Rise & Shine Blog

ELISE COLLINS
MA, CF-SLP

Elise earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of South Florida in 2021. She continued her education at the University of Central Florida where she earned her Masters of Arts in Speech Language Pathology in 2023. Elise grew her passion of becoming an SLP from her experience of receiving speech therapy as a child, right here at PTS! She joined the PTS team in June 2023. She enjoys treating a variety of children with various diagnoses. Additionally, Elise has a special interest in early intervention and hearing loss. In her free time, Elise enjoys going to Disney and spending time with family and friends.

HILLARY HOLT
OTD, OTR/L

Hillary is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Thiel College in Greenville, PA and completed her Occupational Therapy Doctorate at Gannon University in Ruskin, FL. As a beneficiary of occupational therapy as an infant, Hillary’s greatest desire is to pay it forward to her patients by helping them reach their fullest potential. In her free time, Hillary enjoys going to the beach, spending time with her husband and cat, and cheering on the black and gold!

ZAHRAA KHAN
M.S., CCC-SLP

Zahraa earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2017 and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2019 from the University of South Florida. She joined PTS in September 2019. Zahraa has wanted to work with the pediatric population since her undergraduate years and continued to gain experience in the setting through her clinical fieldwork in graduate school. She enjoys working with a variety of language, fluency, and speech disorders. Zahraa enjoys painting, photography, going to the beach, and spending time with her family and friends.

STEPHANIE SILLS
COTA/L

Hi, I’m Stephanie! I graduated from St. Katherine University as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) in 2023. After completing my internship with PTS I joined the team in July after passing my board exam. I am originally from Chicago, IL, and moved to the Tampa area in 2021. Before becoming a COTA I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit as well as other pediatric units for 5+ years. I have always had a passion for the pediatric community and helping tiny humans learn and grow to their fullest! I am passionate about using play, crafts, and sensory to help children reach their goals to have a brighter and fulfilled future. When I am not at work I enjoy reading, being outside or near the water, watching golf and football (Go Bears), and being around those I love!

GRAYSEN DELEGGE
M.Ed., CF-SLP

Graysen graduated from Valdosta State University with a Bachelor and Master of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She is a Lakeland local who has always found joy in little ones, which naturally developed into a passion for early intervention. Graysen thrives in treating early language delays through play based, engaging activities for her patients. She also enjoys treating children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and various speech sound disorders. Graysen feels blessed to work alongside an interdisciplinary team who empowers their patients to reach their highest potential. In her spare time, she loves spending time with family and friends, being at the beach, and shopping. Graysen is looking forward to helping your child develop an excitement for communication and learn that their words, however expressed, matter!

EMMA MCLAUGHLIN
Reception & Scheduling

Emma graduated from Southeastern University with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology/Pre-occupational therapy. She joined the PTS team shortly after and has enjoyed being around friendly faces and kids of all ages and backgrounds. Growing up in a big family has given Emma a soft spot for working in pediatrics, and she hopes to continue that as she pursues getting her masters in OT. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, running, and enjoying Florida life!

BRIAR MAYS
M.S., CF-SLP

Briar earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Georgia Southern University-Armstrong and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Central Missouri. Briar is originally from Tennessee and recently moved to Florida where she is excited to explore the towns and beaches. Briar is passionate about helping all children reach their goals and grow in their communication abilities. Her areas of interest include motor speech disorders, alternative and augmentative communication, and play based therapy. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading, and relaxing around the house with her cats.

ASHLEY ENGLAND
PT, DPT

Ashley earned her Bachelors of Exercise Science from Illinois State, and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Bradley University. Ashley has experience working with the pediatric population in private practice and acute care settings. She also has adult experience in acute care neurology and orthopedics. Ashley’s approach to therapy changes with every patient and she prides herself on the adaptability of her treatment sessions with the ability to change it based on the patient. Outside the clinic, Ashley enjoys paddle boarding, watching hockey, spending time and the beach and traveling with family and friends.

ALISA RAMIREZ
M.S., CCC-SLP

Alisa received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Florida and her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. She completed her clinical fieldwork in pediatric outpatient and school settings during graduate school. One of her favorite things about working with children is building connections with them and watching them master new skills. She enjoys working with a variety of speech and language disorders. Alisa enjoys shopping, going to the beach, and spending time with her family and dogs.

HANNAH FERNANDEZ
MS, CF-SLP

Hannah earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders and later graduated with her Masters of Science in Speech Language Pathology from the University of South Florida. Prior to PTS, Hannah spent 4 years working as an elementary school SLP alongside children with sensory, behavior, and communication needs. She is passionate about AAC, play based therapy, and dysphagia. In her free time, Hannah enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and cuddling her five dogs.

JESSICA BURFORD
OTD, OTR/L

Jessica is originally from Pittsburgh, PA. She received her undergraduate degree in Biology from Slippery Rock University where she was a part of the cheerleading team. She went on to earn her doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Chatham University. Jessica is passionate about social-emotional learning, school readiness skills, and sensory processing. In her free time, Jessica enjoys spending time with her friends and family, going on walks with her dog, and trying new restaurants.

TAYLOR TELLES
BILLING DEPARTMENT:
Director of Billing & Patient Accounts

Taylor is a Lakeland native that joined us at PTS in February 2022 as a scheduling coordinator. She is learning new things every day about the company and works diligently to help where she can! She is very excited to continue growing with the company and seeing all of your children’s smiling faces as they come in! Taylor enjoys watching her son play T-Ball and her husband coach, going to comedy shows, reading, and spending time with family.

MARIA RODRIGUEZ

AVERY HANLON

SARA PENNO
CF-SLP

Sara earned her bachelor’s degree from Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI and graduated with her Masters of Science in Speech Language Pathology from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL. She recently made her move to the Sunshine State and loves being a part of the PTS team! She enjoys working with and treating kids of all ages and has a passion for development of language through song and play. She loves to explore her new city of Tampa, read, bake sweet treats, and kayak!

REBECCA WALLINGTON
M.S. CCC-SLP

Becca earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology with an emphasis in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Michigan State University and then pursued her Master’s of Science in Speech Language Pathology from Florida State University. Becca is certified by the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association. She has experience working with pediatrics in the school system and private practice setting. Becca’s goal in speech and language therapy is to make therapy engaging and to involve the family to promote carryover of skills across multiple settings. When not at PTS, Becca enjoys playing volleyball, reading, cooking new recipes, and spending time with her family.

NADIA GADDIS
OTR/L

Nadia earned her Bachelor’s degree in Child Psychology from Florida State University and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in May 2017. She joined the PTS team in September 2017. Nadia became certified in Therasuit Method in 2019 and Advanced Therasuit Method in 2020. In 2020, she also received postural reflex integration training from a level III CME clinician in order to further progress her patient handling and therapeutic skills. She loves the team approach to treatment at PTS and values the mentorship provided by more seasoned therapists. Outside of the clinic, Nadia enjoys spending time outside with her husband and boys and working on projects around the house.

MELANIE GARRISON
COTA/L

Melanie started her PTS journey in 2018 as an office assistant. She continues her journey at PTS as a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA). Melanie graduated from South University in Tampa as an Occupational Therapist Assistant in 2021. Melanie enjoys working with the pediatric population and is passionate about helping children reach their full potential in functional performance and skills. In her free time she enjoys outdoor activities, exercising and spending time with her daughter, family, and friends.

MAHA ATEEQ
MOT, OTR/L

Maha is an occupational therapist from Orlando; she received her Bachelor’s in Health Sciences from UCF and her Master of Occupational Therapy from Nova Southeastern University. She has always been passionate about working with children, which was solidified during her intern and volunteer experiences. Her favorite part of being an OT is getting to foster connections with clients and their families. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading, being in nature, doing yoga, spending time with loved ones, and trying new restaurants and cafes.

KRISTINA ROSSMILLER
OTD, OTR/L

Kristina earned her bachelor’s degree in Community Health at Florida Gulf Coast University and completed her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy at Nova Southeastern University. In 2019, she became certified in Therasuit Method, which she discovered a passion for as a student during her final clinical rotation at All Children’s Hospital. In 2020, she received her certification in Advanced TheraSuit Method. Kristina has always been passionate about working with children and enjoys being a part of a team that values collaboration within the interdisciplinary team. Kristina was born and raised in the Tampa Bay area. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, exercising, watching sports, cooking, and being on the water.

KATHRYN PATTERSON
MOT, OTR/L

Kathryn (“Katie”) is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Slippery Rock University in Pittsburgh, PA in 2016. During her summer breaks and weekends she worked at a summer camp for children and adults with disabilities and chronic illness where she discovered her passion for working with children with special needs. Katie received her Master’s of Occupational Therapy at The University of Texas at El Paso in El Paso, TX in 2022. Her graduate fieldwork experiences included outpatient pediatric therapy in El Paso, TX, and outpatient hand therapy in Fort Myers, FL. Katie’s goal for therapy is to guide children towards gaining independence through the use of play and to build strong therapeutic relationships with her patients as well as families. In her free time, Katie enjoys doing yoga, crafting, cooking, and exploring the outdoors.

JESSICA POLACK
OTR/L

Jessica received her Bachelor of Rehabilitative Studies degree in 2019 and Master of Occupational Therapy degree from the College of Saint Mary in 2020. She has always had a passion for working with children and completed multiple clinical rotations in outpatient pediatrics as a student. She was born and raised in Omaha, NE. GO BIG RED! In her free time, she loves to figure skate, kayak, and take spontaneous adventures with her husband and husky.

JENNIFER HARGIS
PT, DPT

Jennifer (Jeni) discovered her passion for helping those living with a disability when she was in elementary school and became best friends with her peers who were disabled. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Kinetic from Warner Pacific College in 1999. She then earned her Doctoral degree from the University of Puget Sound in Physical Therapy 2005. She was trained in the TheraSuit method in 2006 and enrolled in the MNRI Core Specialist Training Program in 2018. She ensures that kiddos work very hard in PT, but also have fun and enjoy getting stronger! She has worked with a wide variety of rare diagnoses and likes the challenge that comes with complex neurological diagnoses. Her family moved to Florida in March of 2023, from Oregon. When she is not at PTS, she enjoys spending time with her family, working-out, crafting, and exploring the many beaches and attractions Florida has to offer.

ERICA WINTERS
MS CCC-SLP

Erica graduated from the University of South Florida with a Master of Science Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Erica has been working as a Speech Language Pathologist since 2012 and has experienced in the charter school setting, nursing home setting and the private practice setting. Erica is currently certified by the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association. Erica enjoys treating a variety of children with various diagnoses. Erica utilizes a holistic approach when treating her patients and incorporates techniques from other disciplines whenever possible. Erica has a passion for helping others and truly enjoys working with the pediatric population. As a native Floridian, she enjoys activities such as boating, exercising, photography, spending time with family and attending sporting events.

DOMENICA DEMEYERE
M.A., CF-SLP

Domenica earned her Bachelor of Science in Speech and Language Pathology from Western Michigan University in 2019, and a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Eastern Michigan University in 2021. She has enjoyed working with the pediatric population ever since having teaching and administrative positions in childcare and learning center environments. Domenica’s goal in speech-language therapy is to make it functional and fun in order to engage the whole family. When not at PTS, Domenica enjoys spending time outside, exploring new restaurants, beaches, and hiking trails, as well as sending postcards to her family in Michigan!

BRITTANY MOONEY
M.S., CF-SLP

Brittany (“Britt”) earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA and a Master’s of Science degree in Speech and Language Pathology at Misericordia University in Dallas, PA. Britt has experience working with pediatrics in the school system and private practice setting, as well as adults in the subacute rehabilitation setting. Britt’s approach to therapy is individualized to every child she sees, and she strives to utilize a child-led approach when treating her patients. Britt also enjoys incorporating strategies from other disciplines to provide the most holistic therapeutic experience. Outside the clinical setting, Britt enjoys spending time at the beach and in the pottery studio, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

COURTNEY HERSCH
PT, DPT

Courtney earned her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology with a minor in Disability in Society in 2019 and Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2022, both from the University of Florida (Go Gators!). Courtney was chosen to be an INSPIRE (Interdisciplinary Related Services Personnel Preparation for Early Childhood) scholar when at UF DPT, where she was trained to work with children from 0 – 36 months old by creating individualized plans of care through collaborating with occupational and speech therapists. Outside of the clinic, Courtney enjoys spending time with her family and friends, exploring the outdoors, and crafting.

CRYSTAL NAVAS
BILLING DEPARTMENT:
Director of Authorizations

Crystal graduated her Medical Assistant Program from American College in 2019 and obtained her Phlebotomist license in September 2021 from the National Medical Certification Board. She is currently attending FTC Lakeland to earn her Bachelor’s in Health Management. Crystal joined the PTS team in December 2021. She is always very happy, energetic and works tirelessly to make sure both her rehab tech and front office duties are accomplished. Outside of the clinic, Crystal enjoys spending time with her fiancé traveling, going to the gym, spoiling their fur baby Casey, executing house projects, and loves going to the beach to see the sunset.

EMILY GONZALEZ
PT, DPT

Emily earned her Bachelors of Exercise Physiology from Florida State University in December 2017, and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Florida Southern College in December 2021. She joined the PTS team in July of 2022. Emily was initially drawn to pediatric PT because of the creativity it requires. She prides herself on her out-of-the-box thinking in her treatment sessions. Every kid can present issues differently, and Emily loves the challenge of having to come up with new treatment plans to address every patient’s unique needs. Outside of the office, Emily enjoys playing with her dogs, walking outdoors, and supporting the Florida State Seminoles.

MORGAN HEPLER
OTD, OTR/L

Morgan was born and raised in Lakeland, FL! She earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Southeastern University in 2018, and a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine in 2021. She joined PTS in August of 2021. Morgan began volunteering in special education classrooms in high school and continued through undergrad. She loves working at PTS because she gets to collaborate with speech and physical therapists to help each child grow and succeed in all areas. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time outside and hanging out with her 2 cats and Great Dane puppy.

TAYLOR HARDY
CCC-SLP

Taylor earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Nicholls State University and a Master’s of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Southern University in Louisiana. Taylor’s mission is to empower children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and individuals with communication challenges to achieve independence and maximize their full potential. She is passionate about helping others learn to enjoy communication and that our words – no matter how we express them – matter! Taylor recently moved to Florida and is excited to explore all that Lakeland has to offer. In her free time outside of work, Taylor enjoys spending time with her cats, going to the beach, and diving into self-development. She is looking forward to working with you and your family!

VIVIAN WALKER ACUNA
OTR/L

Vivian earned a Bachelor’s degree in Public Communication at the University of North Alabama and a Master’s of Occupational Therapy degree from Alabama State University. She moved from Alabama to Florida shortly after graduating and joined the PTS team March of 2022. Vivian is passionate about helping children of all ages to “live their best lives” and help families achieve their goals. Vivian enjoys drawing, hiking, and spending time with her husband and their three legged dog.

SHELBY WITHERSPOON
SLP-CF

Shelby earned a Masters of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Valdosta State University. She has always wanted to work with the pediatric population and gained experience with pediatrics through her clinical experience during graduate school. She has a passion for working with early language delays, speech sound disorders, and children with autism. In her free time, Shelby enjoys cooking, reading books, and watching tv shows.

KENZIE WALKER
M.Ed., SLP

Kenzie graduated from Valdosta State University with a Master of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She knew it was her passion to be working with pediatrics and has experience working with children who have Autism Spectrum Disorder. Her goal is to expand her knowledge of working with children who have feeding difficulties. Kenzie enjoys working alongside an interdisciplinary team and involving the clients and their families to create a treatment plan that best fits each individual child. Kenzie is from McDonough, Georgia and in her free time she enjoys traveling, hiking, watching sports, and spending time with her two dogs (Morrigan and Blaze).

SAM ANGELA JOSE
MOTR/L

Sam Angela received her Bachelor‘s Degree in Business Management: Healthcare Administration at Polk State College in 2020. She graduated with her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from Florida Gulf Coast University, in May 2022. She believes that Occupational Therapy is not just a job, but it is a calling and is delighted to engage in diverse and rewarding experiences with clients. Sam Angela was interested in pediatrics throughout OT school. Although she is pleased to work with all age populations, her graduate fieldwork in pediatrics solidified her interest furthermore. Sam finds joy in witnessing children thrive to the best of their abilities; achieving their goals in therapy and in life (no matter how big or small). Sam was born in the Philippines and migrated to the United States at the age of 4. She enjoys music, dance, art, food adventures, and quality time with her family and friends.

CAROLINE EVERS
PT, DPT

Caroline received her Bachelor’s of Science degree from Florida Southern College in May 2016, and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Florida Gulf Coast University in May 2019. As part of her doctoral degree, she performed a clinical rotation in the outpatient pediatric setting that confirmed her desire to work with the pediatric population. She loves working with children of all ages. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and supporting the Tampa Bay Lightning.

KAREN COWAN
Office Manager

Karen has a Bachelor’s of Business Administration Degree with a concentration in Healthcare Administration. She graduated from Strayer University in 2017. She recently joined PTS and has over 30 years billing and insurance experience. Karen enjoys golf, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.

JASSIMINE RIVERA
Patient Accounts Coordinator

Jassimine has a history of working in pediatrics. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her kids and exploring new places.

DIANA RIVA
OTR/L, CO-Owner

Diana received her Bachelors of Health Science in 2004 and Masters of Occupational Therapy from the University of Florida in 2005. She has been a part of the PTS team since 2006. Diana is certified in Sensory Integration techniques and in the administration of the SIPT. She also received her certification in the TheraSuit Method in 2015. She shares her pediatric knowledge by mentoring future Occupational Therapists. Diana enjoys cheering on the Gators and the Lightning and playing outside with her children on sunny Florida weekends.

NIKKI GATHWRIGHT
MS CCC SLP

Nikki graduated from Florida State University with a Master of Science Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Nikki has worked in a variety of pediatric settings and has been with PTS since 2002. Nikki specializes in treating all different types of children with language/feeding disorders. She enjoys helping families become successful through her guidance with bottle and breast feeding. Nikki believes that by working together the family, child and therapy team will be successful. Nikki shares her knowledge and experiences through mentoring as a clinical supervisor for SLP’s during their clinical fellowship year. Nikki enjoys reading, movies and all dogs.

GAIL PARRIS
Reception & Scheduling

Gail joined the PTS team in 2007. Gail balances the many demands of the front desk while greeting families, children and staff with warmth and respect. She offers nurturing to everyone, growing the family concept that PTS strives for. Gail enjoys her interactions with children, families, and staff. She has learned so much from her interactions with the therapists and finds their jobs fascinating. Outside of her clinic, Gail enjoys being with her family and friends.

GRAHAM KILBURN
President

Graham has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration/ Financial Management from Florida Southern College. He has worked with PTS since 2005. Graham enjoys cooking, reading, outdoor activities, spending time with family and friends, watching sports, and playing with his children!

EMIE PENAFIEL
MA CCC-SLP

Emie received her Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Science in 2007 and Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from The Ohio State University in 2009. Go Buckeyes! Emie has been a PTS team member since September 2009. Her areas of interest include early language development, alternative and augmentative communication, and literacy. In her free time, Emie enjoys running, watching movies, reading, and playing with her cat, Mickey.

JENNIFER KLEINER
OTR/L

Jen earned a Bachelors of Health Science degree and a Master’s of Occupational Therapy degree at the University of Florida. She joined the PTS team in March 2016. Jen is passionate about working with children and families to help them achieve their goals through play and meaningful activities to become independent and live life to the fullest. Jen has completed continuing education courses to further her education in the SOS Approach to Feeding and Zones of Regulation to better address the needs of her clients. Outside of work, Jen enjoys spending time with her horse, Ren, and playing with her cat, Miko.

THERESE REBAIN
DPT

Therese received her Bachelors of Health Science from the University of Florida in 2012 and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at the University of Central Florida in 2016. She received her certification in the TheraSuit Method in 2019 and became certified in the Advanced TheraSuit Method in 2020. Additionally in 2020, she received postural reflex integration training from a level III CME clinician which she utilizes to improve functional movements and progress gross motor skills with her patients. She loves being on a team of great therapists at PTS as she feels a unique, collaborative approach maximizes gains for all of the children. Therese enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors and on the water, traveling, and watching Gator football.

JEN HERRINGTON
DPT

Jen is a graduate of West Virginia University and holds a degree in Sociology and Anthropology. After college she spent several years as an officer in the U.S. Air Force. She came to work at PTS after seeing what wonderful services they provided to one of her own children, and believes wholeheartedly in helping kids “be their best!” Jen enjoys spending time with her family and lots of outdoor activities in the Florida sunshine.