Physical Therapists Archives - Performance Optimal Health

Stash Rutkowski

"Caring is genuine. In our field, it builds and solidifies relationships that are needed in physical therapy."

Stash Rutkowski, PT, ART, is certified in both Active Release Therapy and Dry Needling, and has two decades of clinical experience. He specializes in hip pathology and has trained with top hip surgeons in the country, including those at the Hospital for Special Surgery.

Physical therapy allows Stash to stay active in the world of sports while providing the essential service of helping people improve their lives through medicine. Stash gives 100% of himself when working with patients; genuinely caring about his patients helps him solidify causative relationships that are necessary for physical therapy to be successful.

You name a sport, and Stash plays and watches it; he even coaches his two kids in soccer and baseball, sharing his love for sports with them.

Shane Foley

"I empower people to live better by building relationships, collaboratively establishing a plan to help people accomplish their goals and leading people to optimize their performance."

Shane Foley, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, is an orthopedic specialist who is certified in strength and conditioning, dry needling, and the Schroth Method. He has a deep passion for building relationships, helping people accomplish their goals and leading people to optimize their performance. Shane combines his advanced research, knowledge and skills as an orthopedic specialist along with his background as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist to provide the optimal analysis for his patients: he analyzes and helps people across the full spectrum of health care, from injury to improved performance.

As a former DI lacrosse player, Shane is passionate about helping his patients return to sport following an injury, using a criterion-based series of tests to ensure that when an athlete is ready to resume play, they have a little risk of re-injury as possible with optimal performance.

When not in the clinic, you can find Shane in nature either hiking or seeking out good wind to kiteboard, fresh powder to snowboard or calm tides to paddle board.

Robert Mahlman

"Listening and understanding where patients come from lets me create a unique program that they will enjoy."

Robert Mahlman, PT, DPT, OCS, is a board certified orthopedic clinical specialist and certified Schroth therapist who specializes in the treatment of various orthopedic injuries, along with scoliosis and concussion management. He serves as the Westport Site Lead. Prior to joining Performance, Rob completed a clinical affiliation with the United States Air Force at Kessler Air Force Base and worked with top military and civilian physical therapists to provide evidence-based care to our active-duty military, veterans and their dependents.

Rob enjoys being able to use his hands to help people, talking them through their problems and experiencing something new every day. He provides his patients with the knowledge, guidance and tools they need to understand their body and achieve their goals. By listening to each person and learning what they need, Rob creates a unique program aimed to not only help his patients recover but enjoy the physical therapy as well.

When he is not helping people move, Rob is doing it himself, going on hikes, mountain biking and using his GoPro as much as he can.

Renee Lascarides

“Educating clients is the most powerful tool we can provide to give them more confidence and control over their progress or rehabilitation.”

Renee Lascarides, PT, DPT, is a physical therapist in the Hamden office, as well as an adjunct faculty member at Sacred Heart University. As a youth athlete, Renee was constantly active and played soccer and participated in cheerleading and gymnastics. Facing an injury, Renee underwent physical therapy and fell in love with the practice.

Now, as a physical therapist herself, Renee is excited to be a part of the world of orthopedic and sports physical therapy. She is particularly interested in working with athletes, having done research on injury risk assessment in dancers and gymnasts during her time at Quinnipiac University. She is currently pursuing further education on the relationship between Pilates and physical therapy, so that she could apply its principles in her care.

Michael Semancik

"I empower people to live better by giving them the tools and motivation to do so. I believe that teaching someone and expanding their knowledge is the best way to help them achieve their goals and live a better life."

Michael Semancik, PT, DPT, OCS, TPI-M2, specializes in working with young athletes, specifically with rowers, hockey players and football players. Michael also brings this passion with him outside of the clinic: He formerly served as the physical therapist for various teams at Princeton University, including men’s hockey and football as well as women’s lightweight crew and volleyball.

As an athlete his entire life, Michael has always had a natural inclination towards the field of sports medicine and was fascinated by the rehabilitation process. He played Division I football at Sacred Heart University, but when he tore his ACL, Michael was introduced to the rehab process, reinforcing his decision to pursue a career in physical therapy.

Michael believes that knowledge is one of the most powerful tools people have at their disposal, and he considers himself to be a lifelong learner. Whether this is through teaching patients, learning from colleagues or staying up to date on the newest research, Michael is constantly trying to learn something new each day, which allows me to be the best clinician he can possibly be and empower his patients to live better. Currently, he is working on his TPI Medical Professional level 2 certification.

When he is off the clock, Michael enjoys going to the beach, taking his dog for a swim, watching football and playing golf.

Michael Beecher

"I empower people to live better by practicing what I preach."

Michael Beecher, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, is a Titleist Performance Institute medical professional, a Hospital for Special Surgery credentialed advanced hip clinician and a certified dry needling specialist. He enjoys working with patients to close the loop of injury and recovery, helping them on their journey to rehabilitation from start to finish.

After graduating Sacred Heart University where he played Division I soccer, Michael underwent an intensive sports residency program with the Steadman Hawkins Clinic, then returned to Sacred Heart as an adjunct professor. He has published his research on physical therapy in numerous publications and seeks to serve as an educator both in and out of the Performance clinic, where he serves as the Chief Operating Officer.

Michael used to play Division I soccer for Sacred Heart, and continues to stay active and play recreational sports. In his downtime, Michael spends time with his family and friends and likes to go hiking and paddle boarding.

Publications:
Journal of Orthopaedic & Physical Sports Therapy

SportsHealth: A Multi-disciplinary Approach

Journal of Athletic Training

Topics in Geriatric Rehabilitation

Marc Feda

"I have a soft spot for seeing people heal, recover and improve. I have a servant's heart for people."

Marc Feda, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, TPI-MP2, is a concussion management specialist who is also certified in trigger point dry needling and a functional range release of upper extremity. Marc has also taken advanced coursework on treating TMJ pain, and is a Level 1 USA Weightlifting and Sports Performance coach.

Adding value to people’s lives is Marc’s passion, along with helping active adults achieve and maintain optimal health and rehabilitating injured youth and adolescent athletes to return to their highest level of performance. He adheres to the adage of “knowledge is power,” and sees his role at Performance as an educator. The more knowledge he can accrue is more knowledge he can share with his patients, helping them sharpen their own minds and habits.

Marc played Division I Ice Hockey at Sacred Heart University, where he then became the head strength and conditioning coach and assistant coach for the same team while earning his physical therapist degree.

When he is not with his patients, Marc is an avid golfer and hockey player who enjoys training via CrossFit, taking hikes and participating in adventure races.

Maddy Mazoue

“I really believe in the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle and want to help people achieve their goals — whatever they may be.”

Maddy Mazoue, PT, DPT, CSCS, is a physical therapist and strength and conditioning specialist who specializes in developing athletes’ return to sport programs, as well as torticollis treatment. She has implemented various injury prevention warm-up programs for middle and high school athletic teams. As a physical therapist, Maddy values collaboration and teamwork, and believes that patient care is always better when providers are open and willing to work with each other to best serve the patient.

Maddy enjoys working with people to find ways to stay active that they are passionate about, regardless of the activity. She strives to build relationships with the people she helps.

Outside of work, Maddy maintains a healthy lifestyle to ensure she has the energy to tackle each day with enthusiasm. She loves cooking shows, playing volleyball, and watching college football.

Larry Piretra

“I enjoy challenging my body physically and mentally, seeing what we are truly capable of when we set our mind to something. There's no better feeling than accomplishing goals you never thought were possible.”

Larry Piretra, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, TPI-M2, is a physical therapist and strength and conditioning specialist who serves as the Naples Site Lead. As a Titleist Medical and Fitness Professional, Larry also serves as the Golf Programming Lead for Performance.

His experience includes working at outpatient orthopedic-focused clinics, treating patients of all ages as well as clinic affiliations with veterans at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and high-level athletes in Birmingham, Alabama. Larry has also worked with local high school sports teams to implement ACL injury prevention programs and with local senior citizens’ centers to screen for and reduce risk of falling.

As an athlete, Larry has always had tremendous respect for physical therapists that helped him overcome injuries and get back to playing collegiate basketball. Now, he is able to return the favor and help people get back to the sport they love. He particularly enjoys working with golfers, both on the physical therapy and fitness sides. As a TPI Professional, Larry bridges the gap between rehabilitation, staying pain-free, and improving strength, power, and performance.

Larry does not believe in a one-size-fits-all philosophy, and instead takes care to listen to his clients and alter his approach to meet their specific needs and goals. He is also a strong proponent of taking ownership, both as a therapist and as a client. Being proactive and taking ownership not only improves outcomes, but builds up those around you.

In his free time, you can either find him trying a new local restaurant or playing golf.

Kiera Klaum

"I am firm believer that mobility is medicine and being active can do a world of good."

Kiera Klaum, PT, DPT, is based out of the Darien office. She focuses on orthopedic physical therapy, has experience with post-operative and post-COVID care and has worked with people of all ages and backgrounds, including athletes.

While at the University of Hartford, Kiera worked with the Division I volleyball team, exploring how improving lower extremity power increases vertical jump height.

Having always been a runner, Kiera finds movement key in daily activities. She appreciates the body’s ability to heal and enjoys being the person who can guide that healing process. As a physical therapist, Kiera seeks to optimize the rehabilitation experience as much as possible, focusing on the details and consistently following up with her care.

In her off time, you can find Kiera running, on a hiking trail or spending time with her friends and family. She’s also an avid fan of the New York Islanders — but please don’t let Kevin know.

Kevin Whelan

Kevin Whelan, PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS, is a board-certified sports clinical specialist and strength and conditioning specialist based in Westport. He has experience working in private outpatient settings, as well as with sports teams such as the San Francisco Giants and Driveline Baseball. Kevin also participated in a Sports Physical Therapy Residency at the Hospital for Special Surgery.

While Kevin works with clients of all backgrounds, he particularly enjoys working with overhead and field sport athletes. Having played multiple sports growing up himself, including rugby in college, Kevin has dealt with his own injuries and as a result has a particular interest in athletics and exercise science.

As a physical therapist, Kevin seeks to go above and beyond with his care in order to provide a positive experience and the best clinical outcomes. He also takes care to promote living an active and healthy lifestyle outside of doing physical therapy and offers suggestions to his clients on ways to be advocates for their own health.

In his free time, Kevin maintains an active lifestyle through weightlifting and playing hockey. He also carves out plenty of time to stay up to date on the latest clinical research in order to constantly improve his practice to provide the best care and outcomes for his clients.

Kevin Cota

"I empower people to live better by encouraging wellness in all aspects of their lives."

Kevin Cota, PT, DPT, SCS, ART, CDN, is a board-certified sports clinical specialist, certified in active release therapy and a certified dry needling specialist. Growing up in a family with only brothers and playing three varsity sports throughout high school, he grew up constantly competing. Now, Kevin has found a new kind of competition: getting his clients back to what they love as quickly and safely as possible. He enjoys being able to diagnose and treat orthopedic and sports injuries due to the complex nature of human movement and demands that are placed on the body daily. Kevin specializes in adolescent injuries and return to sport interventions for athletes.

Kevin previously served as the physical therapist for the New York Rangers, and is currently consulting for the team. When he is not working, Kevin can be found on a boat, fishing, playing hockey or spending time with his family.

Jonathon Mendola

"It is hard to find the energy to push through and achieve your goals. I am here to help you navigate that experience."

Jonathon Mendola, PT, DPT, CSCS, is a detail-oriented physical therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist. He is particularly interested in working with patients post-op, clients dealing with joint replacements, as well as weekend warriors.

Jon has completed a series of rigorous affiliations, including a rotation at the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he worked with military cadets and retired military veterans. He also worked with top rehab physicians and therapists at Keller Army hospital. Jon is currently pursuing further education on sleep and pain science to continue building out his knowledge of the human body.

Jon's holistic, empathetic and caring approach is built around the client as a whole; he takes into account his clients' experience and pain journey, utilizing multiple facets of their health to help get them to their goals.

Working with his hands is Jonathon’s passion. From providing physical therapy to taking care of cars and wood working, Jonathon thrives on creativity and his ability to problem solve. He also enjoyed playing intramural soccer in college.

Jessica Klecki

“Every client should feel that their healthcare provider really takes the time to listen to them and treats them as an individual, not as a diagnosis or body part. That all starts with caring.”

Jessica Klecki, PT, DPT, is a pelvic health specialist who works with female and male clients alike. She works with clients to create a comprehensive treatment plan for pelvic health issues that goes beyond kegels. Instead, Jessica takes a unique approach to pelvic health by incorporating various exercises, breathing techniques and stretching methods in her care.

Jessica chose to work in the field of physical therapy to instill a sense of resiliency in her clients. Having been injured herself, Jessica faced a lack of support during her healing process. Now, she wants to ensure others get the encouragement and guidance they need and deserve to return to all the activities they love.

As a native Floridian, Jessica is a huge fan of Tampa Bay Lightning, but is willing to give the New York Rangers a shot. In her free time, she likes to stay active by hiking, rock climbing, traveling, running and going to Disney Land.

Gloria Christiano

“I believe each patient requires unique individualized treatment plans centered around meaningful goals to help restore and optimize function.”

Gloria Christiano, PT, DPT, OCS, is a physical therapist who is passionate about elevating the healthcare experience through a holistic treatment approach and emphasis on creating a therapeutic alliance with patients. She utilizes education and patient empowerment to achieve the exceptional outcomes for everyone she treats. She believes having shared goals with her patients creates mutual accountability to help restore and optimize function.

Gloria is certified in the Graston technique, which allows her to perform instrument-based soft tissue mobilization techniques. She is also working toward other advanced specialties in the field of orthopedics and sports medicine.

Gloria treats a wide variety of sports-related injuries, general orthopedics, and has a clinical fondness for ACL rehabilitation and return to sport. She is motivated to help patients successfully reach their maximum potential through exceptional patient-centered care.

When not in the clinic, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, watching sports, and traveling to National Parks.

Elisa LaBelle

“Movement is essential to life. I am passionate about empowering people to move mindfully, efficiently, and fearlessly.”

Elisa LaBelle, PT, MSPT, is a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy practicing in Greenwich, with a specialty in performing arts medicine. She holds an Advanced Certificate in Orthopedic Physical Therapy from New York University as well as Pilates Mat and Equipment Certifications.

With over 20 years of experience, Elisa has worked in top-ranked teaching hospitals including New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Harkness Center for Dance Injuries/NYU Langone Health, as well as private practices across Connecticut and New York.

Elisa has lectured and co-presented on presentations covering injury prevention for the dancer and clinical perspectives on dance medicine. She also took part in creating and presenting NYU Langone Health continuing education content as a member of the dance medicine team at Harkness, in addition to providing backstage and onsite physical therapy services for the performing arts community in and around New York City.

Elisa is licensed to provide telehealth physical therapy in Florida.

Danielle Pasquale

“I am genuinely invested in each patient’s treatment plan and overall wellbeing to help optimize their full potential and achieve their goals.”

Danielle Pasquale, PT, DPT, is a physical therapist certified in dry needling, women's pelvic health, and pre/post-natal fitness. She has always had a passion for helping people, and decided to funnel that drive into physical therapy and teaching others how to live their healthiest life.

Danielle attended Ithaca College to obtain her doctorate in physical therapy where she led a biomechanics research team looking at ACL return to sport testing and worked with collegiate athletes to ensure proper progression back to their sport.

As someone who values living a healthy and active lifestyle, Danielle began her specialty in women’s health and pre/post-natal performance to give women the tools and training to safely continue to live an active life during and after pregnancy. Danielle believes that showing compassion and dedication builds trust between provider and patient, providing the motivation they need to achieve their goals.

In her free time, Danielle enjoys staying active attending new exercise classes, doing hot yoga, and playing with her dog Callie.

Chris Donato

“I strive to empower people to live a better life, optimize their function, and motivate them to achieve and exceed their goals.”

Chris Donato, PT, DPT, is a physical therapist based in New Canaan who enjoys working with all populations. He specializes in working with athletes, especially overhead athletes, drawing from his time playing five years of club baseball at Sacred Heart University.

Prior to joining Performance, Chris completed a 10-week clinical rotation with the San Francisco Giants, working with professional baseball players to help optimize their recovery and return to sport. At the same time, he pushed them to perform at the highest possible level while relying on sustainable improvements to enhance their athletic performance.

Chris carries over his athletic mindset to motivate all kinds of clients and problem solve efficiently, and he enjoys utilizing his hands-on clinical skills to improve client outcomes. His ability to listen and understand the client allows him to find salient ways to overcome all obstacles and enhance their recovery process.

In his off time, Chris enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching baseball and playing softball.

Chad Gallant

"I like to inspire people by living a healthy lifestyle. I’m enjoying helping clients to become stronger and see them succeed.”

Chad Gallant, PTA, is a physical therapist assistant and United States Air Force veteran based in North Naples. Chad specializes in sports-specific therapy, acute care post-surgery due to chronic pain, balance training, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, and Muscle Energy Techniques. He is also Level 1 Certified in Essential Training in the Graston Technique. His past experience includes working in both inpatient and outpatient physical therapy centers and skilled nursing facilities, as well as providing in-home services.

While stationed in Europe with the Air Force, Chad took a fellow trooper to the hospital for eye surgery. While he waited, Chad explored the hospital and found a physical therapist applying a prothetic leg to a soldier. When they got the soldier to stand and take a few steps, the soldier started to cry, which was an eye opener for Chad and turning point in his career. He decided he wanted to help people get back to their daily lives after surgeries, injuries, and other musculoskeletal issues they may face.

Carolyn Surgent

"I have a real commitment to life-long learning; I love what I do."

Carolyn Surgent, PT, DPT, FDN, is a mover by nature and loves to explore how the body works and moves. Though she started out in the field of architectural history, she danced professionally after obtaining her degree. Instead of studying the structure and function of buildings, she began to take an interest in the structure and function of the human body.

With an interest in orthopedics that runs in the family, Carolyn combined it with her love for the art of movement and obtained her DPT from New York University, a career choice that allows her to spend time and build relationships with her patients. She holds a deep curiosity on helping people and enjoys educating others on the importance of taking care of your mental and physical wellbeing.

Britt Gunsser

"I empower people by getting to know what they truly value and hold them accountable to achieving their goals."

Britt Gunsser, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, is a board certified orthopedic clinical specialist, certified Schroth therapist and dry needling specialist. She has completed extensive work on running rehabilitation and is an RRCA Running Coach. As a physical therapist and board certified orthopedic clinical specialist, Britt takes a comprehensive approach to recovery, taking an in depth look at the causes of injury and conditions to provide the best treatment possible.

Britt has a passion for helping people in need, and physical therapy allows her to be a resource and teacher for them. She related to her clients, having grown up with a special-needs family member who also worked with a physical therapist, and having herself gone through physical therapy twice.

As a physical therapist, Britt takes care to get to know all of her patients, including their goals and hobbies. This helps guide their treatment, as she can tailor to them in a way that will result the greatest success and achieve their goals.

When she is not running through Central Park, Britt is exploring the city’s best pizza places and watching New York Giants games.

Brian Kuruc

"I have a passion for making people better, starting with educating them. I give them the tools they need to be effective in reaching their goals."

Brian Kuruc, PT, DPT, OCS, TPI-M1, is a physical therapist, dry needling specialist, and TPI certified medical golf professional. He has completed several advanced clinical rotations, including Spring Training with the San Francisco Giants. Brian enjoys working with athletes of all ages; he used to work with minor league players on injury rehabilitation programs and currently serves as a physical therapist and athletic trainer for the Westport PAL Youth Football League.

Brian makes it his mission to educate his patients. He helps them understand not only what he is working on, but why certain exercises and treatments help more than others. His clients are part of their own treatment every step of the way and enjoy a collaborative environment where everyone recognizes the importance of working as a team to achieve individual goals.

Anyone that is highly motivated and is looking to get better is a good match for Brian, who has a passion for helping others improve their lives, especially athletes. When Brian is not outside staying active through tennis, running and basketball, he enjoys mind puzzles, video games and fantasy sports.

Publications:
Reliability of elbow extension, sensory response, and structural differentiation of Upper Limb Tension Test A in a healthy, asymptomatic population (2019).

Ashley Moriarty

“I empower people to live better by finding out what is important to them so I can help them achieve their goals.”

Ashley Moriarty, PT, DPT, OCS, is a board certified orthopedic clinical specialist who is certified in dry needling and pre- and post-natal fitness. She has a passion for helping people move better and stay active, especially new moms.

Ashley attended Boston University for both undergraduate and graduate studies and stayed to work in the Boston area for a number of years after she graduated. She joined Performance in the fall of 2019 and now works as the New Canaan Site Lead.

As a provider, Ashley understands the importance of actively listening to her clients, getting to know them as a whole person and not just their injury, and helping them get back to what's important to them.

Outside of work, you can find Ashley sitting on a beach, skiing a black diamond, or spending time with her husband, infant son, and golden retriever.

Chris Donato

“I strive to empower people to live a better life, optimize their function, and motivate them to achieve and exceed their goals.”

In his off time, Chris enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching baseball and playing softball.

Stash Rutkowski

"Caring is genuine. In our field, it builds and solidifies relationships that are needed in physical therapy."

You name a sport, and Stash plays and watches it; he even coaches his two kids in soccer and baseball, sharing his love for sports with them.

Shane Foley

"I empower people to live better by building relationships, collaboratively establishing a plan to help people accomplish their goals and leading people to optimize their performance."

When not in the clinic, you can find Shane in nature either hiking or seeking out good wind to kiteboard, fresh powder to snowboard or calm tides to paddle board.

Robert Mahlman

"Listening and understanding where patients come from lets me create a unique program that they will enjoy."

When he is not helping people move, Rob is doing it himself, going on hikes, mountain biking and using his GoPro as much as he can.

Renee Lascarides

“Educating clients is the most powerful tool we can provide to give them more confidence and control over their progress or rehabilitation.”

Renee Lascarides, PT, DPT, is a physical therapist in the Hamden office. As a youth athlete, Renee was constantly active and played soccer and participated in cheerleading and gymnastics. Facing an injury, Renee underwent physical therapy and fell in love with the practice.

Payden Houser

“I am a firm believer in a balanced life. We all have responsibilities and stresses that need our attention, but I strive to educate and empower my patients to focus on the things that are within their control, such as mindset, exercise, diet, and sleep.”

Payden Houser, PT, DPT, CSCS, is a physical therapist and strength and conditioning specialist based in New Canaan. He has been practicing since 2015 in the outpatient orthopedic and home health settings, focused on helping clients achieve their goal of living a healthy and meaningful life. Payden has a passion for working with athletes of all ages, especially those participating in outdoor sports like rock climbers, skiers, and runners.

Like many physical therapists, Payden was originally drawn toward this career path through sports. While playing Division II baseball at Tusculum University, he spent mornings in the athletic training room and became fascinated by how the body is able to heal — and how a collaborative team effort makes all the difference in rehabilitation.

As a physical therapist, Payden feels his most important role is to educate and advocate for his clients on how to best live a healthy and fulfilling life, and that he is tasked with keeping his knowledge and skills sharp to best serve his community.

Payden is a self-proclaimed coffee snob; when he is not drinking coffee, you can find him hiking, skiing, rock climbing and trail running.

Natalia Russell

“I empower people to live better by making them feel heard. Patients who feel understood are encouraged to better themselves and stay motivated, and that will make them feel empowered.”

Natalia Russell, PTA, is a physical therapist assistant based in Hamden. She worked as a physical therapy aide for four years before she obtained her license. Natalia has a particular interest in working with older populations, knowing helping people with the smallest of things can make a significant difference in their day-to-day lives and ability to move and complete tasks.

Having seen the positive effect physical therapy can have on people, including her loved ones, Natalia discovered she also wanted to be a part of that change. She continues to learn more about the field in order to not only be the best PTA she can be, but to provide her clients with the highest quality of care.

Michael Semancik

"I empower people to live better by giving them the tools and motivation to do so. I believe that teaching someone and expanding their knowledge is the best way to help them achieve their goals and live a better life."

When he is off the clock, Michael enjoys going to the beach, taking his dog for a swim, watching football and playing golf.

Marc Feda

"I have a soft spot for seeing people heal, recover and improve. I have a servant's heart for people."

When he is not with his patients, Marc is an avid golfer and hockey player who enjoys training via CrossFit, taking hikes and participating in adventure races.

Maddy Mazoue

“I really believe in the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle and want to help people achieve their goals — whatever they may be.”

Maddy enjoys working with people to find ways to stay active that they are passionate about, regardless of the activity. She strives to build relationships with the people she helps.

Outside of work, Maddy maintains a healthy lifestyle to ensure she has the energy to tackle each day with enthusiasm. She loves cooking shows, playing volleyball, and watching college football.

Larry Piretra

“I enjoy challenging my body physically and mentally, seeing what we are truly capable of when we set our mind to something. There's no better feeling than accomplishing goals you never thought were possible.”

In his free time, you can either find him trying a new local restaurant or playing golf.

Kiera Klaum

"I am firm believer that mobility is medicine and being active can do a world of good."

While at the University of Hartford, Kiera worked with the Division I volleyball team, exploring how improving lower extremity power increases vertical jump height.

In her off time, you can find Kiera running, on a hiking trail or spending time with her friends and family. She’s also an avid fan of the New York Islanders — but please don’t let Kevin know.

Kevin Whelan

Kevin Cota

"I empower people to live better by encouraging wellness in all aspects of their lives."

Jonathon Mendola

"It is hard to find the energy to push through and achieve your goals. I am here to help you navigate that experience."

Jessica Klecki

“Every client should feel that their healthcare provider really takes the time to listen to them and treats them as an individual, not as a diagnosis or body part. That all starts with caring.”

Gloria Christiano

“I believe each patient requires unique individualized treatment plans centered around meaningful goals to help restore and optimize function.”

When not in the clinic, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, watching sports, and traveling to National Parks.

Elisa LaBelle

“Movement is essential to life. I am passionate about empowering people to move mindfully, efficiently, and fearlessly.”

Elisa LaBelle, PT, MSPT, is a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy practicing in New York City, with a specialty in performing arts medicine. She holds an Advanced Certificate in Orthopedic Physical Therapy from New York University as well as Pilates Mat and Equipment Certifications.

With over 20 years of experience, Elisa has worked in top-ranked teaching hospitals including NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Harkness Center for Dance Injuries/NYU Langone Health, as well as private practices across Connecticut and New York.

Elisa is licensed to provide telehealth physical therapy in Florida.

Danielle Pasquale

“I am genuinely invested in each patient’s treatment plan and overall wellbeing to help optimize their full potential and achieve their goals.”

In her free time, Danielle enjoys staying active attending new exercise classes, doing hot yoga, and playing with her dog Callie.

Chad Gallant

"I like to inspire people by living a healthy lifestyle. I’m enjoying helping clients to become stronger and see them succeed.”

Carolyn Surgent

"I have a real commitment to life-long learning; I love what I do."

Britt Gunsser

"I empower people by getting to know what they truly value and hold them accountable to achieving their goals."

When she is not running through Central Park, Britt is exploring the city’s best pizza places and watching New York Giants games.

Brian Kuruc

"I have a passion for making people better, starting with educating them. I give them the tools they need to be effective in reaching their goals."

Publications:
Reliability of elbow extension, sensory response, and structural differentiation of Upper Limb Tension Test A in a healthy, asymptomatic population (2019).

Ashley Moriarty

“I empower people to live better by finding out what is important to them so I can help them achieve their goals.”

Outside of work, you can find Ashley sitting on a beach, skiing a black diamond, or spending time with her husband, infant son, and golden retriever.

Stash Rutkowski

Physical Therapist

Stash Rutkowski

Westport

"Caring is genuine. In our field, it builds and solidifies relationships that are needed in physical therapy."

Care From The Core

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Shane Foley

Physical Therapist

Shane Foley

Greenwich Site Lead

"I empower people to live better by building relationships, collaboratively establishing a plan to help people accomplish their goals and leading people to optimize their performance."

Care From The Core

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Robert Mahlman

Physical Therapist

Robert Mahlman

Westport

"Listening and understanding where patients come from lets me create a unique program that they will enjoy."

Teachers and Scholars

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Renee Lascarides

Physical Therapist

Renee Lascarides

Hamden

“Educating clients is the most powerful tool we can provide to give them more confidence and control over their progress or rehabilitation.”

Teachers and Scholars

Have a question?

Michael Semancik

Physical Therapist

Michael Semancik

Greenwich

"I empower people to live better by giving them the tools and motivation to do so. I believe that teaching someone and expanding their knowledge is the best way to help them achieve their goals and live a better life."

Teachers And Scholars

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Michael Beecher

Clinical Operations Lead

Michael Beecher

Greenwich

"I empower people to live better by practicing what I preach."

Care From The Core

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Marc Feda

Physical Therapist

Marc Feda

Hamden Site Lead

"I have a soft spot for seeing people heal, recover and improve. I have a servant's heart for people."

Care From The Core

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Maddy Mazoue

Physical Therapist

Maddy Mazoue

Greenwich

“I really believe in the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle and want to help people achieve their goals — whatever they may be.”

We Huddle

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Larry Piretra

Physical Therapist

Larry Piretra

Naples

“I enjoy challenging my body physically and mentally, seeing what we are truly capable of when we set our mind to something. There's no better feeling than accomplishing goals you never thought were possible.”

We Take Ownership

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Kiera Klaum

Physical Therapist

Kiera Klaum

Darien

"I am firm believer that mobility is medicine and being active can do a world of good."

Sweat The Small Stuff

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Kevin Whelan

Physical Therapist

Kevin Whelan

Westport

Care From The Core

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Kevin Cota

Physical Therapist

Kevin Cota

Darien Site Lead