Hello, I’m Michele D. Shetter, and I’m honored to help bring the NeuroBalance Project to life alongside my dedicated colleagues—serving the Carmel community and surrounding areas with purpose and heart.

For over 30 years, I’ve worked across Indiana’s public school systems—from urban to rural settings—supporting students from kindergarten through high school. I began my career as a vocal music director, choreographer for school musicals and show choirs, and a piano teacher. It was during this time that I began to notice something remarkable: students who engaged in making music—developing rhythm, coordination, and fine motor skills—were also showing improvements in reading fluency, comprehension, focus, creativity, problem solving and overall emotional regulation. These observations sparked my lifelong passion for neuropsychology.

Driven by a deep curiosity about the brain and behavior, I pursued extensive training in neuropsychology, brain function, and cognitive development. My work has since evolved to include designing holistic, brain-based learning environments and partnering with school districts to implement strategies that support self-regulation and cognitive growth. I specialize in primitive reflex integration and am passionate about its role as a foundational approach to behavioral and academic interventions.

I continue to stay active in neuropsychological research and have had research presented at the Neuropsychology Pediatrics National Conference on brain development through music education. I continue to facilitate workshops on holistic strategies for self-regulation and bridging the gap between neuroscience and classroom practice. Additionally, I’ve co-authored a published book chapter highlighting the vital role of school psychologists in supporting post-secondary transitions for autistic students. Currently I'm completing my practitioner's license in neuromotor immaturity.

I look forward to meeting you and working together through the NeuroBalance Project to support the growth, learning, and well-being of every individual we serve.

NeuroBalance Project

Executive Director

MA Educational Psychology

MA Educational Administration

Neuropsychology Specialist

Human Development and Learning Specialist

Indiana Building Administrator License

Mary W. Preston is a visionary leader with over two decades of experience in education and a growing footprint in entrepreneurship. With a career spanning public school leadership, special education, real estate investment, and youth enrichment programming, Mary brings a unique blend of instructional expertise, operational strategy, and community-focused innovation.

Most recently, Mary served as Principal of Charles Warren Fairbanks Elementary School in Indianapolis Public Schools, where she led the turnaround of an emerging campus, driving improvements in academic performance, attendance, and school culture—both virtually and in person. Prior to that, she served as Principal of Roy Johnson 6th Grade/Alternative School in Everman ISD, earning academic distinctions in ELA and Math and increasing campus accountability ratings.

Mary began her career as a teacher on Fort Worth’s East Side, laying the foundation for her instructional approach rooted in equity and engagement. She later served as a Library Media Specialist and advanced into assistant principal roles at both the elementary and high school levels, deepening her expertise in curriculum design, professional development, testing coordination, and student support systems.

Currently certified in Special Education, Mary is expanding her career to specialize in inclusive instructional practices that support the whole child—academically, emotionally, and neurologically. As the Owner of Overtime Athletics – Indy, she integrates research-based strategies that highlight the critical role of physical activity in boosting cognitive function, emotional regulation, and academic performance. Her enrichment programs use structured movement and cooperative play to improve student focus, self-confidence, and overall mental health. By bridging the gap between physical wellness and classroom achievement, Mary continues to design and lead learning environments where every child can thrive.

Mary holds a Master of Science in Educational Administration from Tarleton State University, a Master of Science in Library Science from the University of North Texas, and a Bachelor of Science from the University of New Orleans. She also earned a Business Certificate from Rice University, equipping her with the entrepreneurial and operational tools that support her ventures in both education and business. In addition to owning and operating a youth enrichment franchise, she is also a real estate investor with rental property holdings in Texas—demonstrating her strategic leadership and long-term vision across industries. She is certified in Texas as a Principal (PK–12), School Librarian (PK–12), and Special Education Teacher, and holds an Indiana Building Administrator license.

NeuroBalance Project

Education Consultant

MS Educational Administration

MS Library Science

Special Education Specialist

Business Certificate

Indiana Building Administrator License

NeuroBalance Project Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Student and Family, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, ACSW

Phyllis Tobias, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, ACSW is a deeply compassionate and seasoned clinical social worker and family therapist with over 28 years of experience supporting children and families through life’s most complex challenges. A graduate of The University of Pennsylvania and Butler University, Phyllis combines clinical excellence with a genuine heart for service.

For nearly two decades, Phyllis has served Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), first at the school level and now in a district-wide role, where she helps shape systems of support for students and families. Her commitment to vulnerable populations extends beyond Indiana—Phyllis also spent nearly six years in Boston as a Pediatric Care Manager at Mass General Brigham, coordinating care for high-risk pediatric patients with diligence and empathy.

Phyllis continues to serve on the IPS crisis team and operates a thriving virtual private practice during evenings and weekends. She is licensed in Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island, and Florida, allowing her to reach families wherever they are—including her cherished “snowbirds.”

A believer in whole-person care, Phyllis and her golden Labrador, Delilah, are a certified therapy dog team with Paws and Think, spreading comfort and joy to those in need. She has also contributed her leadership and insight as a member of the Board of Trustees for a private independent school in Indianapolis.

Phyllis is known not only for her clinical knowledge but for her ability to truly see and hear the people she serves—offering hope, support, and skilled guidance when it matters most.