Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Methodist Atrium
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Bradley University, 2011
Certifications:
Certification for Clinical Instructor, 2018
Visceral Manipulation Certification, will complete in 2021
Special Interests in the Field:
Treatment of chronic pain, manual therapy, visceral manipulation, Ehler’s Danolos Syndrome, Fibormyalgia, and complex / unsolved conditions.
Why did you become a PT?:
I decided to become a physical therapist because I felt called to the field in two specific ways: working with a physical therapist in college with patients who had developmental disabilities and my own self-rehabilitation from chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia.
Something Unique About Yourself:
Despite my various illnesses, I have still managed to earn my second degree black belt in Kuk Sool Won! I feel that my spirit home is the Grand Tetons and I can find four leaf clovers very easily.
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapy
Work Location:
Morton Professional Therapy Services
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Central Michigan University, 2018
Certifications:
Applied Functional Science Certification from the Gray Institute®
Special Interests in the Field:
Lumbar spine, treatment of runner-specific injuries, pain science
Why did you become a PT?:
I wanted to become a PT after working with a PT in high school to recover from knee pain. I love this field because each day provides a challenge, new people, and activity/movement.
Something Unique About Yourself:
I have played in 5 bands (usually drums, I have played since I was 3)
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Proctor Hospital
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Saint Louis University, 2018
Certifications:
Board-Certified Women’s Health Clinical Specialist (WCS) -will complete in 2021
Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP), 2020
Special Interests in the Field:
Pregnancy, and postpartum therapy, lymphedema
Why did you become a PT?:
When I was in 6th grade my father experienced a trimalleolar fracture along with multiple ligament tears of his left ankle while playing a competitive game of kickball. After having surgery, he went through intensive physical therapy that allowed him to progress from non-weight bearing on crutches to full weight bearing and playing kickball again. I was amazed at his transformation and I enjoyed assisting him with his home exercise program, so from then on that I knew it was a field that I wanted to pursue.
Something Unique About Yourself:
I had the opportunity to study abroad in Galway, Ireland and visit over 6 countries during my time overseas.
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Methodist Atrium
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Biology, Eureka College, 2014
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Bradley University, 2019
Special Interests in the Field:
Orthopaedic conditions, balance, shoulder / back pain
Why did you become a PT?:
I loved school and enjoyed challenging myself, but my husband required physical therapy when we were dating in high school, and after seeing him recover from an injury, physical therapy was what I wanted to do!
Something Unique About Yourself:
I LOVE Disney everything!
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
Washington Professional Therapy Services
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Midwestern University, 2017
Certifications:
Functional Movement Screen Certified
Selective Functional Movement Assessment Certified
Special Interests in the Field:
Concussion rehabilitation, gymnastics, dance, performing arts, torticollis, cerebral palsy, toe-walking, orthopedic conditions, sports
Why did you become a PT?:
A string of injuries ended my gymnastics career earlier than planned. Thus, I became a physical therapist to help injured athletes, kids, and adults get back to the sports and activities that they love!
Something Unique About Yourself:
I LOVE Star Wars. Yoda is my favorite character, my dog is named after Obi-Wan Kenobi, and last year my husband and I went to Star Wars Celebration (the world’s largest Star Wars convention).
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Proctor Hospital
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Bradley University, 2008
Certifications:
Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP), 2014
Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT), 2013
Board-Certified Women’s Health Clinical Specialist (WCS), 2016
Oncology Training with a Specialization in Breast Cancer Rehabilitation, 2019
Special Interests in the Field:
Pelvic health, lymphedema, pregnancy, postpartum, breast cancer rehabilitation
Why did you become a PT?:
Throughout my schooling I was always interested in healthcare and though I was pre-dental originally, I switched to physical therapy after being a part of my friend’s dad’s amazing recovery. At the time he was not able to move around very well, but the physical therapists at his nursing home were so encouraging! He desired to work hard for them and this patient interaction is what inspired me to pursue the profession. Once in PT school I was drawn to women’s health particularly because, as a woman, I felt the uniqueness of our bodies from a man’s and this was special to me, I wanted to be able to help women with problems they were experiencing and make them feel empowered.
Something Unique About Yourself:
I tend to adapt super easily to changing situations and make plans last minute.
Hobbies
Position:
Site Manager, Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Methodist Atrium
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Saint Ambrose University, 2011
Special Interests in the Field:
Pediatrics (motor delays, neurological diagnosis, and orthopedic conditions), generalized orthopedics, neurological diagnoses, manual movement techniques, Kinesio Taping
Why did you become a PT?:
After moving my freshman year of high school, my family learned that our next door neighbors’ youngest child, who was about 5 years old at the time, had Duchennne Muscular Dystrophy. Having become close family friends and developed a nanny/babysitter relationship with the family, I quickly saw how exercise, stretching and developmental play were instrumental in maintaining his strength, function and independence — this is why I decided to pursue a career in physical therapy with an emphasis in pediatric care.
Something Unique About Yourself:
I enjoy making personalized apparel and items including shirts, bows, mugs, etc for my friends and family!
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
Washington Professional Therapy Services
Education:
Bachelor’s at Augustana College
Master’s in Physical Therapy, Washington University in Saint Louis, 1999
Certifications:
LSVT Certified
Special Interests in the Field:
Orthopedic conditions, athletes, runners, Parkinson’s
Why did you become a PT?:
As an athlete all the way into college, I was devastated when I got injured, but very interested in understanding why it happened, how to fix it, and then was readily able to help my teammates with their injuries. When in college, two family members needed physical therapy and a close friend was working on becoming a PT. Through those 3 people, I learned about physical therapy in depth and was inspired to pursue that as my career.
Something Unique About Yourself:
I have run 3 half marathons and I help coach junior high cross country where I am usually the geeky one standing on the sidelines getting splits and occasionally getting misty eyed with happiness as runners set new personal records.
Hobbies
Position:
Site manager, physical therapist
Work Location:
Chillicothe Professional Therapy Services
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Bradley University, 2019
Certifications:
Advanced training in McKenzie MDT
Special Interests in the Field:
Geriatric rehabilitation and strength training
Why did you become a PT?:
While in high school, I was able to shadow a PT and saw the impact he had on people. I enjoyed the idea of a profession that is both very challenging and rewarding at the same time.
Something Unique About Yourself:
I have 5 amazing kids who keep me and my wife on our toes and challenge us to be better parents every day.
Hobbies
Position:
Site Manager, Physical Therapist
Work Location:
North Peoria Professional Therapy Services
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Bradley University, 2009
Certifications:
Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist, 2016
Functional Dry Needling Specialist, 2019
Advanced training in Evaluation and Management of Office Ergonomics (workstation set-up)
Special Interests in the Field:
Vertigo and vestibular disorders, balance, ergonomics
Why did you become a PT?:
I went into this profession, initially, knowing that I loved athletics and wanted to continue to be active while making a difference in people’s lives, not just my own, through motion. I now feel that when I am at work, I am on a mission – to listen intently, to exam thoroughly, and to make a difference.
Something Unique About Yourself:
I am a born-again follower of Jesus and live every day for Him.
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Methodist Atrium
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Saint Ambrose University, 2016
Special Interests in the Field:
Movement disorders, Parkinson’s Disease, strokes, vertigo, concussions, general orthopedics
Why did you become a PT?:
I became a PT to help people get better and do what they want to do in life. No one has time to be hurt, injured or unable to do what they want to do. My passion is to help restore people to higher levels of activity and function so they can enjoy life.
Something Unique About Yourself:
My sense of humor
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Methodist Atrium and Peoria North
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Maryville University of Saint Louis, 2017
Special Interests in the Field:
Manual therapy techniques, vestibular, Parkinson’s Disease, orthopedics, post-surgical, amputations
Why did you become a PT?:
As a high school senior, I was first introduced to the life-changing results of physical therapy while volunteering for St. Louis Children’s hospital. I was a part of a team who helped a girl learn how to walk for the first time; watching the joy and excitement in her eyes was something I will never forget. Ever since that day, it has been my goal to help others achieve their dreams.
Something Unique About Yourself:
My fiance and I are both insanely competitive in our daily board games and tennis matches; we log wins on an “official” Board of Competition tracker.
Hobbies:
Position:
Site Manager, Physical Therapist
Work Location:
Washington Professional Therapy Services
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, George Washington University, 2016
Certifications:
Functional Dry Needling Specialist, 2019
Titleist Performance Institute Certified, 2019
Functional Movement Screen Certified, 2019
Special Interests in the Field: athletes of all abilities and levels
Why did you become a PT?:
As a multisport athlete growing up and someone who loves the healthcare professions, I pursued a physical therapy career and the rest is history!
Something Unique About Yourself:
I am fluent in sign language and my parents are deaf. I could Sign before I could even speak!
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
North Peoria
Education:
Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy, Rosalind Franklin University, 1979
Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy Management of Developmental Disabilities, 1987
Certifications:
Pediatric Provider of Neurodevelopmental treatment
Advanced training in pediatric toe walking and taping
Special Interests in the Field:
Infants with torticollis, plagiocenphaly, Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury.
Why did you become a PT?:
I originally wanted to become a pediatrician, but after spending time shadowing, I realized that I wouldn’t get to make as big of an impact like I wanted. When I was a freshman at Millikin University, I spent a winter term observing a physical therapist and this experience caused me to decide to pursue physical therapy.
Something Unique About Yourself:
For over 38 years, I have focused on pediatric physical therapy and thus, helped teach pediatrics at Bradley University’s PT program as well as develop the local child passenger safety program from an instructor’s perspective
Hobbies
Position:
Speech Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Proctor Hospital
Education:
Bachelor’s of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Butler University, 2008
Master’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology, Illinois State University, 2010
Special Interests in the Field:
Infant feeding, aphasia, dysphagia
Why did you become a SLP?:
Speech pathology has allowed me to pursue these aspects of who I am — someone who loves science and wants to help others in an impactful way. Communication and eating are essential to maintaining quality of life. Getting to be a part of this learning / relearning process is something so special to me.
Something Unique About Yourself:
I am a certified scuba diver! I love adventure, which serves me well because I am a mom of 3 very busy boys.
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Proctor Hospital
Education:
Bachelor’s, Central Michigan University, 2014
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, South College, 2018
Special Interests in the Field:
Vestibular therapy, stroke and Parkinson’s Disease, athletes, and runners
Why did you become a PT?:
As I got older, I began volunteering at a nursing home in the activities department and on occasion we would play games in the therapy gym, all of the equipment really just fascinated me. I had the opportunity to shadow the physical therapist and watch as she engaged the patient in exercise and activities to improve their strength and function; seeing the progress patients made and how it helped to improve their attitude and confidence was what sold me on a career in physical therapy.
Something Unique About Yourself:
I am a very fast reader; I can finish a 300-400 page book in just a couple of hours.
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Pekin Outpatient Therapy
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, 2017
Certifications:
LSVT Certified, 2017
Special Interests in the Field:
Parkinson’s Disease
Why did you become a PT?:
I grew up playing sports and being active, but it wasn’t until I graduated college with a business degree that I discovered my passion for health and wellness. I decided to go back to school for Physical Therapy so that I could help others achieve their physical goals and improve their daily function.
Something Unique About Yourself:
Every year, I participate in a Fantasy Baseball Keeper League with some high school friends, which I won last year after another guy in our league had won the previous 4 years (in your face, Ty Peterson!).
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapy
Work Location:
Morton Professional Therapy Services
Education:
Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy, Bradley University
Transitional Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Evidence in Motion, 2020
Certifications:
LSVT Certified, 2019
Special Interests in the Field:
Geriatrics, orthopedics, Parkinson’s
Why did you become a PT?:
I always liked the idea of teaching people how to take care of themselves to avoid medications and surgeries as much as possible. I love it when people have that, “aha,” moment about exercise realizing it makes them feel better and empowers them to function in life.
Something Unique About Yourself:
In my personal life, I am interested in ancient healing practices and integrative medicine. While I am committed to evidence-based practice, I honor diversity.
Hobbies
Position:
Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Methodist Atrium
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis, 2012
Why did you become a PT?:
I have always had a deep desire to help people and plus, in this job, I can meet a variety of people!
Something Unique About Yourself:
I would love to one day have a miniature farm with mini goats and sheep.
Hobbies
Position:
Site Manager, Physical Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Pekin Outpatient Therapy
Education:
Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy, Saint Louis University, 1989
Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Evidence in Motion Executive Program, 2020
Why did you become a PT?:
In high school, I took Human Anatomy and was intrigued by the complexity of the human body. I knew I wanted to do something within the medical field, which meant that Physical Therapy was a fit for me because I also enjoy sports and being active.
Something Unique About Yourself:
My husband and I have 3 children and we have traveled coast to coast in the last 6 years following their activities. From Florida to Texas to Arizona to California, we traveled to see our sons at their military stations and then our daughter in her college softball tournaments.
Hobbies
Position:
Speech Therapist
Work Location:
UnityPoint Health Pekin Outpatient Therapy
Education:
Bachelor’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Illinois State University 2019
Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology from Illinois State University
Certifications:
Advanced training in Video Fluoroscopic Swallow Studies
Special Interests in the Field:
Pediatrics, hearing loss
Why did you become a PT?:
In high school, I was a part of a speech team that competed in public speaking events. While seated in my chair listening to other contestant’s speeches, Inoticed articulation and language errors being produced. This experience encouraged me to support individuals by assisting them with acquiring strategies to communicate meaningful messages. Now, as a speech language pathologist, I am assisting patients in producing and regaining their communication to share meaningful messages with those they love.
Something Unique About Yourself:
When I was younger, I had the opportunity to explore the world with People to People, which sparked a love of traveling to various countries to learn about their cultures and their stories.
Hobbies
