Meet Our Positive Steps Fertility Staff

When evaluating a fertility clinic, besides the qualifications and experience of the physician, is supportive and compassionate staff dedicated to helping patients navigate the often emotional journey of fertility treatment.

The experienced team at Positive Steps Fertility provides a full range of care to patients struggling with infertility. Our knowledgeable staff specializes in evaluating and managing reproductive disorders and is equipped to provide a range of fertility treatments at our state-of-the-art facilities.

Together with our reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Parry, our staff will work closely with patients to help them get the care and support they need to start a family and be there for them every step of the way.

Meet Our Experienced Fertility Team in Madison, MS

Brittany Linton - PSF - HS1

Brittany Linton, Nurse Practitioner

Caring for others has been my world since 2011, when I started as a med-surg nurse in Baytown, Texas. While there, I had a very close friend go through the IVF process. After helping her with her injections for IVF, going to doctor’s appointments with her, and seeing her babies born from the process, I knew that my dream job was to help others with infertility like my friend.

In 2015, I moved back to Mississippi to be closer to family. Well, guess what? I got the dream job of being a fertility nurse! There is nothing quite like being there for someone on their journey to parenthood. After realizing how much I loved the fertility field and while still working with Dr. Parry, I decided to go back to school to become a nurse practitioner so that I was able to do even more at the clinic. I completed the RN-MSN program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in May of 2020 and am now certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

I absolutely LOVE my patients and view them as family! My number one goal is to give them as much knowledge as possible about their fertility in a way that is simple for them to understand. When I am not at my work home, I enjoy spending time with my two kids, Claire and John Ryan, along with our extended family. Being outdoors and reading are a couple of things I like to do in my free time. I look forward to being by your side during the most rewarding journey of your life.

Vicki Butler RN - Positive Steps Fertility

Vicki Butler, RN

While I’m often referred to as wife, mom, Nana, and friend, I am Vicki Butler, a compassionate nurse with a deep love for the field of fertility who relies on faith for guidance. I began my career as a medical surgical nurse, then through a personal journey with a family member, I found my true calling to help those with infertility. So, here I am doing something that I hold near to my heart. I am a nurse, but not just any nurse. I hope to be your nurse: To coach, listen, provide a shoulder to cry on, and help you navigate the intricacies of your own personal fertility journey.

Holly Farmer RN - Positive Steps Fertility

Holly Farmer, RN

I’m originally from Belzoni, MS, and decided to go into nursing after being inspired by multiple family members also in the field. In 2015, I graduated from MDCC with my Associate of Science. I used to work in the dialysis setting, but I was ready for a change to be able to keep up with raising a young son. Recently moving to Brandon and starting a new job with Positive Steps Fertility has been the best decision! I currently live with my son (Owen), and we are very excited to be here and to be able to help people on this journey.

Courtney Gregory RN - Positive Steps Fertility

Courtney Gregory, RN

I attended the University of Mississippi Medical Center where I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2019. Following graduation, I worked for three years with oncology patients at Baptist Medical Center. I learned many life lessons during this time and I will forever be thankful for those. Working in oncology gives you a perspective about what is really important in life. However, I also reached a point where I wanted to explore life’s beginnings rather than its later stages. I took a chance by completely stepping outside of my comfort zone when I applied for a position at Positive Steps, and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made! I truly enjoy coming to work every day and helping others along their journey to parenthood. My goal is for everyone that walks through our front doors to feel at home here and to ease any fears that may arise.

Ainsley Betcher RN - Positive Steps Fertility

Ainsley Betcher, RN

Growing up I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. With my father as an OB/GYN and my mother a nurse, women’s health has been a central part of my life! I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Mississippi State University in 2023, where I was involved in research on cerebellar brain folding. This sparked my interest in early development which led to my interest in the IVF process. In 2024, I graduated from the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s Accelerated Nursing Program with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). I originally started at Positive Steps as a Clinical Assistant and am so excited to be back as a RN. Working here is a dream come true! Family is something that is very important to me so I love getting to help people create theirs! Outside of work I enjoy working out, traveling, and shopping.

Lisa Dorman Lab Director - Positive Steps Fertility

Lisa Dorman, Lab Director

My career started with an associate’s degree as a Medical Laboratory Technician and I quickly realized that I loved working in the laboratory. I continued my career by achieving a bachelor’s degree in medical technology, followed by a master’s and then Ph.D. in clinical health sciences, and I am now certified as a MLS(ASCP), TS(ABB), HCLD(ABB). I am a “hands-on” laboratory director in embryology and andrology and very focused on patient quality and outcomes. Though native to Arkansas, Mississippi is now my home. I left Mississippi for Colorado for five years to advance my skills and knowledge in embryology. Colorado is a great place to live, but my husband and I decided to move home to Mississippi to be near our friends and family. I hope to help you on your fertility journey.

Mandy Nichols - Positive Steps Fertility

Mandy Nichols, Embryologist

I received my Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Mississippi  

State University in 2003, and later graduated with a Master’s in Clinical Health Science from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2008. Although my two degrees came from rivaling schools, I was born and raised a Bulldog and will forever bleed maroon and white (Hail State)! My husband and I both grew up in Madison, and we continue to live in the area so our four boys can call it home, too.

I was introduced to Embryology and fell in love with the IVF laboratory early in my career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist. And then after working 12 years in Microbiology at a local hospital, I was presented with the opportunity to return to the Embryology lab with Positive Steps Fertility. Knowing how important my family is to me, I also know the struggle that some people go through to have families of their own. I feel blessed to have such a rewarding “job,” and I love helping patients grow their families here at Positive Steps Fertility.

Amanda Doonan Embryologist - Positive Steps Fertility

Amanda Doonan, Embryologist

I attended Mississippi College and received my Bachelor of Science in Biology. I graduated with my Master’s in Reproductive Clinical Science in May 2024. It was during my time at MC that I discovered my love for the lab, and it is now an honor to work in the lab here at Positive Steps every day. I am originally from a small town in Kentucky, but I have found my home in Mississippi with my husband and our two fur babies. I take great pride in having the opportunity to work in reproductive medicine and I look forward to being a part of your fertility journey!

Anna Thomas Scheduling Coordinator - Positive Steps Fertility

Anna Thomas, Scheduling Coordinator

Hi, I’m Anna Thomas. I’m from the Mississippi Delta but Madison is home. I’ve been in healthcare for 8 years and love being there for our patients along their health journey. I’m so grateful I was chosen to be a part of the PSF Team with Dr. Parry and Brittany. What they do here is truly amazing and so are they! When I’m not working I love spending time outdoors with my husband and daughter. I look forward to meeting you and being a positive part of your health journey too!

Tracy Boone Scheduling Coordinator - Positive Steps Fertility

Tracy Boone, Scheduling Coordinator

I am a Madison native and thrilled to be working in my hometown. I have been in the healthcare field for over 30 years and am passionate about helping people. I am here to welcome you to our family—over the phone and as you arrive at our clinic. Some of my favorite things to do are photography and shopping, but what my husband, Phillip, and I enjoy most is spending time with our daughter, twin boys and grandbabies, which is why I can understand how much others want to have their own children. My family is my heart and each and every one of them means the world to me. I take this passion to work as I see my patients as my family as well. I look forward to meeting you and helping you start your own piece of happiness as you begin your journey with us here at Positive Steps Fertility.

April Haley Scheduling Coordinator - Positive Steps Fertility

April Haley, Scheduling Coordinator

I am a dedicated health professional who began my career in the medical field in June of 2022. From a young age, I knew that I wanted to work in healthcare, driven by a passion for helping others. I am incredibly grateful to be part of the PSF Team alongside Dr. Parry and Brittany, whose work I deeply admire for its impact and inspiration.

I like to bring a personal touch to my work, treating every patient like family and approaching each situation with empathy and care. I look forward to meeting new patients and helping them start their own journey toward happiness and as they begin their path with Positive Steps Fertility. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time outdoors, connecting with nature and finding peace in the world around me.

Melissa Harris - Practice Director - Positive Steps Fertility

Melissa Harris, Practice Director

I’m originally from the Mississippi Delta but moved to Jackson to attend the University of Mississippi Medical Center. I received a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene in 2003 and have built many special relationships with my patients as a hygienist over the years.  

I love getting to know people. Earning trust and friendships by providing patients with the most genuine, professional care has always been a favorite of mine. As I transitioned into an administrative role at Positive Steps Fertility in 2017, I knew I had found my work home. I helped people smile again in the dental office and here I still get to experience the reward of seeing people smile! I’m more behind the scenes but completely aware of the great things that happen here daily. I’m so fortunate to love what I do and to work with such a great doctor and teammates, in a beautiful facility, with state of the art technology. We love our patients like family and don’t take for granted the love we receive from them in return.

I live in Brandon with my husband and our two Labrador Retrievers. I love animals and the outdoors. My other passions involve music, art, travel, and food. I hope to retire at Positive Steps Fertility. I am beyond blessed to have the opportunity to work here with such great providers and teammates.

Jessica Thaxton Communications Director - Positive Steps Fertility

Jessica Thaxton, Communications Director

I’m originally from Leland, Mississippi, but I’ve called the Brandon area home since 2019. I graduated from Mississippi State University in 2019 with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and Public Relations, Hail State! While at MSU, I was a proud member of Phi Mu Sorority. Since graduation, I’ve worked in Marketing and Communications, a field that allows me to combine creativity with connection. Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband, stepson, and our families and friends. You’ll often find me reading, enjoying the outdoors, or heading to Starkville to cheer on the Dawgs. I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of the Positive Steps team. The best part of my role is getting to share our patients’ incredible stories and helping those walking through infertility discover Positive Steps, a place where they’re not just patients, but family.

Trusted Fertility Care Staff in Gulfport, MS

Amber Headshot cropped

Amber Hutchison, Nurse Practitioner

My journey began as a registered nurse in 2016 where I gained experience across various healthcare settings, but it was working in postpartum care that I found my passion for women’s health. Witnessing the pure joy of successful pregnancies and deliveries prompted a desire in me to be on the frontline of helping others achieve their dreams of starting a family.  

After five fulfilling years as an RN, I made the decision to further my education and specialize in women’s health. Now, as a nurse practitioner, I’m honored to be part of the journey with individuals and couples as they navigate the highs and lows of fertility treatments. Each person’s story is unique, and I’m dedicated to providing personalized care, empathy, and unwavering support every step of the way. This isn’t just a job for me—it’s a calling, a chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. I can’t wait to bring my enthusiasm, expertise, and compassion to the table as we work together to make some babies and create beautiful families. Let’s embark on this incredible journey together!

Katie Bammert

Katie Bammert, RN

I always knew I had a passion for helping people from a young age. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2021. Following graduation, I worked as a critical care nurse helping patients and their families during some of the worst times in their lives. After having friends struggling with fertility, I knew where my true passion was. I decided to come to Positive Steps in 2024 and it has been the best decision. I look forward to joining you all on your fertility journey.

Your Compassionate Fertility Specialists in Shreveport, LA

Amanda Owens NP - Positive Steps Fertility

Amanda Owens, Nurse Practitioner

Hey! I’m Amanda Owens — I’m a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner who has a heart for fertility, and I’m here to make sure you don’t feel like you’re navigating the wild world of fertility alone. I’m also a St. Jude mom, which means I’ve got experience in juggling the really heavy stuff while still trying to keep the laughter going (because seriously, if we can’t laugh, we might just cry). I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Northwestern State University. The fertility journey is a wild ride, but my goal is to make it a bit more manageable — and hopefully even a little fun. After all, if we can find the humor in it, that’s half the battle, right?

My biggest focus has always been loving people in their most vulnerable stages of life. With a mix of science-backed strategies and good old-fashioned empathy, I’m here to make sure you feel informed, supported, and understood every step of the way. No question is too small, no concern is too silly — I’ve heard it all, and I’m here for it. When I’m not helping future families navigate their fertility journeys, you’ll find me cheering on my tiny humans at the ballpark, stopping them from crashing their dirt bikes, supporting other St. Jude families, or curled up on my porch with a good book.

Fertility care is personal, and I’m here to make sure you feel like you have a partner in the process, with a side of laughs to keep things light along the way.

Jeri Kahre RN - Positive Steps Fertility

Jeri Kahre, RN

I was born and raised in Benton, LA where I still live with my husband and our two children. We are blessed with a beautiful son and daughter who keep us very busy! I enjoy traveling and anything outdoors. I graduated with my Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Northwestern State University in 2016. I started my nursing career in the Pediatric ICU for five years, followed by three years in hospice. I truly have a passion for caring for people at the most vulnerable times of their lives. As a part of the Positive Steps Fertility team, I get so much joy and fulfilment from helping others start their own families.

Abbey Jones RN - Positive Steps Fertility

Abbey Jones, RN

I am originally from the Chicago suburbs and I received my Bachelor’s in Nursing from Saint Louis University! After graduation, I became a NICU nurse and that was my passion for the last five years. I spent the last 3 years being a travel RN, spending most of my time in Utah and Virginia. I recently moved to Benton, LA with my husband, my son, and our two dogs. IVF and infertility has always been close to my heart and I am so excited to help families grow!

Lila Stone Porter Embryologist - Positive Steps Fertility

Lila Stone-Porter, Embryologist

I attended Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, La where I received my Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology in 2004. After graduating I moved back home to Shreveport where I married my high school sweetheart and we started our family. I spent the first 13 years of my laboratory career learning and implementing quality standards in laboratory techniques and the production of transfusable blood products. When COVID made society more complex, I made the hard decision to leave my career and focus my attention on homeschooling my daughters but I missed the lab. As a family we decided we all needed to get back into society and fate brought me to Positive Steps.

I experienced difficulties when starting my family so our mission at Positive Steps is one that is personally meaningful. I get to perform the lab work that I love all while helping create families. I spend most of my time behind the scenes but I am here for all of our patients and would love to be a part of your family journey!

Ann-Marie Mahgoub Embryologist - Positive Steps Fertility

Ann-Marie Mahgoub, Embryologist

I graduated from ULM in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science and have spent the past five years working in a hospital laboratory. While I have enjoyed my time in the lab, I’ve always dreamed of a career where I can make a more meaningful impact on people’s lives. Recently, my husband and I relocated from West Monroe to Bossier for his residency with our 2-year-old son. This transition allowed me the opportunity to seek a more fulfilling and rewarding career. Although I have not faced infertility myself, I deeply empathize with those who have had to endure the physical and emotional challenges it brings. As a mom, I know the incredible joy that a child can bring, and I believe that everyone deserves that experience. I will often be behind the scenes, but I am looking forward to building connections with our patients! I am so excited to be a part of this amazing team and help others on their journey to becoming parents!

Caroline Eaton Scheduling Coordinator - Positive Steps Fertility

Caroline Eaton, Scheduling Coordinator

I have worked in healthcare for the last 5 years, where I’ve been able to really pursue my passion for helping people. I love getting to interact with our patients and be with them as they go through this journey from the very beginning. I’m from Coushatta, where I live with my husband and two dogs. When I’m not at work, I love to just hang out with friends and family. I also enjoy cooking and traveling whenever I can. I absolutely love working at Positive Steps and look forward to helping as many people as possible!

Brandi Cyr Scheduling Coordinator - Positive Steps Fertility

Brandi Cyr, Office Manager

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, so people really are my passion. I love getting to be the first interaction with our patients and getting to know them throughout their journey with us. I have lived in Shreveport almost my entire life but moved to Bossier City about 4 years ago. When I’m not at work I enjoy traveling, doing crafts, and spending time with my husband, our dog, and friends!

Meet Our Fertility Staff in Slidell, Louisiana

logo Positive Steps Fertility

Nikki Fluke, RN

I started my nursing career in 2020 where I found my passion for women’s health. I worked as a postpartum and mother/baby nurse for 5 years, caring for women and their newborn babies. 

My husband and I have 3 amazing sons and being their mom is my life’s purpose. I was born and raised in Slidell (or “on the bayou”), when not at work you can usually find me and my “bayou boys” either on the boat or at the ball field. 

I believe anyone who longs for parenthood deserves the opportunity to do so; that’s why I am so excited to join Positive Steps Fertility in bringing this much needed resource to my home town and to help create some new families down here on the bayou!

Ashley Johnson Office Manager

Ashley Johnson, Slidell and Gulfport Office Manager

I’m Ashley, the friendly face at the front desk who keeps everything running smoothly at Positive Steps Fertility. As Office Manager, I strive to bring warmth, efficiency, and a personal touch to every patient interaction. Before joining this incredible team, I spent five years as the Practice Administrator at a busy birth center, where I developed a deep passion for supporting families on their journey to parenthood.

Originally from Shreveport, I now live in Slidell with my husband, our six kids, and three very silly dogs. When I’m not juggling work and family life, you’ll find me with my nose in a good book. I’m proud to be part of a team that blends compassionate care with cutting-edge fertility solutions to support and empower our patients every step of the way. Outside of work I enjoy working out, traveling, and shopping

Ready To Take The Next Step?

Contact us today to learn more about our personalized fertility solutions or to schedule your consultation with our experts. We're here to support you every step of the way.