What We Do
FAQ
Meet Our Clinicians
What We Do
Sport Specific Therapy
Massage Therapy
Aquatic Therapy
Hand Therapy
Spine Therapy
Joint Therapy
Orthotics
Golf
FAQ
What can I expect from therapy?
Once your initial evaluation is completed, your therapist will discuss goals of therapy and the course of action necessary to achieve those goals. Your therapist will then develop a treatment plan including the number of weeks, number of visits per week, as well as an appropriate “home exercise program” that in addition to therapy performed in the clinic will help ensure maximum recovery.
What is a Physical Therapist?
Physical therapists (PT’s) evaluate patients and develop treatment programs to restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities. The physical therapist then determines the appropriate course of treatment for the patient to perform activities of daily living, reintegrate into the community or workplace, or return to a specific sport.
What is an Occupational Therapist?
In an orthopedic setting, occupational therapists (OT’s) focus on upper extremity acute care and outpatient rehabilitation for adults and children.
What is a Physical Therapy Assistant?
(PTA’s) work under the guidance of the treating physical therapist by administering care to the patient. The PTA progresses with the patient through their rehabilitative exercises and maintains communication with the treating physical therapist.
What is an Athletic Trainer?
Certified athletic trainers (ATC) are medical professionals who are experts in injury prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation. In the clinic setting, certified athletic trainers co-treat patients with the physical therapist.
What is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist?
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS) are professionals who apply scientific knowledge to train patients for the primary goal of improving athletic performance. They conduct sport-specific testing sessions, design and implement safe and effective strength training and conditioning programs and provide guidance regarding nutrition and injury prevention.
Do I need a prescription for therapy?
Yes. Ohio Therapy Institute requires that you have a prescription from one of the physicians at the Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence. Your initial prescription must be current (within the last 30 days).
Will my insurance cover therapy?
This depends on your individual insurance policy. Our case workers will call to obtain an overview of your particular plan however it is your responsibility to contact your insurance company to understand your coverage. You should inform us if you have had rehabilitation elsewhere as it may affect the number of visits allowed by your insurance provider. Any changes in insurance coverage must be reported immediately.
When do I schedule my appointments?
After your intial evaluation, the number of follow up visits will be determined by you and your therapist. Please schedule your follow up visits 4 weeks in advance. Be sure to receive a print-out of your appointment schedule, and call ahead for changes.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
Out of courtesy to other patients, please cancel your appointment 24 hours in advance.
What should I wear?
Please dress appropriately for your therapy appointments. Locker rooms and lockers are available for your use.
Meet Our Clinicians
Geoff Omiatek, PT, AT, MS, SCS
Geoff, PT, ATC, MS, SCS serves as the Director of the Ohio Therapy Institute. He is a graduate of both the physical therapy and athletic training programs at The Ohio State University. Geoff also received his Masters in Allied Health Management from The Ohio State University, and he is also an American Physical Therapy Association Board Certified Sports Therapy Clinical Specialist. He prides himself on maintaining a healthy clinical practice in addition to his administrative functions.
While pursuing his physical therapy degree, Geoff was a four year varsity letterman and five time scholar athlete at The Ohio State University as a member of the men’s lacrosse team. After finishing his college athletic career and graduating from the physical therapy program, Geoff spent his first two years of practice in the athletic department at The Ohio State University. During this period he was able to complete an athletic training internship program and became a certified athletic trainer. Geoff began working with the physicians at the Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence in the fall of 2002 and has enjoyed a great relationship with all of our physicians since then.
In October of 2006, the physicians at the Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence asked Geoff to develop a comprehensive rehabilitation practice that was based on a patient centered approached. On December 26th, 2006, the Ohio Therapy Institute opened its doors and now over 35 licensed rehabilitation providers at three locations make up our comprehensive rehabilitation practice.
Geoff specializes in the evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of orthopedic pathology in the upper and lower extremities with a specific interest in sports medicine. He also serves on the board of the Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence Foundation and is an adjunct clinical lecturer in Athletic Training program at The Ohio State University. When Geoff is not at work, he enjoys cycling, running, kayaking and hiking with his wife Julie.
The Ohio Therapy Institute’s mission is to provide our patients with the highest level of orthopedic rehabilitative care today, tomorrow and in the future.
Amy Baer, PT, AT
Amy grew up in Coldwater, Ohio and moved to Columbus in 1985 to attend The Ohio State University to study Physical Therapy and Athletic Training. While at Ohio State she had the opportunity to be one of the first two female athletic trainers to work with the football team. She also traveled with OSU’s women’s basketball, men’s swimming and women’s gymnastics teams as their student trainer. After obtaining her degree in PT and certificate in athletic training, she went to work for Coleman, Olix, Ward Inc as a physical therapist, this became Riverview Center for Orthopaedic Rehabilitation. She continued to work there as the clinical co-ordinator of sports medicine until 1996. In 1996 she became the first female head athletic trainer for a men’s professional team when she was hired as the trainer for the Columbus Crew. She travelled six seasons with the Crew in Major League Soccer and in 2002 left the Crew to return to orthopaedic outpatient physical therapy. She is married to Chris Baer and they have 4 children: Colin Armstrong(19), Nathan (8), Audrey (5) and Taylor (3). They reside in Worthington, their son Colin plays soccer for Bowling Green State University.
Laurie Bell, PT
Laurie Bell is a graduate of The Ohio State University and has been practicing physical therapy since 1989. She has worked with the out-patient orthopedic population since 1991 and has been working with the physicians at the Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence since December of 2009.
Laurie currently specializes in the rehabilitation of patients who have undergone total joint replacement and is part of the total joint team at The Ohio Therapy Institute. Another area of special interest for her is spine rehabilitation and the treatment of low back pain.
Laurie is married and has 3 children. She enjoys staying active with her family and reading.
Megan Braun, MPT
Megan graduated from Miami University in 2004 with a B.A. in Psychology. She initially gained an interest in Physical Therapy when she tore her ACL her freshman year while playing soccer. After graduating from Miami, she then went on to Physical Therapy school at The Ohio State University and graduated with her Master’s degree in June 2007.
She began working at the Ohio Therapy Institute in January 2007 as an aide and transitioned into a therapist upon graduation from PT school. She is especially interested in the sports medicine aspect of Physical Therapy. In her spare time, Megan enjoys playing soccer, outside activities, and hanging out with family and friends.
Anthony Caputo, CSCS
Anthony Caputo, CSCS graduated from Kent State University with a B.S. in Exercise Physiology in 2002. He became a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association in 2004. His background includes: working in outpatient orthopedics, general manager of a local personal/performance training company, designing/implementing performance and injury prevention programs for local high school and college athletes as well as the Columbus Crew.
Lori DeMott, OTR/L, CHT
Lori DeMott OTR/L, CHT, a Graduate of Eastern Michigan University with an athletic scholarship in basketball, Lori graduated with a BS in Occupational Therapy. She has worked exclusively since 1983, with people who have sustained upper extremity injury. In 1988, became an Active Member of the American Society of Hand Therapist (ASHT) and a past president of the Ohio Chapter. ASHT sponsored activities include work as a committee member and co-author of The Splinting Nomenclature Classification System. More recently she co-authored with Sharon Flinn, OTR/L, PhD., a chapter on Wrist and Hand Evaluation and Treatment in Donatelli’s book on Orthopedic Physical Therapy.
Lori became a Board Certified Hand Therapist in 1990 with the first voluntary credentialing testing group. She has lectured at local and the state levels in many areas of Upper Extremity Rehabilitation and is an adjunct clinic instructor within The Ohio State University Occupational Therapy Program.
Essentially and most importantly, she is to manage the hand therapy devision at the Ohio Therapy Institute, a compliment to the addition of the Hand Specialty practice of Dr. Marlo VanSteyn.
Lori considers the Hand and Upper extremity specialty a challenging relationship between the intricate complex nature of healing finite structures and meeting the unique functional goals of each individual person. When not working Lori enjoys family activities, bicycling and reading.
Stacy Dillis, AT
Stacy Dillis, ATC graduated from The Ohio State University in June 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training. While at Ohio State she was able to work with many of the varsity sports and completed an off-campus rotation at a local high school. Most of her time during the athletic training program was spent with cheerleading. She also received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Ohio University in 2004. She is a member of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, the Ohio Athletic Trainers’ Association and the Great Lakes Athletic Trainers’ Association. Her professional interests include working with athletes/active population and sports medicine.
Stacy is originally from Broadview Hts. and in her spare time likes to spend time with family and friends. She enjoys playing many different sports and tries to be active whenever she can.
Mike Drosos, PTA
Mike Drosos, PTA attended Bowling Green State University for undergraduate studies where he received a bachelor degree in Sport Management. He was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity and a four year R.O.T.C. cadet I was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Field Artillery. After serving in the U.S. Army, Mike returned to school to earn an associates degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant from Denver Technical College. He has been practicing therapy for over 10 years primarily in the outpatient setting. Mike especially enjoys working with orthopedic clients particularly the athlete. Outside of work, Mike enjoys spending time with his wife and 4 year old son. He also enjoys playing soccer year round, skiing, traveling and mountain biking.
David Freed, MPT
David Freed, MPT, holds his Masters in Physical Therapy as a 2002 graduate of Andrews University. He lives in Dublin with his wife, Carrie. In his free time, he enjoys mountain biking, skiing (both water and snow), playing competitive volleyball and soccer. He has spent his time since graduation practicing outpatient orthopedic physical therapy in Columbus.
Professional Training: David graduated from Miami University with a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science, where he played collegiate volleyball for 4 years. After a short educational hiatus, he returned to school to pursue his Masters of Physical Therapy. David’s experience is primarily orthopedics with post-graduate course work in manual therapy, spine, foot and ankle biomechanics, foot orthotic fabrication, shoulder rehabilitation, and functional capacity evaluations. He is also a member of his professional organization, the American Physical Therapy Association.
David C. Heistand, PTA
My educational background includes a Bachelors degree in Health and Fitness Management from Capital University in 2002. I also received an Associates degree for Physical Therapist Assistant work at the University of Indianapolis in 2006. I have been licensed to practice as a clinician since 2006. My special interests include Total Joint Replacement and Spine therapy. Currently I am practicing as part of the Total Joint therapy team. I was recently married in the summer of 2007. My wife practices as a licensed Occupational Therapist. We both love the therapy practice, and enjoy the interaction we have with the people we are helping.
Magie Holmes, MPT, AT
Maggie Holmes, MPT, ATC, is both a physical therapist and certified athletic trainer. She was born and raised in Northeast Ohio, attended college in Toledo, and moved to Columbus after finishing school. In her spare time she enjoys playing & watching sports, especially Ohio State football, working out, and travelling whenever she can.
Maggie received her Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science from The University of Toledo and became a Certified Athletic Trainer in 2005. She then went on to obtain her Master of Science in Biomedical Science – Physical Therapy degree from The University of Toledo Health Science Campus in 2007. While completing her Bachelors degree at UT, Maggie worked with a variety of NCAA Division 1 sports including football, basketball, and soccer, as well as several high school sports.
Maggie’s professional interests include general orthopedics, sports medicine, and the rehabilitation of athletes/active individuals. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association.
Ryan Jayne, DPT
Ryan Jayne, PT DPT is originally from East Palestine, Ohio having moved to the Columbus area following completion of graduate school at Youngstown State University with his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in the Spring of 2009. Ryan attended The College of Wooster for his undergraduate education where he majored in Chemistry and was a 4-year letter winner playing Cornerback for the Fighting Scots Football Team.
Ryan now lives in the Dublin area with his wife, Alecia and their Basset Hound Scrappy. When not working to make patient’s lives better, Ryan enjoys staying active with a variety of athletic events including running which is a new passion. He enjoys running events of all length, including marathon distances, where he has completed the last 2 Cleveland Marathons.
Ryan has a passion for physical therapy and enjoys the patient population variety seen in the orthopedic and sports outpatient setting. He especially enjoys working with fellow runners allowing them to return to running safely and at high levels.
Tracy Kaiser, DPT
Tracy Kaiser, DPT originally from Pittsburgh, PA, has been a licensed physical therapist since 2002. She graduated from Wheeling Jesuit University, Wheeling WV, in 2000 with a Bachelor’s of arts degree in Psychology and again in 2002 with a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy. She received her Transitional Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Wheeling Jesuit University in 2005. She has worked in orthopedics since graduating in 2002.
Tracy became a physical therapist to improve the quality of her patients’ lives. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association. Tracy is married with two children and enjoys focusing activities around her family when she is not working.
Holly Kern, MSPT
Holly Kern, MSPT, received her bachelors degree in health science from Denison University in 2000. She earned her masters of science in physical therapy from Washington University's School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri. Holly has worked in a variety of settings including a skilled nursing facility, private practice orthopedic clinic and most recently she joined the staff of The Ohio Therapy Institute in February 2008. The majority of her experience and interests lie in orthopedic and sport physical therapy which has been the focus of her continuing education since she became a physical therapist in 2003.
Holly is a Columbus native and currently resides in Westerville with her husband, son and their two dogs.
Zeb Kessler, PT, CSCS
Zeb has worked for this practice since 2006 and currently enjoys working with many of his colleagues that he went to university with. Zeb attended college at Campbell University in North Carolina. Zeb graduated from Ohio State in 2002. He recently became a Certified Strength Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). In his spare time, Zeb enjoys watching the Cleveland Browns football, soccer and weightlifting.
Ethan Kimchi, DPT
Ethan Kimchi, PT, DPT is from Worthington, Ohio and joined the Ohio Therapy Institute as a Physical Therapist in the Fall of 2009. Ethan did his undergraduate work at Miami of Ohio (Oxford, Ohio) where he majored in Exercise Science earning his B.S. in 2004. Before attending physical therapy school, Ethan worked as a physical therapy aide in a variety of physical therapy settings including an acute orthopedic hospital setting, a skilled nursing facility, and various outpatient orthopedic and sports medicine clinics. Ethan earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree at The Ohio State University in the Summer of 2009. Ethan also worked as a certified personal trainer while earning his graduate degree in physical therapy from Ohio State.
Ethan first gained interest in physical therapy after tearing his ACL his senior year of high school while playing basketball for Thomas Worthington. Going through physical therapy as a patient gives him the ability to better relate to his patients and see things from their perspective. Ethan loves the wide variety of patients he encounters in the clinic each day; he greatly enjoys helping patients achieve their goals and increase their quality of life. When Ethan is not in the clinic treating patients he enjoys working out and personal training, playing basketball, tennis, and sand volleyball, and traveling to warmer climates. Ethan also enjoys watching football and basketball; his favorite teams are the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Leanne Klepacki, MSPT
Leanne Klepacki, MSPT, was born and raised in Northampton, Massachusetts. In May of 2007, she received a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Physical Therapy with a minor in Business from the University of Connecticut. In May of 2008, she received her Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the same school. After graduation, she moved to Columbus, OH where she began her career at Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence. She has a particular interest in sports-related injuries and would like to be a clinical instructor one day. In Leanne’s spare time, she enjoys swimming, hiking, playing soccer and traveling.
Jennifer Krizman, MSPT
Jennifer Krizman, MSPT, is originally from Urbana Ohio. She moved from Dayton to the Columbus area in December of 2006. She has been married to Kyle, a chemical engineer, since September of 2006. She was previously employed at Kettering Sports Medicine in Dayton, OH and Community Hospital in Springfield, OH.
Jen received her undergraduate degree from Bowling Green State University in Applied Health Science and went on to pursue her Master’s degree in physical therapy from the Medical College of Ohio in Toledo. Jen has practiced as an outpatient physical therapist since graduation in 2002. She currently has interests in manual therapy, but as a young clinician, she is trying to broaden her knowledge of all treatment and diagnoses.
When she is not working hard at the Ohio Therapy Institute, Jen enjoys playing softball, bowling, golfing, skiing, traveling, reading, cooking, and relaxing at home or with friends.
Eric Lenko, MPT
Eric Lenko has worked in outpatient orthopedics graduating with his Master’s of Physical Therapy Degree from Ohio University in 2003. He was employed by Physiotherapy Associates at the Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence prior to taking the Assistant Clinic Director position at the Ohio Therapy Institute in Dublin, OH in 2007. Eric has enjoyed working with the physicians of OOCE throughout his career. Eric specializes in Sports Rehab with an emphasis on Golf Performance Enhancement. He has recently received his Titleist Performance Institute Level One Certification and plans to continue in the Medical Professional Tract for further certification. His interests outside of the clinic include golfing, watching the Ohio State Buckeyes and all other college sports, spending time with his wife, and trying to keep up with the personal fitness challenges at OTI.
Affiliations:
American Physical Therapy Association
National Strength and Conditioning Association
Titleist Performance Institute
Scott Lyons, PTA, CSCS
• Graduated from Ohio University in 1991 with a Bachelors degree in Exercise Physiology.
• Graduated from Gwinnett Technical Institute's (Lawrenceville, Ga.) Physical Therapist Assistant program. Received my license as a Physical Therapist Assistant in 1994.
• CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) certification in 2000.
Scott has worked for 14 years as a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with 12 years of experience in sports medicine/outpatient physical therapy.
His interests include: sports performance training, flag football, outdoor recreation, home remodeling and real estate investing.
Toni Mader, PT
Toni Mader, PT, graduated from The Ohio State University in 1994. Originally from Dayton, Ohio, she recently moved back to Columbus from Houston, Texas where she practiced for the past eleven years in a variety of orthopedic and sports medicine settings.
While living in Houston, she worked in management for seven years while maintaining a full patient caseload. During that time, she also oversaw the start-up of a new outpatient clinic; her duties included marketing to area physicians and working closely with therapists and physicians to develop protocols.
Toni views her career in physical therapy as a lifelong passion and she continues to enhance her skills through ongoing study and continuing education in orthopedic and sports physical therapy. She also is a certified clinical instructor and has participated in injury prevention programs for athletes.
She currently lives in Dublin with her husband Chris and enjoys spending time with family and friends, travelling, watching sports, participating in outdoor activities and working out.
Susan P. McCosker, PT, CHT
Susan P. McCosker, PT, CHT is a 1974 graduate of The Ohio State University where she lettered in both basketball and softball. After six years of general practice, she joined Dr. Coleman, Olix and Ward and served as the Director of their physical therapy program specializing in Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. After joining this physician group, she developed an interest in hand therapy and her passion for traumatic hand rehabilitation was born. With her Ohio Therapy Institute colleague, Lori DeMott, OTR/L, CHT she sat and passed the first offered Hand Therapy Examination in 1991 becoming a Certified Hand Therapist.
In 1990, partnering with Jeanne Heald, she opened the Riverview Center for Orthopedic Rehabilitation and later is subsidiary The Columbus Hand Center. These practices provided rehab services to our community for 20 years and were responsible for mentoring many of Central Ohio’s most respected rehabilitation professionals.
Coming full circle she joined the Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence/Ohio Therapy Institute in December 2009 in order to continue to providing the highest level of rehabilitation care to hand and upper extremity patients. Out of the clinic, your will diner in the woods on her beautiful Arabian gelding, dogs in tow, or on a North Carolina beach.
Terry McNelis, MPT
Terry McNelis, MPT originally from Reading, PA graduated in 2004 from Duquesne University with his Masters in Physical Therapy. While at Duquesne, Terry was a 4 year starter and 2 time captain of the Men’s Varsity Soccer Team. During his collegiate career Terry was a 4 time all-conference selection, 2-time regional All-American, 3-time Academic All-American, and 2 time Atlantic 10 scholar-athlete of the year. After his senior season Terry was offered a developmental contract from D.C. United of the MLS however declined to complete physical therapy education. Upon returning to Duquesne, Terry served as the full-time assistant Men’s Soccer coach during his graduate studies.
Prior to final completion of graduate school Terry left Duquesne University for Minneapolis, Minnesota to play professional soccer for the Minnesota Thunder of the United Soccer Leagues (USL-1). After a 1 year stint in Minnesota Terry returned to Pittsburgh to finish clinical rotations and continue his soccer career for 2 seasons (05, 06) with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL-2). Midway through his first season in Pittsburgh, Terry began his physical therapy career at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center as an inpatient/outpatient therapist.
In 2006 Terry followed his wife to Columbus and joined the OTI team to pursue his career in orthopedic/sports outpatient physical therapy. He enjoys weightlifting, soccer, running, and competing in various sport leagues
Julie Meadows, AT, MS
Julie Meadows, ATC graduated from Otterbein College with her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and a minor in Business Administration in 2003. While Julie was a student at Otterbein she had the opportunity to work with a number of varsity sports associated with the College. Following graduation Julie earned her Certified Athletic Trainer credentials. In the summer of 2003 Julie had the unique opportunity of working with the Pittsburgh Pirates through an internship with the Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers’ Society. In the fall of 2003 Julie moved to Toledo, Ohio to attend The University of Toledo to obtain her Master’s degree. While serving as the Head Athletic Trainer for St. John’s Jesuit High School, Julie took classes and graduated with her Masters of Science in Exercise Science, with a concentration in Biomechanics in the spring of 2005. Julie moved back to Columbus where she was an assistant Athletic Trainer at Ohio Wesleyan University. Julie joined the staff at the Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence in December 2006 when the Ohio Therapy Institute was opened.
Julie assists both the Director and Assistant Director with the treatment of their patients. She also handles other administrative duties around the clinic. Julie is a Clinical Instructor for The Ohio State University Athletic Training Department and works with the OSU students when they do their clinical rotation at The Ohio Therapy Institute. Julie is interested in the rehabilitation of athletes and their return to sport. Julie is a member of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, Great Lake’s Athletic Trainers’ Association, Ohio Athletic Trainers’ Association and the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her husband, Rob and chocolate lab, Guinness. Julie and Rob can often be found watching local sporting events or enjoying the outdoors.
Sharon Millhon, OTR/L, CHT, RYT
Sharon Millhon, OTR/L, CHT, RYT, grew up in Upper Arlington and has practiced Occupational Therapy since 1982, after receiving a B.S. from Indiana University. Sharon became a board certified Hand Therapist in May 2010. The first 5 years of practice she specialized in cognitive retraining after traumatic brain injury. Since 1987, she has focused her practice on orthopedic injuries and rehabilitation involving the upper extremity.
Sharon is also a registered yoga instructor and teaches in Upper Arlington. When appropriate, she enjoys combining yoga with her plan of care. Sharon’s loves of her life are her three boys, Tyler, Dylan, and Luke. She enjoys yoga, biking, hiking, roller blading, playing the piano and painting. Sharon credits Dr. Carl Colemen, a founding partner of Orthopedic and Trauma surgeons, as her mentor.
Krista Nuhfer, AT, Med
Krista has been a certified athletic trainer since 2004. She graduated from Ohio Northern University where she majored in athletic training and exercise physiology. While at Ohio Northern University she participated in cross country. She lettered all four years and was the polar bears team captain her senior year. Krista received her Masters of Education degree from The University of Findlay. She previously worked at Urbana University as an athletic trainer for the varsity sports teams and was an instructor in the health and sports sciences department. In her spare time she enjoys watching and participating in sports as well as hiking, camping, running and gardening. She currently resides in Dublin Ohio.
Jen Nickels, DPT
Jen has been a practicing physical therapist since 2003. She is originally from Springfield, OH. She was selected her senior year as the Ohio High School Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year, and she went on to play volleyball at the University of Pittsburgh. Jen received the Big East Scholar Athlete of the Year, and she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Movement Science.
Jen received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked in the outpatient/sports medicine setting since graduating in 2003. In her spare time, Jen enjoys playing in co-ed volleyball leagues and helping with area high school volleyball teams. She enjoys being outdoors, working out, and visiting with family and friends.
Doug Palmer, DPT, CSCS
Doug Palmer, DPT, CSCS, has been in a medical related field for over eight years. His experience has ranged from working with the elderly to working with professional athletes. As an undergraduate student at The Ohio State University, in Columbus, Ohio, he worked at The Ohio State University Medical Center in Dodd Hall. Dodd Hall was where Doug found his passion for physical therapy and working with people. In addition to working in a clinical environment, Doug has worked as a NSCA certified personal trainer for the last six years. Doug graduated from The Ohio State University in the spring of 2004 with a bachelors degree in Exercise Physiology and a minor in human nutrition.
Doug received his doctorate of physical therapy from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio graduating in the spring of 2008. While at Ohio University, Doug received numerous awards and recognitions. He received the 2004 Joy Boyd Memorial Scholarship which is given to the most passionate and dedicated student physical therapist. In 2008, he received the Director’s Award from Ohio University. This is an award for student excellence selected by the director of the Ohio University Physical Therapy program. While at Ohio University Doug became a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through NSCA. Doug also served as a volunteer strength and conditioning coach for the Ohio University athletic department.
Doug has worked in a variety of physical therapy clinics while pursuing his doctorate of physical therapy. He has worked in Ohio, West Virginia and California. He has worked with the orthopedic outpatients, neurological inpatients, acute care rehabilitation, and elite athlete sports rehabilitation. Doug also became McKenzie Method certified. This method is a systemic approach to treating low back pain.
Following graduation in June of 2008 from Ohio University, Doug passed the National Physical Therapy Exam. Doug started working for the Ohio Therapy Institute in October of 2008. Doug has a passion for his job and enjoys helping people to improve their quality of life.
When Doug is not working, he enjoys outdoor activities including hiking, biking and trail running. Doug also enjoys playing, coaching and watching sports of all kinds.
Laura Pearson, DPT
Originally from Piqua, OH, Laura graduated from The Ohio State University in 2007 with a bachelors degree in Exercise Science Education. She then moved to Chicago to attend physical therapy school at Northwestern University, where she graduated with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2009. Upon graduation, Laura returned to Columbus and accepted a position at OTI. Laura's areas of interest include general orthopedics and sports medicine. As a marathon and half marathon participant, she has a particular interest in treating runners. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and hopes to one day become a clinical instructor.
Frances Preidis, PT
My name is Frances Preidis, and I've been a physical therapist since 1972, a graduate of The Ohio State University. I started specializing in total joints in 1980 in Virginia, and continue to find it a fascinating area in which to work and teach. You will see me during the total joint pre-op classes here at the clinic. I've enjoyed participating in many sports and continue to love to travel and paint(oils).
Erica Ream, MOTR/L
Erica Ream, MOTR/L, Occupational Therapy Training and Specialty:
Erica Ream received a Bachelor of Occupational Science and Masters of Occupational Therapy at Saint Louis University. Upon graduation in 2006 Erica completed an additional six months of post graduate training under a Certified Hand Therapist in Santa Barbara California. Erica focuses on orthopedic Occupational Therapy, Post-Operative Rehabilitation, Work Injury Rehabilitation, and all Hand and Upper Extremity Injuries and/or Syndromes. Erica is currently working towards obtaining her certified hand therapist certification.
Personal Interests:
Erica enjoys being outdoors, mountain biking, running, hiking, camping, and hanging out with her dog.
Professional Affiliations
American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc., National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy Inc.,
Memberships:
American Society of Hand Therapists
Licenses:
She is licensed as an Occupational Therapist in Ohio.
Curt Schondell, MPT
Curt, MPT, has been practicing Physical Therapy since 2005. Originally from Sylvania, Ohio, Curt has relocated to central Ohio and has a home in Hilliard.
Curt received his B.S. from Bowling Green State University (2002) and his Master of Physical Therapy degree from The Ohio State University (2004). Curt has attended several continuing education courses, including: The Scapula and the Overhead Athlete, Spinal Evaluation and Manipulation, Manual Therapy Techniques. Curt has also completed coursework involving performance enhancement for the amateur golfer.
Curt has been with Ohio Therapy Institute since February of 2008. Prior to transitioning to OTI, Curt spent 3 years at an outpatient orthopedic practice in Delaware, Ohio. His areas of interest include treatment of the shoulder, post-operative knee and cervical spine. However, Curt has experience in treating all orthopedic pathologies.
Kevin Stahr, AT
Kevin Stahr, ATC, came to OTI as an Athletic Trainer in the winter of 2009. Kevin was a former student athletic trainer in the summer of 2008. He assists Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists with the delivery of exercise based patient treatment.
Kevin completed his undergraduate degree at Otterbein College in 2008. While at Otterbein, he assisted with the women’s basketball, baseball, and football teams. Kevin served on the Otterbein Club of Athletic Training Students Board as the Community Service Chair. He has been a certified athletic trainer since the winter of 2008.
Kevin plans to continue his graduate education in Occupational Therapy at The Ohio State University in the summer of 2009. His hobbies include soccer and running.
Ron Stiffler, MPT
I grew up in nearby London, Ohio and enjoyed playing baseball and running cross country in high school. I am a graduate of the Ohio State University receiving both my bachelors and masters degree in physical therapy. I’ve had over 6 years experience in the sports related athletic injuries and specialize in making custom orthotics. I have been married for 4 years to my wonderful wife Stephanie and have a miniature poodle named Sirrus . We enjoy traveling all over and look forward to our next adventure. I enjoy playing soccer, flag football, weight lifting, and running. My favorite teams are Ohio State, Cincinnati Reds, Liverpool FC, and the Columbus Crew.
Nicole Verbus, MPT, OCS
Nicole is originally from southwestern Pennsylvania and moved to Columbus with her husband Scott in 2004 to begin her physical therapy career. Nicole is a marathon runner and also enjoys keeping in shape through strength/weight training. In her spare time, she enjoys cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers and going to car shows with their 1970 Nova.
Nicole graduated from Gannon University in Erie, PA with a bachelors in psychology and her master’s of physical therapy. She also is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. She enjoys the variety of the physical therapy profession within the sports/orthopedic realm. She is especially interested in developing her skills with lower extremity biomechanics and its relationship to core and hip strength. She enjoys treating fellow runners and wants to become more involved in injury prevention for runners.
Brittany Walliser, PT, DPT
Brittany Walliser, PT, DPT grew up mainly in Ft. Wayne, Indiana as well as in Tiffin, Ohio. She moved to Dayton, Ohio to attend the University of Dayton where she obtained her B.S. in Exercise Science/Pre-Physical Therapy. Immediately following, she began her graduate work at UD and completed her clinical Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Brittany has been working for OOCE in outpatient orthopedics at the Perimeter Drive location in Dublin since June 2009.
Professional interests: Brittany’s current interests include general orthopedics, sports medicine (particularly dance-related injuries), and myofascial/manual techniques. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association, including the Sports Physical Therapy section.
Future goals: Brittany would like to focus her continuing and future education on sports rehabilitation, Pilates certification, manual therapy, and myofascial techniques.
Hobbies/interests: Outside of the office, Brittany enjoys scrapbooking, exercising, dancing when she can, playing recreational sand volleyball, and spending time with family and friends.
Josh Whisler, PT
Josh Whisler has been practicing physical therapy in the outpatient since 2000 and is a graduate of The Ohio State University. He has worked with the physicians at the Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence since 2002. Josh is currently the Assistant Clinical Director of Therapy Services.
Josh specializes in orthopedic rehabilitation for sports, spine, and general orthopedic injuries. He routinely works with local high school athletes, collegiate athletes, and professional athletes. Josh also enjoys treating the general population and weekend warriors.
Josh is one of the creators of the custom orthotic program at the Ohio Orthopedic Center of Excellence. The Ohio Therapy Institute utilizes the Amfit system for a digital scanning process. Fabrication takes place on site to allow for a quick turn around time and a truly custom orthotic.
When he is not treating patients, Josh enjoys spending time his wife and daughter. He also enjoys playing basketball & golf.