Phyllis has always had a passion for athletics and a fascination of the human body and its movement. This interest led her to pursue a career in physical therapy. Phyllis earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology from St. Mary’s College of Maryland in 1997. During her time at St. Mary’s, she was a member of the tennis team and an assistant in the athletic training room. Phyllis gained invaluable experience assessing injuries at the acute level while working alongside athletic trainers to establish protocols to address various sports injuries.

 

After earning her undergraduate degree, Phyllis attended Marymount University where she graduated with a Master of Science Degree in Physical Therapy in 2000. While earning her master’s degree, Phyllis worked as a personal trainer for Arlington County in Virginia. As a personal trainer she worked with several different age groups to create exercise programs to increase strength, flexibility, endurance and balance. Through this experience, Phyllis saw first hand how a physical therapist can work with personal trainers to help patients return to exercise quickly and safely while addressing their specific injuries.

 

In May 2003, Phyllis passed her exams to become board certified as an as an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialites.

 

Phyllis has an extensive background in orthopedics and treats a variety of diagnoses related to the musculoskeletal and neurological systems. Phyllis is mat certified in Pilates and has several years of experience teaching Pilates to seniors, ballet dancers and individuals recovering from injuries. She treats her patients with an eclectic approach of manual therapy, pilates, and exercise, including sports specific training. She also has experience working in skilled nursing centers where she furthered her knowledge in geriatrics and sub-acute rehabilitation.

 

In 2009, Phyllis was accepted in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Virginia Commonwealth University where she is currently enrolled. 

 

In her spare time, Phyllis participates in local running races (including the Marine Corp Marathon in 2001) and triathlons. She also enjoys playing soccer, tennis, and golf. Phyllis has two children and understands the physical therapist’s role in helping women address injuries related to pregnancy and child birth.