PT, DPT, ATP
Board-Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist
I received my Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. My passion for neurologic physical therapy started during my undergraduate studies and was only enhanced by various clinical internships, including my final placement at the Ranchos Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center Pathokinesiology Service. I was also the recipient of the University of the Sciences William B. Inverso, Jr. Award for Excellence in Physical Therapy Research. I began my professional career in outpatient settings, including a brief stint at the Dan Aaron Parkinson's Rehabilitation Center at the University of Pennsylvania and a faculty posting at my alma mater. In 2015 I relocated to Richmond, VA to pursue clinical leadership opportunities in the inpatient/outpatient settings and ultimately serve as a Knowledge Broker within the Sheltering Arms Rehabilitation system. In 2018 I was the recipient of both the ANPT Early Career Professional Award and the ANPT Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group Volunteer Award, accepted at the APTA Combined Sections Meeting. In 2019 I transitioned to VCU Health and the affiliated Parkinson's & Movement Disorders Center to provide clinical care, lead exercise-based research, and initiate program development. I currently serve on the DDSIG Nominating Commitee and also the ABPTRFE Team for Site Reviews of Residency & Fellowship Training. I lectured professional students at VCU, delivered continuing education courses, mentored student physical therapists and VCU/Sheltering Arms Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency participants, and continue to engage regularly with the APTA and ANPT through the clinical mentorship program and other initiatives - such as the ANPT Fellowship Task Force.
I also assist various patient-centered organizations to promote the self-efficacy of patients and care partners. I worked for years with CurePSP through the Patient & Care Partner Advocacy Committee, which led to a brief tenure on the CurePSP Board of Directors. I served as a co-facilitator of the Parkinson's Disease Self-Efficacy Learning Forum (PDSELF) in Richmond, VA. I am a regular supporter of the Parkinson's Foundation, through the Allied Team Training for Parkinson's program, the Community Grant program, and other opportunities to promote wellness for families living with parkinsonism. In 2021, following a successful community grant award through the Parkinson's Foundation, our group founded LiftPD, a local 501c3 dedicated to the delivery of free, evidence-based exercise training to people affected by parkinsonism.
In Spring 2022, I took the leap my professors and peers have been suggesting for years and began my journey in Rocky Mountain University's Ph.D. in Health Sciences - Neurologic Rehabilitation Concentration Track. As of November 2024, I have completed my qualifying examinations and am prepared to present my prospectus on-site in February 2025. My dissertation will explore the effect of blood flow restriction training on motor and non-motor symptoms of persons with Parkinson's disease.
Never a dull moment, I followed this up by transitioning into a full-time core faculty position at Drexel University in March 2023. I lead neurologic rehabilitation coursework in addition to ongoing clinical duties, research, and advocacy. Additionally, I received my RESNA Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) certification in March 2024 and have also developed a Complex Rehabilitation Technology elective.
While not engaging in professional activities, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Erica, daughter, Quinn, and dog, Rosie. For anyone looking to make a major career shift AND pursue a PhD AND have a child - I salute you, too! It is not easy but it is always rewarding. Aside from family, reading, writing, and putting fitness to use are some of my top hobbies but I can be easily distractible and persuaded to try new things.
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