Meet the Residents

My interest in human movement, performance, and rehabilitation started in high school where I took two Regional Occupational Programs for Sports Medicine. I then earned a Bachelor’s of Arts in Sports Medicine with a minor in Coaching from Pepperdine University, where I simultaneously worked in the ATC as a Student Athletic Medicine Intern for three years, had the opportunity to be a part of the athletic training staff for the Men’s March Madness Tournament in 2013, and complete a Sports Performance internship at Velocity’s NFL Combine training camp. In the six years between undergraduate and graduate school, I worked independently as a personal trainer as well as a physical therapy aide in the outpatient ortho setting. Upon earning my physical therapy degree from Cal State Long Beach in May 2023, I’ve continued to enjoy serving patients in the outpatient orthopedic and sports settings while pursuing an interest in pelvic health–specifically working with female athletes and the pregnancy/postpartum population–by taking relevant CE courses and maintaining a research assistant position at CSULB for studies investigating said populations. When I’m not working, I enjoy exercising, spending time at the beach or on the water, and eating good food with family and friends.

My journey in physical therapy began at California State University, Sacramento, where I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. While finishing the requirements for my doctorate I participated in the six-month Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) residency at Kaiser Permanente, Vallejo, earning IPNFA level 4 status. At Kaiser, I gained invaluable experience treating patients with complex neurological injuries such as stroke and spinal cord injuries. This experience has deepened my appreciation for structured post-graduate learning, clinical mentorship, and exposed me to the impact of specialized techniques to improve patient outcomes. This has inspired me to pursue further training and specialization in my current field of orthopedics. Growth comes from the appropriate dosing of a stimulus, and whether that is personal, musculoskeletal, or mental, I enjoy challenging my capabilities. In my off time this currently looks like biking, swimming, and running many miles in hopes of improving my endurance to finish my first Triathlon in the fall of 2025.

Dr. Erin Doster, PT, DPT received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Southern California (USC) in 2022. Prior to attending USC, she graduated from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst (UMass) with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a minor in Biology. During her time at UMass, Erin was a NCAA Division I athlete and captain of the UMass Women’s Soccer team. Dr. Doster has been the Clinic Director at Spine & Sport Studio City since March 2024 treating a wide variety of orthopedic, sports-related, vestibular, and neurologic conditions. She is a certified PWR!Moves Therapist and certified in HawkGrips Level I and Level II Advanced Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization. In addition, she is currently completing Pilates Certification with Polestar Pilates (expected February 2026). Erin enjoys staying active, traveling, cheering for all Detroit sports teams (win or lose), and spending time with her family, friends, and two cats.

I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, where my passion for rehabilitation began after experiencing multiple sports-related injuries of my own. These experiences sparked a deep interest in helping others return to the activities they love. As a physical therapist, I enjoy the creativity and critical thinking involved in tailoring treatment plans to each individual’s unique needs and goals. Outside of work, I love sports, working out, fishing, spending time in nature, hanging out with friends, and simply being outdoors.

My journey in physical therapy began with a deep passion for both athletics and healing. While playing collegiate soccer at Arizona Western College, I had the opportunity to refine my skills as an Athletic Training intern. I later earned my Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), and went on to complete my Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Gannon University.

During my time at Gannon, I gained invaluable experience working in an intensive neuro rehab unit as well as in several outpatient clinics, including the renowned Zenergy Sports Rehab Clinic, where I developed specialized skills in working with high-level athletes. I recently accepted a position at Kelly Hawkins Physical Therapy to further expand my knowledge in orthopedics and pursue my Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) certification through their residency program.

Outside of work, I’m an avid outdoor enthusiast. I love trail running with my golden doodle, playing golf, skiing, and trying out new sports whenever I can. My active lifestyle and dedication to physical health reflect my commitment to helping others reach their wellness goals.

My name is Neal O’Brien. My first exposure to physical therapy was when I tore my ACL while wrestling during my senior year of high school. This, combined with my work experience as a Program Facilitator for a nonprofit organization helping underserved communities get cancer treatment, sparked my interest in healthcare. I received my Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from California State University of Monterey Bay in 2022 and will receive my DPT from Regis University in 2025. When I am not working, I enjoy backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and spearfishing (when visiting family in California).

My name is Drew Peterschmidt, I am a born and raised Oregonian who received my undergraduate degree in Kinesiology from Oregon State University close to home. I then went to physical therapy school at Oregon State University at their Cascades campus. During my time at Oregon State, I had clinical experience in outpatient neuro rehab, home health, and outpatient orthopedics. Since graduating in June of 2024, I took my first job at Therapeutic Associates Physical Therapy as an internal traveler while my wife is completing her third year of physical therapy school. During this first year I have done continuing education on several topics including but not limited to chronic pain, the cervical spine, treating runners, and courses through the Institute of physical art such as Core First and PNF 1. I also have an additional certification as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Outside of work I love to spend time with my wife and dog as well as our families. I also love numerous outdoor activities and sports such as mountainbiking, running, downhill skiing, cross country skiing, basketball, pickleball, hiking, and camping. I am hoping to have the opportunity to learn and grow through this residency in the coming year and become a better clinician and person.

My name is Lucas Veitenheimer (currently Veitzel). I grew up in Windthorst, Texas where I went to school. I then moved to Wichita Falls, Texas where I achieved my bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology and a minor in psychology at Midwestern State University. I then moved to Fort Worth, Texas where I then attended the University of St. Augustine Health Science Center’s hybrid PT program in Austin, Texas. I graduated in April of 2024. During my time in under grade I worked as a PT tech for an orthopedic sports therapy clinic where I also taught water aerobics. During PT school, I taught yoga, HIIT, and pilates classes. I also had a career as a Silver Sneakers instructor at a couple of local assisted living facilities. Since graduation, I have worked at Vista PT as of September 2024. In my free time, I am an avid cyclist. I love to hike or spend time at the park with our 3 dogs, and when the days are less favorable, I will crochet and read books.

Graduated PT school from Northern Illinois University in 2023. Quintin is also a former football player for the NIU Huskies. Upon his graduation, he relocated to Texas to begin his career. As a former athlete and newcomer to the area he is eager to begin working with patients and is especially passionate about treating orthopedic based cases. During Quintin’s career he has served as a staff PT, clinical manager, and PRN therapist. He has worked in the outpatient and Skilled nursing settings. Quintin remains hungry and strives to be the best version of himself daily. He looks forward to growing within the profession. Outside the Clinic Quintin loves to travel, engage in community service, eat, and work out. He one day plans to create an annual scholarship for minorities from underrepresented communities that want to attend PT school.

My name is Jaylin Horton born and raised in Lubbock, Texas. I went to both undergrad and graduate school at Texas Tech University, which is where I will be graduating May 10th, 2025 from the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center. I grew a passion in sports medicine and orthopedic practice where I am also certified in dry needling through NAIOMT. Physical Therapy for me, is a way to combine my passions in health, wellness, anatomy, and physiology while also helping people live an active lifestyle. Outside of work, I enjoy sports and being outdoors doing activities like hiking, snowboarding, recreational basketball, golf, and weight training.

Emma Neckar is an orthopedic physical therapist who wants to pursue a career in sports rehabilitation. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a Fitness Specialist emphasis from San Diego State University and earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from California State University, Northridge in 2023. During her doctoral studies, she completed an internship with the Los Angeles Dodgers, gaining hands-on experience in a professional sports setting. Growing up, Emma was an avid soccer and volleyball player, experiences that ignited her passion for sports and movement. These years of sports participation have influenced her approach to patient care, emphasizing the importance of functional movement and athletic performance. Outside of her professional life, Emma enjoys exploring new restaurants and spending quality time outdoors with her 5-year-old husky-shepherd mix. Additionally, she maintains a personal fitness regimen, regularly lifting weights to stay strong.

With a solid foundation in orthopedic physical therapy and a genuine passion for helping athletes recover and perform at their best, Emma is dedicated to making a positive impact in the field of physical therapy.

I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy currently serving as the Interim Clinic Director and Physical Therapist at Spine & Sport Physical Therapy in El Cajon, California. In the coming days, I will be transitioning into a full-time Clinic Director role at our Lemon Grove location. With one and a half years of experience as a licensed physical therapist—all of which I’ve spent at Spine & Sport—I’ve developed a strong passion for working with diverse outpatient populations. My clinical interests include treating low back pain, guiding patients through post-operative ACL rehabilitation, and supporting athletes in their return-to-sport journeys.

Before entering the field of physical therapy, I was deeply involved in competitive soccer. I’ve had the privilege of coaching at De La Salle High School in Concord, California, and competing at high levels—from national high school club tournaments to semi-professional play with Temecula FC and Contra Costa FC. One of my proudest accomplishments was representing the Guam National Soccer Team, where I played alongside a talented group of elite athletes and staff.

Leadership has always been a core part of my identity, both on the field and in the clinic. I’ve captained multiple competitive teams and recently achieved a personal milestone by stepping into a clinic director role. My next goal is to earn my Sports Clinical Specialty certification to further my commitment to optimizing performance and recovery in the athletic population.

Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new dining experiences with my amazing girlfriend of four and a half years, spending quality time with my large extended family in Temecula, and staying active through strength training and weekly soccer matches.

I am a soon-to-be graduate of the entry-level physical therapy program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences at the Dallas, TX campus. My graduation dated is set for later this month on April 26th. In 2021, I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from the University of North Texas in Denton, TX. After that graduation, I transitioned from part-time to full-time as a rehab technician at Therapy Partners of North Texas – Southlake in Southlake, TX, where I worked until beginning PT school in the fall of 2022. Prior to beginning PT school, I also earned my CSCS certification. In my spare time I enjoy being active, specifically playing sports. I participate in both a men’s wood bat baseball league and a slow-pitch softball league. I really enjoy golfing as well. I am a very social individual who loves being competitive and so these activities are often the highlights of my free time.

My name is Chris Wolfinger and I am a physical therapist and athletic trainer. I graduated from San Diego State University in 2013 with a degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Athletic Training. From there I went to University of the Pacific where I graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2015. My professional experience including outpatient orthopedic clinical practice as well as time spent in the NHL, AHL, MLB, and NFL as an athletic trainer. In my spare time, I enjoy hanging out with my wife and 4 kids. I also enjoy working out and playing golf.

My name is Haneef Zakee, and I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Southern California after completing my undergraduate studies in Kinesiology at California State University, Fullerton. I’ve had the opportunity to train in a variety of clinical settings for my rotations, including Body Physical Therapy in Beverly Hills, CA (outpatient orthopedics); Forged Physical Therapy in Montclair and Van Nuys, CA (sports medicine with a baseball focus and outpatient orthopedics); and Banner Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine in Scottsdale, AZ (sports medicine and outpatient orthopedics). My background also includes six years of experience as a massage therapist in medical and athletic event environments, as well as volunteer work with Ignite Phyzio in La Habra, CA, supporting sports performance and rehabilitation programs. Outside of physical therapy, I enjoy playing basketball and football, traveling, DJ’ing, exploring new restaurants, and attending live concerts.

Alexandria Gulley, PT, DPT, CSCS graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education with a concentration in Physical Therapy from Baylor University in May 2019. She went on to graduate from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, TX on December 16, 2022, with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Alexandria holds a dry needling certification through the Institute for Athlete Regeneration (IAR) and is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). She currently works at Vista Physical Therapy in Mesquite, TX. In her free time, Alexandria enjoys strength training, hiking, yoga, reading, and completing puzzles.

My name is Kirsten Parrish, PT, DPT, CSCS, and I graduated from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in December of 2021. Following graduation, I was employed with Baylor Scott and White Institute for Rehabilitation at Mesquite Beltline for 2 years. During the past two and a half years, I have sought development in the sports medicine realm through obtaining certification in Dry Needling and as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Other sports medicine related post-grad coursework I have taken includes management of the injured runner, ACL examination and treatment, myofascial decompression for the upper extremity, and blood flow restriction in rehabilitation. More recently, I have accepted a staff therapist position with Vista Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine in Allen, TX where I hope to build my expertise in working with youth athletes. Off the clock, I’m often enjoying time outside or with friends, most frequently trail running half marathons, hiking (preferably in a national park), snowboarding, reading, playing with my cats, lifting at the gym, and playing soccer.

Michael is a dedicated and compassionate physical therapist who completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Central Arkansas in 2019 and his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in 2022.

Michael is passionate about promoting optimal health and wellness in all individuals and returning athletes of all skills and age groups back to their sport. His current goals are to become credentialed by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and to achieve Board certification through the APTA as an (SCS) Sport Certified Specialist.

His hobbies include doing activities with his close friends, spending as much time as possible with family, and anything sports-related, especially basketball and baseball.

Zoie was born in Indianapolis, IN and raised in Plano, TX where she ran varsity cross country and track & field. She earned a scholarship to Arkansas State University running cross country/track & field for 4 years while obtaining her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. After breaking her leg during her senior track season, she was able to work with and alongside the team athletic training staff for her own rehab and assist with others during the outdoor season as well. Zoie is an HBCU alum of Alabama State University where she received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy. In her free time, she enjoys running, rock climbing, and reading. She loves spending time with her big family and popping fireworks on holidays.

Originally, from the State of Illinois. Licensed practitioner/physical therapist for 4 years, although, have been in the field/environment for 10+ years ( Personal training, Strength Coach, Rehab Technician). Started my PT career back in Illinois, August of 2020, at a private ortho/sports medicine clinic. In July of 2022 my wife and I decided to start a new venture and we moved to Florida. During my 2 years in Florida, I was a physical therapist at Jaguar Therapeutics, ortho/sports medicine clinic based in South Florida. I have a strong background in human movement/biomechanics, and anatomy. Received my CSCS ( certified strength and conditioning specialist) back in 2017. I am a very simple individual. During my free time, I love to take care of my body through fitness, bodybuilding, and functional training. I enjoy a nice book here and there as well. My wife and I moved to Denton, Texas last month with our 3 year old Boxer dog. We look forward to growing with this community.

Emma Hart is a Rhode Island native who obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Wheaton College (MA) in 2016. At Wheaton, she played four years of varsity softball and achieved All-American accolades during her time there. She went on to graduate with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Connecticut in 2020. Prior to moving to Colorado, she worked at an outpatient clinic in Southeast Connecticut where she saw a diverse patient population. Emma currently works at Pro Active Physical Therapy in the Brighton, Colorado. She treats a variety of patients in this setting and has received her certification in dry needling. She has also received her certification through Herman and Wallace and treats women’s health including those experiencing post partum and pelvic floor conditions. When Emma isn’t treating patients at the clinic, you can find her at the gym, snowboarding and hiking in Colorado, or spending time doing water sports in Wyoming.

Daphne was born in Dallas, Texas but began her physical therapist journey 8,300 miles away in Baguio City, Philippines where she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Baguio in 2016. After completing her degree, she returned to the United States to be closer to family living in the Bay Area, where she then continued her career by working with adult to geriatric patients through orthopedic and vestibular rehabilitation in a private practice clinic for 5 years. In 2021, Daphne decided to further her education by enrolling in a transitional Doctorate in Physical Therapy program from the University of Montana-Missoula and graduated in 2023. Later, in January 2024, she joined PRN Physical Therapy Palo Alto and wanted to pursue the orthopedic residency as she is eager to learn from others and would like to enhance her knowledge and skills to better support patients achieve their rehabilitation goals. Daphne also aspires to serve as a mentor for student physical therapists as well as foreign physical therapy graduates in the future. In her spare time, Daphne enjoys spending time with her family and friends, singing karaoke, and being outdoors enjoying California’s weather.

Tony graduated with his Master’s in business administration concentration in Leadership and Health Care Management from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma Washington and went on to earn a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from West Coast University in Los Angeles, California. Growing up as a basketball athlete, and now a health care professional, he strives to serve and provide compassionate care to help his patients get better so they can get back to their active healthy independent lifestyles. He specializes in orthopedic, spine and sports physical therapy across the lifespan. His clinical experiences include treating varieties of musculoskeletal conditions such as lumbar facet arthropathy, rotator cuff pathology, shoulder impingement syndrome, hip/knee Osteoarthritis and other complex post-surgery rehabilitation. In his personal time, Tony enjoys playing basketball, learning advanced calisthenic skills, playing guitar and spending time with his family.

My name is Amanda Pardue and I grew up in St.Helens, Oregon, a small town outside Portland. I started my educational journey at Lower Columbia College with the hopes of becoming a nurse. After a few years, I realized that nursing was not for me, but I knew I wanted to help others and at the time I loved going to the gym and knowing how powerful exercise can be for the mind and body, I decided to start my physical therapy journey. I then continued my schooling at PCC where I took all my prereqs and got my associate’s degree. I continued to get my bachelors of Biology at Portland state University where I took most of my classes online due to covid. That next fall I started school at George Fox University where I got my DPT and passed my boards on January 23, 2024. I was beyond excited to start my career as a physical therapist. I got my first job that March at InReach physical therapy in Hillsboro and Beaverton locations. It has been such an amazing journey. Something I like to do in my free time is read books, go for long walks, ride my bike, and play board games with my family. I also enjoy sporting events such as watching the winterhawks, the Hops, and Portland Timber.

My name is Chase Pruitt. Upon graduating in 2018 from the University of North Dakota I knew I wanted to work in orthopedics and found a position in Las Vegas (I was tired of the cold of North Dakota). I worked for two years with ATI and after seeing a large volume of patient’s day after day, decided it was time for a change. I was led to my current position with PRN and it has been a pleasant change of pace. The current state of reimbursement in our area still lends us to seeing a higher volume of patients, however I feel much more comfortable at my current position. I watched a recent webinar put on by Brett Windsor within our company discussing the residency program and felt something he said resonate with me. He talked about developing your clinical skills to be more efficient and effective and evaluating and prescribing treatment. It’s a simple enough concept but I really latched on to that, especially with the volume of patients we see. I’ve been practicing physical therapy for about 6 years and feel like I’ve become a little stagnant in my treatment. I felt like the OCS was a goal I have considered for years to help me with some guided study. Upon hearing about the residency program, I felt like it was a perfect direction for me and my current stage in my profession.

My name is Nathan Rubio, and I am from Colorado Springs, Colorado. I graduated from the University of Colorado Doctor of Physical Therapy program, and I began practicing as a physical therapist in outpatient orthopedics at Action Potential Physical Therapy located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I have furthered my education as a professional by obtaining certification in dry needling levels I and II. Outside of work, I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, paddle boarding, and golf. I also volunteer as a youth soccer coach for a local soccer club and collaborate with personal trainers in designing exercise programs for their clients.

I was born and raised in Boulder, Colorado and I have spent a lot of time hiking, backpacking and spending time outdoors. I completed my undergraduate degree at Hollins University, then continued to complete my Doctor of Physical Therapy at Radford University in 2022.

I am currently working as a physical therapist at CORE physical therapy in Washington, DC. I have completed continuing education in blood flow restriction, dry needling, and certified in the barbell rehab method. In my free time I enjoy powerlifting, hiking, biking, and hanging out with my friends, family, and my cat!

I began my journey in physical therapy in 2013 at De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute in Dasmariñas, Philippines, where I balanced academics with extracurricular activities such as shout casting for the SEA League of legends pro league and managing Naga Esports, a collegiate League of Legends team. My passion for healthcare, particularly in Physical therapy orthopedic and neurologic conditions, was ignited during my 10-month clinical rotation. Here, I had the opportunity to evaluate and treat patients, solidifying my interest in physical therapy and sparking an ambition for personal and professional growth in physical therapy. After graduating in 2019, I moved to Nevada and, following a few years of establishing stability, successfully passed the PT board in April 2023. I began my professional career under the mentorship of Cody Okuda at Kelly Hawkins Physical Therapy/PRN, where I learned the McKenzie Method (MDT) and continue to deepen my knowledge and understanding up to this day. Outside of work, I enjoy building computers, collecting figures, and recently started a watch collection, all of which reflect my meticulous nature and attention to detail. My diverse experiences and commitment to both professional growth and personal interests make me a dedicated candidate for the orthopedic residency program.

My name is Allison and I graduated in 2020 from Daemen College in Buffalo, NY where I also grew up. I began my career as a travel therapist working with the pediatric population and travelling across country. I made the transition to outpatient orthopedics with PRN and the opportunity to participate in the residency program to enhance my manual skills and clinical reasoning to better provide for my patients. I also became a certified strength and conditioning specialist to assist in my treatment and intervention planning. I currently work and live in Morgan Hill, CA. I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, going to the beach, and playing soccer. I am a big sports fan and will either be cheering for the Buffalo Sabres, Boston Red Sox, or Cincinnati Bengals! My career goals include working with a specialized focus on sports rehabilitation and participate in more research on blood flow restriction therapy.

Kaitlyn is a native of Southern California. She grew up doing gymnastics which lead her to becoming a student athlete at the University of Alabama. Kaitlyn got her B.S in Exercise Science at Alabama before moving onto physical therapy school. She finished her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from Western University of Health Science in 2019 and practices in an outpatient orthopedic clinic in Orange County, California. Kaitlyn enjoys treating a wide variety of patients but specializes in gymnastics and dance rehabilitation. She is also involved with high level athletes including the Women’s National Philippines’ soccer team. She joined the orthopedic residency to expand her knowledge and become a more effective clinician. In her free times she enjoys watching football, playing with her dogs and exercising.

Kayla was born in Encinitas, CA, and received her Bachelor’s in Exercise Science from Willamette University in Salem, OR. She received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences located in San Marcos, CA. She has been a physical therapist since 2017 and has been working within the PRN family as a physical therapist since 2018 and has been at PRN Encinitas since April 2022. Kayla is passionate about guiding her patients through their rehabilitation process and helping them get back to their function after injury or surgery. She is an avid learner and is participating in a NAIOMT Residency program to further herself as a clinician and continue her learning process. She is also excited to participate in student physical therapists’ educational journeys as they endeavor to get their own Doctorate in Physical Therapy by providing mentorship as a clinical instructor along with providing mentorship to new physical therapists just out of school. On the weekends, Kayla enjoys hiking, playing with her dog, and hanging out with her friends/family.

My name is Isabel Gracia and I’m a current Orthopedic Resident at NAIOMT- Messiah University. I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. I was a former Division 1 collegiate soccer athlete at the University of the Incarnate Word, where I also attended their Doctor of Physical Therapy program. I completed my undergraduate degree in rehabilitative sciences with a minor in psychology, where I fell in love with the capabilities of the human body. In hopes of completing my orthopedic residency, I am excited to explore the most innovated techniques to re-define wholistic treatment. I’d like to promote and educate teams on injury prevention programs within adolescent athletes, serve as a mentor for others, and specifically bridge healthcare communication barriers within the Spanish-speaking community to further improve prognosis. Orthopedics serves as a foundation for my aspirations in life as a PT – which is to make a long-lasting impact with my patients, specifically among female athletes, as well as delivering quality care to all. I am extremely humbled to serve others who share the same passion for athletics and quality of life as I do.

Shannon Herman earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos, CA where she graduated Cum Laude. After graduating she began working in the outpatient orthopedic setting in San Diego, CA working with a variety of patients providing care for post-operative, neurological, geriatric, and sports populations. Most recently she moved to Orange County and is working at California Rehabilitation and Sports Physical Therapy in Newport Beach.

Prior to receiving her doctorate she earned her undergraduate degree from San Diego State University majoring in Kinesiology with a Fitness Special. While at SDSU she was a member and team captain of the Swimming and Diving team. She was a Scholar-Athlete and Mountain West Conference Scholar Athlete all four years.

Her personal interests include maintaining an active lifestyle through exercising at the gym, running, hiking, wakesurfing, trying new restaurants, and hanging out with her cat, Junie! Upon completing the NAIOMT Orthopedic Residency she hopes to earn her Orthopedic Clinical Specialty (OCS). Her career goals include becoming a Clinical Director and continuing furthering her education to be able to help her patient’s live a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Hello my name is Kaitlin Hesse. I have worked in outpatient orthopedic PT since graduating in 2020. I graduated from Texas A&M University in 2017 with a BS in Kinesiology, then from Texas Tech University Health Science Center in 2020 with Doctorate in Physical Therapy. I have been able to take multiple continuing ed courses since graduating and enjoy any opportunity to further my clinical skills. I’m excited to be a part of this residency program and to learn skills from more experienced clinicians. Outside of work I enjoy spending time outside whether that’s running, hiking, or playing soccer.

Ruchi received her bachelor’s degree from India and went on to pursue her master’s and Doctorate degree from Boston in 2017 and New York in 2020 respectively. She has worked in a skilled nursing as well as an outpatient clinical setup for nearly 5 years which makes her competent in treating patients of various age groups, activity levels and complexities. Ruchi received her Mulligan certification in 2014 followed by sports taping and dry needling certification in 2018. She is also a Certified Lymphedema Therapist and is passionate about working with patients to educate and treat them. She plans to seek continued education and certification for vestibular rehabilitation in 2023. Ruchi uses a multifaceted approach by incorporating manual therapeutic skills, neuromuscular re-education, and motor control training to optimize the outcome and help patients reach their maximum potential. Ruchi loves exploring the mountains as well as relaxing by the water with a book and some Bollywood music. She likes spending her time travelling and exploring different cultures.

Lauren received her Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from UC Irvine, with a particular interest in ethics. In 2022 she graduated from Samuel Merritt University with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She is drawn to physical therapy by an intrinsic desire to care for others. She worked in the hospitality industry for fifteen years and takes pride in bringing this skillset into the clinic. She believes in building trust with patients by explaining the reasoning behind clinical choices and using evidence-based interventions. She is currently studying to become a Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. She runs competitively and loves long distance backpacking, indoor cycling and Pilates. Ella habla Español básico.

Melissa is a Physical Therapist in San Diego, CA where she grew up and received a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from San Diego State University. Following undergraduate school, she spent a year working as a personal trainer before pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. She has a growing passion for orthopedic rehabilitation and would like to specialize in vestibular and concussion therapy in the future. Melissa cares deeply about patient care and wants to better treat and guide patients toward an improved quality of life. In her free time, Melissa enjoys stand up paddle boarding, swimming, Pilates, and spending time with her husband and dog.

I am a Southern California native, born and raised in Huntington Beach, CA. I adore all things related to the beach! Sunny days, a cool breeze, sandy toes, crisp surf, sand dollars, and tan lines. I attended undergrad at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA where I graduated with my Bachelors of Science in Pre-Physical Therapy Studies. There I was able to get my Certified Strength and Conditioning Certification (CSCS) and Exercise Physiologist Certification (EP-C). I rowed on the Women’s rowing team while at LU until graduation in 2017. Shortly thereafter I began my journey with Olympic weightlifting that took me from VA back to CA. I then graduated with my Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Azusa Pacific University in 2021.

As a fitness and CrossFit enthusiast, I began learning about Olympic weightlifting and then training at SoCal Weightlifting quickly after this. I was then introduced to Pelvic Floor therapy in the clinic setting. I became interested in pelvic health, orthopedics and sports all at once. I quickly learned that this area had a great need. My interest in orthopedics has only grown by my education in pelvic health. This approach has led me to desire growth in specialty orthopedics and pelvic health all while maintaining a strong strength and conditioning background.

My name is Niki, and I work at PRN physical therapy in Mission Valley, San Diego, CA. I was born and raised in Tehran, Iran, and moved to California as a teenager. I got my Bachelors degree at University of California, Davis, and decided to make the move to the East Coast for grad school. I graduated from the George Washington University with my DPT in May 2022 and started with PRN as my first job out of school. The opportunity to be a part of the NAIOMT residency program was a big driver in my decision to join the PRN team, as I found it a great opportunity to continue learning, working with great mentors and further develop my clinical decision making as well as manual skills and continue growing as a new grad PT. In addition to being a clinician, in the future I would love to be a mentor to other students, and possibly take on management roles as well. Outside of PT, traveling might be my most favorite thing to do when I get the chance. I have lived in 2 countries, been to 15, and looking forward to visiting many more.

I’ve been a PT for 2 years now. I am a born and raised San Diegan. I completed my undergraduate degree at San Deigo State University with a Bachelors degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in pre-physical therapy. I then went on to graduate from San Diego State University’s DPT program in 2021. My main points of interest within the orthopedic scope is managing hip and knee pathologies as well as return to sport progressions. In my free time, I enjoy playing disc golf, playing board games (the more strategic, the better) and spending time with my beautiful wife and kid.

Sandy graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Spanish from the University of Missouri in 2011. She then received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Northwestern University in 2014. She has been practicing in the outpatient orthopedic setting for the last 9 years in the Seattle area, also specializing in vestibular rehab and completing her comprehensive Pilates certification in 2017.In her free time, Sandy enjoys spending time with her family as well as exploring the outdoors in the beautiful PNW. You can find her enjoying neighborhood walks, lifting weights, and partaking in the occasional pickleball game with friends. She loves to travel and try new restaurants but is also lucky to have a husband that is an excellent cook!

Sara received her bachelor’s degree from Central Washington University and went on to pursue her Doctorate degree from West Coast University in Los Angeles, CA. She has worked for Highline Physical Therapy for the last 3 years. Sara has worked with various populations and injuries. She has her Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) as well as Pain-Free Performance Specialist Certification (PPSC). She plans to seek continued education and certification for vestibular rehabilitation in 2024. Sara uses a multifaceted approach by incorporating manual therapeutic skills, neuromuscular re-education, and motor control training to optimize the outcome and help patients reach their maximum potential. Sara loves exploring the mountains as well as relaxing by the water with her dog Winston. During her free time, she enjoys traveling the world and visiting new places.

My name is Harpreet and I am a Physical therapist at California Rehabilitation and Sport Therapy in Vallejo, CA. I graduated from the DPT program at UCSF and SF State University in 2021. Being a part of the residency cohort for NAIOMT/Messiah University program has been a perfect opportunity for me to elevate my knowledge of the orthopedic specialty. I continually aspire to deliver a high level of patient care and this program has aided in this by providing great resources to refine my clinical skillsets.