Outpatient Rehabilitation Therapists
Please see below for information on our amazing therapists across multiple disciplines. Click the blue buttons below to jump to that particular section.
Hand & Upper Extremity Specialist
Catherine Lowry, OTR, CHT
Catherine is a specialized fabricator of custom orthosis and a provider of upper extremity rehabilitation including conservative management and post-surgical care. With a diverse clinical background, she is experienced in the treatment of orthopedic trauma, overuse injury, and degenerative/systemic disease processes. Her goal is to provide meaningful outcomes to her patients through compassionate one on one treatment, thorough patient education, and robust home programs.
Education & Certifications
- Certified Hand Therapist. Hand Therapy Certification Commission (HTCC), 2000.
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 1995.
Physical Therapists
Annabel Bavage, PT, DPT
Annabel is a pelvic floor specialist who treats men, women, and trans people. Her practice focuses on pain and dysfunction in the pelvic floor as well as muscular and joint conditions of the spine, pelvis, and lower extremity. Annabel’s therapeutic approach emphasizes exercise, manual therapy, and lifestyle modification for resolution of pain and patients’ return to the activities they love.
She has a special interest in biking and is experienced in providing bike fit recommendations for both mountain bikers and road cyclists. In her free time, Annabel enjoys spending time in the mountains both on foot and on bike.
Education & Certifications
- Certified Lymphedema Therapist. Klose Training and Consulting Group, 2022.
- APTA Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 3 Course, 2019.
- APTA Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 2 Course, 2017.
- APTA Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 1 Course, 2016.
- Doctor of Physical Therapy. University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 2017.
- Bachelor of Arts, St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN, 2009.
Juli R. Booton, PT, Certified Balance and Mobility Specialist,
Certified Tai Chi for Health Instructor
Juli began her work as a Physical Therapist in 1987. She specializes in the treatment of orthopedic and sports injuries, including acute knee injuries, shoulder rotator cuff problems, and cervical, thoracic and lumbar dysfunction. Additionally, Juli conducts wellness classes for the neurologically involved client, arthritically challenged, and for fall risk reduction.
Juli is a certified Balance and Mobility Specialist and Tai Chi instructor. Outside of work, Juli enjoys mountain biking, skiing, playing with family and bible study.
Education & Certifications
- Orthopedic Excellence Certificate Program: The Spine. MedBridge, 2018.
- Certification in Functional Dry Needling. KinetaCore, 2015.
- Certified Tai Chi for Health Instructor. Consortium for Older Adult Wellness, 2013.
- FallProof™ Certified Balance and Mobility Specialist. Center for Successful Aging, since 2007.
- Master of Science in Kinesiology. University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 1993.
- Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. University of Texas Medical Branch, School of Allied Health Sciences, Galveston, TX, 1986.
Steven DeGennaro, PT, MPT
Steve is a physical therapist with over 20 years of experience working
with both adult and pediatric patients. He has extensive training in Osteopathic
manual therapy techniques including Craniosacral Therapy, Muscle Energy
Technique, Myofascial Release, Strain-Counterstrain, and Visceral Manipulation.
Steve enjoys working with patients with a variety of neurologic and orthopedic diagnoses including neck and back pain, headaches, trauma, concussions, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Using a holistic approach to treatment, Steve helps patients including those who are suffering from chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and related diagnoses. Outside of work, Steve enjoys hiking, yoga and meditation, and playing guitar.
Education
- Master of Physical Therapy, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT, 2003.
- Bachelor of Science in Health Science, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT, 2001.
Cathy Fraser, PT
Cathy graduated from the University of Sydney (Australia) in 1988 with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Physiotherapy. In 1998, she received a Graduate Diploma in Manipulative Therapy from the University of Sydney. She has worked in numerous settings including acute care, rehab, orthopedics, and outpatient therapy. Cathy joined BCH in 1999. She worked for 16 years in the sports medicine department and in 2015 she joined the Outpatient Rehabilitation team.
For the past 20 years, her focus has been outpatient orthopedics. Cathy's skills include trigger point dry needling, manual therapy and functional exercise. She has extensive experience in evaluating and treating all spinal conditions, whiplash, shoulder injuries, hip injuries and knee injuries. She has wide experience with degenerative orthopedic conditions as well as acute orthopedic diagnoses. Cathy has rehabilitated a wide variety of post-operative conditions including hip, knee and shoulder replacement, ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff repairs, labral repairs of the hip and shoulder, and spinal fusions. She has worked with all age groups from teens to older adults.
Over the years, Cathy has been a lifelong learner, completing many continuing education courses. Her philosophy when treating patients is to treat everybody with respect and actively engage them in the rehabilitation process. Her goal, when possible, is to return patients to the activities that they love doing. When not at work, Cathy enjoys taking care of her 2 kids, dog, cat, 2 horses, and husband.
Education & Certifications
- Certification in Functional Dry Needling. KinetaCore, 2009.
- Graduate Diploma in Manipulative Therapy. University of Sydney, Australia, 1998.
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Physiotherapy. University of Sydney, Australia, 1988.
Jackie Green, PT, DPT
Jackie attended PT school at Marquette University and is originally from the Chicago area. She has clinical experience treating a variety of orthopedic and neurologic disorders but is particularly interested in treating patients with vestibular dysfunction, cervical pain, and Parkinson’s Disease. She has a passion for health and wellness and her primary goal of treatment is to help patients return to what they love to do.
In her free time, she loves to travel, hike, and spend time outside, so she is very excited to be in Colorado.
Education & Certifications
- Certification in Functional Dry Needling, Level 1. Evidence in Motion, 2022.
- Doctor of Physical Therapy. Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, 2021.
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology. Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, 2019.
Professional Associations
- American Physical Therapy Association
Cathy Holland, PT, MPT (Therapy Manager)
Cathy Holland is a manager of BCH's Outpatient Rehabilitation team. Cathy began her Physical Therapy career in 1994 at National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) in Washington, D.C. where she worked with both inpatients and outpatients with neurologic and orthopedic involvement. She focused on the rehabilitation of clients with spinal cord injuries, strokes, lower extremity amputations, multiple trauma injuries, arthritis, and other complex musculoskeletal problems.
At Boulder Community Health since 1998, Cathy is honored to work with an interdisciplinary team with tremendous depth to offer high quality, comprehensive, evidence-based rehabilitation and wellness services to the community. A positive patient experience and optimal functional outcomes are a daily goal.
Outside of work, Cathy enjoys the great outdoors and time with her husband and 3 sons.
Education
- Master of Physical Therapy. University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 1994.
- Bachelor of Arts in Biology. University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 1992.
Professional Associations
- American Physical Therapy Association
Nicole Hugus, PT, DPT, CSRS
Nicole moved to Colorado in 2011 and began working for Boulder Community Health in the acute and inpatient rehabilitation settings. In 2013, she joined the outpatient rehabilitation team. In 2016, Nicole became a preeminent stroke clinician through completion of a rigorous set of courses and an examination culminating in the nationally recognized credentials of CSRS (Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist). Also in 2016, she became dry needling certified. During her physical therapy coursework at the University of Central Florida, she focused on fall prevention for seniors, specifically those who had suffered a stroke. Interests include stroke rehabilitation, vestibular dysfunction, neurotrauma and shoulder dysfunction.
Nicole is skilled at incorporating balance, coordination, agility, and core strengthening into treatment sessions when appropriate. She believes in a proactive approach wherein education is vital to rehabilitative success and the overall health and safety of a patient.
In her spare time, Nicole loves to explore the great outdoors.
Education & Certifications
- Certification in Functional Dry Needling. KinetaCore, 2017.
- Doctor of Physical Therapy. University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 2011.
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 2002.
Professional Associations
- American Physical Therapy Association
Tammy Johnson, PT
Tammy has over 20 years of experience as a Physical Therapist working with
both adult and pediatric patients. Her focus is adult orthopedic diagnoses
including hip, knee, ankle, shoulder, low back, neck and more. Tammy has
experience with numerous types of manual therapy including trigger point
dry needling, myofascial decompression (cupping), joint mobilizations,
and craniosacral therapy.
She believes that patient education of anatomy and condition is essential to the rehabilitation process. Her goal is to empower each patient by utilizing education, exercise, manual therapy, and plenty of encouragement to improve activity level and function.
Outside the clinic, Tammy enjoys yoga, hiking, camping, reading, and cooking.
Education & Certifications
- Craniosacral I and II Certification. Upledger Institute, 2021.
- Certification in Dry Needling I and II. American Academy of Manipulative Therapy, 2018.
- Aquatic Clinical Competency Certification. APTA, 2017.
- Registered Yoga teacher, Yoga Alliance, 2017.
- Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 1994.
Jennifer Lieb, PT, CLT
Jennifer has worked as a Physical Therapist since 1996. Her specialties include breast cancer rehabilitation, lymphedema, Pilates, and orthopedics. Advanced certifications include Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Lymphology Association of North America, and Certified Pilates Instructor. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, walking her dogs, and time outdoors.
Education & Certifications
- Yoga Alliance Certification, 200-hour, 2023.
- Certification in Functional Dry Needling. KinetaCore, 2019.
- Certified Lymphedema Therapist. Klose Training and Consulting Group, 2014.
- Certified Practitioner of Pilates Rehabilitation. Polestar Pilates, 2004.
- Master of Science in Physical Therapy. University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO, 1996.
- Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 1993.
Maureen Pelsmaeker, PT
Maureen has 35+ years of experience as a Physical Therapist. She has a background in kinesiology and published research in muscle physiology. She has worked in a variety of settings including acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, pediatrics and outpatient rehabilitation. She has expertise in spinal disorders and general orthopedics. She has rehabilitated a wide variety of post-surgical orthopedic conditions (e.g., joint replacements and rotator cuff repairs), along with neurological conditions.
Maureen has been certified in trigger point dry needling since 2009. She completed her certification in vestibular rehabilitation in 2015 and works with patients with balance, concussion and vestibular disorders. Maureen has always been passionate about learning and continues to update her skills and stay current on research in the field. She believes in a holistic approach to patient care and views therapy as a team approach with each patient.
Outside of work she enjoys her family and has a passion for travel, skiing, and the outdoors.
Education & Certifications
- Certification in Functional Dry Needling. KinetaCore, 2009.
- Master of Science in Physical Therapy. Hahnemann University, Philadelphia, PA, 1987.
- Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 1982.
Steven Pochron, PT, DPT
Steven earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Indiana State University and is originally from the suburbs of Chicago. He has clinical experience treating a variety of orthopedic conditions and is particularly interested in treating patients with oncologic related conditions, lower extremity conditions, cervical pain, and Parkinson’s Disease. Steven is passionate about total body health and wellness.
He strives to treat the patient as a whole so they can continue living their lives the way they want to. In his free time, Steven loves to hike with his dog, Koda, explore the food scene of Denver and visit the many outdoor attractions that Colorado has to offer.
Mary Richardson, PT, MSPT, Certified Balance and Mobility Specialist
Mary has worked as a Physical Therapist since 1996. She joined BCH's outpatient rehabilitation team in 2002. In 2005, she completed a 3-month intensive training program to become a certified FallProof™ instructor. Mary’s specialty areas include orthopedics (both spine and extremities), women’s health, neurotrauma, Parkinson's Disease, balance and fall risk reduction, headaches, craniosacral therapy and the treatment of Spanish speaking clients. In addition to providing individual therapy services, she teaches PWR!Moves™, an exercise class specifically designed for people with Parkinson's.
Outside of work, Mary enjoys mountain biking, telemark skiing, camping, and family time.
Education & Certifications
- Certification in Functional Dry Needling. KinetaCore, 2017.
- FallProof™ Certified Balance and Mobility Specialist. Center for Successful Aging, since 2005.
- Master of Science in Physical Therapy. University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO, 1996.
- Bachelor of Science in Geology. Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 1985.
Suzanne Segalowitz, PT, MSPT, CSRS, CLT
Suzanne has worked as a Physical Therapist since 2010. She joined BCH's outpatient rehabilitation team in 2013. She specializes in treating patients with neurologic involvement. In 2022, she became a Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist. Suzanne has advanced training in treating patients with lymphedema and is a certified lymphedema therapist.
As the BCH Outpatient Rehabilitation wheelchair seating and mobility specialist, Suzanne offers a seating and mobility clinic during which she works closely with clients and vendors to optimize seating and functional mobility.
Outside of work, Suzanne enjoys hiking, cycling, running, and climbing.
Education & Certifications
- Certified Lymphedema Therapist. Klose Training and Consulting Group, 2022.
- Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist. Neurorecovery UnlimitedTM, 2022.
- Certification in Functional Dry Needling. KinetaCore, 2015.
- Neuro-IFRAH Certification in Treatment and Management of Adults with Hemiplegia from a Stroke or Brain Injury. Neuro-IFRAH Organization, 2012.
- Master of Science in Physical Therapy. University of Connecticut, Mansfield, CT, 2009.
- Bachelor of Science. University of Connecticut, Mansfield, CT, 2008.
Brandy Whitney, PT, DPT, CLT, CMT
Brandy’s specialty areas include oncology rehabilitation (post breast reconstruction, lumpectomy, radiation, and chemotherapy), vestibular dysfunction, orthopedic injuries and soft tissue techniques. Brandy is an active participant in BCH’s Breast Cancer Team Conferences and provides educational outreach through community lectures. Advanced certifications include Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Oncologic Physical Therapy, Certified Lymphedema Therapist and Trigger Point Dry Needling Level 2.
Outside of work, Brandy enjoys telemark skiing, cycling, running, and cooking.
Education & Certifications
- Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Oncologic Physical Therapy. American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, 2019.
- Doctor of Physical Therapy. University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, 2014.
- Certification in Functional Dry Needling. KinetaCore, 2012.
- Certified Lymphedema Therapist (Upper Extremity). Klose Training and Consulting Group, 2012.
- Master of Science in Physical Therapy. University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, 2002.
- Certification in Massage Therapy. Massage Therapy Institute of Colorado, Denver, CO, 1992.
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Sport Science. Colorado State University, 1991.
Professional Associations
- Board of Directors for PIMA's Physical Therapy Assistant Program, Westminster, CO.
Joanna Zemmelman, PT, CLT
Joanna has been working as a Physical Therapist since 1994 and joined BCH's outpatient rehabilitation team in 2000. She worked in a variety of settings prior to joining BCH, including inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient rehabilitation and private practice. Joanna became a certified Lymphedema Therapist through the Klose Training and Consulting Group in 2015 and a PORi-Certified (Physiological Oncology Rehabilitation Institute) Head and Neck Cancer Rehabilitation Therapist in 2018.
She is a founding member of BCH’s interdisciplinary Head and Neck Cancer team. Additional areas of focus include general oncology, lymphedema management and orthopedics. Joanna received training from the renowned Mariano Rocabado for treatment of TMJ dysfunctions and headache management.
Outside of work, she enjoys jogging, hot yoga, music festivals, and time with her family.
Education & Certifications
- Certified Head and Neck Cancer Rehabilitation Therapist. PORi, 2018.
- Certified Lymphedema Therapist. Klose Training and Consulting Group, 2015.
- Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. West Virginia University, 1994.
Publications
- Miller, NH, Miller, DJ, Goldberg (Zemmelman), JL, Physical Therapist Examination, Evaluation and Intervention for a Patient with West Nile Virus Paralysis, Journal of American Physical Therapy Association, 2006, Vol 86, No. 6, pp. 843-856.
Occupational Therapists
Ann Brexa, OTR
Ann has 40+ years of experience as an occupational therapist working in outpatient rehabilitation. For 18 years, she specialized as a Hand Therapist and continues to enjoy treating the hand and upper extremity. Ann has extensive experience working with the neurologic populations of Traumatic Brain Injury, stroke and post-concussion.
She performs Safe Driver Assessments for those interested in returning to driving after injury. Ann is also experienced in ergonomic assessments and return to work evaluations. She has a broad clinical background providing Occupational Therapy services for a variety of diagnoses.
Ann is an avid skier and cyclist who has raised 3 active children and loves travel within and outside of the USA.
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 1979.
Karen Stanisich, OTR, CLT
Karen has worked as an Occupational Therapist since 1985 and joined BCH's outpatient rehabilitation team in 1999. Karen became a certified Lymphedema Therapist through the Klose Training and Consulting Group in 2008. At the same time, Karen was certified in Jobst and Juzo measuring for garments. These certifications allow Karen to provide care to clients with lymphedema or peripheral edema. Other specialty areas include neurotrauma, stroke, cancer, and vision therapy.
Outside of work, Karen enjoys photography, hiking, whitewater rafting, scrapbooking, and travel.
Education & Certifications
- Certified Lymphedema Therapist. Klose Training and Consulting Group, 2008.
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA, 1985.
Nancy Hillmer, OTR, MOT
Nancy began her career as an Occupational Therapist in 1982 in inpatient rehab. She has worked in a wide variety of settings with most of the time spent in home health care. Since 2008, she has specialized in Parkinson's Disease treatment. She helped initiate the BCH Home Care Parkinson's specialty team and the BCH wide Parkinson's task force.
Five years ago, she partnered with Mary Richardson, PT, to create a Parkinson's exercise group at Boulder Community Health, PWR!Moves™. Nancy maintains a strong presence in the Parkinson's community at large and has contributed to projects on local, state, and national levels.
Her interests include hiking, rafting, traveling with friends and family, cooking, and most anything involving outreach to people with Parkinson's.
Education & Certifications
- PWR!Retreat Volunteer, Scottsdale, AZ. 2012-2016.
- National Parkinson’s Foundation’s® Allied Team Training for Parkinson’s 2013.
- Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery’s (PWR!) Exercise4BrainChange® 2011.
- Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT®) BIG™ Certification. LSVT® Global, 2008.
- Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation, 2005.
- Master of Occupational Therapy. Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX, 1979.
- Bachelor of Arts in Art. Carthage College, Kenosha, WI, 1977.
Speech Therapists
Michelle Becker, MS, CCC-SLP
Since 1991, Michelle has worked as a Speech-Language Pathologist with adults in the areas of speech, language, cognitive/communicative, and swallowing disorders. Her interest in the medical field began when she became a certified nursing assistant in high school and as an activity assistant in skilled nursing facilities during college. Michelle has experience working with the adult population in acute care, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation settings, home health care, and skilled nursing facilities.
She is certified as a VitalStim® provider for swallowing therapy and, in 2012, was certified in the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment LOUD® method for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. She has been a guest lecturer regarding the speech-pathology profession at Metropolitan State in Denver to students in the undergraduate program and has presented at Boulder Senior Law Day regarding aging and cognition. She describes patient and family education as the backbone of her therapy approach.
Education & Certifications
- Master of Science, Communication Sciences and Disorders. University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 1991.
- Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education/Communication Disorders. University of Wisconsin, River Falls, WI, 1989.
- Certification in VitalStim®: Neuromuscular Electric Stimulation (NMES). CIAO Seminars, 2006.
- Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT®) Loud Certification. LSVT® Global, 2012.
Professional Associations
- Member of American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) with Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC)
- Member of ASHA Special Interest Groups in Neurogenic Communication Disorders, Swallowing & Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia), and Gerontology
Karen Brady, MS, CCC-SLP
Karen has been with Boulder Community Health since 2012 and has over 10 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist. Her primary areas of focus are serving those who are recovering from brain injuries, strokes, and head and neck cancer, people with Parkinson’s Disease, and those with voice and swallowing impairments. She has experience working with adult populations in the acute and inpatient rehabilitation settings, as well as pediatric populations in both early intervention and clinic settings.
She is both VitalStim® and LSVT® certified, and is a PORi-Certified (Physiological Oncology Rehabilitation Institute) Head and Neck Cancer Rehabilitation Therapist with specific proficiency with manual trigger point and lymphatic drainage techniques. She is a founding member of BCH’s interdisciplinary Head and Neck Cancer team. She was introduced to the field through music and singing and has facilitated choirs for people living with aphasia. She believes in a compassionate, holistic approach with her patients, and prioritizes education for success.
Outside of work, she enjoys family, music, and active adventures.
Education & Certifications
- Certified Head and Neck Cancer Rehabilitation Therapist. PORi, 2018.
- Certification in VitalStim®: Neuromuscular Electric Stimulation (NMES). CIAO Seminars, 2013.
- Master of Science, Speech Pathology and Audiology. California State University, East Bay, Hayward CA, 2012.
- Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT®) Loud Certification. LSVT® Global, 2011.
- Bachelor of Arts, Radio and Television. San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA, 2003.
Professional Associations
- Member of American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) with Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC).
Bethany Firstbrook, MA, CCC-SLP
Bethany received her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Maryland in 2010. She traveled as a speech-language pathologist for 3 years across Maryland, Texas, and Colorado, and has worked in a variety of settings with patients of all ages. Bethany joined the BCH Outpatient Rehabilitation and Acute Care teams in 2018. Currently, her primary areas of focus are serving patients with head and neck cancer, brain injuries, and swallowing impairments. She is a certified VitalStim® Provider and a PORi-certified Head and Neck Cancer Therapist.
Education & Certifications
- Certified Head and Neck Cancer Rehabilitation Therapist. PORi, 2018.
- Certification in VitalStim®: Neuromuscular Electric Stimulation (NMES). CIAO Seminars, 2014.
- Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology. University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 2010.
- Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Towson University, Towson, MD, 2008.
Professional Associations
- Member of American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) with Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC)