Experienced Professionals Committed to Care
Our team brings decades of experience in behavioral health, education, and community support. Together, we work alongside individuals and families to help people grow, connect, and thrive.
Owner & Executive Director
Theresa J. Lopez
Theresa J. Lopez is the Owner and Executive Director of New Opportunities & Ways (NOW), a Kentucky-based agency providing Medicaid waiver and behavioral health services for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Theresa began her career in 1989 and brings more than three decades of experience in public service, special education, behavior analysis, and advocacy.
Assistant executive director
Leslie Barrett
Leslie brings more than 30 years of passion, dedication, and hands-on experience to New Opportunities and Ways. Throughout her career supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Leslie has gained an exceptional understanding of the field by serving in a variety of roles—from Community Living Support professional and Residential Manager to Compliance and Risk Director.
CLINICAL DIRECTOR/BOARD CERTIFIED BEHAVIOR ANALYST
Ashlie Neal
Ashlie Neal is a highly respected Clinical Director and Board Certified Behavior Analyst at New Opportunities & Ways, known for her exceptional leadership and proven expertise in behavior analysis. With eight years of dedicated service to NOW, Ashlie has established herself as a trusted professional in the field, recognized for her ethical practice, clinical excellence, and unwavering commitment to quality care.
Behavior Supports Program Director
Michelle Duke
Michelle Duke is the Behavior Support Program Director for New Opportunities & Ways and brings over 20 years of experience supporting children, adults, and families through evidence-based, person-centered services. Michelle was the first Behavior Specialist to join NOW alongside Founder Theresa Lopez, and together they built the program from the ground up. She has been an integral part of NOW since its founding and played a key role in shaping the agency’s Behavior Support services.
PCC/CLS/Supported Employment Program Director
Katie Houchens
Katie Houchens is a behavioral health professional and Program Director with extensive experience supporting individuals with developmental and behavioral needs across clinical, educational, and community-based settings. Her professional background includes early work in foster care, where she supported medically complex and behaviorally challenged children, shaping a deep appreciation for trauma-informed, compassionate care.
Community Access/Personal Assistance Program Director
Antonio Herndon
A South-Central Kentucky native, Antonio D. Herndon has been part of New Opportunities & Ways since its earliest days. As one of the organization’s first Person-Centered Coaches, he helped define what meaningful, individualized support truly looks like — not just services delivered, but lives changed.
Residential Program Director
Melissa Massey
Melissa serves as the Residential Program Director at New Opportunities and Ways, where she leads a deep commitment to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities. With a focus on creating safe, supportive, and enriching home environments, she oversees residential and respite services that honor each person’s dignity, independence, and unique strengths.
compliance & Administrative manager
Sierra Norris
Sierra Norris is the Office Manager at N.O.W. and an integral part of the organization’s daily operations and culture. With a background in the medical field and over eight years of experience serving the IDD community, Sierra brings a deep understanding of both clinical systems and person-centered support to her work.
