Wondering How to Lower Your Blood Pressure? Before we dive into how physical touch can lower blood pressure, here’s something to ponder on: “Touch comes before sight, before speech. It is the first language, and the last, and it always tells the truth.” -Margaret Atwood The Human Touch The human touch plays a crucial […]
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LOCATION
CATALYST MISSION VALLEY
1333 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 103
San Diego, CA 92108
Fax: (619) 501-2176CATALYST POINT LOMA
4490 W Point Loma Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107
Fax: (619) 501-2176CATALYST 4S RANCH
10890 Thornmint Rd
Suite 100
San Diego, CA 92127
Fax: (619) 501-2176CATALYST COLORADO
Broomfield, CO 80023
Fax: (619) 501-2176
Olivia grew up in Yakima, WA. She completed her undergraduate degree at Eastern Washington University in Exercise Science in 2019, then graduated with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine in San Marcos, CA in 2022.
Olivia was first introduced to physical therapy after numerous running injuries. She found her love of physical therapy as a patient, and was drawn to the career after seeing how it could improve a person’s quality of life, promote a healthy lifestyle, and get people back to doing the things they love!
Olivia’s approach is well-rounded, with both manual techniques and exercise to ensure a comprehensive program built for each individual patient to get them back to doing what they love. Olivia’s excited to be joining the Catalyst PT team due to the wide variety of patients, the ability to expand her knowledge through Applied Functional Science, and be a part of a cohesive team.
Outside of work Olivia enjoys running, cycling, hiking, and spending time with loved ones!
Audra was born in a tiny town in Illinois. She grew up playing all different sports, but in high school, found a passion for running. During that time, she attended physical therapy and developed a strong interest in that as a career path. She applied for the Doctoral Physical Therapy program at St. Ambrose University as a junior in high school and was accepted. She obtained her undergraduate degree at St. Ambrose University in 2011, and then continued on to get her Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy in 2013. Her graduate school education was fostered by a small class size, which allowed faculty members to provide personalized, one-on-one attention to all students. She moved to California to finish her last clinical rotation and has since fallen in love with all of the outdoor activities that sunny San Diego has to offer.
Outside of work, Audra enjoys going on adventures with her sweet doggie, hiking, camping, skiing, and of course, enjoying frequent days at the beach.
Audra’s philosophy is an eclectic approach to patient care, including interventions of joint mobilization, and various methods of soft tissue mobilizations, corrective exercises, therapeutic taping, and postural correction through biomechanical analysis. She utilizes her ASTYM techniques as well as myofascial decompression, “cupping,” as an adjunct to her other manual skills. She has taken introductory yoga instructor classes, and incorporates that knowledge into her treatments as well.
Audra is certified in Applied Functional Science and uses a more global approach to treating each patient as a whole body vs just an injured body part. She is constantly trying to improve her techniques to become a better provider and help others to achieve their health and wellness goals!
Hi! I’m Annie, I moved to San Diego from Seattle in 2002 to manage a Wholesale Beauty Supply store and try my hand at living in a new state. 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, and when I’m not exercising and meal prepping, you can find me at the ice rink watching hockey or exploring all the amazing food San Diego has to offer. I love to spend time with my family, mainly watching movies, playing games, traveling and eating!
After getting married, having 2 kids and spending most of my years as a stay-at-home-mom, I joined the Catalyst team to get back into what I love; working hard and helping people. I have a background in management and love to work with a great team! I’m currently the Office Manager at our Mission Valley location and oversee our other locations in Point Loma and 4S Ranch. I love to surround myself with like minded people and Catalyst has become my home away from home! My goal at Catalyst is to make sure our patients and staff are taken care of and are happy.
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 rotation, 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 become both an orthopedic and pediatric therapist so she can work with patients of all ages. As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Missy loves being able to combine her love of treating musculoskeletal injuries in adults as well as helping kids of all ages achieve milestones and interact more easily with the world around them.
Hi! I’m Natalie, but everyone calls me Fuller. I was born and raised here in San Diego, and attended school at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, where I received my B.S. in Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science. After I graduated in 2018, I began working at Catalyst as a PT aide and learned so much from all the therapists. They inspired me to continue pushing myself to always be curious and ask questions. I love being active and surrounded by the health and wellness industry, so I took my career one step further. In 2020, I became a personal trainer and stretch therapist, and began working with athletes. Finally, I went back to school at Healing Hands School of Holistic Health and became a Certified Massage Therapist. My ultimate goal is to work in professional sports and become a Jack (Jane*) of all trades. I love working in Catalyst’s learning environment with these incredible people, and I look forward to becoming an asset to the Catalyst team!
Hello everyone, I am Melanie! My expertise are in Medical Massage, specializing in Deep Tissue & Cupping Therapy. My education is from Pacific College of Health & Science in Massage Therapy & Asian Bodyworks. I am quite jovial in what I do and am genuinely fascinated with manipulating soft tissues to help reduce pain. Catalyst helps me fuel my 2 favorite passions: learning & helping people. Bonus facts about me are: I love soccer, dancing, and karaoke.
Katherine grew up in University City, a San Diego suburb. She was introduced to the world of physical therapy after numerous knee injuries from playing soccer. She moved to Northern California for college at UC Davis, and PT school at UCSF/SFSU, before moving to Evanston, Illinois for a couple years.
She is passionate about building impactful relationships with her patients, while providing well-rounded treatment to help them achieve their movement goals. She treats a wide variety of patients with various diagnoses, with a specific interest in helping patients recover from surgical procedures and lower extremity injuries or pain. She takes pride in developing treatment plans and creative exercises specific to patients’ lifestyle goals (e.g. return-to-sport, daily activity goals, etc). While Katherine takes an exercise-focused approach to treatment, she also regularly uses manual techniques such as hands-on cueing, soft tissue mobilization, and myofascial decompression (i.e. cup therapy).
In addition, Katherine provides pelvic health services, including helping patients with:
Katherine is excited to be a part of Catalyst PT & Wellness because it creates a positive environment that encourages both its staff and patients to live healthy, happy lives.
Hi there! I’m new to San Diego, but find myself feeling right at home and super excited to see what’s next in this chapter for me. I attended college in my hometown of Irvine, CA, where I also was able to work alongside an amazing sports doctor who inspired me to pursue the world of sports medicine. I’m quite active in my day to day life, whether it’s boxing, dancing, and or hiking. I also coach a nationally-ranked youth cheer team. I’ve experienced how important it is for athletes to take care of themselves from my experience of being an athlete, coaching athletes, to now taking care of athletes! My ultimate goal is to bring value to the community of San Diego through holistic healing. I strive to be a better massage therapist than I was the day before and always to educate my clients on their bodies and how to truly take care of themselves. I’m excited to join the Catalyst team because I’m passionate about wellness and thrilled to be a part of a team where we work together to create an environment that is centered around holistic healing!
Kristi grew up in Grand Rapids MI, went to school at the University of Michigan, and just finished PT school at the MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston. Between undergrad and grad school, she spent time working as a personal trainer and strength and conditioning coach, where she was responsible for training athletes with an emphasis on speed and strength development, as well as injury prevention. Kristi is passionate about helping athletes and active adults discover their true potential through proper training, exercise and wellness. She is excited to be joining a team that values exceptional patient care, and invests in building a collaborative and welcoming environment.
Kristi grew up playing basketball and softball and has since started playing a variety of sports including spikeball, beach volleyball, and pickleball! In her free time, she also enjoys hiking, snowboarding, surfing, and pretty much any other activity that involves being outside.
Christian grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia. He completed his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology at Temple University. He then graduated with his Doctorate of Physical Therapy
from Neumann University in 2024 before relocating to San Diego.
He is passionate about building a connection with his patients to find the most efficient ways to
to reach their goals and get back to the activities they love. Christian’s approach to patient care
includes both manual techniques and exercise to best prepare patients for success. As a new
grad, Christian brings a fresh outlook on the profession and plans to become certified in the
AFS model to best help patients reach their individualized goals.
Christian is excited to join the Catalyst team due to their holistic approach, friendly environment,
and commitment to exceptional care. Outside of work, Christian enjoys running, playing
basketball, spending time with loved ones, and adding to his sneaker collection!
Tiffany graduated from UCSD with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Tiffany has been working in the physical therapy field since 2017 with an expertise in treating spine disorders and chronic pain. Her approach revolves around a multidisciplinary perspective, tailoring treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs.
Tiffany believes in a comprehensive treatment approach that relies heavily on clinical experience, biomechanics, functional and corrective exercise, various manual therapy techniques, and patient education to empower patients to engage in their recovery and take control of their well-being. She is excited to be part of the Catalyst team due to their holistic and collaborative approach to patient care where the focus is not only on alleviating pain, but improving overall health, enhancing well-being and returning to activities.
Tiffany is a self-proclaimed foodie and outside of work enjoys cooking and exploring the culinary scene in San Diego. She also enjoys going on adventures with her husband whether that’s camping, climbing, hiking or taking a hip hop dance class.
Christina is a driven and compassionate physical therapist who utilizes a variety of evidence-based techniques to help patients meet their individual goals. She specializes in a manual therapy approach, but has sought out a variety of additional training and certifications to support her patients since graduating in 2022 from the University of St. Augustine, including spinal mobilization, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, and blood flow restriction training. Driven for continuous growth, she also hopes to blend in functional multiplanar techniques through the AFS certification model.
She originally grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and performed her undergraduate work at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, CA. Christina is an avid hiker and, on the weekends, you can find her exploring a new trail with her dog.
Christina is excited to be joining the Catalyst Team due to their focus on whole body wellness and recovery. She enjoys working with a variety of patients, including those with orthopedic, sports-related, and neurological injuries, with a special interest in working with those with concussions and post-operative orthopedic rehabilitation.
Peter Hallett is a dynamic and compassionate physical therapist, dedicated to helping individuals regain their strength and reclaim their lives. A recent graduate from the University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos, CA, Peter brings a fresh perspective to the field with his strong manual therapy approach.
Peter made a bold move to drive to California with his dog, Bodhi in 2019. Outside the clinic, his adventurous spirit shines through activities like hiking, surfing, skiing, and leisurely walks with his dogs. He cherishes quality time with his loved ones, engaging in mini golf and lively board game nights.
Peter Hallett is a dedicated and compassionate physical therapist known for his strong manual therapy approach. His unwavering commitment to his profession stems from a deep empathy for those who have been sidelined by injury, fueling his determination to help them reclaim their independence and rediscover their passions. Driven by a desire for continuous growth, Peter plans to obtain certification in the AFS model, blending functional techniques with his manual therapy expertise. His ultimate goal is to guide individuals towards regaining their independence and reigniting their passions.
Peter is excited to work with you at Catalyst, where he chose to be a part of the team due to its supportive and healthy structure. With his expertise and the nurturing environment at Catalyst, Peter is dedicated to helping you on your path to recovery and wellness.
Andrew is new to San Diego, from the Pacific Northwest, mainly Seattle. He has been a physical therapist for 7 years, and was trained on the sunny east coast of Australia. Andrew’s main goal for all of his patients is to improve their quality of life, have a smart return to the activities they love, and to enjoy the process of making life-long changes. Life is full of challenges and he wants to help guide his patients safely back to health. In his free time he enjoys golfing, surfing, cooking and traveling with his fiance’, Christine. He is excited to be part of the Catalyst because of the team’s upbeat and positive attitude and the high quality of physical therapy the company demands.
Andrew’s main interest outside of general orthopedic ailments is golf related injuries. He has been a recreational golfer from a young age and loves hitting the links with his friends and family. Helping injured golfers back out on the course is his top priority. He loves the golf community and wants you to be out there making memories too!
Andrew’s continuing education courses include Applied Functional Science and TPI (Titleist Performance Institute) certification. This allows him to break down the mechanics of a person’s golf swing and explain what areas of their bodies need to be worked on to improve form and decrease injury risk. He loves working alongside golf coaches and helping golfers understand how their body’s flexibility, strength, or coordination is affecting the shots they have on the course. In his sessions, he regularly relies on video analysis and hands-on biomechanical assessments to devise a treatment plan specifically for you.
We strongly encourage you to give Andrew a try if you’re looking to get more out of your body on the golf course. It doesn’t matter your skill level. If you’re looking to last longer in the sport, gain distance while hitting, improve your swing mechanics through training or bodywork then Andrew is your guy!
Comments like, “I’ve never swung the club this smoothly or easily before” is what Andrew is shooting for everyday!
Adam’s approach to physical therapy focuses on restoring function through manual techniques and individualized exercise plans. He also believes in identifying and treating the root of the problem to reduce pain, improve function and decrease future injury risk. He’s also interested in what makes you, the patient, unique and personalizing your care to address all your needs, concerns, and goals. Adam is excited to be a part of Catalyst PT & Wellness because it fosters an environment that encourages both patients and employees to live an active and healthy lifestyle.
Adam is a transplant from central California where he grew up playing baseball and football, starting at a young age. He continues to compete in a local baseball league, which is why he gravitates towards patients with orthopedic sports-related problems. He graduated from California State University with his Doctorate in physical therapy in 2015. While earning his graduate degree, he interned with the Los Angeles Dodgers during spring training where he was able to hone his sports medicine skills, and work with a wide variety of medical and health professionals.
During his free time, Adam loves to spend time with his awesome wife, three energetic children, and dog.
Vinh was born and raised here in San Diego. Athletics were always a major part of his life. He developed for tennis at six years old and has continued to play competitively since. When he was 17 years old, he began coaching tennis. From developing his own skills to teaching the fundamentals to his students, he fostered an interest in analyzing movement from a sports-based perspective, aiming to specialize in sports PT to help unlock potential within athletes. This led him to pursue a degree in physical therapy. Vinh attended San Diego State University for both his undergraduate and Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Having performed his last clinical rotation at a sports-based clinic, he has gained experience in working with athletes and returning them to playing the sports they love. He plans on obtaining a certification to be a Strength and Conditioning Specialist as well as in Applied Functional Science.
Outside of the PT space, Vinh is passionate about being active and playing sports, including tennis, pickleball, volleyball, and basketball. He also enjoys discovering new restaurants throughout San Diego.
Born and raised in Encinitas, California, Caitlin’s journey into physical therapy was shaped by her background as a high-level cheerleader with the California All Stars. Through cheerleading, she developed a deep appreciation for the physical demands placed on the body and the importance of injury prevention and recovery. This early exposure sparked her interest in the field and laid the foundation for her clinical career.
She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biopsychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she also gained hands-on experience as a physical therapy aide. Her commitment to the profession continued as she pursued her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree at New York Medical College. During her time there, she was inducted into the Alpha Eta Honor Society in recognition of her academic excellence.
After completing her doctoral training, Caitlin was drawn to the specialized field of pelvic floor physical therapy, recognizing its vital role in enhancing women’s health and overall quality of life. She has since completed advanced coursework in pelvic health, with focused training in areas such as pelvic pain, bladder dysfunction, diastasis recti, and prenatal and postpartum care. Caitlin takes a holistic and individualized approach to care, combining manual therapy, targeted exercise, and patient education to address a wide range of pelvic floor and musculoskeletal conditions. She is especially passionate about empowering women through education, encouraging proactive self-care and long-term wellness.
Caitlin is thrilled to be part of the Catalyst team, where the clinic’s core values strongly align with her own. She’s inspired by Catalyst’s positive work environment, where learning and professional growth are prioritized in order to better serve patients. Caitlin naturally embraces a patient-first mindset and is deeply aligned with Catalyst’s purposeful and multi-faceted approach—designing care plans that are evidence-based and driven by each individual’s personal goals.
Outside of the clinic, Caitlin enjoys traveling, hiking, Pilates, indoor cycling, and spending quality time with family and friends (including her goldendoodle, Coco!).
I graduated from the International College of Holistic Studies for massage therapy. I specialize in deep tissue massage, sports recovery, and performance-enhancing bodywork. My approach blends holistic, intuitive, and science-based techniques to address the body as a whole. I take pride in helping clients not only feel better but also gain confidence. My goal is always to find and treat the root cause of discomfort, not just provide a temporary fix.
Outside of massage therapy, I enjoy staying active in the gym, exploring nature, and tending to my garden. Fun fact: I have a deep love for music and often experience frisson — that spine-tingling sensation when a song truly moves you.
Hi, I’m Jess!
I studied massage therapy at Healing Hands School of Holistic Health through their Holistic Health Practitioner Program. Since then, I have worked as an HHP and CMT focusing on integrating various forms of body work, nervous system regulation, and emotional/mental tools to give my clients the personalized care that will best meet their goals. I enjoy weaving both Eastern and Western philosophies and understandings of the body to create a holistic approach to individual health and wellness. Some practices I enjoy bringing into sessions are Deep Tissue, Lomi Lomi, Tui Na, Shiatsu, Somatic Re-patterning, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, and Dynamic Cupping. So whether your goal is to decrease pain/inflammation, rest and relax, rebalance posture, break up scar tissue, or prenatal and postnatal care, I’ve got you covered.
Hi, I’m Victor! I’ve been a massage therapist since 2018, and I work a lot with athletes, especially boxers and MMA fighters. I graduated from Pacific College of Health and Science and am currently finishing up my Holistic Health Practitioner (HHP) certification, always leveling up my skills to better serve my clients.
My style combines deep tissue, PNF, myofascial release, acupressure, assisted stretching, and Swedish techniques. Whether you’re an athlete in training or just looking to feel your best, I’m all about helping you move better, recover faster, and feel amazing.
Rebecca was born in the Los Angeles area and moved to San Diego (Mira Mesa) when she was 5 years old. She grew up doing gymnastics from age 7-14 years old (her first job was a gymnastics coach), in high school she ran on the Track team (sprinted in the 100m and 200m dash, pole vaulted, ran 100m hurdles) and played Field Hockey. Her sophomore year in high school she went on a job shadow at a physical therapy clinic and fell in love with it! She went on to get her bachelor’s degree in Applied Health, Emphasis in Physical Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. She then obtained her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Regis University in Denver, Colorado. She found that she couldn’t trade the mountains for the ocean so she came back to southern California. She still loves nearly every part of physical therapy and has worked in the hospital setting, outpatient orthopedics, women’s health, vestibular, neurological, acute rehabilitation and home health. She is so excited to be joining the Catalyst team in pursuit of returning to her orthopedic roots and to work on specializing in pelvic floor PT. Her professional motto is “Attain optimal function,” and sought out Catalyst because of its holistic approach, excellence, positivity and team approach. Through manual therapy, postural analysis, customized exercise plans, stretches and education (sharing everything she has learned in her 17 years as a PT is one of her favorite things to give to her patients) she wants every patient to attain their most optimal function! She is constantly learning in order to provide even more excellent care and is so excited to explore Applied Functional Analysis and become certified.
Outside of work Rebecca has a wonderful family with her husband and two high energy kiddos. They love to travel, go to the beach, go camping, swim, hike and ride bikes together. Rebecca has a lifetime membership to Girl Scouts and enjoys volunteering with her daughter’s troop!
Maya is originally from Vernon Hills, Illinois moved to SF Bay Area in 2015. Since then, she has lived all over northern California, earning her B.S. in Exercise Physiology with a minor in Adapted Physical Activity at Chico State University and then her Doctor of Physical Therapy at University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA. In January 2025, she moved to San Diego, where she lives with her sister and her sister’s 2 dogs.
Maya was a 3-sport athlete growing up, playing field hockey, basketball, and lacrosse. She tore her ACL in college, which propelled her to pursue physical therapy as a career after going through it herself. She has training in working with individuals with disabilities such as Autism and developmental delays, as well as did a full rotation at a neurological clinic that specialized in vertigo.
Outside of the clinic, Maya enjoys going for early morning hikes on the weekend, painting, and spending time with her sister’s dogs. In her free time, Maya likes to stay active by going to the gym and being part of a kickball rec league.
Kyle grew up on the Central Coast of California and was educated in Philosophy as his undergraduate degree at San Francisco State University before moving to Oregon to become a massage therapist. This sparked his journey into the world of physical therapy, and he attended the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos, here in San Diego. He’s worked as a PT for over three years and is excited to further his career with Catalyst PT and Wellness. His background in massage therapy drew his interest to the clinic and their philosophy, including their multifaceted approach involving collaborating, care with massage therapists and personal trainers. He is passionate about helping his patients reach their goals and beyond so they can keep up a healthy and active lifestyle.
I was born and raised in North Hollywood, CA and lived there until I started college. I graduated from CSULB with a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science, then received my Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in 2025. In undergrad and prior to PT school I worked in retail at Hollister and as a bartender at AMC (yes the movie theater haha).
Throughout my years being an aide, I worked at a clinic focused on vestibular disorders, neurological conditions, and facial paralysis which really peaked my interest. During PT school, I had the opportunity to be exposed to many different settings, including wound care, sports, orthopedic care, aquatic therapy, pelvic health, and vestibular disorders, which has allowed me to grow and enhance my skills as a student physical therapist. During my last year of PT school, I received my level 1 certification for the APTA pelvic health course. With my experience during my last clinical rotation, I have gained skills and education helping patients with pelvic pain, incontinence, postpartum symptoms, diastasis recti, and labor preparation. With everything I have learned so far, I am ready to take my skills and knowledge to the next level with Catalyst while continuing to grow and improve each day.
Outside of the clinic, I love listening to live music at my favorite festivals and concerts, traveling with my friends, taking workout classes, eating good food, running, and simply spending time with people that I love and that make me laugh. I grew up playing basketball and volleyball, and have started playing a little bit of pickleball during PT school, so I would love to catch a game whenever I have the time!
Reagan is a PT that specializes in orthopedics, sports medicine, and pelvic health. Originally from the Bay Area, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from Purdue University in Indiana before completing her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at San Diego State University. During her clinical training, she gained experience in both orthopedic and pelvic health settings.
Reagan’s passion for physical therapy began while working as an athletic training assistant with a football team. She loved being part of the recovery process and helping athletes safely return to the sports and activities they enjoyed. Her experience working in a nursing home also sparked a passion for helping older adults regain their independence and return to the activities that are meaningful to them. These experiences shaped her belief that physical therapy can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives at every age and stage. Clinically, Reagan enjoys working with a wide range of patients, from athletes and active individuals to those navigating pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and menopause. She has a particular interest in helping women manage the physical changes that occur throughout different stages of life and supporting them in maintaining strength, confidence, and quality of life. She also enjoys working with active individuals and athletes who want to stay strong, prevent injuries, and continue doing the activities they love.
Outside of the clinic, Reagan enjoys weightlifting, hiking, being involved in her church, and cheering on the Packers.
Gin is a California native who earned her B.S. in Kinesiology with a minor in Gerontology from San Diego State University. She went on to earn her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Stony Brook University in New York before returning home to California to begin her career.
Gin works in orthopedics and women’s health/pelvic floor therapy. She loves working with patients who feel like a puzzle, taking the time to understand the “why” behind their pain or movement limitations. Her goal is not only to help patients feel better, but also to help them understand their bodies so they feel empowered to take an active role in their recovery.
Her approach to physical therapy is whole-body and individualized, looking at how the body moves and works together as a whole. When using manual therapy, she believes it should always have a purpose — whether that’s reducing pain, improving mobility, or helping someone move more comfortably. From there, she works with patients to improve movement efficiency, muscle activation, and coordination so they can return to the activities that matter most to them.
Gin is especially passionate about women’s health and pelvic floor conditions. She loves that this area of physical therapy allows her to look at the entire body and understand how everything works together. She also hopes to increase awareness and education around pelvic floor health, helping patients recognize that symptoms they may have been living with for years aren’t necessarily something they simply have to accept as “normal.” Helping someone regain confidence in their body and return to the activities they love is one of the most rewarding parts of her work.
Outside of the clinic, Gin loves traveling and exploring new places, spending time by the ocean, attending concerts, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.
Brian Wilson is the owner of Catalyst Physical Therapy & Wellness and our partner gym, Catalyst Performance. 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 actively treating or designing a training program for a group of athletes, he dedicates his efforts to expanding the Catalyst empire, focusing on enhancing the outreach initiatives and community connections. He remains passionate about working collaboratively with the team to foster a more holistic approach in physical therapy, emphasizing comprehensive treatment methods and actively engaging with the community to promote healthier lifestyle choices. His commitment lies in not just treating patients, but also in evolving the profession to better serve and integrate with the lives of those we help.
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 but enjoys each new chapter that unfolds with the active lifestyle he lives. He regularly enjoys coaching, traveling, running, cycling, skiing, adventure racing, fishing, hiking, and getting outside – in moderation of course!☺
Lizzy Treeheart grew up in a small farming community in Indiana and obtained her undergraduate degree from Purdue University for Athletic Training in 1991 and graduate degree from University of Indianapolis in 1994. She’s attended many years of continuing education in various techniques, mainly visceral and neural manipulation from the Barral Institute, along with ongoing training in Intuition Training with international Intuitive Counselor, Beth Green.
Lizzy brings intuitive wisdom and a deeply integrative touch to her work at Catalyst Physical Therapy & Wellness. Specializing in visceral manipulation and craniosacral techniques, she supports healing that honors the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. These techniques are applicable from those who suffer chronic pain to high level athletes.
Known by many for her “healing hands,” Lizzy blends clinical skill with an attuned presence, helping patients access their innate capacity for recovery and balance. Her treatments focus on releasing physical and emotional tension, restoring movement, and deepening the connection between each patient and their body’s inner wisdom.
Outside the treatment room, Lizzy finds joy in nature, mindfulness, and community healing circles. Her care philosophy is rooted in trust, listening, and transformation—because true healing begins from within.
Hello, my name is Alex. I have 7 years of experience in the healthcare field with extensive training in massage therapy, including neuromuscular therapy. I am always learning as much as I can about the body, and I love helping others do what they love by helping to keep their bodies healthy and pain-free. Outside of work, I am an outdoor enthusiast! I am excited to join the Catalyst team because I want to be a part of a team that truly cares about the health and wellness of their community!
Zoe brings a dynamic blend of creativity, organization, and community-focused leadership to their work. With a diverse background in arts, education, and nonprofit management, Zoe is passionate about fostering inclusive environments where all voices are heard. They hold a BFA in Musical Theatre from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and have experience in a variety of roles, from teaching and directing to customer service and administrative support.
Driven by a passion for social change, Zoe is excited to continue making a meaningful impact within the Catalyst community. Zoe is particularly committed to amplifying underrepresented voices and championing equity-driven initiatives. Their work is fueled by a dedication to creating more inclusive and compassionate spaces.
I was born and raised in Northern California, and graduated from Sonoma State University with a BA in Communications and Media Studies and a minor in film. After graduating, I worked on film sets as a production assistant before moving to Seattle to explore the Pacific Northwest. I spent 3 years working in marketing for physical therapy in Washington. I recently moved to San Diego and wanted to continue that journey here at Catalyst.
Outside of work I enjoy traveling, spending time with my twin nieces, walking to coffee shops, and attending San Diego Wave games. I love to spend my time with my family and friends exploring what San Diego has to offer. I’m excited about the future opportunities that lie ahead here in San Diego and at Catalyst!
Christian grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia. He completed his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology at Temple University. He then graduated with his Doctorate of Physical Therapy
from Neumann University in 2024 before relocating to San Diego.
He is passionate about building a connection with his patients to find the most efficient ways to
to reach their goals and get back to the activities they love. Christian’s approach to patient care
includes both manual techniques and exercise to best prepare patients for success. As a new
grad, Christian brings a fresh outlook on the profession and plans to become certified in the
AFS model to best help patients reach their individualized goals.
Christian is excited to join the Catalyst team due to their holistic approach, friendly environment,
and commitment to exceptional care. Outside of work, Christian enjoys running, playing
basketball, spending time with loved ones, and adding to his sneaker collection!
Franco is originally from Natalia, Texas. After serving in the United States Marine Corps, he went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Sports and Health Sciences at American Public University and his Masters degree from Point Loma Nazarene University in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sports Performance. Prior to completing physical therapy school at the University of Miami, he was a strength and conditioning coach at the University of California San Diego, the University of Southern California, and EXOS. He is passionate about helping others get from where they are currently to where they want to be.
Outside of work, he enjoys staying active and participates in BJJ along with other martial arts here in San Diego. He is looking forward to making an impact within the community!
Hi there! I’m new to San Diego, but find myself feeling right at home and super excited to see what’s next in this chapter for me. I attended college in my hometown of Irvine, CA, where I also was able to work alongside an amazing sports doctor who inspired me to pursue the world of sports medicine. I’m quite active in my day to day life, whether it’s boxing, dancing, and or hiking. I also coach a nationally-ranked youth cheer team. I’ve experienced how important it is for athletes to take care of themselves from my experience of being an athlete, coaching athletes, to now taking care of athletes! My ultimate goal is to bring value to the community of San Diego through holistic healing. I strive to be a better massage therapist than I was the day before and always to educate my clients on their bodies and how to truly take care of themselves. I’m excited to join the Catalyst team because I’m passionate about wellness and thrilled to be a part of a team where we work together to create an environment that is centered around holistic healing!
Adam’s approach to physical therapy focuses on restoring function through manual techniques and individualized exercise plans. He also believes in identifying and treating the root of the problem to reduce pain, improve function and decrease future injury risk. He’s also interested in what makes you, the patient, unique and personalizing your care to address all your needs, concerns, and goals. Adam is excited to be a part of Catalyst PT & Wellness because it fosters an environment that encourages both patients and employees to live an active and healthy lifestyle.
Adam is a transplant from central California where he grew up playing baseball and football, starting at a young age. He continues to compete in a local baseball league, which is why he gravitates towards patients with orthopedic sports-related problems. He graduated from California State University with his Doctorate in physical therapy in 2015. While earning his graduate degree, he interned with the Los Angeles Dodgers during spring training where he was able to hone his sports medicine skills, and work with a wide variety of medical and health professionals.
During his free time, Adam loves to spend time with his awesome wife, three energetic children, and dog.
Connor obtained a Holistic Health Practitioner certification from the International Professional School of Bodywork (IPSB) in 2014 and a Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise and Nutrition Science from Bastyr University in 2020. For over a decade, Connor has worked with many types of people from all walks of life, whether it is the athlete trying to improve their performance, the military servicemen beat up from long hours, or any number of people dealing with pain limiting their freedom.
He is excited to work with Catalyst due to the great team of massage therapists, physical therapists, and personal trainers that can work synergistically to give the best quality of care for anyone coming through our doors. Connor has the education to take what the PTs find in their assessment to give the most focused and appropriate care during his massages.
When he is not doing massages, he will usually be found outside, easy money being the beach. Volleyball in the morning and Latin dancing at night, he finds many avenues to get moving and knows what it’s like to work hard and play hard. He is also usually found with his personal golden shadow, Gabby. Thirteen years of adventures and play have created many memories, and the people who know them see the special connection you can only see with a boy and his dog.
Kristi grew up in Grand Rapids MI, went to school at the University of Michigan, and just finished PT school at the MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston. Between undergrad and grad school, she spent time working as a personal trainer and strength and conditioning coach, where she was responsible for training athletes with an emphasis on speed and strength development, as well as injury prevention. Kristi is passionate about helping athletes and active adults discover their true potential through proper training, exercise and wellness. She is excited to be joining a team that values exceptional patient care, and invests in building a collaborative and welcoming environment.
Kristi grew up playing basketball and softball and has since started playing a variety of sports including spikeball, beach volleyball, and pickleball! In her free time, she also enjoys hiking, snowboarding, surfing, and pretty much any other activity that involves being outside.
Stephanie is a Michigan transplant who completed her BA in Psychology at the University of San Diego. After working for 4 years in outpatient orthopedics, she decided to pursue her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at San Diego State University.
As a lifelong student herself, Stephanie strives to appropriately educate her patients so that as a team they can work towards functional goals that are meaningful and significant. She has a background in Applied Functional Science and is dedicated to providing individualized care focused on maximizing function and quality of life.
While Stephanie enjoys working with patients of all ages and diagnoses. She has a special interest in serving those who have received cancer diagnoses, who are undergoing cancer treatment, and cancer survivors. For this reason, she is actively pursuing her Specialist Certification in Oncology.
When she is not treating patients, Stephanie enjoys paddleboarding in the bay, cycling, rock climbing, hiking, traveling, and spending time with friends & family. She is excited to be at Catalyst for both the positive team environment and emphasis on a holistic approach to patient care.
Tiffany graduated from UCSD with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Tiffany has been working in the physical therapy field since 2017 with an expertise in treating spine disorders and chronic pain. Her approach revolves around a multidisciplinary perspective, tailoring treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs.
Tiffany believes in a comprehensive treatment approach that relies heavily on clinical experience, biomechanics, functional and corrective exercise, various manual therapy techniques, and patient education to empower patients to engage in their recovery and take control of their well-being. She is excited to be part of the Catalyst team due to their holistic and collaborative approach to patient care where the focus is not only on alleviating pain, but improving overall health, enhancing well-being and returning to activities.
Tiffany is a self-proclaimed foodie and outside of work enjoys cooking and exploring the culinary scene in San Diego. She also enjoys going on adventures with her husband whether that’s camping, climbing, hiking or taking a hip hop dance class.
Christina is a driven and compassionate physical therapist who utilizes a variety of evidence-based techniques to help patients meet their individual goals. She specializes in a manual therapy approach, but has sought out a variety of additional training and certifications to support her patients since graduating in 2022 from the University of St. Augustine, including spinal mobilization, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, and blood flow restriction training. Driven for continuous growth, she also hopes to blend in functional multiplanar techniques through the AFS certification model.
She originally grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and performed her undergraduate work at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, CA. Christina is an avid hiker and, on the weekends, you can find her exploring a new trail with her dog.
Christina is excited to be joining the Catalyst Team due to their focus on whole body wellness and recovery. She enjoys working with a variety of patients, including those with orthopedic, sports-related, and neurological injuries, with a special interest in working with those with concussions and post-operative orthopedic rehabilitation.
Brynn grew up in Colorado and was introduced to physical therapy after multiple knee, back,
and shoulder injuries as a dancer, gymnast, and swimmer/diver. She graduated with her B.S. in
Health and Exercise Science from Colorado State University in 2018, and completed her
Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Baylor University in 2021. She spent the past two years in
Vermont and recently relocated to San Diego.
She is passionate about connecting with her patients, educating them about their bodies and their care, and giving her patients the tools and guidance to help themselves and reach their goals. Brynn treats a wide variety of conditions, but she is most passionate about treating those with pelvic health concerns that include, but are not limited to:
● Urinary and fecal incontinence
● Urinary urgency
● Constipation
● Pregnancy
● Labor and delivery preparation
● Postpartum
● Pelvic Pain (Male and Female)
● Pelvic Organ Prolapse
● Pain with intercourse
● Interstitial Cystitis
Brynn utilizes both manual techniques and exercise to ensure her patients are getting the care
they need in order to return to the activities and life that they love. Brynn is excited to be part of
the Catalyst PT team due to their positive environment and the holistic approach to care.
Outside of work, she enjoys being active, hiking, playing board games, spending time with her
partner, and finding new and delicious places to eat!
Peter Hallett is a dynamic and compassionate physical therapist, dedicated to helping individuals regain their strength and reclaim their lives. A recent graduate from the University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos, CA, Peter brings a fresh perspective to the field with his strong manual therapy approach.
Peter made a bold move to drive to California with his dog, Bodhi in 2019. Outside the clinic, his adventurous spirit shines through activities like hiking, surfing, skiing, and leisurely walks with his dogs. He cherishes quality time with his loved ones, engaging in mini golf and lively board game nights.
Peter Hallett is a dedicated and compassionate physical therapist known for his strong manual therapy approach. His unwavering commitment to his profession stems from a deep empathy for those who have been sidelined by injury, fueling his determination to help them reclaim their independence and rediscover their passions. Driven by a desire for continuous growth, Peter plans to obtain certification in the AFS model, blending functional techniques with his manual therapy expertise. His ultimate goal is to guide individuals towards regaining their independence and reigniting their passions.
Peter is excited to work with you at Catalyst, where he chose to be a part of the team due to its supportive and healthy structure. With his expertise and the nurturing environment at Catalyst, Peter is dedicated to helping you on your path to recovery and wellness.
Hi, my name is Kaitlyn Krehbiel and I am an undergraduate at SDSU majoring in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology. I grew up both playing and watching sports with my Dad. We would spend Saturdays going to the field and practicing or Sundays watching football. I started working at Catalyst as a volunteer and am so excited to now be an aide. All of the PTs and other aides were so welcoming and friendly. I am very excited to continue learning from everyone at Catalyst!
Hello! My name is Tayler Berblinger. I’m a San Diego native and I’m currently going to SDSU to study physical therapy. I love animals, the outdoors, lifting, hiking & surfing! I chose physical therapy because I discovered my passion after I, myself, went to PT for a Tibial Stress Fracture! At the end of the day, I’d love to help people and make a positive difference in the world. I’m beyond excited to work for Catalyst – the energy at this clinic is unmatched! Everyone is so upbeat, polite, and supportive. I’ve never learned so much in such a short amount of time with such kind, wise, and knowledgeable doctors! I’m blessed to have this opportunity, and I hope everyone enjoys their time here like I do!
Hi, my name is Jenna! I was born and raised in San Luis Obispo, CA, but moved to San Diego a few years ago for school. I’m currently studying Kinesiology at San Diego State University and I eventually plan to become a PA specializing in cardiology. In my free time, I love spending time with my family, friends, and puppies! I’m very excited to be joining the Catalyst family and look forward to getting to know all patients and team members!
Kelly grew up on a ranch in Lompoc, CA. She became interested in physical therapy while in high school due to some injuries while running track. She went to Allan Hancock College before transferring to California State University Fresno where she received her BS in PT and then her Masters in PT.
Kelly and her now retired husband lived in the Bass Lake, CA area for 22 years before moving to San Diego. They have a 25 year old daughter and the three of them love to travel.
Kelly has over 25 years of experience treating patients of all ages and a wide variety of diagnoses. Her goal is to help people get to or stay at a functional level so that they can enjoy all aspects of their life. Her motto is that tomorrow is not guaranteed, so do everything you want to do now.
She is excited to join the dynamic team at Catalyst so that she can be a part of the great changes they make in people’s lives.
Hi I’m Dylan! I was born and raised here in San Diego and developed a passion for sports and fitness at an early age. I played football, basketball and lacrosse throughout high school and love anything involving a board. I’m currently studying kinesiology and aspire to become a physical therapist in the near future. I’m excited to be apart of the Catalyst team and look forward to learning as much as possible!
Hi, my name is Christian and I am studying Nutrition and Exercise Science at Miramar College and will be transferring to SDSU. Born in Syracuse, New York, I moved to San Diego when I was very young. I coach high school football and love sports! I played a variety of sports throughout my youth, and I try to pick up whatever I can today. I’m also a musician and I’m learning new instruments all the time. When I manage to find free time, I’m usually cooking or baking, doing archery, or weightlifting. I am extremely excited to work with and learn from such knowledgeable and kind people at Catalyst!
Hi, I’m Zach! I grew up in Thousand Oaks, California, and am studying Kinesiology with an emphasis in Physical Therapy at San Diego State University. I got my interest in physical therapy after getting injured throughout the years playing basketball competitively, and always being in a PT clinic recovering. Recently, I’ve been more motivated by my mom after she tore her meniscus, and I wanted to do anything to help her recover as fast as possible so she can travel and stay active as she loves to do.
I love traveling and being active too, mainly playing basketball, hiking, and going to the gym. I enjoy more mellow activities just as much, relaxing at the beach, listening to music, reading, cooking, playing video games, and watching sports. In the future, I want to help people prevent and recover from injuries so they can go back to doing the activities they love.
Catalyst has an amazing team that is so welcoming, helpful, and educated about human movement and I’m super excited to work here, and keep learning from them while helping out patients.
My name is Cody, and I am a student and aspiring PT, with a background in teaching and sports retail. Most recently, I’ve spent the last four years as a professional cyclist on the US Paralympic national team, which culminated in a 4th place in the Men’s (C4 classification) Individual Time Trial. In my free time, I love to get outside with my wife Evelyn, our daughter Emi, and our pup Maple. Hiking, biking, camping…and most recently running, we love to get out there! I am really excited to join the Catalyst team and get to know all of our awesome patients. See you in the gym!
My name is Casandra, and I was born and raised in El Paso, TX. I’ve been living in San Diego for eight years and am currently studying at Cal State San Marcos for my undergrad in Kinesiology with the goal to continue into PT school to become a physical therapist one day. My interest in PT sparked when I endured an ACL injury in high school playing basketball. I enjoy being active and also enjoy eating great food. I think San Diego is the perfect place for both! I am grateful to be part of such an amazing team; I’m excited to gain experience from such knowledgeable staff in order to begin helping people through movement!
Hi! My name is Kaitlyn! I’m originally from Los Angeles but moved to San Diego 5 years ago to pursue my undergraduate degree in Child and Family Development at San Diego State University. I am now in graduate school to pursue my Master of Social Work degree through a virtual program at the University of Southern California. In my free time, I am always trying to check another thing off my bucket list by learning and engaging in new things, traveling, and site-seeing. I also love all things art, hiking, and spending time with my friends and family. I truly am so excited to work at Catalyst because of the positive environment and genuine team I will be working with. It is clear how knowledgeable each and every member of the team is and I am really grateful to have the chance to be a part of that and to be able to watch every unique patient’s journey toward recovery here.
Hi my name is Paiten!! I grew up in Texas and just recently moved to the San Diego area. I grew up playing soccer, and have always loved being active. I am a super excited to be apart of the Catalyst Team! Catalyst is a very upbeat and positive environment! I love seeing our patients get the therapy they need to get back to their normal and active lifestyles
Hi Y’all! I’m Tekeiya (Ta-Key-Uh) , a fiery Aries originally from Richmond, Virginia and have recently relocated to San Diego. I graduated from Radford University in 2017 with a degree in business management, but helping people has always been my passion and that is what pulled me towards wanting to work in a physical therapy setting. Outside of work I love to watch football (Go Commanders!) and to cook. I like to consider myself a Marvel nerd, I have watched every movie in order at least 3 times. I also love The Office so stop on by the front desk and give me your favorite Office quote :).
Hi, I’m Rose. I was born in Lynwood, CA, but eventually moved and grew up in Spokane, WA for about 10 years before moving back to California. I enlisted in the Army National Guard when I was 18, right out of high school and recently just got back from a deployment. I am currently enrolled in Western Governors University. My hobbies include hiking, watching movies, cooking, baking, and reading! If you have any good book recommendations, make sure to stop by the front desk and let me know – I’m always looking to build my book collection. I am super excited to work alongside some really kind, caring, and hard working people here at Catalyst Physical Therapy.
Hi, I’m Kiona! I’m originally from the Bay Area but moved down here for school to attend SDSU. I am currently studying bioengineering and aspire to create innovative designs that can be applied in the medical field. In my free time I love to go into nature and attempt to be mindful in the moment as I either paint, read, or listen to music. I am excited to be part of the Catalyst team so I can help contribute to improving the lives of others while also gaining knowledge for a more holistic approach later in my career.
Hi, my name is Astri Pulliam! I was born and raised in Northern California and I’m currently studying kinesiology at SDSU. After I graduate, I plan to go to PA school in hopes of becoming a Physician Assistant specializing in sports medicine. I grew up playing soccer, which has led me to love staying active and become interested in the field of sports medicine. In my free time, I love to workout, hike, go to the beach, listen to music, and spend time with family and friends! I’m so excited to be a part of such a great team at Catalyst!
Hey! I’m Eduardo. I was born in Guanajuato, Mexico and raised in a small town inside California’s Central Valley. In 2019 I moved to San Diego to finish my undergraduate degree at SDSU. I earned a B.S. in Kinesiology shortly after and decided to stay in Southern California to work towards my goal of becoming a strength and conditioning coach for a collegiate or professional soccer team. Aside from soccer and training, I’m into photography, learning new languages, and the beach!
Olivia grew up in Yakima, WA. She completed her undergraduate degree at Eastern Washington University in Exercise Science in 2019, then graduated with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine in San Marcos, CA in 2022.
Olivia was first introduced to physical therapy after numerous running injuries. She found her love of physical therapy as a patient, and was drawn to the career after seeing how it could improve a person’s quality of life, promote a healthy lifestyle, and get people back to doing the things they love!
Olivia’s approach is well-rounded, with both manual techniques and exercise to ensure a comprehensive program built for each individual patient to get them back to doing what they love. Olivia’s excited to be joining the Catalyst PT team due to the wide variety of patients, the ability to expand her knowledge through Applied Functional Science, and be a part of a cohesive team.
Outside of work Olivia enjoys running, cycling, hiking, and spending time with loved ones!
Jane grew up in rural Washington state, where she completed her undergraduate studies at Western Washington University and DPT program at Eastern Washington University. After graduation in 2014, Jane moved from Washington to Louisiana to Virginia, working in various PT settings, before settling in San Diego in 2018. Some of her hobbies include hiking, paddle boarding, snowboarding, gardening, and spending time with her family- her husband and two dobermans.
She is passionate about helping patients get back to their hobbies, athletics, activities of daily living, and careers. Physical therapy has a reputation of being “Pain and Torture,” but Jane strives to make every treatment fun, dynamic, and educational. She is excited to be part of the Catalyst PT and Wellness team because of the holistic approach they take toward healing, and their commitment to clinical excellence and professional development.
Patrick was born and raised in Dearborn, Michigan. He grew up playing basketball, baseball, and football and wanted to take his passion for sports into his career with him. He attended Grand Valley State University and received his bachelor’s of science in clinical exercise science. During this time as well as shortly after, he worked on the medical staff of the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Detroit Lions for athletic training. He went on to attend the University of St. Augustine in San Marcos where he received his doctorate of physical therapy and has stayed in southern California ever since.
Patrick’s hobbies include continuing to play basketball, baseball, and football as much as
possible. He also enjoys working out, hiking, going to the beach, surfing, and the active lifestyle
that San Diego has to offer!
Patrick’s treatment approach to patient care involves functional techniques utilizing an AFS
model in conjunction with manual therapy through joint mobilizations, spinal manipulation,
IASTM, therapeutic modalities, KT taping, biomechanical neuromuscular correction, and many
more. Patrick has a background in personal training, as well as experience working on the
medical staff of professional sports teams in the athletic training realm to which he
incorporates into his treatment process of injury rehabilitation.
Patrick is excited to work at Catalyst due to the incredible culture and professionalism that the
organization incorporates daily, as well as the ability to expand his knowledge of general
population and athletic-related injury treatments.
Jasmin Pimentel received her certificate in Massage Therapy and Asian Body Work from the Pacific College of Health and Science in 2018. It was there that she specialized in integrating western and eastern techniques to offer a holistic approach to the body that focuses on emotional and physical tension. She also holds her Associates Degree in Biology from Southwestern College. Jasmin is passionate about continuing her education, and obtaining skills that allow her to help others reach their health goals.
Jasmin is very excited to join the Catalyst team because she strongly believes in investing in our bodies. She understands that time, effort, and discipline are essential for our healing journeys so she intends to be a safe space and mentor to her clients. As a former student athlete, Jasmin also aspires to educate young athletes about proper body mechanics, and prioritizing self care to prevent injuries and promote speedy recoveries.
Jasmin was born and raised in the San Diego South Bay, so the beach definitely feels like home for her. She now spends most of her free time on park dates, or the living room floor with her young son Oliver. Jasmin also enjoys baking desserts and pastries to share at parties with friends and family.
I am a San Diego native born in Mission Valley, and I have been practicing massage therapy for 13 years. I grew up in music, my dad plays the bass and sings a bit; my brother is a classically trained percussionist, as well as a self-taught guitar and piano player. I played the trumpet all through grade school, marching band in high school, and into college where I also minored in vocal performance.
In 2010 I started at Mueller College of Holistic Studies here in San Diego, and was able to get some hands-on learning with Bill Mueller himself before his passing.
I am excited to be a part of the Catalyst team because helping people succeed in their health and wellness goals is very rewarding, and it brings me joy!
Hi, I’m Casey! I was born and raised on the East Coast, but moved to San Diego for my husband’s job and in hopes of starting a new chapter. I received my bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education at Towson University back home in Maryland and used to be a first grade teacher. I love to hang out with my family and friends, listen to music, cook, and learn more about photography. I am very excited to meet new people, create new experiences, and be a part of the Catalyst team!
Hello, my name is Callie and I am an undergraduate kinesiology pre-physical therapy major student at San Diego State. I grew up in Ridgecrest, CA, where I developed a love for the outdoors. Whether it is hiking, snowboarding, or tennis, the outdoors is where I spend most of my time. I began at Catalyst as a patient last July and was able to volunteer in the following months. The staff was so friendly and knowledgeable that I cannot wait to continue my time here as a PT aide.
Hey! My name is Raigan and I am from Salt Lake City, UT! I am studying Kinesiology with an emphasis in Physical Therapy at SDSU. I grew up doing competitive dance, and have always had a strong passion for health and wellness. When I’m not at work or school, I enjoy watching my favorite teams play (Utah Jazz, LA Kings, and Padres)! My goal after undergrad is to attend physical therapy school. I have loved all the time I have spent at Catalyst so far and look forward to my time as a PT-aide!
I’m Cameron, born and raised in Anderson, Indiana, in a family with 5 brothers competing in sports all of my life and enjoying anything active. I spent 6 years on active duty in the Air Force, where I got the chance to travel the world and live overseas for most of that time. I am currently pursuing grad school for Physical Therapy, but when I am not working I spend most of my down time with my wife and our two dogs traveling from state to state. My hobbies include weightlifting, visiting new countries, and sporting events.
Hi, my name is Emily! I am from Austin, Texas and am currently studying Biology at SDSU. I enjoy many things such as hiking, going to the beach, and playing guitar. I started my journey at Catalyst as a volunteer and am very excited to further my education and patient care experience here as an aide.
Hi, I’m Chloe! I was born and raised here in San Diego, and I am lucky to still call it home! I earned my bachelor’s in psychology, as well as a minor in Spanish and Human Resources at San Diego State University. I am hoping to continue my education in hopes of pursuing a career in physical therapy and eventually working with professional athletes. I love the beach, reading, and most of all cooking so feel free to share your favorite recipes with me at the front desk! I also have a huge travel bug, so recommendations are welcomed! Beyond that, I am so excited to be a part of such an upbeat and hardworking team at Catalyst!
Ryan grew up in Northern California, in the coastal area of Santa Cruz. He played a variety of sports as a kid, but quickly gravitated more and more towards the water. Ryan began competitive swimming and water polo, participated in the Junior Lifeguards program, and became passionate about surfing. Ryan attended UC Santa Barbara for his undergraduate education, receiving a degree in Environmental Studies, with a minor in Exercise and Health Science in 2006. Ryan then attended the Graduate Program in Physical Therapy at UC San Francisco / San Francisco State University, where he earned a Masters in Science and Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2012. Ryan spent the first four years of his career working in outpatient physical therapy in Santa Barbara CA.
After tying the knot with his wonderful wife Lindsay, Ryan spent the next 5+ years practicing outpatient physical therapy in the state of Rhode Island.Ryan and Lindsay are happy to now be returning to sunny CA with their wild but lovable cat, Leo.
Outside of work, Ryan can be found in the ocean surfing, or swimming with a camera making ocean art and surf photography. Ryan has found a new appreciation and addiction to analog photography and vintage cameras, and loves to talk photography to anyone who will listen.Ryan and his wife Lindsay love to participate in adaptive surf therapy organizations, spend time at the beach, and love finding good breweries and coffee shops to enjoy.
Ryan’s approach to physical therapy is a combination of strong manual skills, including soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, craniosacral mobilization techniques and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques to get his clients moving more efficiently. Manual therapy techniques are always complimented with targeted exercise to further maximize any gains, and allow clients to progress towards their goals. Ryan is excited to join the Catalyst team to work alongside a motivated and talented group of therapists in a family-oriented business, and further his knowledge and skills in Applied Functional Science techniques.
Hello, my name is Mariedel! I attended IPSB Massage Therapy College where I received my Associate’s degree in Holistic Health. My concentration was in NMT (Neuromuscular Therapy) and traditional Thai, but I love using NMT work more. I was also trained in lymphatic drainage massage that is used in Brazil, which is more of a body sculpting with lymphatic drainage built into it. I am also currently enrolled at SDSU for Speech, Language, and Hearing. I love helping people, and being able to watch them improve themselves!
Hi, my name is David! I was born and raised in California and have been living in San Diego for the past 8 years. I grew up active and loved playing any type of sport. Before I graduated high school, I enlisted in the Navy and spent six years living in different parts of the country and visiting quite a few countries. I realized I wanted to be a Physical Therapist when I got out of the military and thus began schooling right away. I’m now a Kinesiology major with a Pre-PT emphasis at SDSU. In my free time I enjoy weightlifting, hiking with my dog and wife, and reading. I’m honored to work beside the knowledgeable, caring staff at Catalyst and I hope to learn as much as I can during my time here.
Hi, my name is Lanie! I was born in Arizona and currently study Kinesiology and Psychology as an undergraduate student at SDSU. I love to be active! I grew up running competitively and I now waterski for my school. In my free time I like to surf, hike, camp, meditate, read and paint! In the future, I hope to help people improve their health both physically and mentally! I am super excited to join the welcoming and supportive Catalyst team!
Hi, I’m Aidan! I graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University with a BS in Applied Health,, and my goal is to one day earn my DPT and become a physical therapist. I enjoy driving my car (’03 Toyota Celica GTS, 6-speed), playing guitar, and spending time with the people I love. I love working at Catalyst because every employee is invested in the well-being of the patients, the clinic, and their coworkers. PT should be personal and individual, and I believe the staff at Catalyst make that happen.
Bess holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from San Diego State University and has been practicing Physical Therapy since 2015. Bess received her National Certification of Massage Therapy from The Boulder College of Massage Therapy in 2002, and has been hands-on for 20 years, making her a valuable and versatile asset to the Catalyst Physical Therapy and Wellness team. She serves as a Clinical Instructor for the local physical therapist assistant program and plays an active role in the development of the profession. She is also the Director of Massage at Catalyst PT and Wellness and enjoys sharing clinical pearls, coaching and advocating in the massage therapy department. She has been fortunate to work with athletes of all levels, and is an advocate for patient education and injury prevention. She is a Massage Therapist for the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team, and has worked on numerous tournaments including the Tokyo2020 Summer Olympics in Japan. She is also a Massage Therapist for the U.S. Rugby 7’s as the squad prepares for the 2022 World Cup in South Africa. In her spare time, you may spot Bess hiking the California coast with her fiance – soon to be husband in the Fall 2022 – wine tasting with friends, and spending quality time with family. She is originally a Midwesterner which becomes clear when you get her talking about her Cubbies. Along with her healing hands, she has wisdom beyond her years and we are happy to have her Jimmy Buffet radio station on Fridays contributing to Catalyst PT and Wellness. Bess is excited to be working at CPTW because the culture is centered around providing exceptional service while maintaining a down to earth local San Diego vibe.
My name is Emily, and I recently moved to San Diego to complete my undergraduate degree at SDSU with a major in Kinesiology and an emphasis in Pre-Physical Therapy. I enjoy being outdoors, whether that be camping, fishing, snowboarding, or hiking. I believe movement is essential in enhancing quality of life, which is why I’m so excited to be a part of the Catalyst team – I am eager to help improve the health of many.
Hi, I’m Alexis! I grew up in Reno & went on to pursue my dreams of competing as a D1 gymnast at UNC Chapel Hill! I graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor’s in Exercise and Sport Science and Psychology. My hobbies include hiking, reading, and crocheting! I love to travel, so if you have any “must see” places be sure to stop by the front desk and tell me all about them. I’m so grateful to work alongside such an inspiring crew at Catalyst & love watching our patients exceed their wellness goals.
Hello! My name is Alex and I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. I graduated with a B.A. in Sociology and Environmental Studies in 2017 from a small liberal arts college in Michigan. During college, I played lacrosse and I was also a part of my school’s Athletic Training program. While I was growing up, I lived a very active lifestyle. I played every sport I had time for and I loved to be outside. Later in life, this passion for movement translated to a will to help others feel more active and mobile in their lives like I have had the privilege to do in my life. I am excited and humbled to be a part of such a friendly and knowledgeable team. As PT Aide, I hope to bring my passion for Physical Therapy to the table to help others achieve their physical goals. I spend most of my time rock climbing, surfing, backpacking through the wilderness, and simply getting to know the beautiful and vast world around me. I have many hobbies but most of all, I love being active outside and learning all I can along the way. Cheers!
Hi, my name is Lanie! I was born in Arizona and currently study Kinesiology and Psychology as an undergraduate student at SDSU. I love to be active! I grew up running competitively and I now waterski for my school. In my free time I like to surf, hike, camp, meditate, read and paint! In the future, I hope to help people improve their health both physically and mentally! I am super excited to join the welcoming and supportive Catalyst team!
Hi, my name is Kathleen, or Kat for short! I am a San Diego native, born and raised hehe. I am currently majoring in Kinesiology in hopes of becoming a Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist in the future. Since I have lived in San Diego my whole life, I love to spend my free time outdoors! Anywhere near the water is always my favorite place to be, especially during sunset. Some of my favorite things to do are roller skating, cooking, trying to learn how to use my film camera, and spending time with loved ones (like my friends, family, & dogs). Pre-covid I used to love going to concerts, music festivals, and finding out about new artists! I am excited to be a part of the Catalyst Team and learn new experiences along the way! 🙂
Hi I’m Alyse! I graduated from PLNU in 2020 with a B.S. in Applied Health Science and am currently applying to graduate school to become a Physician Assistant. My hobbies include reading, hiking and doing pretty much anything that keeps me active. I love animals, so if you have any pets, I want to hear all about them. I’m super excited to be a part of the Catalyst team and I can’t wait to learn all I can from this fantastic team of people.
Hi! My name is Cassidy, and I am currently an undergraduate student at SDSU studying kinesiology. I am hoping to continue into graduate school to become a physical therapist. I have loved sports all my life which included soccer, basketball, volleyball, and track and field (specifically pole vault). In high school, I was extremely interested in sports medicine and athletic training which ultimately sent me down the path to physical therapy. I have a passion for sports, fitness, and wellness for every type of person. In my free time, I love getting outside and hiking with my husband and two dogs, Willow and Luna. I am excited to be part of the Catalyst family to learn and grow while assisting others in reaching all of their wellness goals!
Hello my name is Saul Salazar and I am very excited to be a part of the Catalyst family! I’m originally from the great country of Texas where everything is bigger and better. I served in the Marine Corps for four years and separated in 2018. I am currently in a Kinesiology program at CSU San Marcos and plan to one day become a physical therapist. In my free time, I like to read, hike, play with my dogs, and just be outdoors. I look forward to growing with Catalyst Physical Therapy and Wellness and building new relationships.
Hi, I’m Sophie! I love being outdoors and hiking, running, and pretty much anything that’s active! In the future, I want to either get my MD, or a PhD in Kinesiology. I’m excited to be an aide at Catalyst as I earn my master’s in Kinesiology so I can get some hands-on experience with patients!
Hi, my name is Thomas! I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. My whole life I have been focused on an active lifestyle playing basketball, baseball, lacrosse, and soccer throughout my childhood. More recently, my focus has really been on basketball and going to the gym. Outside of an active lifestyle, I enjoy reading new books and listening to music. I am studying Kinesiology at San Diego State University with an emphasis in Physical Therapy. My time at Catalyst began in May as a volunteer, and I could not be more excited to continue my time with the most caring and passionate staff as a PT aide.
Hi, I’m Katie! I am originally from Indianapolis, but have lived in every corner of the country. I completed my DPT at Northwestern University, then did additional specialty training earning my Orthopedic Certified Specialty and Upper Extremity Fellowship. I’m excited to be coming on to the Catalyst Team as part of the Wave FC and Catalyst collaboration. I love coming to work every day because each and every clinician at Catalyst is motivated and excited to help achieve patient goals and successes, no matter how big or small.
Outside of the clinic, I enjoy being as active as possible, whether it is by doing Crossfit or hiking the great outdoors. I became a physical therapist because I love learning each of my patient’s stories and getting them back to doing the things they love.
Andrew is new to San Diego, from the Pacific Northwest, mainly Seattle. He has been a physical therapist for 7 years, and was trained on the sunny east coast of Australia. Andrew’s main goal for all of his patients is to improve their quality of life, have a smart return to the activities they love, and to enjoy the process of making life-long changes. Life is full of challenges and he wants to help guide his patients safely back to health. In his free time he enjoys golfing, surfing, cooking and traveling with his fiance’, Christine. He is excited to be part of the Catalyst because of the team’s upbeat and positive attitude and the high quality of physical therapy the company demands.
Andrew’s main interest outside of general orthopedic ailments is golf related injuries. He has been a recreational golfer from a young age and loves hitting the links with his friends and family. Helping injured golfers back out on the course is his top priority. He loves the golf community and wants you to be out there making memories too!
Andrew’s continuing education courses include Applied Functional Science and TPI (Titleist Performance Institute) certification. This allows him to break down the mechanics of a person’s golf swing and explain what areas of their bodies need to be worked on to improve form and decrease injury risk. He loves working alongside golf coaches and helping golfers understand how their body’s flexibility, strength, or coordination is affecting the shots they have on the course. In his sessions, he regularly relies on video analysis and hands-on biomechanical assessments to devise a treatment plan specifically for you.
We strongly encourage you to give Andrew a try if you’re looking to get more out of your body on the golf course. It doesn’t matter your skill level. If you’re looking to last longer in the sport, gain distance while hitting, improve your swing mechanics through training or bodywork then Andrew is your guy!
Comments like, “I’ve never swung the club this smoothly or easily before” is what Andrew is shooting for everyday!
I was born and raised in Lawrenceville, GA , 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, which as a result, side-lined me from collegiate soccer for 2 years. It was through these many months of rehab that I realized the potential for me to connect with athletes on a different level, and help them along a path back to the field, similar to my own.
I stayed around the Southeast for the majority of my life, playing soccer at Berry College, completing my DPT at Georgia State University, and finally completing a physical therapy residency dedicated to a sports specialization. I made the jump to explore the West Coast when I was presented with the opportunity to join the Catalyst team, and to also be a contributing clinician for SD Loyal.
When I am outside of the clinic, I am most likely on the soccer field with the team during their season. And when I am not with the team, I am usually trying to find new hikes, playing sports, or trying a new beer or coffee from the local staples.
I’m excited to be a part of the Catalyst team because I love the energy they bring to patient care, and their ability to create a fun atmosphere for everyone’s rehabilitation needs.
Jonathan Fong earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Fresno State University in 2020. He grew up in the Bay Area, and earned his Bachelor’s of Science in Kinesiology at San Jose State with an emphasis in movement science. His interest in PT sparked when he watched his mother recover from a broken leg, and learn to walk again with training from skilled physical therapists. He also was able to see how movement improved his grandparents’ quality of life, and how PT is vital for the geriatric population. Outside of work, he enjoys training martial arts: Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, relaxing on the beach, and living an active lifestyle. Jon has been having an amazing time working with the Catalyst PT and Wellness Team. He has a passion working with martial artists, basketball players, swimmers, and the temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) disorder population. Specialized techniques include high velocity, low amplitude thrusts (HVLATS), also known as “adjustments,” followed by neuromuscular retraining of muscles to provide long term benefits for strength and range of motion for his clients.
Ross’ values include an active lifestyle focused on maximizing the overall health picture of the mind and body for others and himself. He received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from University of Southern California (USC) in 2019 after completing his Bachelor’s degrees in Athletic Training and Applied Health Science at Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) in 2016. His areas of interest and experience include treating and preventing orthopedic injuries within the sports of golf, baseball, rugby, snow sports, beach sports and soccer.
Ross has enjoyed pursuing many professional passions, especially as a Certified Athletic Trainer outside of the PT clinic. Notable experiences include working with the San Diego Legion Rugby Club, San Clemente Rhinos Rugby Academy, Belmont Shore Rugby Club, and various youth sports tournaments across Southern California. Ross worked specifically with baseball, interning with the Cleveland Indians Baseball organization and PLNU baseball team. This additional perspective helps with the treatment of athletic injuries in the PT clinic and achieving return to the field of play at a peak level of competition.
Ross is excited to be working at Catalyst Physical Therapy and Wellness where each staff member displays professionalism and integrity while helping patients achieve their individual goals. He firmly believes that to optimize injury recovery a collaborative relationship and individualized plan of care is the top priority. He practices active listening, thorough physical examination/movement analysis, and meaningful treatment to improve the way someone moves and functions.
On the weekends, you can expect Ross to be outdoors in some capacity. He enjoys snowboarding, golfing, SUPing, working with rugby clubs, backpacking, playing city league softball, or running Spartan Races. He is recently wedded to Tori, who is a NICU nurse, and they look to build an amazing life together in sunny San Diego.
Lindsay was born and raised in San Diego. She completed her undergraduate degree in Salem, OR at Willamette University before moving down to Orange County to finish up her doctorate in physical therapy at Chapman University in 2018. She worked in an outpatient orthopedic clinic in Orange County prior to moving back home to San Diego in September 2021 to join the Catalyst Team!
Lindsay first became interested in physical therapy after her first injury as a high school soccer player. She saw many of her teammates go through injuries of their own throughout her soccer career, and was inspired to become a physical therapist! She has since had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of patients. She has a passion for helping her athletes of all ages get back to their sport, but also loves working on helping all of her patients live well-rounded lifestyles! Since starting with Catalyst, Lindsay has branched out into working with soccer clubs in the North County San Diego area for injury prevention and strength/agility training. She has developed an on-field screening assessment to identify athletes at risk for injury and enjoys helping her soccer players improve their strength, mechanics, and speed while staying healthy long term!
Lindsay is stoked to be a part of the Catalyst Team! The integrated approach to health and wellness allows us to work together with our Catalyst team of health professionals – including massage therapists, physical therapists, & personal trainers – to get our patients back to 110% and keep them healthy and active for the rest of their lives!
Outside of the clinic Lindsay loves being outdoors. She enjoys mountain biking, running, rock climbing, hiking, and camping. She is a cat mom to her little Olive and has too many plants at home to count! She volunteers as the president for the Physical Therapy Alumni Network for Chapman University and loves helping current physical therapy students find their way into our profession!
Katherine grew up in University City, a San Diego suburb. She was introduced to the world of physical therapy after numerous knee injuries from playing soccer. She moved to Northern California for college at UC Davis, and PT school at UCSF/SFSU, before moving to Evanston, Illinois for a couple years.
She is passionate about building impactful relationships with her patients, while providing well-rounded treatment to help them achieve their movement goals. She treats a wide variety of patients with various diagnoses, with a specific interest in helping patients recover from surgical procedures and lower extremity injuries or pain. She takes pride in developing treatment plans and creative exercises specific to patients’ lifestyle goals (e.g. return-to-sport, daily activity goals, etc). While Katherine takes an exercise-focused approach to treatment, she also regularly uses manual techniques such as hands-on cueing, soft tissue mobilization, and myofascial decompression (i.e. cup therapy).
In addition, Katherine provides pelvic health services, including helping patients with:
Katherine is excited to be a part of Catalyst PT & Wellness because it creates a positive environment that encourages both its staff and patients to live healthy, happy lives.
Alex is the co-owner and founder of Catalyst Performance. Alex has been involved with elite sports the majority of his life and has always had a strong passion for helping his clients reach their sport performance goals. Alex was raised in London, England before transitioning to the States as he pursued a career as a professional tennis player. Alex notably made the top 200 on the Junior ITF Tour before playing and coaching at the NCAA Division 1 level. Having played at a high level, both in college and professionally, Alex’s competitive career was cut short through a set of injuries, and where his story for teaming up with co-owner Brian Wilson began.
Through countless hours of training as an elite athlete and many rehabilitation sessions, Alex developed an understanding of the unique demands being placed on the body. Through his work with Brian, Alex was drawn to the applied functional sports science approach, which he knew would assist in helping his clients reduce injuries and achieve optimum output in their respective sports.
Alex has used his past professional playing and coaching experience to help mold his expertise and passion for helping elite athletes of all ages and across all disciplines. After teaming up with Brian, Alex has continued to pursue the mission of ensuring everyone has access to elite training, wellness and bodywork services that help in achieving their individual performance goals.
Alex holds coaching certifications in both tennis and soccer, and is currently pursuing his National Academy of Sports Medicine CPT. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business having worked in operations management and insurance technology for large US corporations. When Alex isn’t coaching or reading up on new training techniques he enjoys spending time with his Wife Haley and Son Cooper in San Diego.
I recently graduated from the University of Oregon with a BS in Human Physiology. I am very excited to be a part of the Catalyst team. I can’t wait to gain experience in the field of physical therapy while helping others on their road to recovery. After working as a PT Aide with Catalyst Physical Therapy and Wellness during my gap year, I plan on going to graduate school to earn my doctorate in physical therapy. For fun, I like to hike and go to the beach. I also enjoy filmmaking as a hobby.
Amber moved to San Diego from San Luis Obispo in 2017 and never wants to leave! She is currently finishing her Bachelor’s in Hydrogeology at San Diego State University. When she’s not at work or school, she enjoys hiking, camping, and searching for new bands to add to her never-ending playlist. She’s excited to be part of the Catalyst family and can’t wait to help you reach your wellness goals!
Hi, I’m Evan! Growing up in Santa Cruz, CA, I became accustomed to an active lifestyle. That coupled with my love for sports eventually attracted me to this career choice. I’m an avid soccer player, surfer, and skater, and I love to hike and be outdoors. Along with sports, I love photography and to capture events and music festivals. I’m currently finishing up my time at San Diego State University studying Kinesiology with an emphasis in Pre-Physical Therapy. I hope to become a Physical Therapist in the future, and start helping people with healing hands! I’m glad to be working with Catalyst because of the environment and the experience this clinic has to offer.
about here
Hi, I’m Erica! I was born in the suburbs of Chicago, and attended San Diego State University for my undergraduate studies. I just recently graduated, and now call San Diego my home! Throughout my adolescence my passion was dancing ballet, contemporary, and jazz until I had my fair share of injuries before college. Now I enjoy exercising, yoga, snowboarding, water skiing, and of course, relaxing on the beach! My interest in physical therapy grew from my multiple experiences as a patient, and I hope to attend graduate school next year to become a licensed Physical Therapist. I would love to work with professional dancers in the future, and help them live out their dreams. I’m so excited to be a part of the Catalyst Team as an aide, and continue my learning!
Adam specializes in the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic injuries. He blends his eclectic manual therapy skills with focused therapeutic exercise for a personalized plan of care. His mantra is to treat all patients as if they were his family, and it’s important to mention that he likes his family!
Adam received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the State University of New York Downstate, and has dual Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Health Sciences from the University of Central Florida. Upon graduating from his Doctorate program, Adam received the Student Participation Award from the New York Physical Therapy Association for leadership qualities, initiative, involvement in community activities and humanitarian concerns. He is pursuing continuing education through the North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy, Institute of Physical Art, and Osteopathic Physicians. In his past life, he was a portrait photographer traveling around the world for various advertising and editorial clients, as well as showing his fine art work in NYC galleries.
Adam loves being outside and spending time with his family. When not at work he can be found working with his hands on a craft project, fermenting vegetables, making pizza dough from scratch, and reading nonfiction. Adam likes to stay active via hiking, rock climbing, surfing, playing tennis, and he loves a pull-up contest. He’s excited to join the Catalyst team and serve the San Diego community.
I was born and raised in Illinois in a very athletic, competitive family. I am the middle of 3 boys, so things were usually pretty crazy growing up. I have one daughter, who is now married and has started a family of her own. I moved to California in 2016 to be with my now fiancé, Amy. After 25 years in the manufacturing industry, in 2017 I decided it was time to make some life changes. I chose to go into Massage Therapy, completing my 1,000-Hour Holistic Health Practitioner Program from Healing Hands School of Holistic Health in 2019. My goal is to work with athletes of all ages and skill levels. I am extremely passionate about helping people in all athletic aspects, including the recovery process and becoming the best they can be!
I’m excited for the opportunity to work at Catalyst Physical Therapy and Wellness. I look forward to working with such a talented and experienced staff. The environment at CPTW is one that will allow me to grow as a practitioner, and become the best I can be.
Hello! My name is Thomas and I am a recent graduate from San Diego State University with a degree in Kinesiology! I grew up here in San Diego and love everything about the lifestyle, so I hope to continue my life here. Some of my hobbies include surfing, working out, watching sports, hanging out with friends, and going to see live music. My plans for the future are to apply to graduate school this upcoming fall and become a licensed physical therapist afterwards. I’m excited and grateful to be a part of the Catalyst team and not only give back to others, but gain more insight, knowledge, and experience in the field of physical therapy! I’m confident that this wonderful group of people will serve as a positive influence for me and my future.
Dr. Emily Richard, PT, DPT, is a 2006 graduate of Miami University of Ohio where she received her BS degree in Health and Sports Studies. In 2009, she graduated from Ohio University with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Emily was born and raised in Ohio and moved to San Diego in 2011 to experience better weather and new adventures. Prior to Catalyst Physical Therapy and Wellness, she worked two years in an outpatient hospital setting in Dayton, Ohio, and 8 years with Water and Sports Physical Therapy in San Diego. She is an American Physical Therapy Association certified Clinical Instructor, and has taken many students under her wing as part of their didactic clinical training. She enjoys “paying it forward” because she had wonderful clinical instructors that inspired her to want to help educate other PT students.
The daughter of two retired teachers, Emily has learned the value of education. She enjoys educating her patients about the cause of their injury and the importance of all aspects of their physical therapy journey. Emily knows what it’s like to be a patient as well. She suffered a season-ending, severe knee injury during a senior year, high school basketball game. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because one day, during her rehab, she discovered this was the profession that was meant for her. Emily has empathy for all of her patients because she, too, has gone from an injured athlete to a totally rehabilitated one. She values the use of manual therapy techniques as the primary treatment for most patients because it specifically targets problematic muscles and joints. She has been called the “posture queen” by many of her past patients because she always emphasizes the importance of anatomical alignment, ergonomics and injury prevention with the maintenance of good posture. Emily has worked with patients of all ages: from the developing eight-year-old, to the mature ninety-two-year-old with back pain and balance problems. Her proudest achievement thus far is teaching a patient to walk again after suffering a spinal cord injury.
Emily and her husband love San Diego, where they can play volleyball all year round. She participates in indoor and outdoor volleyball and has won multiple local 4-on-4 tournaments. She enjoys bike riding, taking her two dogs, Bear and Thor, to the dog park, and trying new restaurants and craft beers. Emily is also attempting a new hobby: trying not to kill her succulents. Advice from green thumb experts is always welcome:)
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!
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!
Audra was born in a tiny town in Illinois. She grew up playing all different sports, but in high school, found a passion for running. During that time, she attended physical therapy and developed a strong interest in that as a career path. She applied for the Doctoral Physical Therapy program at St. Ambrose University as a junior in high school and was accepted. She obtained her undergraduate degree at St. Ambrose University in 2011, and then continued on to get her Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy in 2013. Her graduate school education was fostered by a small class size, which allowed faculty members to provide personalized, one-on-one attention to all students. She moved to California to finish her last clinical rotation and has since fallen in love with all of the outdoor activities that sunny San Diego has to offer.
Outside of work, Audra enjoys going on adventures with her sweet doggie, hiking, camping, skiing, and of course, enjoying frequent days at the beach.
Audra’s philosophy is an eclectic approach to patient care, including interventions of joint mobilization, and various methods of soft tissue mobilizations, corrective exercises, therapeutic taping, and postural correction through biomechanical analysis. She utilizes her ASTYM techniques as well as myofascial decompression, “cupping,” as an adjunct to her other manual skills. She has taken introductory yoga instructor classes, and incorporates that knowledge into her treatments as well.
Audra is certified in Applied Functional Science and uses a more global approach to treating each patient as a whole body vs just an injured body part. She is constantly trying to improve her techniques to become a better provider and help others to achieve their health and wellness goals!
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.
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 🙂
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!
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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
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.
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.
Hi! I’m Annie, I moved to San Diego from Seattle in 2002 to manage a Wholesale Beauty Supply store and try my hand at living in a new state. 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, and when I’m not exercising and meal prepping, you can find me at the ice rink watching hockey or exploring all the amazing food San Diego has to offer. I love to spend time with my family, mainly watching movies, playing games, traveling and eating!
After getting married, having 2 kids and spending most of my years as a stay-at-home-mom, I joined the Catalyst team to get back into what I love; working hard and helping people. I have a background in management and love to work with a great team! I’m currently the Office Manager at our Mission Valley location and oversee our other locations in Point Loma and 4S Ranch. I love to surround myself with like minded people and Catalyst has become my home away from home! My goal at Catalyst is to make sure our patients and staff are taken care of and are happy.
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!
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.
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.
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 rotation, 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 become both an orthopedic and pediatric therapist so she can work with patients of all ages. As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Missy loves being able to combine her love of treating musculoskeletal injuries in adults as well as helping kids of all ages achieve milestones and interact more easily with the world around them.
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.
Hi! I’m Natalie, but everyone calls me Fuller. I was born and raised here in San Diego, and attended school at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, where I received my B.S. in Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science. After I graduated in 2018, I began working at Catalyst as a PT aide and learned so much from all the therapists. They inspired me to continue pushing myself to always be curious and ask questions. I love being active and surrounded by the health and wellness industry, so I took my career one step further. In 2020, I became a personal trainer and stretch therapist, and began working with athletes. Finally, I went back to school at Healing Hands School of Holistic Health and became a Certified Massage Therapist. My ultimate goal is to work in professional sports and become a Jack (Jane*) of all trades. I love working in Catalyst’s learning environment with these incredible people, and I look forward to becoming an asset to the Catalyst team!
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.
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!
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!
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!
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
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.
Kristen Knightly Campbell, physical therapist and massage therapist, holds a Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy from Northeastern University 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 Regional Director, overseeing all areas of the business. She continually pursues new learning opportunities in massage, PT and business operations. In 2012, Kristen began working for the United States Soccer Federation with youth, Paralympic and Olympic level teams. She was primarily with the US Women’s National Soccer Team as they prepared for and won the 2015 Women’s World Cup in Canada. In 2016, Kristen stepped away 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 professional athletes bring to the table. Most recently, Kristen has gotten back involved with Women’s Professional Soccer through our partnership with San Diego Wave FC as one of therapists working with the team.
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 takes great pride in mentoring our staff and encouraging growth as people and professionals.
Kristen is very passionate about her work, but truly appreciates the simple joys she finds in the day-to-day with her family. Her time is filled with her young children, Adelyn and Cooper, her husband, Andrew, and their goldendoodle, Kali! They are quite the crew and can be found outside enjoying all of San Diego’s sunshine!
