I am a 2nd year PT student and I am the Patient Continuity Coordinator at the Cares Clinic, and I went to VCU for Undergrad and stayed at VCU for PT school.

Dr. Joey Bikkers, PT, DPT is an alumnus of Shenandoah University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program (2016) and Bellin College’s Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy Fellowship (2022). In addition to his clinical practice, he is a post-professional education instructor with WE ARE Physiotherapy with concentrations including medical screening and primary care physical therapy, clinical decision making, and spinal manipulation. His research interests include the development and conceptualization of clinical reasoning in orthopaedic physical therapy, differential diagnosis and clinical decision making, and predictive factors and health sequela associated with joint arthroplasty.

Dr. William Bodfish is a current board-certified specialist in geriatrics and has 6 years of PT practice experience primarily in the skilled nursing setting. Currently working in academia, Dr. Bodfish helps organize a local Parkinson’s support group where he engages with community members affected by PD and offers consultation services to improve their quality of life. Dr. Bodfish’s research interests include Parkinson’s disease, healthy aging, strength and condition for older adults, and Power training.

My name is Drew Biegner and I am a third year SPT at Virginia Commonwealth University. I am originally from Buffalo, NY, and graduated with a BS from The University of Akron in 23’. I had the honor of being the Board Coordinator for the CARES Clinic for the class of 26’. When it comes to things I enjoy outside of the clinic, I am a huge college basketball fan, and religiously watch both the Akron Zips and VCU Rams.

Tamara "Tammy" Buck is the Director of the Pediatric Residency, Director of Clinical Education, and an assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Virginia Commonwealth University. A physical therapist with board certification as a pediatric clinical specialist, Tamara graduated from Northeastern University in 1992, earned her transitional DPT with a concentration in pediatric sciences in 2016 and her PhD in Health Sciences from Rocky Mountain University in 2025. Her research interests support her professional interests: to motivate children, families, and all individuals to be as active and healthy as possible to participate and engage in activities.

Mandy Butler has worked as a full-time physical therapist through the VCU Health System for 23 years. She has worked with pediatric patients in the educational, early intervention, outpatient, long term care and inpatient rehab settings. After working in the pediatric neuromuscular clinic for several years, she became the consulting physical therapist in the adult neuromuscular and ALS clinics at VCU in 2009. In 2016, Mandy took on the role as a clinical evaluator with neuromuscular research for both adult and pediatric patients. The neuromuscular research has expanded to over 15 studies and is continuing to grow. Outside of her role as a physical therapist, Mandy enjoys spending time with her family including her two girls, exercising, and enjoying the outdoors as much as possible.

Dr. Julia Castleberry is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric and Neurologic Physical Therapy, a physical therapist and an educator with over thirty years of clinical experience and more than fourteen years dedicated to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) education. Her teaching experience spans pathology, neuroscience, adult neuromuscular physical therapy, complex medical care, imaging, rural health, and primary care. She holds advanced specialty certifications in geriatrics and neurology physical therapy, vestibular and lymphedema therapies. Clinically, Dr. Castleberry has practiced in a wide variety of areas including acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, skilled nursing, outpatient, cash-based, and home health settings across five states. She currently works PRN for various clinics and owns a successful cash-based therapy service near her home in Blacksburg, Virginia. Dr. Castleberry’s research focuses on the health and well-being of older adults, specifically in fall prevention and therapeutic interventions for Parkinson’s disease. She maintains a long-standing collaborative partnership with the Human Factors Group within the Industrial Systems Engineering Department at Virginia Tech, a relationship that highlights the integration of clinical expertise with evidence-based, innovative solutions. Her service-oriented approach is evident through her leadership and support roles within organizations such as the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), APTA Virginia, Brain Injury Solutions, the Foundation for Rehabilitation Equipment & Endowment (F.R.E.E.), the Virginia Department of Health’s Falls and Arthritis Coalition, and Parkinson’s Support Groups throughout Virginia. Dr. Julia Castleberry is an advocate for advancing physical therapy education and clinical practice to improve the lives of individuals with complex medical and neurologic conditions.

Brianne completed her undergraduate education at Sonoma state university Rohnert park CA, in Kinesiology. She earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at the University of Washington in Seattle in 2007. Brianne has worked as an outpatient pediatric physical therapist at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU for 18 years. She has been a member of the CHoR outpatient PT and OT concussion committee since 2011 and has served as chair of the committee since 2022. Brianne enjoys learning about, treating, and educating others about concussion rehab and assisting patients to resume desired activities post concussion.

Sandy earned her entry-level Physical Therapy degree from the Medical College of Virginia (1983) and a MHS in Orthopedic Physical Therapy from the University of Indianapolis (1996). She has worked in outpatient practice, a pain clinic, and acute care; giving her an appreciation for the breadth of healthcare conditions and provider roles. Sandy is a Board Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist. She was one of the first Physical Therapists in Virginia to obtain her Direct Access Certification. She has received Certifications in BoneFit, the Meeks Methods for Osteoporosis, the Otago Falls Prevention Program, and Trigger Point Dry Needling. Her passion is assisting others with low bone density, gluteal tendinopathies, chronic pain syndromes including fibromyalgia and EDS, and geriatric orthopedic conditions. Sandy has served in multiple leadership capacities at the local and state level of APTA Virginia. She is an active member of the APTA Geriatrics and APTA Orthopedics as well as the national Bone Health Special Interest Group. In her free time, Sandy, a collegiate equestrian, enjoys golf, playing the piano, dirt therapy (aka gardening), and spending time with her husband, adult children and young grandchildren.

Anisha Craft, PT, DPT is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy and a physical therapist at VCU Health with nearly a decade of clinical experience since earning her doctorate in 2016. Board-certified in pediatrics, Anisha is currently pursuing a Master of Decision Analytics at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she is expanding her expertise in data science and artificial intelligence. Passionate about innovation, she is dedicated to harnessing technology, data, and AI to improve clinician workflows and advance the future of physical therapy.

Kris Desjardins, CPO, FAAOP(D), is a seasoned Certified Prosthetist Orthotist (CPO) with over 20 years of experience in the orthotics and prosthetics field. As the Clinic Manager at Hanger Clinic in Richmond, VA, Kris oversees both clinical care and business operations. Her expertise in building strong relationships with physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals has played a key role in enhancing patient care and achieving positive clinical outcomes. In addition to her clinical work, Kris serves on Hanger’s Diversity & Inclusion Council and is an active Residency Director and mentor. She volunteers on several committees with the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists, where she is a Fellow of the Academy with Distinction and co-chairs multiple committees. Kris holds an Executive MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology, a degree in Orthotics from the University of Connecticut, a degree in Prosthetics from the University of Hartford, and a degree in Biomedical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She is passionate about advancing the field of prosthetics and orthotics through education, innovation, and continuous improvement. Kris is also the inventor of the hemiplegic chafe, allowing patients to maintain independence when donning their orthoses. A dedicated educator, Kris has made significant contributions to the national residency program and has mentored numerous residents who have gone on to achieve certification. Her speaking experience includes both professional development forums and clinical training sessions for healthcare professionals in orthotics and prosthetics. Outside of work, Kris enjoys spending time with her family, including her two young boys and dog, Fenway. She loves being outdoors, cheering for the Red Sox, and capturing precious moments through photography.

Chase Edwards, a native of Erwin, TN and currently living in Kingsport, TN. Since 2021 he has served as a full time clinical assistant professor of Physical Therapy at Emory & Henry University in Marion, VA, with his primary teaching concentrations focused on cardio-pulmonary, the spine, exercise physiology, and medical screening. Chase is a graduate from the East Tennessee State University Orthopaedic and Manual Therapies Fellowship program in August of 2020. Prior to fellowship training, he completed an Orthopaedic Residency at East Tennessee State University/Mountain Home VA Hospital Orthopaedic Residency Program. He received his DPT degree from the Emory & Henry College: School of Health Sciences Doctor of Physical Therapy Program in May 2018. In January 2015 he completed his Master’s degree from East Tennessee State University from their Olympic Training Center in Exercise Physiology and Human Performance and in 2012 a Bachelor of Science degree in athletic training from Emory & Henry College and continues to maintain his ATC credential working as a private contractor to organized sports teams and clubs as well as a private consultant for strength sport athletes such as powerlifting, strongman/woman, crossfit, highland games, and various other hybrid sports . His current research is aimed at using wearable sensors to objectively target and dose muscle power and rate of force development exercise with individuals with Parkinson’s disease. His key clinical interests are bridging the gap between human performance, sport-science, and strength & conditioning principles into physical therapy practice across all populations and settings, scientific communication, literacy, and skepticism, and public health.

Meaghan Ellis, SPT is a second-year Doctor of Physical Therapy student at Emory & Henry University in Marion, Virginia. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from East Carolina University and is certified in LSVT BIG. She serves as her cohort’s Service Chair and is an active member of the Nominating Committee for the APTA Virginia Student Special Interest Group. Meaghan has a strong interest in pelvic health and community wellness. She regularly participates in local events to raise awareness about the vital role physical therapists play in enhancing quality of life, particularly within underserved communities.

Patrick Esmonde holds a bachelor’s degree in Business and Management Information Systems from Drexel University and a master’s degree in Technology Management from the University of Pennsylvania, a program co-sponsored by The Wharton School and the School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS). He has also shared his expertise as an adjunct assistant professor at Villanova University’s School of Business, teaching IT strategy, analytics, and data visualization to undergraduate and MBA students. With a strong foundation in education and technology, Patrick has spent over a decade in leadership roles within Higher Education, where he has guided key projects and supported the implementation of innovative solutions. Since establishing his IT consulting business in 2000, Patrick has worked with clients across various industries, providing technology strategies and solutions tailored to their needs. His consulting work has included leading data visualization initiatives for Fortune-50 companies, helping organizations gain valuable insights and improve decision-making. Building on his consulting experience, Patrick has expanded into the healthcare and technology sectors through his involvement with Vestibular First, Dizzy Care Network, and the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). In these roles, he contributes to advancements in vestibular diagnostics and patient care, blending his passion for problem-solving with a commitment to making a positive impact.

Kierstan Gastrock has been a practicing Physical Therapist since 2018, with a specialization in neurological rehabilitation. As a Board-Certified Neurologic Specialist (NCS), Kierstan has dedicated her career to improving the quality of life for individuals with neurological conditions, focusing on advancing clinical practices for those living with spinal cord injuries (SCI) as well as serving the general neurologic population. Currently, Kierstan serves as the outpatient Spinal Cord Injury Clinical Leader for Sheltering Arms Institute where she is actively working to expand and implement evidence-based best practices for individuals with SCI, ensuring a holistic approach to care.

Dr. Tony Grillo, DPT is an experienced physical therapist based in Williamsburg, VA, with over 22 years of expertise in outpatient orthopedics. He specializes in the treatment of spinal conditions and temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), a focus he has been teaching since 2017. Dr. Grillo earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees from Nazareth College in Rochester, NY, and later obtained his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University. He completed an Orthopedic Manual Therapy Fellowship at Regis University in Denver, CO, achieving Fellow status with the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists (FAAOMPT).

Board-certified in Orthopedic Physical Therapy (OCS), Dr. Grillo holds advanced certifications in Integrated Manual Therapy (CIMT), Dry Needling, Industrial Rehabilitation, and Blood Flow Restriction Therapy. He is a dedicated educator, teaching several continuing education courses on spinal manipulation and serving as an adjunct professor for Arcadia University’s Residency Program, where he leads instruction on TMD and craniofacial content. A lifelong advocate for the profession, Dr. Grillo has been an active member and leader within the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), most recently serving as immediate past President of APTA Virginia. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his wife, Monica, their three children—Ben, Lily, and Alex—and their dog, Hamilton.

Dr. Emily Hawkins earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology at East Carolina University in 2010 and her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Old Dominion University in 2013. She is an Alpha Eta Honor Society member, and she has consistently been engaged in professional service through the APTA at district and chapter levels. She currently serves as President for APTA Virginia and the Treasurer for the Mid-Atlantic Consortium of Physical Therapy Clinical Education, Inc. Emily’s clinical practice has been in acute care, with the majority of her time spent in practice at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, southeastern Virginia’s Level 1 Trauma Center. She was hired in 2021 as Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of Clinical Education for Old Dominion University's Doctor of Physical Therapy program. In 2023, Emily was selected as APTA Virginia's "Emerging Leader" award recipient and earned her PhD in Kinesiology & Rehabilitation from ODU. In 2025, Emily was recognized in the ODU Alumni Association's "40 under 40" honor and published the textbook "Psychosocial Aspects of Rehabilitation: Enhancing Outcomes Through Compassionate Practice" (Cognella) with her colleagues.

Mary completed her undergraduate education at the University of Virginia in biology and anthropology. She earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2013. Mary has worked as an outpatient pediatric OT at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU for 11 years. She has been a member of the CHOR concussion Committee for program development and staff training since 2015, and has also participated on a multidisciplinary concussion committee with practitioners across VCU health system. Mary enjoys working with clients recovering from mTBI, especially with pediatric-specific complexities such as young age and premorbid developmental differences in visual-vestibular integration.

Aileen Jones, PT, DPT is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy. Aileen Jones has worked as a full-time physical therapist through the VCU Health System for the past 19 years. She has worked with pediatric patients in the outpatient setting. In 2017, she became a clinical evaluator with neuromuscular research for both adult and pediatric patients. The neuromuscular research has expanded to over 15 studies and is continuing to grow. Outside of her role as a physical therapist, Aileen enjoys baking and spending time with her family and pets.

Dr. Corrie Jones, DPT, SCS is the Director of Clinical Excellence at Rehab 2 Perform. She leads a company-wide mentorship program to maintain a high, evidence-based standard of care for their patients. She also teaches in the R2P Sports Residency as a didactic and clinical instructor for the residents. Corrie currently also works with the US Paralympic alpine and snowboard teams, ensuring they can compete at the most elite levels. Corrie teaches adaptive skiing and snowboarding on the weekends locally, showing her passion and joy in working with the adaptive athlete community.

Corrie earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from the University of Maryland-Baltimore in 2011. She is a board certified specialist in Sports (SCS). She treats patients at both the Frederick R2P office and at Hood College, working with collegiate athletes in a variety of sports. She has worked with elite runners and ultra runners in Colorado, organized injury prevention clinics for collegiate sports teams and for local high school athletes and was involved in CrossFit as well. She has coached soccer for years in many different capacities, including at the club, NCAA DII and semi-pro levels. Beyond being a huge sports fan, Corris is passionate about the psychosocial aspects of physical therapy and continues to have a growth mindset for all other aspects of the profession.

Rosie has been a practicing Physical Therapist since 2018, with a specialization in neurological rehabilitation since 2020. As a Board-Certified Neurologic Specialist (NCS), Rosie has dedicated her career to improving the quality of life for individuals with neurological conditions, focusing on advancing clinical practices for those living with strokes and brain injuries as well as serving the general neurologic population.

In addition to treating patients, Rosie also helps run the seating clinic at Sheltering Arms Institute’s Hanover site, where she performs complex seating and DME evaluations. Recently, Rosie became certified in Ride Designs custom seating, focusing on creating custom molds for people with complex seating and positioning needs.

Dr. Cindy Kolb, Owner of ACT Now Rehab (or Appalachian Canine Therapy) has been a practicing Physical Therapist for 29 years. After completing her Masters in Physical Therapy from Old Dominion University she worked in a variety of settings including Acute Care, Home Health and Outpatient. In 2011, Cindy decided to combine her love of dogs with her passion for physical therapy and in 2012 earned her certification as a canine rehabilitation therapist (CCRT) through the Canine Rehabilitation Institute. Continuing her education, she completed the Transitional DPT degree in 2018.

ACT Now Rehab, LLC (or Appalachian Canine Therapy for the 4- legged patients) was started in 2012 as a result of a legitimate and growing need for professional therapy services in the field of canine rehab. In 2014, Cindy completed her requirements in the art of Dry Needling and can now offer her four legged and two legged patients another mode of quick relief from Myofascial Trigger Points. In August of 2018, she completed her transitional Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from The College of St. Scholastica.

Dr. Kolb has presented regionally as guest lecture on Canine Rehabilitation at both DPT and PTA schools in the New River Valley and presented at the Virginia PT Association annual conference in 2018. She has had two articles published in the Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Practice journal for the Animal Rehab Special Interest Group (ARSIG). She serves as the Virginia state Liaison for the ARSIG.

Dr. Kulkarni is an Assistant Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Old Dominion University. She holds a Bachelor's in Physical Therapy (2015) from India, a Master's in Biomechanics and Exercise Science (2017), and a dual-title Ph.D. in Biomechanics and Gerontology (2023) from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and Purdue University. As the Director of the Virtual Reality Lab, her research explores how humans maintain stable and efficient walking, even in challenging environments, with a focus on biomechanical structure and central nervous system control. By uncovering the mechanisms behind adaptive walking, Dr. Kulkarni's work aims to develop interventions that enhance stability, mobility, and overall well-being. As a member of APTA Geriatrics and Chair of the VPTA Geriatric SIG, she is dedicated to enhancing the understanding of human movement and bridging the divide between research and clinical practice.

Ryan Lockwood, PT, MSPT, CSCS is a Physical Therapist and clinic manager at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU (CHOR), Fredericksburg Therapy Center. He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist from the NSCA and has also completed certification in Pediatric Vestibular Rehab Competency from the APTA. Ryan graduated from Ithaca College in 1998 with a master’s degree in physical therapy and has spent his entire career in outpatient pediatrics. Ryan has worked for CHOR since 2003. Ryan has special interests and training in car seats, concussion, pediatric sport rehab/injury prevention, gait training/rehab, equipment, casting/orthotics/splinting and PT residency education. Ryan assisted with the development and planning of the pediatric residency at VCU, has been a mentor within the program, and is now the coordinator of the pediatric residency since 2021. Ryan assists with some teaching as an adjunct in the VCU Department of Physical Therapy. Ryan is a member of the APTA, American Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy, and APTA Virginia.

Geoveddy is an experienced pediatric physical therapist with 15 years of clinical expertise and practice school-based pediatric physical therapy. With a strong foundation in working with children of all ages, Geoveddy began her career in New York before relocating to Virginia, where she continues to make a positive impact on the pediatric population. With 10 years of experience in early intervention, Geoveddy has developed a keen understanding of the unique needs of children at critical developmental stages. She also brings three years of experience in private practice, where she focused on providing individualized care and promoting functional independence for children with a variety of challenges. While Geoveddy initially started her career working with adults, treating both orthopedic and neurological conditions, her heart has always been with children. After transitioning to pediatric therapy, she found her true calling and has not looked back. Beyond treatment, Geoveddy takes great pride in educating and supporting families, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, and serving as a trusted source of guidance. The commitment to empowering children, parents, and teams has made her an invaluable resource in the field of pediatric physical therapy.

Ayanna Millner is a second year DPT student at Virginia Commonwealth University. She is currently serving as the clinician coordinator for the CARES Clinic at VCU. She attended the University of Virginia for her undergraduate degree in kinesiology.

AJ Moffitt got her BS in Athletic Training from Hofstra University in 1999. She received her Master's of Science in physical therapy in 2002 from Marymount University, Arlington VA and her Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy (PCS) in 2009. AJ worked in out patient orthopedics and outpatient pediatrics from 2002-2011. She has worked for Fairfax County Public Schools as a school based PT for the last 13 years. AJ lives with her husband and two sons in Northern Virginia where she spends a lot of her time watching her kids play baseball.

Will serves as the outpatient multispecialty clinical leader at Sheltering Arms Institute’s Hanover outpatient center. He is a Board-Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist and is passionate about serving patients with lower limb amputations, general orthopedic conditions, and gait and balance impairments. In his role at Sheltering Arms Institute, he hosts a monthly orthotics clinic that focuses on multidisciplinary orthotic assessment.

Will is an adjunct faculty member in the Program for Physical Therapy at Old Dominion University, assisting with clinical education. Within the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), he serves as co-chair for the Amputation Care Special Interest Group (SIG) in the APTA Federal section. As co-chair, he is actively engaged in creating core competencies in advanced clinical practice and developing educational materials in collaboration with the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists. Will has been published in lower limb amputation biomechanics and outcome assessment. He has additionally contributed to the textbook, Physical Rehabilitation, developing a video-based immersive case study.

Kip has been a physical therapist for more than 30 years…initially graduating with a bachelor of science in physical therapy from the University of Oklahoma prior to receiving two graduate degrees, including a master of business administration from Rice University and a doctor of physical therapy from Creighton University. Kip is the Director of Acute Care Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics in Madison, Wisconsin where he’s worked for more than 20 years. In this role, Kip has led several initiatives, including the accreditation of post professional residencies in acute care PT, neurologic PT, and pediatric PT; the implementation of a comprehensive professional advancement and recognition program; the development of one of the first PT direct access programs in a health system nationally; the ability for PTs to order x-rays; and multiple efforts to improve triage, care coordination, patient access, and service delivery. Kip currently serves on the APTA Board of Directors, which he’s done since 2016…first in a 3 year term as Director followed by the next 6 years as Secretary. From 2010-2016, Kip served as the President of APTA Wisconsin and in this role he led first in the nation legislation that explicitly permits physical therapists to order x-rays, and he also led legislative efforts in the areas of concussion management, Medicaid reform, and workers’ compensation reform. Prior to serving as chapter president, Kip served in numerous committee and Board roles with APTA Wisconsin and APTA Maine.