Meet Our Rehabilitation Therapy Staff

Michelle graduated from the University of Vermont in 2000 with a bachelors in physical therapy. She specializes in treating BPPV (a form of vertigo), lymphedema and urinary incontinence. She enjoys running and rock climbing. Look for her at events like the 100 on 100 race or at Petra Cliffs.

Kelly is a Physical Therapist who graduated from the University of Vermont DPT program in 2008 after completing a BA in Communication Sciences with a minor in Nutrition and Food Sciences in 2006. Kelly moved to Colorado to begin her career as a physical therapist in 2008, being drawn to the outdoor recreation. A Vermont native, she has returned to the Green Mountains. Kelly has advanced training in orthopedics, sports medicine, post operative care, and is trained in dry needling. She also has extensive, specialized training in the area of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Women's Health. Kelly enjoys staying active with hiking, gardening, and you'll often find her skiing or playing pickle ball in the community.

Tyler graduated from the University of Vermont with a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Food Science in 2011 and with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2014. He incorporates a combination of manual therapy and functional exercises to treat a variety of orthopedic conditions. He enjoys biking, hiking, canoeing, and snowboarding in his spare time.

Sarah graduated from University of Vermont with a Bachelors of Science in Physical Therapy. Sarah is Wound Care Certified through the NAWC (National Alliance of Wound Care) and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. Her professional interests include wound care, aquatics, lymphedema, manual therapy and orthopedic physical therapy. In her free time she enjoys running, weight lifting, cooking, sewing, knitting and being active.

Karla Bartolomei graduated from The University of Western Ontario and has been working as a physical therapist at Central Vermont Hospital since 1998. When not at work she also enjoys gardening, hiking, skiing, and spending time with her family.

Ali graduated from the University of Vermont in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and in 2014 with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT). Her clinical interests include adult orthopedics, aquatic therapy, and geriatrics. In her spare time she enjoys outdoor activities both in the mountains and on the lake.

Lauren Briere earned her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at Russell Sage College in Troy, NY. As an OT, Lauren has worked in a variety of settings with clients throughout the lifespan. She spent the early part of her decade plus career serving the pediatric population. Now her primary area of interest is orthopedic upper extremity injuries. Lauren is a Therapeutic Yoga Teacher in her spare time, and enjoys spending time with her husband and active young boys skiing, swimming and hiking.

Crystal graduated from the University of Vermont with a bachelor’s degree in Psychological Sciences in 2017 and Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2021. Her areas of interest include treating a wide variety of orthopedic conditions spanning from post-operative care, traumatic injuries, and chronic pain conditions. Additionally, she has advanced training in concussion rehabilitation and integrative dry needling.

Crystal was an active member of the UVM Freestyle Snowboarding team during her UVM tenure and continues to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and split boarding in her spare time; she is passionate about helping individuals return to these activities in addition to working with athletes of all ages and abilities. Crystal emphasizes comprehensive care into her treatment sessions and often uses manual therapy, functional training, wellness/prevention strategies, and movement retraining to improve individual’s functionality at work, home or during sport.

Crystal enjoys all the outdoor activities Vermont has to offer, especially in the mountains, with her husband and two dogs.

Judy graduated from the University of Vermont in 1994 with a bachelor of science degree in Physical Therapy. She went on to earn her DPT from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in Florida in 2014. Judy is also a certified LSVT BIG provider. She specializes in treating individuals with vestibular disorders, Parkinson’s Disease, concussion, and stroke. In addition, she enjoys developing geriatric rehabilitation and fall prevention programs. When she is not working, Judy enjoys running, cycling, skiing, and spending time with her family.

Hannah graduated from the University of Vermont with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Movement Science in 2012. She worked as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor before receiving her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of New England in 2017. Hannah treats a large variety of orthopedic and post-operative conditions. She specializes in vestibular rehabilitation and enjoys treating patients with dizziness and vertigo. Additionally, she has completed advanced training in pelvic floor physical therapy and is passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum patients.

Hannah enjoys swimming, Pilates, reading, and spending time with her husband and two young children.

Alisha is a physical therapist who graduated from the University of Vermont DPT program in 2023. She completed her bachelors degree in exercise science at Northern Vermont University-Lyndon in 2020. As a Vermont native, she has chosen to pursue her career in the Green Mountains. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, kayaking, and camping.

Sarah is a Physical Therapist who graduated in 2017 with her DPT from MCPHS University in Worcester, MA. Prior to this, Sarah graduated from the University of Vermont in 2013 with a BS in Exercise and Movement Science and she always knew she would want to return to Vermont to live here. Sarah became a Geriatric Certified Specialist in July of 2021 with areas of special interest including acute care physical therapy, post-operative care, geriatric rehabilitation and fall prevention. Outside of working at CVMC, Sarah enjoys all things outdoors in the beautiful state of Vermont, running, and spending time with friends and family.

Melanie graduated with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2018 from Simmons University. After graduating, she moved to Central Vermont and fell in love with the landscape and community. Her experience as a physical therapist spans across all ages and activity levels, but her primary interest lies in assisting patients to find more strength and ease when living with chronic pain by using a combination of aquatic and land based exercises, mindfulness techniques, and manual therapy. In her free time she enjoys dancing, cooking, doing yoga, and playing with her cat Moe.

Emily graduated from Quinnipiac University in 2009 with a Masters degree in Physical Therapy. She specializes in the treatment of low back pain and neck pain with her certifications in both the McKenzie method and orthopedic manual therapy. She has had the opportunity to work in various states and practice settings around the country and is happy to finally be a permanent Vermont resident. In her free time she enjoys swing dancing, traveling, various outdoor recreation and house renovation.

Michala is a Physical Therapist who graduated from the University of Vermont DPT program in 2020. Since then, her and her husband have been a resident of Vermont, taking advantage of the many outdoor recreations that it has to offer. She enjoys working with persons throughout the lifespan who have orthopedic diagnoses, vestibular disorders, or need post-operative care. Having played volleyball in college, she also enjoys working with the athletic population and helping them return to their prior level of function following injury. In her spare time, she loves to play competitive indoor and outdoor volleyball, play pickleball, go on hikes with her husband and dog, and camp. You may also find her in the community coaching volleyball.

Kara received her physical therapist assistant degree from Becker College in 1996.Kara has been practicing physical therapy for 26 years and specializes in general orthopedics, postoperative care, aquatic therapy, and work hardening.

Kara is a native of Central Vermont. When she is not working, Kara enjoys spending her time, playing, softball, gardening, traveling, camping and attending outdoor concerts with her family.

Gordon graduated from the University of Vermont with a masters degree in Physical therapy. His professional interests include aquatics and orthopedic rehab. 

Kate graduated from Lyndon State College with her bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. She then went to complete her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at Bay Path University in Massachusetts. She developed her love for working with children early on as a therapeutic riding instructor. Kate gained great clinical experience working for a sports chiropractor for three years. In her free time she enjoys riding her horse, playing soccer, broomball, snowboarding and hiking with her dog.

Julie graduated from UVM with a bachelors degree in German and later with a degree in Physical Therapy. Her most recent experience is general outpatient orthopedics, manual therapy, pelvic floor, and pregnancy and postpartum therapy.  In her free time she enjoys kayaking, hiking, cross country skiing, and traveling with her family.

Jackie graduated from the University of New England in 2008 with her Doctorate in physical therapy. She is an Orthopaedic Certified Specialist through the American Physical Therapy Association. She has worked in Maine and now Vermont which is her home state. She has a focus in rehabilitation of orthopedic conditions for all individuals throughout the lifespan. She specializes in foot and ankle issues, body mechanics, transgender athletes, and running related injuries. When not at work Jackie spends her time outdoors with her family or volunteering with the Central Vermont Running club.

Juliet attended the University of Vermont for her undergraduate degree and completed a post baccalaureate premedical studies program at Loyola University Chicago in 2020. She completed a Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology from Syracuse University in 2023. Her professional interests include adult and pediatric neurogenic communication disorders, speech-sound disorders, motor speech disorders, childhood language disorders, and stuttering. Juliet can also be found in her spare time: snowboarding, playing music, performing improv, or reviewing TV/Film content to unwilling listeners.

Jordyn graduated from Westfield State University with her bachelor’s degree in Movement Science. She then went to complete her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at MCPHS University. During her graduate school experience, Jordyn was an active member of COTAD (The Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity) to increase awareness of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion for a transformative occupational therapy profession. In her free time, she enjoys skiing, hiking, paddle boarding and spending time with family

Emily graduated from the University of New England in 2008 with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree. She lived and worked in Maine first at a sub-acute rehab hospital and later a nursing home setting. She decided to move back to her home state of Vermont in 2013 and her primary professional interest now is aquatic therapy. .She also enjoys hiking with her husband and chocolate lab, swimming, making music, baking, and quilting.

Bayley is a physical therapist who graduated from Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Profession’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program in 2019 after obtaining her bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in psychology from Clarkson University in 2016. Bayley grew up in central Vermont and has moved back to the area after school and a few years working in the Upper Valley. She enjoys reading and any activity that allows her to enjoy the beautiful Vermont weather which drives her focus in orthopedics and sports medicine. Bayley also has training in dry needling, custom orthotic fabrication, and treatment of concussion.

Nancy Graduated from Thiel College with BA in Medical technology and The University of Vermont with a Masters degree in Communication sciences. Her professional areas of interest include Adult Neuro (anoxic brain injury & stroke) and Voice Disorders.

Vicki graduated with a bachelor degree in occupational therapy from Utica College of Syracuse University in NY and has been practicing for 23 years in a variety of settings. Vicki has experience working with people in acute care, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, and in home care. Vicki has additional training in massage and body work and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. In her free time, she enjoys being outdoors – hiking, biking,camping, singing and playing music, and spending time with family and friends.

Elizabeth graduated from the University of Vermont with a Bachelor's degree in physical therapy in 2002. She is a certified lymphedema therapist through Lymphology Association of North America and a Certified Massage Therapist. She incorporates manual therapy and exercise to treat a variety of orthopedic conditions and swelling disorders. She enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with her family.

Heather graduated from New York University in 2019 with a master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders. Her professional interests include dysphagia (swallowing disorders), cognitive communication disorders and social communication. In her spare time, Heather enjoys exploring with her two dogs, playing tennis, seeing live music and snowboarding.

Emily graduated from the University of Vermont in 2018 with a master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Her professional interests include cognitive communication disorders, pediatrics, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). In her spare time, Emily enjoys skiing, swimming, and seeing live music.

Heather holds a BS in Business Administration and a Masters in Physical Therapy from Clarkson University. Her practice includes Work-injured Rehabilitation, outpatient adult, pediatric and geriatric orthopedics, Aquatic therapy and TMJ. Heather has worked as a physical therapist in Vermont since 2004.  In her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband, family and friends. Her hobbies include running, hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, and skiing.

Jessica received her physical therapy degree at Texas State University in 1998. She  then moved to San Francisco, California where she worked as a physical therapist in a variety of settings including a major trauma center prior to moving to Vermont in 2010.  Jessica has attained an American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties accreditation as an Orthopedic Certified Specialist (OCS). Her specialties include trauma, orthopedics and sports rehab.  Other interest include outdoor adventures, crossfit and good coffee.

Nina's primary work focus is orthopedic management of the elbow, wrist and hand. She brings experience from skilled nursing and home health settings and holds a BA in Environmental Education. She received her MS of Occupational Therapy from Winston-Salem State University in 2017. Having grown up in central Vermont, Nina enjoys serving her community at CVMC Rehabilitation Therapy. She also enjoys skiing, biathlon, riding bikes, and shaping the land around her home together with her husband and son.

Carter graduated from Cleveland State University with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2012. He spent 5 years working at a large medical center in Syracuse, NY prior to returning home to Vermont to join the CVMC rehab team. He is passionate about research and enjoys being involved with physical therapy clinical education. In his spare time he enjoys skiing, snowboarding, waterskiing, volleyball, and watching any of his favorite Ohio sports teams.

Leslie graduated from the University of Vermont in 2012 with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy. She has spent time working in Cleveland, OH and Syracuse, NY prior to returning to Vermont in 2018. She uses functional exercises and manual therapy to treat a variety of orthopedic and neurological conditions. In her spare time she enjoys running, skiing, and spending time with her family.

Ashley graduated from Castleton University with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science in 2017 and with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2024. Her primary professional interests include neurologic and orthopedic rehabilitation. She enjoys working with those recovering from neurologic injuries such as stroke and concussion, as well as progressive conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease. She is also trained in Mechanical Diagnosis Therapy for the Lumbar Spine. In her free time, she is a passionate ice hockey coach and enjoys spending time outdoors at camp or on the farm.

Gwenna graduated 1980 from St Louis University with a degree in Physical therapy. She has a certificate in manual medicine from the osteopathic school at Michigan State University. She has extensive training in orthopedic care for patients both pre and post operatively.  She is active in the community running, skiing, gardening, and hiking.

Julie Rossignol, graduated in 1992 from the University of Montreal with a Bachelor in Occupational Therapy. She has worked in a variety of different Rehabilitation settings including acute, sub-acute and out patient therapy in 7 different states along the East coast. She is the lead Occupational Therapist for CVMC and has worked for CVMC for 10 years. She specializes in hand therapy, wheelchair assessment and prescription, and in cancer/lymphedema therapy. She became a certified Lymphedema Management Therapist 10 years ago and became a member of LANA (Lymphology Association of North America) shortly after. She has been a guest speaker about edema and lymphedema prevention and management at multiple medical functions and meetings over the years. She also works as a consultant with CVMC's Cancer Center.

Josh graduated from Rutgers University/The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 2002 with a Masters in Physical Therapy (MPT). He has spent his career in many clinical settings from acute and subacute inpatient rehabilitation to outpatient sites. His interests include pre and post-surgical rehab, general orthopedic injuries, falls and balance training for the aging population, and cardiovascular endurance training and cardiac rehab. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing, sailing, and home improvement projects.

Jessica is a physical therapist who graduated from the University of Vermont in 2020. After graduating her and her husband returned to their hometown in central Vermont, and recently welcomed their first child. She has a diverse background in treating orthopedic issues across the spectrum, from acute care, home health, and the outpatient setting. She has an interest in pelvic floor dysfunction, particularly in the pregnant and postpartum patient. In her free time she enjoys walks outside with her family, trying new restaurants, and completing projects around the house.

Lauren completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1997 with a major in Latin American and Iberian Area Studies and Spanish Language. She later completed graduate studies at Columbia University and Harvard University in Applied Linguistics and Adult Language and Literacy Education with an emphasis in community health education. After teaching for 10 years in the schools and with adult community centers in the NY/NJ and Boston metro areas, Lauren completed pre-med coursework and decided to attend PT school. She earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2010 from the University of Vermont.

Lauren has since completed post-graduate training in manual therapy, osteoporosis management, neurodegenerative conditions, scoliosis management, functional nutrition for chronic pain management, She is a board certified clinical specialist in geriatric physical therapy since 2015 and is fully (C2) trained in scoliosis management with Rigo Schroth Method.

Outside of work, Lauren cherishes her time with family, friends and furry critters. She enjoys cycling, backcountry skiing and hiking local trails.

Jeff enjoys practicing physical therapy in the acute care setting, and loves working with his talented and supportive inpatient rehab team. He has been fortunate to provide therapy in many settings throughout his career from subacute, home health and adult community care throughout the East Coast, including locations such as Florida, North Carolina, Virginia and South Carolina. When not on the job, Jeff spends his time with his wife, Heather, out in the fantastic mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire. He frequently hikes, bikes, snow plays and does his own logging for firewood and building materials. He includes his pup, Zeke, on these adventures whenever he can.

Lorelei graduated from UVM in 1999 with a bachelors degree physical therapy. Lorelei is a certified aquatic therapist and a certified yoga teacher from Kripalu. In her free time she is on the board of 3 non-profits, including Rhythm of the Rein Therapeutic riding program in Marshfield, VT . She enjoys Morgan horses and her orchard.