creator of the Montessori Dementia Reading Series and has developed other Montessori-based products designed to engage clients intellectually, socially,
emotionally, and physically.

 

These innovative tools provide a holistic approach that fosters a
sense of purpose for those living with dementia.
As a consultant and trainer, Heather partners with memory care facilities to implement best
practices in dementia care, staff education, and program development. Her extensive experience
and commitment to improving senior mental health make her a valuable resource for families,
caregivers, and organizations seeking innovative, person-centered solutions.

Madeline McNinch Bio.jpeg

Behavioral Health Integration Care Manager

Madeline McNinch

Madeline McNinch is a dedicated professional with a bachelor’s degree in biology on a pre-med
track and specialized training in psychology, including DSM-5 diagnostics. She is a Certified
Dementia Practitioner (CDP) and has received extensive education in Montessori for Dementia
principles, equipping her with innovative strategies to enhance the lives of individuals living
with cognitive impairments.


Her experience spans memory care, assisted living, and community-based settings, where she
works closely with clients to promote engagement, independence, and overall well-being.
Madeline’s passion for working in the field began at an early age when she volunteered to help
seniors achieve their recreational and personal goals, fostering meaningful connections and a
deep understanding of aging-related challenges.


Madeline is also dedicated to Behavioral Health Integration (BHI), focusing on integrating
behavioral health support for seniors, including dementia care, mental health management, and
comprehensive care planning. She emphasizes a holistic approach to care that addresses the
emotional, psychological, and cognitive needs of older adults.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Madeline is an accomplished track collegiate
athlete, bringing discipline, teamwork, and resilience into her approach to dementia care.

 

Her unique blend of scientific knowledge, psychological expertise, and hands-on experience makes
her a valuable advocate for individuals and families navigating the complexities of memory care
and mental health.

Elizabeth-Lardenas-and-Matthew-Van-Ess_t900x600_edited.jpg

Administrator

Matthew VanEss

Matt is a dedicated practice administrator with a unique blend of qualifications, holding an Associate's degree in Elementary Education and a Bachelor's degree in Media Sciences. With background as a radiology technician, he brings valuable medical knowledge to the role. Known for his warm and welcoming demeanor, Matt ensures that all aspects of the practice run smoothly, from managing patient appointments to overseeing medical records and delivering exceptional customer service. His commitment to creating a positive experience for patients is at the heart of everything he does.

Book An Appointment

Fax:  (941) 761-5471

Secure Text: (833) 497-1086

Address: 8437 Tuttle Ave, Ste 374, Sarasota, FL 34243

Medical Consultation
Dual Logo.png
222.png

CONTACT INFO

QUICK LINKS

Phone: (941) 841-7978

Fax: (941) 761-5471

Secure Text: (833) 497-1086

e-mail: dualfocuswellness@gmail.com

​Address: 8437 Tuttle Ave, Ste 374,

Sarasota, FL 34243

FOLLOW US

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

© 2024 All Rights Reserved Dual Focus Wellness

bottom of page