Our Team

Mark Evans brings over 30 years of experience in neurorehabilitation and post-acute care to his role as Executive Director of NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan. He leads clinical operations, program development, and interdisciplinary care to ensure every individual receives compassionate, high-quality rehabilitative support.

Throughout his career, Mark has held leadership roles across clinical and administrative settings, including Director of Case Management Services & Clinical Administration at Rainbow Rehabilitation Centers and program leadership at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Toledo. His expertise spans program quality, team development, and evidence-based practices that improve patient outcomes.

An active member of the professional community, Mark serves as Treasurer of the Detroit Chapter of the Case Management Society of America (CMSA) and has presented at healthcare conferences nationwide. He holds a Master of Arts from Wayne State University and a Bachelor of Science from Eastern Michigan University. Mark’s leadership philosophy centers on integrity, collaboration, and innovation—ensuring every individual at NeuLife receives exceptional care.

Kary Waelchli is the Community Liaison Director at NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan, specializing in brain injury care. With over a decade of experience at NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan and its predecessor organization, Kary has a deep understanding of operational processes and patient needs.

In her role, Kary focuses on building and nurturing relationships with referral partners, community organizations, and healthcare providers in the Michigan area. She is dedicated to promoting NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan’s specialized rehabilitation services and guiding individuals with brain injuries and their families through the admissions process with compassion and clarity.

Kary's multifaceted expertise allows her to effectively bridge clinical services with community engagement, ensuring that individuals with complex brain injury rehabilitation needs receive timely access to high-quality care and support. Her commitment to NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan's mission makes her a trusted resource for both families and professionals navigating the journey of brain injury rehabilitation.

Marisa Gonzalez is the Director of Clinical Services at NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan, where she specializes in providing compassionate care for individuals with brain injuries. With over ten years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation settings, Marisa brings a wealth of clinical expertise and leadership to her role. Marisa earned advanced degrees from the University of Michigan and the University of Toledo.

In her position as Director of Clinical Services, Marisa is dedicated to overseeing the delivery of physical, occupational, speech, and behavioral therapy services at NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan's locations, with a focus on creating a nurturing environment that supports healing, independence, and an improved quality of life for those with brain injuries. Marisa also focuses on building partnerships within the community to enhance resources and streamline the continuum of care.

With certifications as both a Speech-Language Pathologist and Brain Injury Specialist, Marisa combines her clinical proficiency with a commitment to advocacy and innovation in neurorehabilitation. Her leadership at NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan is integral to advancing the mission of providing comprehensive, patient-centered care to individuals in need of brain injury rehabilitation services.

Gavin Aikens is the Residential Service Director at NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan, overseeing the daily operations of nine specialized group homes and apartment-based programs. With over three years of leadership experience at NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan, Gavin ensures that each residential setting maintains the highest standards of care, safety, and quality of life for individuals in need of specialized neurological rehabilitation.

In his role, Gavin leads a dedicated team of residential managers to develop and implement personalized care strategies that promote independence, dignity, and personal growth for every resident. His person-centered approach values meaningful outcomes and individualized support, creating a supportive and empowering environment for those under his care.

Gavin’s expertise in regulatory standards, operational excellence, and compassionate leadership makes him a trusted advocate for residents, embodying NeuLife Rehabilitation of Michigan’s mission to provide transformative brain injury care.