Find your physical therapist

Dr. Molly McCausland is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics. After a high school basketball injury required her to seek out physical therapy, she decided she wanted to pursue a career where she could help people and build relationships with patients.

Molly volunteers with START All Sports Adaptive Camp and Humanics in Action.

When she’s not in the clinic, Molly likes to spend time with her friends, especially if it’s outdoors. She also loves New England sports teams, so you can usually find her watching whichever game is on that day!

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Dr. Jake Broccolo is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in orthopedics, post-surgical care, and sports-related injuries. He also serves as the Clinic Director for our North Providence and Woonsocket clinics. A native Rhode Islander, he was introduced to the field of physical therapy when he injured his arm playing baseball. From athlete to patient then physical therapist, Jake offers expertise in baseball and football injuries. In addition, he enjoys working with the elderly, on mobility, balance, and minimizing the risk of falls.

In his spare time, Jake stays active by going to the gym, riding his bike, and playing golf. A baseball player and RedSox fan, he was at the famous ‘RedSox vs Yankees Brawl’ game. Ask him who his favorite family member is and he'll tell you it's his 7-year-old black lab, Zoe.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Post-surgical

Sports-related injuries

Balance and fall prevention

Aquatics Director, Dr. Amanda Fitzgerald is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, balance & falls, and aquatics. Her passion for helping patients return to the activities they love inspired her to pursue a career in physical therapy.

In her free time, she enjoys staying active with her family, traveling, and reading. A fun fact about Amanda is that she has run a full or half marathon in every state!

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Balance & Falls

Aquatics

Natalie Briggs, PT, DPT, PSP is a physical therapist at Highbar Physical Therapy’s Middletown clinic. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, both from Seton Hall University. Natalie is also certified as a Primary Spine Practitioner through the University of Pittsburgh and is a member of the North American Spine Society (NASS).

Specializing in orthopedics and spine care, Natalie is passionate about helping her patients reach their goals. She enjoys learning each patient’s story, uncovering their motivation, and creating a personalized plan to guide them back to optimal health.

Outside of work, Natalie enjoys swimming, running, competing in triathlons, and spending time with her two boys and two dogs.

Specialties: 

Orthopedics

Spine

Aquatics

Dr. Erica Manchester is a Clinic Director, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, and Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist who specializes in orthopedics, sports-related injuries, soccer, and female athletes. She loves to empower her patients to participate in their own recovery and working as a team to help her patients achieve their goals. While in school, she shadowed in clinics and rehabilitation facilities in Italy and volunteered in weekly balance group exercise classes.

In her free time, Erica loves to bake, play the flute, go to vineyards, and try new restaurants. As a big fan of the US Women’s National Soccer Team and former team member of the Salve Regina University Women’s Soccer Team, she keeps active by running and playing co-ed soccer. She also coaches female athletes in the Narragansett Youth Soccer Association.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Sports Injuries

Soccer

Female Athletes

Dr. Erin Gardiner is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist who specializes in orthopedics, sports-related injuries, headaches, balance & falls, and skiing. She loves working as a physical therapist because each day is different and presents a new opportunity to make a big impact on so many patients’ lives.

She can be found either by water or in the snow as she was a ski and snowboard instructor for over 10 years and enjoys boating with her family. Erin loves to spend time with her dog Sperry, and her husband, Brad.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Sports Injuries

Headaches

Balance & Falls

Skiing

Dr. Molly Douglass is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, sports-related injuries, concussion management, soccer, baseball, softball, basketball, CrossFit, weightlifting. She also specializes in injuries and conditions related to the knee, hip, shoulder, and ankle. Molly is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist who has earned additional certifications in dry needling and Emergency Medical Responder for Athletes. She’s passionate about connecting with her patients and helping them recover from injuries so they can achieve their goals and return to the activities they love.

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In her free time, Molly enjoys hiking, weightlifting, skiing, snowboarding, and traveling. You can always find her cheering on the Philadelphia Phillies and the Buffalo Bills.

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Dr. Dan Folrendo is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics. He loves being a Physical Therapist because he gets to help people feel and move better and enable them to do everything they love!

He received his BA in Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies from Assumption College. He received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

While he's not in the clinic, he loves to stay active by hiking, weightlifting, watching movies, and playing with his German Shepard, Maya.

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Lauren Neville is a Physical Therapist Assistant who specializes in orthopedics, spine, sports-related injuries, headaches, vestibular, balance & falls, dance, and concussions. She loves watching the progress and success of her patients from their initial evaluation to their last appointment. Her experience growing up as an athlete resulted in her being a patient many times, so she has a deep understanding of how injuries can impact the life of an athlete.

In her free time, Lauren enjoys running local road races, watching the Red Sox and Patriots, traveling, and attending concerts.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Spine

Sports Injuries

Headaches

Vestibular

Balance & Falls

Dance

Concussions

Jason Gonsalves is a dedicated Physical Therapist Assistant who thrives on helping people feel better. His own experience with physical therapy for his Achilles tendons in seventh grade has given him a unique perspective as a patient, allowing him to connect with those he helps on a personal level. Jason values being a supportive presence for his patients, fostering friendships while ensuring they feel heard and understood. With a deep interest in the human body and its functions, Jason is passionate about learning and applying this knowledge in his practice.

Outside of work, Jason enjoys spending time with his three nephews and hanging out with friends. He recently took up golf and loves the game, even if he’s still honing his skills. A devoted fan of all Boston sports teams, especially the Celtics, he could talk about sports for hours!

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Dr. Jennifer Alves is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in pelvic health for women. She has been a Registered Massage therapist for over 25 years. She previously worked as a caseworker with teens at risk and has experience working with women with PTSD, EDS, and sexual trauma. She developed a curriculum for self esteem that she taught in a woman's prison and believes in a wholistic approach when treating her patients.

Dr. Alves loves all kinds of music and artistic endeavors. Don't be surprised if you find her dancing in her office.

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Specialties:

• Pelvic Health for Women
• Postpartum
• Low Back Pain
• Dysmenorrhea
• Dyspareunia
• Stress and Urge Incontinence
• Fecal Incontinence
• Prolapse
• Vaginismus
• Urinary Retention
• Urinary Frequency

Lynn Johnson is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist who specializes in orthopedics, sports-related injuries, running injuries and conditions, and injuries of the knee, hip, ankle, and foot. She’s passionate about helping her patients achieve their goals and getting athletes back to playing their sport. Lynn values the relationships she’s built with patients over the 20+ years she’s been working as a physical therapist.

A seasoned runner, Lynn has been inducted into the Holy Cross Hall of Fame for her athletic and academic accomplishments. She’s run over 20 marathons including the Boston Marathon multiple times. When she’s not running with the Wampanoag Running Club or training for her next marathon, she enjoys hiking, skiing, and spending time outdoors. She resides in North Attleboro, MA with her husband Steve, daughter Sarah, and a black lab named Nauset.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Sports Injuries

Running

Knee

Hip

Ankle & Foot

Meet Anjelia Altebrando, a dedicated physical therapist at Highbar specializing in orthopedics and spine care. She holds a Bachelors of Science and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Springfield College, earned in 2022 and 2024 respectively. Anjelia is certified in Trigger Point Dry Needling through Highbar since 2023 and is affiliated with RIAPTA. Passionate about helping patients reclaim their active lifestyles, she finds fulfillment in facilitating their return to favorite activities. Anjelia has shared her expertise through speaking engagements, including a panel on diversity, equity, and inclusion in education at the 2022 APTA Fall conference. Beyond her professional achievements, she enjoys coaching lacrosse, supporting the NY Yankees and Giants, watching Friends, and exploring new restaurants.

Meet Physical Therapist Grace Sheehan, a dynamic physical therapist with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Bridgewater State University  and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Tufts University . Passionate about patient education, she emphasizes the transformative power of exercise in her practice.

Specializing in vestibular and concussion rehabilitation, Grace is dedicated to restoring balance and improving her patients' quality of life. Her love for the outdoors, cultivated since childhood, inspires both her personal and professional life. Whether at the beach, hiking, skiing, or camping, Grace's holistic approach to well-being reflects her commitment to making a positive impact on others' lives through her work as a physical therapist.

Julianne Harp is a dedicated Physical Therapist Assistant at Highbar Physical Therapy's Richmond clinic. She holds an Associate Degree from the New England Institute of Technology. Julianne's specialties include orthopedics, headaches, sports injuries, pregnancy/OB, vestibular, pelvic health, spine, pediatrics, dance, occupational health, aquatics, and TMJ. In August 2023, she completed the Level 1 Pelvic Health certification from the Herman and Wallace Institute.

Julianne's passion for physical therapy began in 2008 when she was a patient herself. This experience ignited her desire to help others, which continues to be her driving force. She loves being a Physical Therapist Assistant because it allows her to provide patients with the tools, education, and care they need for lifelong health and wellness. Her dedication to individualized treatment and empathy for her patients is evident in her daily practice.

Outside of work, Julianne enjoys spending time with her three children and engaging in various outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, lifting, camping, skiing, and cherishing the simple joys of life. She grew up in Attleboro, MA, and continues to value the importance of family and staying active.

Dr. Tommy Nguyen is a dedicated Doctor of Physical Therapy at the Woonsocket clinic, specializing in orthopedics, spine care, and sports injuries. He earned his Bachelor's in Health Science from Franklin Pierce University in 2020 and his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from MCPHS in 2023. Dr. Nguyen is passionate about improving lives through movement, strength training, and patient education, finding fulfillment in helping patients make a positive difference in their lives.

Outside of work, Dr. Nguyen enjoys saltwater and freshwater fishing and is an amateur wildlife and sports photographer. A true New Englander, he loves cheering for the Celtics and Patriots. Dr. Nguyen also speaks semi-fluent Vietnamese, particularly the Saigon dialect.

Specialties:

Orthopedics

Dr. Jaclyn DeCristoforo is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, spine, sports-related injuries, neurological diagnoses, balance & falls, basketball-related injuries, and the foot and ankle. She is passionate about being a physical therapist because she can see patients progress throughout their rehab program and reach their goals right before her eyes. She also loves that she can stay active throughout the day and use problem solving and creativity to help create a treatment plan for her patients.

In her free time, Jaclyn likes to stay active by hiking, playing basketball, running, skiing, golfing, or simply spending time outside. She watches all Boston sports but considers the Celtics to be her favorite team.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

SpineSports Injuries

Neuro

Balance & Falls

Basketball Injuries

Foot/Ankle

Dr. Lisa DeCoste is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Orthopedic Clinical Specialist who serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Highbar. She specializes in women’s health, dry needling, orthopedics, spinal rehabilitation, manual therapy, and TMJ.

Lisa traveled to Croatia with the USA Women’s Sailing team as the team's physical therapist in 2004. She has published in the New England Senior Tennis Foundation magazine. She has received the Humanics Award for leadership from Springfield College and was named one of Providence Business News’ 40 Under Forty Award winners in 2016.

As a member of the American Physical Therapy Association, Lisa has served the Rhode Island chapter as the secretary and currently serves on the Nominating Committee. Her knowledge and experience bring a wealth of information as a clinical instructor for students.

When she’s not working, she loves to spend her free time on her boat with her daughter, traveling all over the Narragansett Bay.

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Specialties:

Women's Health

Dry Needling

Orthopedics

Spinal Rehabilitation

Manual Therapy

TMJ

Dr. Dylan Forrester is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics and sports-related injuries. His passion is making meaningful improvements in the lives of his patients through education, hands-on adjustments, and exercise. He loves being a part of a patient’s journey to get back to what they enjoy doing and watching the progress they make along the way.

In his free time, Dylan enjoys being outside, whether that be hiking or going to the beach. As an avid New England sports fan, you can typically find him cheering on his favorite teams, the Celtics and Patriots. He is kept busy at home with his dog named Honey and two tuxedo cats named Sylvester and Brooke.

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Specialties:‍

Orthopedics

Sports Injuries

Dr. Kara Chace is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, sports-related injuries, women’s health, concussions, dry needling, and balance & falls. She also serves as a Regional Director for Highbar. Kara loves meeting new people and helping them to reach their goals, whether that be to get back to work or enjoy life pain-free. Throughout her career, she has gained certifications in functional dry needling and hippotherapy, which is the use of horseback riding as a therapeutic or rehabilitative treatment, especially as a means of improving coordination, balance, and strength.

She has previously volunteered at Greenlock Therapeutic Riding and is actively involved in community programs that support our youth including K-Rob and the RI Special Olympics.  Dr. Chace also volunteers as a project advisor at Barrington High School and North Smithfield High School.

When she’s not in the clinic, Kara likes to spend time with her family and go to sporting and concert events. She keeps active by hiking, skiing, swimming, playing soccer, and biking.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Sports-Related Injuries

Women’s Health

Balance & Falls

Dr. Ryan McKeon is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, spine, sports-related injuries, balance & falls, baseball, and basketball. His passion is to empower people to take control of their rehabilitation process and help them achieve their goals. While also working as a Strength & Conditioning Coach for a baseball team in Massachusetts, Ryan believes in the importance of motivating people to improve their health and wellness.

In his free time, Ryan enjoys walking, golfing, reading, cooking, and – of course – eating! He’s an avid New England sports fan and always makes the time to cheer on the Providence College Friars Basketball team!

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Spine

Sports Injuries

Balance & Falls

Baseball

Basketball

Clinic Director Dr. Leanne Monteiro PT, DPT, OCS, CMTPT is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics and women’s health. She became a physical therapist because she wanted to help people return to what they love to do, whether that be competitive sports, recreational activities, or getting back to work.

Leanne is fluent in Portuguese and has clinical expertise in orthopedics, post-surgical and women's health, including incontinence and pelvic pain.

In her free time, you can catch Leanne cooking, going for walks with her dog, and spending time with her family and friends.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Women's Health

Dr. Aiden Barrett is a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in orthopedics, sports and overhead throwing injuries, shoulder, spine, post-surgical rehabilitation, balance & falls. He loves helping patients to maximize their quality of life by optimizing their movement so they can return to the activities they love. This passion led him to start his career as a Certified Athletic Trainer, working with NCAA Division 1 Hockey, Baseball and Softball teams, keeping their athletes healthy on the field and participating at peak performance.

In his free time, Aiden loves to golf, snowboard and hike across the Northeast. You can also catch Aiden cheering on his favorite new England sports teams, especially the Patriots, Red Sox, and Celtics.

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Dr. John Goodyear is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. He specializes in orthopedics, sports-related injuries, and strength sports. His goal as a clinician is to empower his patients to realize that each day is an opportunity to make something better, no matter how small the improvement may seem. He enjoys working with patients from different cultural backgrounds which inspired him to pursue studies in Spanish.

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Formally a competitive Powerlifter and Coach of the Men’s Powerlifting Team at Northeastern University, John has held records in the bench press, deadlift, and total. In his professional career, John has contributed to the education and growth of his colleagues by helping design Skillz meetings, a monthly continuing education program. In his second year as a DPT, John pursued a specialty certification in Orthopedics by completing an orthopedic residency. He is now an Adjunct Faculty Member with Highbar and is passionate about helping others reach their fullest potential as clinicians.

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Originally from New Jersey, John enjoys living in New England which allows him to stay close to both mountains and the ocean. He likes to stay active by lifting weights, hiking, snowboarding, and surfing. He also enjoys creative hobbies such as woodworking. In his spare time, he volunteers with AmpSurf, an adaptive surfing organization.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Sports Injuries

Powerlifting

Strength Sports

Dr. Zebulon Shalginewicz is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, sports-related injuries, and balance & falls. He is passionate about using exercise as medicine to help his patients reach their goals, whether that be decreasing pain, increasing strength, or improving mobility.

In his free time, Zebulon enjoys walking his dog, exercising, and cheering on the Celtics and Tottenham Hotspur. He keeps active by running, playing soccer or ultimate frisbee, and going to the gym.

Specialties:

Orthopedics

Sports Injuries

Balance & Falls

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Rovena is a highly qualified physical therapist with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Luigj Gurakuqi University in Shkoder, Albania (2011) and a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Tirana-School of Medicine, Tirana, Albania (2014). With a deep passion for helping people live healthier lives, Rovena has specialized in treating musculoskeletal disorders and pelvic girdle and spine conditions. In 2014, Rovena completed a certification in Diseases of the Pelvic Girdle and Spine at the 58th National Congress of the Italian Sports Medicine Association, and in 2012, another in Classification and Mechanical Control of Musculoskeletal Disorders at Oppera Madonnina Del Grappa, Albania.

In addition to clinical work, Rovena has been active in sharing their knowledge and skills with the professional community, including presenting on Evaluative Measures for the Upper Limbs at the First Congress of PT in Tirana, Albania in 2012. Fluent in both Albanian and Italian, Rovena enjoys engaging with a diverse patient base and takes pride in positively impacting individuals and their broader communities.

Specialties:

Orthopedics

Headaches

Sports Injuries

Pregnancy / OB

Pelvic Health

Spine

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Meet A, a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Villanova University (2007), who excels in reconnecting patients with their bodies post-injury. Their passion lies in witnessing patients regain strength and flexibility, fostering a sense of accomplishment. A’s commitment to holistic healing is evident through their Herman & Wallace Pelvic Floor Level 1 certification (2022) and recognition as the 2022 Outstanding Student PTA Award winner by the APTA.

Beyond the clinic, A, a non-binary individual using they/them pronouns, contributes to team diversity. Their interests range from being a Providence Roller Derby member since 2011 to holding a PADI Rescue Diver certification. Erwin's dedication extends to community involvement, volunteering at The Steel Yard to learn welding and blacksmithing. A comedy enthusiast and avid Providence Bruins season ticket holder, Erwin's diverse experiences and skills enrich our healthcare team, ensuring a compassionate and well-rounded approach to patient care.

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Dr. Brian Elliano is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist who specializes in orthopedics. His experience with playing rugby for much of his life piqued his interest in injury prevention and rehabilitation. He loves watching his patients progress and ultimately return to their favorite activities.

In his free time, Brian enjoys weight lifting, biking, and watching his favorite sports teams: the Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins, and Celtics. He also loves exploring new restaurants with his friends and family and is always looking for recommendations!

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Specialities:

Orthopedics

Dr. Leah Katsos is a Clinic Director and Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics and women's pelvic health. She is passionate about empowering her patients to seek their fullest potential without limitation by physical, mental, or emotional ailments.

Leah directed a health and wellness program that focused on nutrition, exercise, and mental resiliency to high-risk teens in New York City from 2012-2014, utilizing a holistic approach to health. She went on to spend the next 5 years working in outpatient physical therapy as an Exercise Specialist and in administration from 2014-2019. These experiences led to her clinical expertise in orthopedics and pelvic health.

She likes to keep active by hiking, biking, and practicing yoga. You might find her pulling up to the clinic on her bicycle when the weather permits it. She also loves to play the piano!

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Women’s Pelvic Health

Jaime Goss is a physical therapist who specializes in orthopedics, spine, sports-related injuries, women’s health, headaches, vestibular, balance & falls, dance, neuro, pediatrics, hockey, figure skating, and gymnastics. She has treated patients spanning from 25 weeks gestation in the NICU all the way through age 106! Her passion is to watch her patients transform from being scared, frustrated, or angry to becoming able to participate fully in life again.

In her free time, you can usually find Jaime with her husband, son, and their two tuxedo cats Speedway and Petrie.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Spine

Sports Injuries

Women’s Health

Headaches

Vestibular

Balance & Falls

Dance

Neuro

Pediatrics

Hockey

Figure Skating

Gymnastics

Dr. Holly Garcia is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, women’s health, and pelvic health. She’s passionate about helping her patients address pain and limitations so they can actively live their lives.

Originally from California, Holly recently relocated to Rhode Island with her husband and son. She’s excited about this new adventure on the east coast and is always on the lookout for fun activities and restaurants in the area. She enjoys being outdoors, baking, doing puzzles, trying new restaurants, and traveling around the world.

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Specialities:

Orthopedics

Pelvic Health

Women’s Health

Dr. Bobby Dattilo is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, spine, sports-related injuries, headaches, and lacrosse. He enjoys supporting his patients throughout the rehabilitation process and takes pride in helping them reach their goals. Additionally, Bobby is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and serves as the Orthopedic Residency Director for the Highbar Orthopedic Residency.

As a Division I All-American in Lacrosse player for the Hobart Statesmen, Bobby went on to play four years of professional lacrosse with the Rochester Rattlers and Ohio Machine. He currently provides strength and conditioning training for local RI high schools and hosts individual and group face-off clinics for youth and high school lacrosse players.

In his spare time, he plays lacrosse and fantasy football. He also likes to try out new restaurants and bars and is always looking for a great recommendation!

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Spine

Sports Injuries

Headaches

Lacrosse

Dr. David Pavao is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in manual therapy, acute and chronic spine pain, headaches, sports injuries, TMJ, and vertigo. He is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and serves as Highbar's Chief Clinical Officer. In his role as Clinical Officer, Dave oversees the professional development of clinical staff, which includes the Highbar Student Curriculum, the Mentoring for Highbar onboarding program, and the Highbar Orthopedic Residency, as well as in-house continuing education to ensure our clinical team and patients have an exceptional experience at Highbar.

He is currently an adjunct professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at his alma mater, where he earned the Academic Excellence Award as a student and the Outstanding Alumni Award in 2013. Dave also serves on the Legislative Committee of the Rhode Island American Physical Therapy Association.

When Dave isn’t treating patients or ensuring that all clinical staff at Highbar are staying up to date on current clinical standards, he loves spending time with his wife Michelle and his 2 children, Aiden and Grace. He likes to stay active by playing soccer and tennis and coaching Aidan's soccer team.

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Specialties:

Manual Therapy

Spine

Headaches

Sports Injuries

TMJ

Vertigo

Michael Maciel is a skilled Physical Therapist Assistant at the Providence clinic, specializing in orthopedics, spine care, and sports injuries. As a member of the Rhode Island APTA, Michael is dedicated to helping patients achieve their goals by creating meaningful connections and supporting their return to the activities they love.

Fluent in both Spanish and Portuguese, Michael enjoys working with a diverse range of patients. Outside of the clinic, he enjoys spending time with his family, which includes his two children and bonus daughter. He is passionate about cooking, and in his spare time, he enjoys playing soccer, volleyball, and golf.

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Dr. Katherine Meschisen is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, spine, pelvic health, women’s health, volleyball, aquatics, and pregnancy & postpartum conditions. She is passionate about helping patients get back to the activities they love the most and empowering them to make improvements in their lives.

In her free time, Katherine loves reading, going to the beach, baking, cooking, and spending time with her husband and son. She enjoys staying active, especially if it’s through playing volleyball. If there’s a Patriots or Red Sox game on, you can usually find her cheering on her favorite teams!

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Spine

Pelvic Health

Women’s Health

Volleyball

Aquatics

Pregnancy & Postpartum

Hannah Martin is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) at Highbar Physical Therapy’s East Providence clinic. She earned her Associate degree in Physical Therapist Assistance from Central Penn College in 2019 and specializes in supporting pelvic health and pregnancy. Hannah is a member of the Rhode Island American Physical Therapy Association (RIAPTA).

Hannah is passionate about helping patients improve their daily lives. She finds learning about the body and its changes through injury and recovery fascinating, and she particularly enjoys supporting women in need of pelvic floor therapy and athletes eager to return to their sport. Outside of work, Hannah is a self-described foodie who loves cooking, trying new restaurants, and weightlifting. She has been happily married for four years and shares her home with her husband and their two cats. When not in the kitchen or the gym, Hannah can often be found running or reading.

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Specialties:

Pregnancy/OB

Pelvic Health

Amanda Moran ATC, LMT is a Certified Athletic Trainer who works with East Providence High School and our East Providence clinic. During high school, she fractured her ankle playing softball. This piqued her interest in the field of rehabilitation, which led her to a career in athletic training. She loves helping athletes go from a very low point to then regaining their strength and returning back to their sport.

Amanda also helped the East Providence High School receive the 1st team Safe School Sport award (May 2016-2019). Most recently, she completed the Highbar Lead the Way program.

In her free time, Amanda likes cooking new recipes, reading, and biking. For over 10 years she has participated in the MS 150 Bike Ride, raising money for multiple sclerosis.

Dr. Michael McGuire is an avid runner. He loves running 5K's and 10K's. He received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Scranton. Outside of normal orthopedic conditions. Dr. McGuire specializes in treating concussions and vestibular conditions. In his free time he loves cheering on the New England Patriots.

"I love forming trusting relationships with my patients and assist them in achieving their physical therapy goals!"

Meet Lauren Giampietro, a dedicated physical therapist who has successfully completed her Doctorate at Sacred Heart University. As an active member of the Rhode Island American Physical Therapy Association (RI APTA), Lauren is committed to ongoing professional growth and collaboration.

In her role, Lauren takes pride in helping individuals reclaim activities they love by tailoring treatment plans to their unique goals. Beyond her professional pursuits, she enjoys hiking and the outdoors, finding inspiration in the therapeutic benefits of nature.

Lauren is an enthusiastic fan of the Boston Bruins, reflecting her passion for sports and community connections. With a holistic approach to physical therapy, Lauren Giampietro combines academic achievement, professional engagement, and a love for the outdoors, contributing to her commitment to helping others lead active and fulfilling lives.

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Dr. Emma Alfred is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics and sports-related injuries. She’s passionate about sharing her love for exercise and movement with her patients so they can return to the activities they love.

In her free time, Emma enjoys keeping up with sports from her alma mater, Purdue University as well as her other favorite team, the Patriots. She stays active through playing a variety of sports, like running, weightlifting, skiing, and taking long walks with her dog, Bailey.

Specialties:

Orthopedics

Sports Injuries

Clinic Director Dr. Mikaela Caracciolo is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, balance & falls, CVA, Parkinson’s Disease, MS, and other neurological conditions. She loves helping her patients get back to the activities they love and motivating them to achieve the goals they didn’t think were possible.

She has served as the Assistant Coach for Rock Steady Boxing, a boxing class for those with Parkinson's Disease, and volunteers in the medical tent at the MS challenge walk in Cape Cod each year.

In her free time, Mikaela loves to practice her photography skills, watch the Patriots or Red Sox, go skiing, practice her boxing skills, and play softball. She also likes to explore and try out new or different restaurants – so she is always looking for recommendations!

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Balance & Falls

CVA

Parkinson’s Disease

MS

Neurological Conditions

Emma Wroblinski is a Physical Therapist Assistant who specializes in orthopedics and massage. She is passionate about helping her patients feel empowered and equipped with the tools needed to manage their conditions.

In her free time, Emma enjoys camping, hiking, canoeing, and fishing. She and her husband reside in Coventry with their two children and two dogs.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Massage

Dr. Shawn Blankenship is the Clinic Director at our Middletown clinic and a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, spine, sports-related injuries, post-stroke, and traumatic brain injuries. He’s passionate about connecting with his patients to educate and empower them in their recovery. In his past roles, Shawn has served as an Adjunct Professor for Seton Hall University’s Physical Therapy program.

When he’s not in the clinic, Shawn enjoys playing golf, running, and road biking. You can usually find him rooting for the Ohio State Buckeyes or spending time with his wife and dog.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Spine

Sports Injuries

Stroke

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Dr. Calin Butler is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Clinic Director of our Cranston, RI clinic, who specializes in orthopedics, sports injuries, vestibular rehabilitation, and treating conditions related to the spine, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. He earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Sacred Heart University in 2023 and is certified in Dry Needling, Titleist Performance Institute, and AQuire IASTM. Calin is driven by a passion for helping individuals overcome obstacles, regain their strength, and achieve their goals, with a focus on enabling them to return to the activities they love, pain-free and stronger.

Outside of his clinical work, he serves as the Boys Director and Coach for Blast Volleyball in Rhode Island and also coaches boys' volleyball at La Salle Academy in Providence. A committed Boston sports fan, Calin enjoys competing in Spartan Races, playing video games, and staying active at the gym. He has also contributed to research featured in the International Journal of Strength and Conditioning.

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Jenny Romano-Joseph is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics, sports-related injuries, and gymnastics. Her passion is working with an active patient population to ensure they can maintain their fitness and improve performance. She was inspired to become a physical therapist after she was treated for her own sports injuries during her career as a gymnast. In previous roles, Jenny worked as a traveling physical therapist for over 8 years and treated patients of all types throughout the country.

In her free time, she enjoys working out, going to the beach, and spending time with her friends and family.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Sports Injuries

Gymnastics

Dr. Christine Pawlina is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics and pediatrics. Her passion is helping her patients regain their quality of life. She always looks forward to the moment during every patient’s treatment where they first realize that they can take part in their favorite activities without pain or limitation.

In her free time, Christine enjoys reading and has accumulated an ever-growing pile of books to read next. She keeps active through playing indoor and beach volleyball as well as playing in a bowling league.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Pediatrics

Dr. Jeremy Kuznitz is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedics. His passion is to provide his patients with the tools to help them take their power back, heal their bodies, and improve their function. He believes that there is nothing more rewarding than watching his patient achieve a goal that they never imagined possible.

In his free time, Jeremy enjoys watching sports and cheering on the Boston Celtics and New England Patriots. He also loves hiking, reading, and traveling.

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Specialties:

Orthopedics

Dr. Kara Casavant, PT, DPT, OCS, is the Clinic Director of Highbar’s Boylston location. A Husson University graduate, Kara earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, MBA, and Doctor of Physical Therapy, and went on to achieve her Orthopedic Board Certification. As an APTA member with specialized training in dry needling, Kara provides expert care across orthopedics, balance and fall prevention, sports injuries, and performance arts rehabilitation. With a personal background in CrossFit and over 20 years as a competitive cheerleader—including at the collegiate level—she has a unique passion and skill set for working with athletes, dancers, and performing artists.

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Outside the clinic, Kara is an avid New England sports fan who enjoys cheering on the Patriots and attending Worcester Red Sox (WooSox) games. She also loves the outdoors, spending her free time kayaking, paddleboarding, skiing in the winter, and staying active year-round.

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Specialties & Services:

• Orthopedics
• TMD
• Back, Neck & Shoulder Rehabilitation
• Balance & Fall Prevention
• Vestibular Rehabilitation
• Sports or Work-Related Injuries
• Foot & Ankle Rehabilitation
• Dry Needling Treatment
• Concussion Management
• Performance Arts Rehabilitation