Meet the Team
Christy Hatcher
MSN, APRN, CRNA- CEO/Provider
Christy, a Certified-Registered Nurse Anesthetist, has been practicing since December 2002. With 20 years of experience at a level-one trauma hospital in the twin cities, she is the owner and CEO of the Minnesota Ketamine & Wellness Institute. In 2022, Christy decided to step away from her position in the operating room to fully dedicate her time to managing the ketamine clinic.
The issue of mental health disorders and suicide has reached epidemic proportions in our society, leaving lasting impacts on communities. Christy, as a suicide loss survivor and the mother of a ketamine patient, brings a personal perspective to her role as a provider of ketamine therapy. Her passion lies in assisting patients seeking alternative treatments, motivated by her own experiences with the profound effects of these conditions, especially following the loss of her husband to treatment-resistant depression and suicidal ideation in 2019.
Dr. Sujit Varma
MBBS, MD, FAPA, Medical Director/Collaborative Provider
With over 26 years of experience in psychiatry, Dr. Sujit Varma has earned the reputation of being one of Minnesota’s foremost psychiatrists in the mental health field. His approach to treatment involves thorough research and utilization of the latest, most effective resources to assist patients grappling with mental health disorders.
Dr. Varma takes joy in witnessing the transformation of patients into healthier individuals, fostering this process without judgment. In his role as the acting Medical Director and collaborative provider at The Minnesota Ketamine & Wellness Institute, he collaborates with clinic practitioners for case reviews, medication management, and provides valuable insights on individual patient care to our multidisciplinary team.
Lindsey Hatcher
MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, Provider
Lindsey attained her Registered Nurse degree in 2006 and initiated her career in the Trauma-Neuro Intensive Care Unit of a level-one trauma center. In 2023, she earned her master’s degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
In her role as a PMHNP, Lindsey offers a spectrum of mental health services, including assessments, screening, diagnosis, formulation of treatment plans, medication management, and education for patients and their families.
Being a part of a team that provides both mainstream and alternative mental health treatments allows Lindsey to deliver diverse services and treatment modalities that can significantly improve the lives of individuals and those in their circle. Lindsey’s personal and family experiences with mental health have instilled in her a deep sense of compassion, empathy, and understanding of the daily struggles faced by those who suffer.
Denay Kelly
FNP-C, ARNP, PMHNP-BC, Provider
Dear Client,
Welcome! I am so glad you have made a choice to receive care at The Minnesota Ketamine and Wellness Institute. My name is Denay Kelly, and I am a Family Nurse Practitioner currently working on my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification. I am excited about working with this group of amazing people that truly care about your mental health and well-being.
In my spare time I enjoy anything that has to do with the sun or water. I also love to bicycle, chill on the couch with a good movie, and spend time with good friends. I am so excited to be part of your journey! My future goal when I graduate with my PMHNP certificate in 2023 is to continue to support this clinic in expanding its services. I am also interested in certification for prescribing medical cannabis.
Look forward to meeting you!
Rebecca Berry
MSW, LICSW - Therapist/Provider
Rebecca earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work with a focus on mental health in 2016 from the University of Minnesota. She obtained certification in Psychedelic Assisted Therapy from the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. Rebecca is bilingual, being fluent in both English and Spanish.
“We all move through the world with a story about who we are, both to ourselves and in relation to others. I don’t see one style of therapy as beneficial for everyone, but instead choose to use narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, hard questions, and deep curiosity, to journey with my clients. I heavily leverage my life experience when providing services and I lean into an integrative approach, rooted in existential and transpersonal theories. I have been described as soft-spoken and calm, and unafraid of hard questions. I feel passionate about utilizing Ketamine as a tool for overcoming barriers, shifting perspective, and offering relief to give space for healing. I am committed to diversifying the psychedelic space and am a Latinx provider who offers sessions in both English and Spanish.”
“In today’s America, we tend to think of healing as something binary: either we’re broken or we’re healed from that brokenness. But that’s not how healing operates, and it’s almost never how human growth works. More often, healing and growth take place on a continuum, with innumerable points between utter brokenness and total health.” – Resmaa Menakem
Ashlee Villaume
RN
Ashlee is a Registered Nurse who dedicated 15 years to working in the Operating Room. In 2022, she resigned from her hospital position to solely devote her time to the Minnesota Ketamine & Wellness Institute.
She has an empathetic, compassionate, and non-judgmental approach to each of her patients and a deep appreciation for alternative treatments and therapies. Ashlee is cognizant and adaptive and works to support a holistic mind, body, and soul approach and respects the uniqueness of each patient.
“When you talk, you are only repeating what you already know. But if you listen, you may learn something new.” – Dalai Lama.
Carolyn Beedy
RN
Carolyn has worked in many healthcare settings throughout her life. She has experience in geriatric care, pediatric oncology, and a level-one trauma center. She has traveled the country setting up cadaver seminars for future advancements in female surgeries.
Carolyn’s focal point in patient care is to provide a holistic, nonjudgmental environment that is comfortable and promotes healing. She is an advocate for fellow domestic abuse survivors and wants to be instrumental in helping change the stigma around mental health. Carolyn is a strong believer that the most impactful personal growth comes from the worst struggles and darkest moments.
“Helping one person might not change the whole world, but it can change the world for one person” – Anonymous.
Bear
Emotional Support Animal
Bear is the wise, calm presence that brings comfort and a sense of peace to those around him. At 12 years old, he’s seen it all and knows just how to offer a reassuring paw or a gentle snuggle when things get tough.
Bear has a gift for knowing when someone needs a quiet moment or a soft nudge of affection. With his years of experience, he excels in providing emotional support and creating a safe, trusting environment for anyone who needs a friend. Whether you’re in need of a comforting companion or simply a quiet listener, Bear is always there to lend his calming presence.
Grizz
Emotional Support Animal
Grizz is the playful, energetic, and loving puppy who brings joy and laughter to the team. As the youngest member, he’s full of curiosity and energy, always ready to brighten someone’s day with his wagging tail and boundless enthusiasm.
Grizz has an innate ability to lift spirits with his playful antics and affectionate nature. Whether it’s a game of fetch or simply curling up beside someone, Grizz knows how to bring smiles and a sense of lightness to any situation. His fresh perspective and joyful heart make him the perfect addition to the team, spreading positivity and happiness wherever he goes.
