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Frank Spano joins Catalyst serving as a Sports Recovery Specialist, bringing his skill sets to the table and promoting the NormaTec Rapid Recovery system.
As a board certified athletic trainer, Frank has extensive schooling, experience and expertise in managing various sport-related acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries across many work settings, competitive sports, and patient populations. He also holds certifications in Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA), Functional Movement Screen (FMS), Y-Balance testing (YBT) and Functional Movement Taping (FMT) to complement his clinical practice. What he enjoys most about his profession has always been helping his patients manage, overcome, and return to activity from debilitating injuries through thoughtful clinical assessment and diverse functional rehab approaches. With that said, he is very grateful and excited to join the team and contribute Catalyst’s excellent vision of patient care and wellness.
Frank completed his Bachelor of Science in athletic training at Northeastern University in 2009, during which time he experienced extensive clinical rotations and work opportunities in outpatient physical therapy, and high school, division 1 and division 3 college sports medicine settings. After graduating, he worked at Fairfield University in the Sports Medicine Department for five years as an athletic trainer while completing his MBA. He was assigned primary medical coverage and oversight of the women’s volleyball, men and women’s crew, and baseball teams, and also provided collaborative care and medical coverage of all other division 1 sports teams as needed. After finishing his Master’s Degree, he was hired by Physical Synergy, a sports chiropractic clinic where he served as the practice’s Rehab Floor Manager for 4 years, overseeing and implementing patient physical therapy protocols.
Frank is a native of Fairfield, Connecticut, and just recently moved to San Diego with his fiancée, Melanie, back in September. So far they love San Diego, which has nicely suited their active lifestyles. They’ve really enjoyed the weather, beautiful beaches, and local farmers markets. Among a variety of interests, Frank enjoys sports, movies, the beach, playing guitar, exercise, and martial arts. He’s trained Karate, boxing, and Muay Thai, and actively trains and competes in Brazilian Jiujitsu.
Hi! I’m a proud native San Diegan and self-described nomad. I join Catalyst as a communications grad with a varied background rooted in client experience and account management. I hope to expand my talents to guiding others on their paths to wellness once I complete my education in Integrative nutrition and holistic health (my true passions) in the next couple years. In my free time find me reading, traveling, volunteering, dancing or beach bumming with friends. I’m excited to bring my positivity, skills, passion and energy to the Catalyst team as I start an exciting career in Wellness!
Hi! My name is Michelle Phinney and I am here for you! After living in Guam for several years with my 3 young boys, we made the move to San Diego in 2016 with new aspirations. I am a certified yoga instructor, and am attending school for pre-physical therapy. I believe in a holistic approach to health and healing that includes the food we choose to nourish our bodies with as well as the routines we invest our time in to encourage strength and mobility. I see a need for us as a society to not only take a step back to care for ourselves, but also to care for those around us. Whether it is a family member, friend or someone I just met I know that everyone has a story and is worthy of being heard and loved.
In my free time you will find me spending time in nature, hanging out with my boys, traveling or teaching people about meditation, breath work, and intentional movement. I am so excited to be a part of the Catalyst family and to be here to assist on your path to wholeness and healing!
Jena is part of the Catalyst Management Team, handling all things Front Office and HR. She started out her career in exercise science, completing a Master’s in Exercise Physiology from SDSU, and working as a personal trainer and exercise physiologist in various rehab settings. Jena also dabbled a bit into writing, creating blog content for health and fitness companies, namely NASM and Wildfire.
Though no longer personal training, Jena loves using her administrative and management skills to help Catalyst clients get high quality care, and help make the company a great place to work for employees. Jena has worked with the owner of Catalyst, Brian Wilson, on and off for the past 10 years, and can’t say enough about Catalyst’s culture, community, and top-notch services…she couldn’t imagine working anywhere else!
Outside of work, Jena is married to an avid outdoor athlete/adventurer, Matt, and they have one baby boy, Koen.
Oh, and a tiger cat, Samba. She’s also a loose-leaf tea aficionado, so if you ever want tea advice, she’s your girl!
Nika Darrin is from Napa, California, where she was raised in a health-conscious community that instilled values of holistic/natural living, open-mindedness and treating all with kindness and respect. As a child, her mom would take her along to yoga classes and meditations taught by Tibetan monks. This taught her about the mind-body connection she values so much to this day. Her interest in creating a career based off of health and healing was sparked in high school, where she was a tri-sport athlete (lacrosse, water polo and basketball) and took an intro to athletic training class. She gained experience by applying what she learned in the classroom through assisting the ATC on the field/court and in the athletic training room.
Nika graduated from Chapman University in 2018 with a B.S. in Kinesiology and a B.A. in Peace Studies. She wrote her kinesiology thesis on how yoga helps reduce stress. For her peace studies thesis she studied the impact of mindfulness and transcendental meditation. She was inspired by the Dalai Lama’s quote “In order to achieve world peace, we must first achieve inner peace.” In her case study, she found that violence rates in a middle school significantly decreased after instilling a weekly mindfulness, transcendental meditation practice. Imagine the impact on this world if everyone practiced mindfulness and incorporated meditation into their daily lives! In addition to her academic endeavors in college, she played for the division III women’s lacrosse team, was the service chair for Alpha Kappa Psi (a professional, co-ed business fraternity), was an activist for the homeless, studied abroad in Cape Town, South Africa, studied at the UN’s University for Peace in Costa Rica and obtained her 200-hour yoga teacher certification.
When Nika is not working at Catalyst, she is working as a kayak and snorkel tour guide in La Jolla, selling succulent art at farmers markets and is a yoga teacher. She is an assistant teacher in a 200-hour yoga teacher training and teaches donation-based classes at the OB Garden Café. If your mind, body and soul need some extra loving, come to her yoga class and she will help guide you through a nourishing and empowering experience! When she is not working, she loves to go windsurfing, surfing, scuba diving, listening to live music and exploring! She loves to travel when she gets the opportunity to. She spent her past summer backpacking in Southeast Asia, where she immersed herself in yoga studies, learning from its traditional origin of India. Nika strives to incorporate the balance between Eastern and Western healing, which is why she was motivated to be a physical therapy aide for Catalyst.
Hey, I’m Vince! I was born and raised here in San Diego, and did my undergraduate at San Diego State University. Growing up my parents really got me involved in many different activities. I grew up swimming competitively, as well as wrestled and played water polo during high school. Nowadays I really enjoy spending my free time rock climbing, surfing and traveling. I hope to one day attend graduate school and become a licensed Physical Therapist. But, in the meantime, I’m really grateful for everything Catalyst Physical Therapy and Wellness has offered me, and am excited to continue working here with such an amazing group of people.
Sarah is a native San Diegan and recent graduate at SDSU with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology, emphasis in pre-physical therapy. Sarah’s interests include traveling, sports and most importantly, spending time with family. She’s excited to a part of the Catalyst family, and to contribute to your healing and wellness!
Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, I received my Bachelor’s in Business from Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond in 2005. I moved to San Diego in 2007 after meeting my awesome wife, Angela who was visiting her sister for Mardi Gras. In 2009 I transitioned out of sales and marketing and into my passion of fitness and health as a certified personal trainer. Since then I have been a fitness manager and master personal trainer at 5 clubs for 24 Hour Fitness. Through training, I developed an interest in the corrective side. In 2017, I started going back to school and am currently working towards becoming a physical therapist.
Being from the South, I love when it rains in San Diego. I enjoy sleeping in when I can, but also a 3-hour workout session.
Catalyst has been an amazing environment! I started as a volunteer in the summer of 2019 and quickly realized the high talent level from the therapists. I enjoy Catalyst’s smooth approach of treating patients and taking care of their people.
Hello! My name is Natalie, I was born and raised in San Diego, and I recently graduated from the University of Hawaii at Mānoa. I come from a very active family with interests ranging from softball to rock climbing. During my time in Hawaii I enjoyed hiking, free diving, snorkeling, and hanging out on the North Shore. After recovering from my fair share of injuries as a young athlete, I developed a passion for physical therapy. In the future, I hope to attend graduate school to become a physical therapist, and am very excited to learn and grow as a team member at Catalyst.
Pedro Sun is a strength coach (CSCS), personal trainer, and a Nutritionist. He graduated in 2008 with a Bachelors of Science in Nutrition, with an emphasis in Dietetics. He also combined his knowledge of nutrition science, and his love for training and movement science to become a personal trainer in 2010. His main goals are to help people attain overall wellness. He loves to read research, like nutrition and strength and conditioning journals, as well as go to nutrition conferences. He is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and a member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He also loves to play sports, exercise and is a foodie and beer snob. He feels that by staying up to date with current methods, he can get people to achieve their goals in a more efficient manner. He believes that not everyone can do all the same exercises, so he makes the exercises fit with that specific person. Pedro really enjoys the fact that he can create change in people’s lives, and is humbled by it. He believes in the team’s approach to wellness and by creating a smooth transition from physical therapy into personal training, it is a great way to achieve better all-around wellness and health.
Fun stuff about Pedro:
Super Power: Can catch food thrown at him with mouth
Favorite Place to Be: Anywhere with good company, food, and a delicious beverage
Couldn’t live without: Exercise… probably the greatest thing since like ever totes
I’m a fan of exploring different movement options also so you can find me at Catalyst doing ‘weird’movements . Kind of like my personality !
Born and raised in Ohio, I started my massage career with an international massage license in Hong Kong, which is where my family relocated when I was in high school. I found my passion for helping others while working on my degree abroad. Once I moved back to the States, I decided to get my Associate’s degree and Ohio State Medical Board License in Massage Therapy. I’ve worked for amazing chiropractors and MDs since 2009, and found my love for not only physically helping others, but emotionally and mentally helping people heal and grow. I’ve recently moved to beautiful, sunny California, and can’t wait to learn more about my new home. In my free time, I love being a workout-holic and a foodie with my boyfriend, Curt, and my vicious eight-pound morkie puppy, Miley!
Missy is a native San Diegan and received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from San Diego State University. As part of her graduate work, Missy had the privilege of working at Catalyst for an 8-week Clinical, where she learned from and worked alongside Kristen and Brian. She also had the opportunity to do a mixed orthopedic and pediatric rotation at another clinic, which inspired her to treat pediatrics in her own practice. As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Missy loves being able to combine her love of treating musculoskeletal injuries as well as helping kids of all ages achieve milestones and interact more easily with the world around them.
Missy was drawn to physical therapy in high school when she sought out physical therapy for her own injuries. At the time, she thought it was cool to be able to wear workout clothes to work and teach people how to exercise. Fast forward to now, she loves working as a physical therapist because of the journey she gets to take with each of her patients. Missy loves working in a profession that allows her to work alongside on their path to healing and living healthier lives. Every day brings a new challenge, funny story, or life lesson, which makes it the most fulfilling job she could imagine.
In her spare time, Missy enjoys hanging out with her family and friends (especially her four super cute nieces and 1 stud of a nephew!), hiking, line dancing, and seeing live country music.
Kristen Knightly Campbell, physical therapist and massage therapist, holds a Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy and has been practicing physical therapy since May 2009. Additionally, Kristen is a Certified Massage Practitioner and Certified in Applied Functional Science making her a strong asset to the Catalyst Physical Therapy & Wellness team. Kristen is our Director of Massage and Physical Therapy manager. She continually pursues new learning opportunities in both massage and PT. Kristen also works for The United States Soccer Federation with youth, Paralympic and Olympic level teams. Since the beginning of 2013, she has primarily been with the US Women’s National Soccer Team as they prepared for and won the 2015 Women’s World Cup in Canada. She has recently taken a break from traveling with the team to start her family, but she has been fortunate to work with athletes of all levels and loves the competitive drive that they bring to the table.
Kristen taught at Point Loma Nazarene University in the Masters of Kinesiology program alongside Brian in 2016. They love working with each other in the classroom setting and feel they both have something very special to offer students. Kristen is a well-organized individual with good connections and a strong reputation for delivering quality patient care and educating students in various settings. She is CPTW’s clinical coordinator for physical therapy students and plays an active role in developing our profession.
Kristen obtained her undergrad and graduate degrees at Northeastern University in Boston, MA before moving to San Diego in 2009. Since then, Kristen took classes at International Professional School of Bodywork to obtain her CMP. She is very happy with the move and spends as much time soaking up the sunshine as possible. Her greatest joys are her young son, Cooper, and her husband, Andrew. She loves to travel, run, do yoga, hike and spend time with her family and friends.
Brian Wilson is the founder and president of Catalyst Physical Therapy & Wellness. His journey towards physical therapy began as a high school biology teacher and varsity soccer coach in an urban school district in Kansas City, Missouri where he grew up. He, like many of his colleagues, trained athletes the way he had been coached only to find out that not all bodies are built to withstand the same rigors of sport and life. Seeking out advice on how to cure his injured athletes, Brian stumbled into an open house for physical therapy. After conversing and picking the brain of several university professors, Brian found himself being interviewed for a position in the upcoming Master’s class. From that night on, Brian has been on a mission to change the way people treat their bodies.
He earned his Master’s in Physical Therapy (MPT) from Rockhurst University in 2006 and moved to California the following year to pursue experience in the field of functional physical therapy. He routinely draws from his teaching and coaching days to help people from all ages and walks of life to find purpose behind working out and becoming healthy. He uses his infectious personality to motivate others, regardless of their current status, to grow beyond their prior level of function and become better than they ever knew possible.
When Brian is not in the clinic with patients, he can be found teaching and inspiring other professionals striving to become the best in the health and wellness industry. In 2016 and 2017, Brian taught at Point Loma Nazarene University in the Masters of Kinesiology program. He views physical therapists as musculoskeletal pain experts that should serve as guides to people looking for understanding about their bodies’ limits. He knows there is a lack of communication in the health industry between Eastern and Western health practitioners, and he seeks to change that through the expansion of holistic wellness studios, like Catalyst.
During his free time, Brian finds his greatest joy in getting to be a kid again while playing with his 3 children and wife, Alicia. Since becoming a “Wilson Party of Five” he has found less time for his racing endeavors as a triathlete and road cyclist. However, he wouldn’t trade his new roles in for the world and now enjoys traveling, climbing, fishing, hiking, camping, running, cycling, snowboarding and adventure racing – in moderation of course! ☺
A Doctor of East Asian Medicine, and a soon-to-be Licensed Acupuncturist, Kiran views her work with massage and bodywork as a lifelong journey that was born from her yoga practice in 2008. She completed her 200-hr Yoga Teacher Training – with an emphasis in Yoga Therapy – in India and soon after received her massage therapy license from Santa Barbara Bodyworks in 2014. In 2019 she completed her Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine and is currently studying for her acupuncture licensing boards! She utilizes Chinese modalities such as traditional fire cupping, gua sha, and moxibustion, and complements her therapeutic approach with concurrent trainings in Neural Manipulation, as well as Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization.
A major influencer of Kiran’s work was a bout of painful TMJ she experienced as a teen athlete that helped her cultivate better body awareness. She seeks to instill that same sense of body awareness in her clients to aid in their healing. Kiran’s work is also influenced by her passion for rock climbing and yoga.
Kiran is thrilled to work with Catalyst’s inspiring and talented professionals, and the amazing, motivated patients within its community!
Born in the mystic Perú, South América, I am a health-oriented person. Respectful, tolerant and patient. I’m a Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, from the School of Healing Arts. I’m a Certified Yoga Instructor, registered with the Yoga Alliance. I’m interested in Tai-Chi and Kung -Fu, and anything that would help me to improve my knowledge of the wholeness of the human body. I’m also a Biology Teacher, which makes me humble at teaching and learning.
Traveling and visiting different countries has made me sensitive to different cultures, races and religions. I speak English, Spanish and basic Italian. I have a little bit of them in my heart. I’ve been to: Europe, Nepal, India, Tibet/Lhassa, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and I visit Peru at least once a year.
My passion is to dance and to share what I have learned in life. Of course, my family is part of my portrait. I work as a Massage Therapist, and as a Yoga Instructor, and Spanish Teacher.
I believe that, “Health is the best gift and we have the compromise to preserve it”.
As a Holistic Health Practitioner, I have more than 1,000 hours learning and practicing different modalities and techniques. Some of my favorites are: Shiat-zu, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Pre-Natal, Hot Stones, Passive Stretching, Acupressure, Reflexology, Ayurvedic Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Mayan Belly Massage, Reiki, and others. Each time we meet you will discover more about your own treasure…your body!
I’m excited to work at Catalyst because I share their holistic vision toward treatment.
They work as an enthusiastic team for their patients’ well-being. It is contagious 🙂
My passion to help others heal has always been a driving force in my life. 15 years ago, I moved to Santa Clarita, CA and came across a huge banner advertising Massage Therapy in a local college. After a week of seeing it I decided to stop by and ask about the Massage Therapy program, and by the end of the day, I was signing papers to join and become a Massage Therapist – best decision EVER! Years later, I furthered my education at the American Massage Conference in San Diego, completing training for Orthopedic Massage and Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques.
I’ve worked in several different areas over the years, from Spas to Chiropractor offices, to Physical Therapy. My passion for massage therapy has continued to carry me on a path of continued education. My goal is to help people heal, and get their lives back.
I am excited to work for Catalyst Physical Therapy because it’s an opportunity to learn and grow as a Massage Therapist, all while being part of a professional and integrative healthcare team.
Rebecca is a physical therapist with a specialty in pelvic health. She originally hails from Wisconsin, but received her undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota in 2009. She then made her way out to California to attend Physical Therapy School at the University of St. Augustine, where she graduated with her doctorate in 2015.
Since becoming a PT, Rebecca has made pelvic dysfunction her main area of study, taking courses on Pelvic Rehab through Herman & Wallace, and working towards higher certification in the field. Rebecca’s passion for this specialty can also be observed in her community outreach, holding workshops and seminars for new moms, and other populations affected by pelvic issues.
Rebecca feels a strong alignment with Catalyst because of their holistic approach to patient care, and integration with Eastern Medicine practices. She looks forward to bringing her knowledge and passion for pelvic health to the Catalyst community!
When she’s not at work, Rebecca enjoys spending time with her husband and son, hiking, swimming, and going to the zoo. She also enjoys yoga, and a good half-marathon now and then.
I was born and raised in Poway, CA , but I grew up on the soccer field. I was first introduced to the field of physical therapy after going through my own rehab for multiple knee injuries. It was through this process that I first met and worked with Brian and Kristen!
I decided to step out of the California bubble when I got accepted into the PT program at Creighton University. While completing my DPT, I had the opportunity to complete several amazing rotations including one at Penn State Sports Med, Madonna Neurological Rehabilitation, the Center for the Intrepid and the ILAC clinic in the Dominican Republic. After I completed my DPT, I decided I wasn’t done learning and decided to stay on at Creighton for a year long orthopedic residency. My residency allowed me not only to treat the underserved populations of Omaha, but also gave me the opportunity to teach at Creighton’s PT program and perform research.
The more opportunities I have to interact with patients, the more they teach me and mold my practice of physical therapy. After being able to treat at the campos and clinics in the Dominican Republic, it is easy to see that there is more to health and wellness than western medicine can provide. Being able to treat the whole person, and meeting them where they are in their own healing process is what I work towards with each of my patients. My career goal is to be able to help my patients live a healthier, well-rounded life style!
Catalyst creates an environment for healing that attracts a variety of healthcare practitioners, all working together to provide the best care for each of our patients. I’m excited to be a part of the team, and a part of my patients’ healing process!
When I’m outside of the clinic I prefer to be outdoors hiking, going to the beach, playing soccer or running. The only thing better than a good workout, is a good meal!
Natalie was born in the East Bay Area of northern California, where she began playing soccer at a young age. Her initial interest in physical therapy was sparked by a high school human physiology class, which encouraged her participation in the school’s sports medicine program. She was hooked, and her passion for human body was born. She received both her undergraduate and doctoral degrees from San Diego State University (go Aztecs!), where she continued playing soccer competitively at the club level.
Natalie’s passion for physical therapy stems from her love and interest in the human body and spirit. She is driven by a constant desire to learn, grow, and connect with each patient on a personal level. Her journey toward becoming a physical therapist has not only taken her across the entire state, but has landed her as far as Guatemala, where in 2018 she had the privilege of providing rehabilitative services to underserved communities. She hopes to continue these efforts to serve communities both locally, and abroad.
Outside of work, Natalie enjoys spending time traveling, camping, working out, cooking, and playing with her dogs. She is dedicated to helping people achieve overall health, wellness, and happiness, and excited to join the team at Catalyst!
Chris’s journey to becoming a physical therapist took a curving path rather than a straight one. He was born in Davis, California and went to college at UC Santa Cruz. His love for the natural world led him to pursue a degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. However, he soon discovered the human body and mind also fascinated him, resulting in an additional major in Neuroscience. While these areas of study satisfied his intellectual curiosity, he found himself wanting a career where he could more directly interact with and help people in their daily lives. After shadowing various professionals, he realized a career in physical therapy best balanced these desires while continuing to build on an education rooted in science. Five years later (after a “brief”, two-year stint teaching English in Spain), he earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from San Diego State University.
In his free time, Chris enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, and all things active (including soccer, running, basketball, surfing, volleyball, tennis, rock climbing, hiking and more) further fueling his drive to help everyone live healthier, more active lives.
He believes in the collaborative, interdisciplinary approach towards rehab, fitness, and wellness that Catalyst offers, and is excited to add his unique background and diverse experiences to the Catalyst team!
Hi! I’m Annie and I moved to San Diego from Seattle in 2002 to manage a Wholesale Beauty Supply store. After soaking up all of the sunshine possible in that first year, I decided this was where I belonged, and never looked back!
Health and fitness are my passions, but when I’m not working out and meal prepping, you can find me at the ice rink watching my son and husband play hockey, or at the dance studio where my daughter takes class. I love to spend time with my family, mainly watching movies, playing games, traveling and eating sushi!
After getting married, having 2 kids and spending most of my years as a stay-at-home-mom, I’m excited to join the Catalyst team, and be around like-minded people. My goal at Catalyst is to help the patients feel comfortable when they come in for treatment.
I was born and raised in Poway, CA , but I grew up on the soccer field. I was first introduced to the field of physical therapy after going through my own rehab for multiple knee injuries. It was through this process that I first met and worked with Brian and Kristen!
I decided to step out of the California bubble when I got accepted into the PT program at Creighton University. While completing my DPT, I had the opportunity to complete several amazing rotations including one at Penn State Sports Med, Madonna Neurological Rehabilitation, the Center for the Intrepid and the ILAC clinic in the Dominican Republic. After I completed my DPT, I decided I wasn’t done learning and decided to stay on at Creighton for a year long orthopedic residency. My residency allowed me not only to treat the underserved populations of Omaha, but also gave me the opportunity to teach at Creighton’s PT program and perform research.
The more opportunities I have to interact with patients, the more they teach me and mold my practice of physical therapy. After being able to treat at the campos and clinics in the Dominican Republic, it is easy to see that there is more to health and wellness than western medicine can provide. Being able to treat the whole person, and meeting them where they are in their own healing process is what I work towards with each of my patients. My career goal is to be able to help my patients live a healthier, well-rounded life style!
Catalyst creates an environment for healing that attracts a variety of healthcare practitioners, all working together to provide the best care for each of our patients. I’m excited to be a part of the team, and a part of my patients’ healing process!
When I’m outside of the clinic I prefer to be outdoors hiking, going to the beach, playing soccer or running. The only thing better than a good workout, is a good meal!
Natalie grew up in San Diego where she gained an interest in the medical field watching her mother go through nursing school. After sustaining a knee injury dancing, her focus shifted to creating a healthy lifestyle and preventing further damage to her body.
She’s currently majoring in both biology and sociology to better understand how a person’s genetic code and how one’s environment can play a fundamental role in someone’s lifestyle. She knows Catalyst is the perfect place to harness those skills and learn new techniques in a fun and friendly atmosphere.
Natalie is thrilled to be part of the Catalyst team as they continue to evolve and make more friends in San Diego. Outside of work and school, you can catch Natalie trying new superfoods or out on a hike!
Mauricio here! I was born and raised in San Diego and did my undergraduate work at UCSB. I’m currently attending graduate school to become a licensed acupuncturist/primary care provider. I’m excited to be at Catalyst for the opportunity to learn & grow while helping patients progress through their recovery, improve their quality of life, and achieve their goals. Being a part of the Catalyst team is helping pave the way for me to become a top-notch acupuncturist!
I’m from Sacramento, born and raised, Go Kings! I’ve been massaging now for five years, going on my sixth. I pursued a career in Massage Therapy because I was in a car accident that resulted in two years of care seeing a Chiropractor, Physical Therapist, Massage Therapist and a Neurologist; there was a lot going on with me. After getting care and seeing my progress, and how these amazing professionals helped and guided me back to recovery, I knew I wanted to help others the same way. Almost immediately after finishing my treatment, I enrolled at Arizona School of Massage Therapy where I completed my massage training. After finishing massage school, I moved back to Sacramento and began working for the chiropractor that treated me after my car accident. It was then, and continues to be an amazing and very rewarding career, being able to provide quality care such as what I received after my accident.
Paul grew up in Northern California where he gained an interest in Kinesiology in High school after sustaining multiple injuries from racing dirt bikes and playing various sports. He’s a recent graduate from Point Loma Nazarene University with a Bachelors in Athletic Training, and is looking to pursue a career in Physical therapy.
Paul holds a certification in Tecnica Gavilán, which is an instrument-assisted soft-tissue mobilization (IASTM) technique that helps break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions at superficial and deep layers. This technique is beneficial for an athlete at any level. Paul currently performs this technique here at Catalyst where he’s seen patients gain range of motion and strength, and reduce pain through scar tissue and fascia release. Outside of work, Paul enjoys racing his dirt bike and spending time at the beach surfing.
I am a native San Diegan and I am currently finishing my bachelor’s degree in physical therapy with the hope of furthering my education to be a licensed physical therapist. Because I grew up enjoying an active lifestyle – with activities ranging from tennis and volleyball to horseback riding and rock climbing – my interest in physical therapy came naturally. Working at Catalyst has developed my knowledge and skills in the physical therapy field immensely, and I am excited to continue learning in such a positive work environment!
Freddy moved to San Diego in 2008 to attend San Diego State University where he majored in Kinesiology. During that time, he fell in love with the art of human movement and was driven to find a profession that would allow him to utilize his passion to make a positive change in the lives of others. He elected to return back to school to become a physical therapist.
Freddy earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree from San Diego State University. While at SDSU, Freddy was involved with Students H.E.A.L (Health & Education Abroad through Leadership), a non-profit that organized a medical mission trip to Sangkhlaburi, Thailand. Freddy was able to collaborate with a full medical staff and provide physical therapy rehabilitation to locals that were suffering from a variety of musculoskeletal ailments. This opportunity in SE Asia influenced his physical therapy style to be more holistic, emphasizing a balance through mind, body, and spirit.
During his final year of physical therapy school, he was mentored by Brian Wilson, founder of Catalyst. It was this opportunity where he developed a friendship with Brian and learned to blend Eastern and Western medicine techniques to facilitate healing. He’s excited to be part of the Catalyst team, where his passions and style of practice mesh with his approach to life and overall well-being.
Hey, I’m Lexus! I was born and raised in New Jersey, and came to California to pursue my kinesiology degree at San Diego State University. I’m currently in my final year at SDSU, and in the process of applying to DPT school to become a licensed physical therapist.
I grew up in an extremely active family with interests including gymnastics, ice hockey and skiing. Being around these sports sparked an early interest in the field of physical therapy. In the future, I hope to incorporate my love and knowledge of sports into my career.
Catalyst has been such an amazing place to volunteer and work at. The atmosphere is like no other clinic I’ve ever been in…the environment is so welcoming to everyone! It’s the perfect place to be as a student because of all the learning opportunities and ability to see patients grow both mentally and physically throughout their recovery.
Andrea has a passion for the human body and physical movement! She’s a San Diego native, born and raised in Oceanside. She attended the University of San Diego where she competed on USD’s Division I Women’s Volleyball team as libero. Andrea graduated Summa Cum Laude from USD, with her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing. Andrea then followed her passion, transitioning to physical therapy school at San Diego State University, where she achieved her Doctorate in Physical Therapy.
In her physical therapy practice, Andrea focuses on a holistic wellness model. She possesses a special gift for finding the “spark” in each patient by motivating and empowering them through coaching and education. She’s excited to join the team at Catalyst, where her talents and practice style align with the company’s ethos and mission.
Andrea is a health and fitness enthusiast. She loves competitive beach volleyball, being active outdoors, trying new and challenging workouts, preparing healthy recipes, and expanding her knowledge of health and nutrition.
Andrea’s inspired by seeing people healthy, happy, and thriving in their daily lives, whether it’s through sports, hobbies, or in their occupations. Andrea practices what she preaches, and is enthusiastic about helping her patients enjoy optimal function, greater independence, improved quality of life, and joy!
The ”Military BRAT”, born in Texas, spent his earlier years in Europe, and his formative years in Seattle, before deciding to move his family to sunny San Diego to escape the rain in 2010.
Calvin is a ABMP insured, California certified massage therapist who is deeply committed to sharing his passion for healing and well-being with others. He has a natural gift of problem solving dysfunction in the body and strives to educate the client on how to maintain their health.
Calvin received his HHP degree from the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine where he gained extensive training in Tui Na, deep tissue, Swedish, foot reflexology, sports and PNF stretching which he uses to help correct imbalances in the body. While he is not helping others feel better, you will always find Calvin hanging with his wife Tonya and two daughters Nya and Quinci playing “spa day” or painting fingernails which are his favorite activities.
Austin Win is a San Diego native who graduated from Florida International University as a Registered Dietitian and Doctor of Physical Therapy. He has been a clinical dietitian since 2014, working with numerous patients and clients addressing their health, wellness and nutritional needs.
Austin received his first personal training certification in 2011 through the American Council on Exercise, where he discovered his passion for helping people live healthier and happier lives. Adding to his expertise, Austin is also certified as a Strength and Conditioning Coach through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and as a Sports Performance Coach through USA Weightlifting.
Throughout his career, Austin has been helping people keep active and stay healthy so that they can get the most enjoyment out of life for many years to come! Austin believes people aged 50+ should have better access to great care that helps them stay active, mobile and free from painkillers. Austin knows that given the right foods and environment, the body has an amazing way of healing itself. He is a true believer in letting food and movement be your medicine.
Austin is really excited to add to Catalyst’s fun, warm and friendly environment. He plans on integrating nutrition programs to improve clients’ overall health during and after their physical therapy care. If you feel you need help in this area, please look to Austin for assistance in reaching your goals!
Ralph moved to San Diego from Los Angeles in 1997 to attend San Diego State University, where he played soccer and majored in Business. After graduating, Ralph began a professional soccer career with the San Diego Flash, San Diego Gauchos, and Utah Blitzz, of the United Soccer Leagues (USL). He traveled to Brazil to train with Avai FC of the Brazilian 2nd Division, where he injured his hip while playing. Ralph returned to San Diego and rehabilitated his hip injury at a local PT clinic, where he paid for his treatment by serving as a PT aide and strength and conditioning coach. During this time, Ralph was so inspired by the positive change that he could make in people’s lives that he decided to go back to school to become a physical therapist.
Ralph earned his physical therapy degree from California State University, Northridge (CSUN). While at CSUN, Ralph was selected as a physical therapy intern for the Los Angeles Dodgers for Spring Training in Glendale, AZ. Ralph worked with both the major and minor league players in the prevention and treatment of baseball injuries. Ralph was hired to work for the Dodgers medical staff during the MLB regular season that year. Upon graduation, Ralph returned to the same clinic where he started as a patient, but this time as a physical therapist. It was there that he met fellow physical therapist Brian Wilson, and developed a strong friendship both inside and outside the clinic.
Ralph has coached soccer for over 15 years with the Santa Anita Soccer Club, Albion Soccer Club, and Coronado Soccer Club, and started his own soccer academy. Ralph is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and has a certification in Applied Functional Science (CAFS). Ralph combines his experience as a professional athlete and coach with his knowledge of the human body and movement science, to motivate his patients and clients to achieve their physical therapy and fitness goals. He is excited to reunite with Brian and be part of a dynamic and dedicated team of wellness professionals at Catalyst.
200 Hour Yoga Alliance Certified Yoga Therapist
Moving from the Midwest to California, Brittney discovered many new experiences which would transform her worldview, but one has stood out amount the rest: Yoga. She found Yoga in 2011 and became certified here in San Diego in 2013. Yoga is part of her daily life. Her mission is holistic: building a student’s connection between their mind, body and breath.
“I am beyond excited and honored to be a part of the Catalyst family, and to be able to bring my passion to life here with all of you.”
Brittney’s sessions vary based on each individual person. Students can look forward to enriching their breath, consciousness, alignment, and flexibility as well as improving their physical and mental strength. She’s passionate about moving authentically and promoting collective awareness. Her vision is to help guide clients to a compatible lifestyle by optimizing health and wellness.
Together, as a team, we strive to set goals for your body to expand movement safely by integrating awareness into mobility exercises and dynamic breathing. The breath is the start of it all. Discovering mobility and breath potential keeps our body running optimally while staying injury free. We’ll explore various styles of movement including Yin, Restorative, Hatha, Vinyasa and backgrounds of active flexibility. Active flexibility is the perfect marriage between strength and flexibility and requires you to express control throughout a full range of motion.
“I dedicate my teachings to help improve your quality of a well-balanced life through awakening the body’s mobility and stream of consciousness.”
Brittney found a home in California when she found yoga, and she hopes you find your home here at Catalyst, creating a space where your body’s inner energy can shine outwards.
When Brittney is not seeing students, you can either find her upside down at San Diego Circus Center where she focuses on Hand Balancing, Trapeze, and Dance Movement, or wherever there’s a yoga mat. You may even find her outside doing Acro Yoga and acrobatics. In April of 2019, she’ll be traveling Costa Rica for a month to complete her 500 hour yoga teacher training. She can’t wait to learn more, and to share it with the Catalyst family.
For any questions about Yoga, or if you are curious about sessions prior to booking please email:
yogapoppe@icloud.com
“I am always happy to answer questions!”
Yoga without the breath is like a river without its water
Certified in:
Yin
Restorative
Hatha
Vinyasa
Intro to Thai massage
Meditation
Dhurva Yoga
Reiki Certified I & II
Breathwork
Maggie Flood is a licensed and certified acupuncturist, and Chinese herbalist with a Master’s of Science in Acupuncture and Traditional Oriental Medicine. She studied at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in both New York and San Diego, an institute specializing in medical integration of eastern and western medicine. Maggie’s path to becoming an acupuncturist began over 15 years ago when she started working for an acupuncturist in upstate New York. Since then, her practice and interests have evolved to encompass all aspects of mental and emotional health, and its connection to the physical body. Maggie has clinical experience working in sports medicine under Matt Calison, world-renowned acupuncturist and inventor of the Motor Point system of acupuncture, specifically designed to treat orthopedic muscular skeletal pain. Her other specialized clinical experience includes oncology, gynecological, digestive and endocrine disorders, fertility, addiction and mental health. A fan of physical therapy and body mechanics, Maggie has a working knowledge and understanding of alignment and postural dysfunction. She strives to understand the inner-connectedness of the physical and emotional body through an assessment of each patient as a whole, and as an individual. Maggie believes that healing is possible for all people, and works to assist the body’s remarkable ability to heal itself through holistic wellness. In her spare time, Maggie enjoys yoga, biking, rock climbing and getting out of town and into nature as often as possible.
Best suited for those who are “nearly there” in achieving their goals or those who may want to “test the waters” out first prior to committing to a more comprehensive plan.
What you’re getting…
· Nutrition Assessment
· Body Measurements
· Custom Eating Plan
· 4 Weeks of Support
· 1 Weekly 15 min Follow Up Session
Best suited for the “intermediate” who feels inconsistent, sluggish and stagnant. Perfect for those who are > 10 lbs. of their ideal body weight, or want to conquer old habits and create sustainable ones for success.
What you’re getting…
· Nutrition Assessment
· Body Measurements
· Custom Eating Plan
· Custom Supplement Plan
· 8 Weeks of Support
· 1-2 Weekly 15 min Follow Up Sessions
Our most popular package, best suited for the “beginner” who is unsure of what to do or eat in order to lose weight. Perfect for those who are > 15-30 lbs. of their ideal body weight.
What you’re getting…
· Nutrition Assessment
· Body Measurements
· Custom Eating Plan
· Custom Supplement Plan
· 12 Weeks of Support
· 2-3 Weekly 15 min Follow Up Sessions
Our best valued option, best suited for the “newbie” who is > 30 lbs. of their ideal body weight and does not know where to start or begin. This is perfect for those who have failed in diets in the past or those looking to keep their body in top notch shape. This package is only recommended for those 100% committed.
What you’re getting…
· Nutrition Assessment
· Body Measurements
· Custom Eating Plan
· Custom Supplement Plan
· 24 Weeks of Support
· 2 Weekly 30 min Follow Up Sessions
