PRN San Diego and Imperial Counties
Centers of Excellence

Encinitas

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Reece C. Jensen DPT, OCS
Owner/Director

Reece has been practicing physical therapy for 28 years and joined PRN at its inception in 1991. He graduated from Boston University with a Masters in PT and returned in 2005 to complete their Doctor of Physical Therapy program. He has been certified as an Orthopedic Specialist by the APTA since 1996 and has a diverse and detailed knowledge of outpatient orthopedics. As a partner in his clinic with PRN, Reece sees a full patient load while directing his staff of 8 and has an outstanding reputation for quality and excellent outcomes in the North County San Diego area. He holds black belts in both Kenpo Karate and Aikido and is certified to teach Yang & Chen style Tai Chi for both enjoyment and rehabilitation. Reece loves to spend time his wife and three children doing a variety of outdoor activities in and around San Diego.

Laura Greene, CHT

Laura is a Certified Hand Therapist. She has been practicing Occupational Therapy with specialization in hand therapy for over 30 years. She has been providing hand and upper extremity care at PRN in Encinitas for over 15 years. Laura graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. She obtained her Hand Therapy Certification and is a member of the American Society of Hand Therapy as well as the American Society of Occupational Therapy. She is an author of the Range of Motion chapter for the American Society of Hand Therapists Clinical Assessment Recommendations 2nd edition. Laura has been an active member of the Scripps Encinitas Hospital Community Advisory Board for over the past 10 years. Her goal is to provide individualized care which is personalized and optimizes each person’s potential.

Karen Norgaard, DPT

Karen grew up locally in Del Mar prior to attending USC for her bachelor’s and doctorate in physical therapy. At USC she was a part of the women’s soccer team, winning the PAC 10 conference and student-athlete awards for academics. While playing soccer from an early age, Karen learned the importance of optimal mechanics, injury prevention and rehabilitation through personal experiences. She was determined to help others and sought an education in evidence based physical therapy. Karen believes in a systems approach and understands the multitude of influences on health and well-being. She individualizes each person’s needs through mechanical evaluation and active listening.
Outside of the office, Karen is an avid traveler preferring to spend her trips exploring little known places and far off beaches. She also helps animal rescue organizations, where she fosters dogs and volunteers.

Eric N. Wilson, DPT, Cert. MDT, CSCS

Eric was born and raised in Southern California, he obtained his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2008 from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Eric has been working for PRN Encinitas now for 9 years where he continues to grow his knowledge base. During these years he has obtained his Credential in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) and Strength and Conditioning (CSCS). Outside of the clinic, Eric enjoys cycling, surfing and weight training. Life motto is to practice what you teach, and love teaching.

Poway

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Rick Stauffer PT, SCS, CSCS, PES
Co-owner/Director

Rick brings over 21 years of clinical practice in sports medicine to the team. Most of his career has taken place in Texas. In coordination with Harris Methodist Hospital, Rick helped develop, design and open the Ben Hogan Sports Medicine Institute (in Fort Worth), recognized as one of the premiere sports medicine centers in the country. While in Texas, Rick served as the physical therapist for the Texas Rangers Major League Baseball team as well as serving as consultant to TCU and UTA. He also assisted in developing Proxais Physical Therapy to serve as the preferred rehab provider for the renowned Stedman Hawkins Clinic.
In 2007, he became board certified as a Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS). He has spent his career focused on sports medicine. His ability to quickly identify the issue and develop a plan for a safe return to sport is his strength. He is passionate about helping people return to the activities that they love. He is also Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and a Performance Enhancement Specialist.
Rick, a native of San Diego, returned to his home town in 2010 to serve as physical therapist and medical coordinator for the San Diego Padres.
During his time with the Padres, Rick worked on injury prevention and rehabilitation of the Major League team and its minor league affiliates. While he loved working and traveling with the team, after 5 years it was time to return to the clinic.
Rick joined PRN in 2015, to return to clinical practice and spend more time with his family. In July of 2017, Rick teamed with PRN to open The Training Room in Poway, CA. He enjoys the opportunity to treat patients of all ages, and working alongside a talented team of therapists.

Bess Christiansen

Bess Christiansen is a Physical Therapist Assistant who holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from San Diego State University and has been practicing physical therapy alongside Rick Stauffer for three years. Bess received her National Certification of Massage Therapy from The Boulder College of Massage Therapy in 2002 and has been hands-on for 15 years making her a valuable and versatile asset to The Training Room team.
She is also a massage therapist with the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team and has worked on numerous tournaments as the squad prepares to qualify for the 2019 Women’s World Cup in France.
She has been fortunate to work with athletes of all levels and is an advocate for patient education and injury prevention. She also serves as a Clinical Instructor for the local physical therapist assistant program and plays an active role in the development of our profession. In her spare time, Bess loves to travel, surf and spend time outdoors with friends and family in San Diego.

La Jolla

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Yousef Ghandour, PT, MOMT, FAAOMPT

Yousef is the co-owner and manager of PRN La Jolla/UTC, with over 30 years of clinical, teaching, and leadership experience. He strives to make a difference in people’s lives and return them to functional mobility. He is currently part of the faculty at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences as well as a volunteer clinical instructor at UCSD Family and Preventative Medicine and voluntary adjunct faculty at San Diego State University. Yousef is a fellow at the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy and Associate member applicant at the Scoliosis Research Society. He has developed and contributed to many continuing education courses that he teaches nationally, bringing added experience to the team.

Nic Carrillo, PT, DPT

Nic is a physical therapist from Walnut Creek, CA and received an Exercise Physiology degree from California State University, Chico. Following undergrad, he went on to obtain his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St Augustine. He is excited to explore future career options, including clinical specializations and becoming a clinical instructor, under the mentoring and guidance of his colleagues. In his free time, Nic loves going to the beach, hiking, cooking and playing soccer.

Nate Burlakovsky, DPT

Nate was born and raised in San Diego, CA and obtained his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine in San Marcos. Nate is enthusiastic about working with patients to develop individual exercise programs related to function and return to play. He works with a variety of patients suffering from post-operative conditions, sports injuries, strokes and degenerative changes. In his spare time, Nate enjoys playing guitar, live music, and hiking.

Mackenzie May, PT, DPT

Mackenzie is originally from Wisconsin and she received her doctorate of physical therapy from Rosalind Franklin University in Chicago. Mackenzie has been a physical therapist since 2016 and has worked at PRN since 2018. She has a special interest in knee and hip injuries as well as expanding her practice into vestibular and concussion rehabilitation. Mackenzie’s goal is to provide patient-centered, quality care to help patients to achieve their maximum potential. She also strives to create a fun environment and overall positive experience for patients and their families while providing the highest quality of care possible. In her free time, Mackenzie enjoys hiking, biking and basically anything outdoors.

Kayla Hindle, PT, DPT

Kayla was born in Encinitas, CA, and received her Bachelor’s in Exercise Science from Willamette University in Salem, OR. She, then, received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences located in San Marcos, CA. She has been a physical therapist since 2017 and has been working at PRN La Jolla since 2018. Kayla is passionate about guiding her patients through their rehabilitation process and helping them get back to their function after injury or surgery. She is also excited to participate in other’s educational journeys as they endeavour to get their own Doctorate in Physical Therapy by providing mentorship as a clinical instructor. On the weekends, Kayla enjoys hiking, playing with dogs, and hanging out with her friends/family.

Maryrose Pharo, PTA

Maryrose is originally from Pennsylvania and received her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from the University of Pittsburgh. After, she moved to San Diego, where she enjoys working as a personal trainer with attention to correct form and body mechanics. She decided to further her education by attending Stanbridge University where she received her Associates Degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant. The most rewarding part of her job is having people be able to return to what they love to do. In her spare time she likes being at the beach or hiking with her three dogs.

San Diego/Uptown

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Brandon Irons, MPT, CMPT – Clinic Director

Brandon Irons, MPT is the Director of PRN San Diego Uptown.  He earned his Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy from California State University, Northridge in 2010 and his Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology from San Diego State University in 2006.  Professionally, his entire practice has been in Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Rehabilitation.  He has successfully worked to rehabilitate clients from all levels of injury from children to older adults including professional athletes.  Brandon has progressed his education with advanced clinical evaluation, assessment, and manual therapeutic treatment techniques.  Through a rigorous educational and examination process, he has become a Certified Manual Physical Therapist.  He has been a Clinical Director with PRN since 2013, and the Director of PRN San Diego Uptown since 2016.  Brandon enjoys running, mountain biking, surfing and snowboarding in his free time.

Amy Richards, MPT, ATC

Amy Richard, MPT, ATC has been a physical therapist with PRN for the past 15 years. Amy earned her Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology at San Diego State University and became a certified Athletic Trainer 1997.  Amy received her Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy from the School of Health Related Sciences at the MAYO Clinic 1999.
Amy was the Athletic Trainer for the University of San Diego Club Rugby, Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse, and Club Soccer teams for 10 years. She specialized in on field sports medicine assessments, conclusion management, emergency care, and return to sport rehabilitation.
Amy enjoys working in the outpatient physical therapy setting as a manual therapist. She has clinical experience utilizing manual therapy techniques and working with a variety of different musculoskeletal conditions, including low back pain, neck pain, shoulder dysfunction, SI joint dysfunction and post operative rehab. Amy incorporates patient education, pilates, kinesio-taping, and functional strengthening with patient care.
When Amy is not working she enjoys spending time with her family, working in the garden, cooking and baking.

Dr. Leslie Monagle, DPT

Leslie graduated with honors from San Diego State University in 2004 with her Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiotherapy. She received her Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree from San Diego State University in 2015, with special recognition for academic excellence. While in graduate school, she participated in research focusing on risk factors for injury in high school cross-country runners, which was published in poster presentation format at the American Physical Therapy Association national conference in 2016. Leslie strives to provide individualized treatments that are supported by current evidence to improve her patients’ overall function and quality of life. Outside of the clinic, Leslie enjoys hiking, camping, reading, and enjoying life in beautiful San Diego.

Dr. Tamara Pessin, DPT

Tamara graduated with honors from San Diego State University in 2014 with her bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. She then received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree with honors from the University of St. Augustine for health sciences in 2017. Dr. Pessin has successfully rehabilitated a diverse group of patients including young and older adults with a wide range of orthopedic diagnoses including nonoperative, preoperative, and postoperative care. Additionally, she has worked with pediatric patients with diagnoses of torticollis, plagiocephaly, and developmental delay. Her passion for physical therapy is fueled by the joy she receives from helping others regain optimal function. In her spare time, Tamara enjoys hiking, dancing, and enjoying the lovely weather San Diego has to offer.

Della Schweitzer, PTA, CEAS

San Diego native Della Schweitzer has been a Physical Therapist Assistant for 20 years and at PRN Uptown for 17 years. Prior to working at the Uptown clinic, Della held a variety of positions in her 25 years with PRN. Della obtained her certification as an ergonomic specialist and now also conducts workshops and individual workplace ergonomic assessments. Her greatest satisfaction is helping her patients regain function and get back to living their lives.  Outside of the clinic, Della enjoys spending time with her family and enjoying her time outdoors with her dog.

Kate Button, PTA, ATC

Kate Button, PTA, ATC is a native San Diegan, and grew up in east county.  She graduated from Valhalla High School and  graduated from SDSU with a Bachellor’s degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Athletic Training. Kate has a background in sports medicine.  She has been a Certified Athletic trainer for 12 years and a member of the NATA since 2004 working with all levels of athlete including high school, NCAA, and professional.  In 2009, Kate graduated from Loma Linda University with her PTA degree.  Kate’s caring nature and passion for helping others guided her to a career in Physical Therapy.  She thoroughly enjoys the challenges as well as personal rewards that come with a profession dedicated to the healing of others.  Her background in Sports Medicine allows her to contribute her knowledge and skills towards the recovery of PRN’s athletic population.  When she is not in the clinic, Kate can be found at the local beaches, trails and parks enjoying San Diego’s amazing sunshine and weather with her Labradoodle Ruby. She regularly trains for ½ marathons and practices Pilates and Yoga.

Mission Valley

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:30 am – 5:30 pm

Sean McKeown MS, PT, Cred MDT

Attended San Diego State University for undergraduate coursework and completed his B.S. in Biology and Masters in Physical Therapy from Pacific University in Oregon. He is Credentialed in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy from the McKenzie Institute and trained in Active Release Techniques – ART. ® He strongly believes in patient education to ensure their understanding of their issue, participation in their recovery process and prevention of future injury

Kate Woodward, PT, DPT

Kate obtained her Doctorate in Physical Therapy and her B.S. in Clinical Health Studies with a minor in Sport and Exercise Psychology, from Ithaca College in NY. As a competitive gymnast starting at the age of three and finishing her career at the collegiate level competing for Ithaca College, Kate sustained many injuries throughout her gymnastics career requiring physical therapy, which is where she developed her passion for sports-related injuries and rehabilitating patients back to what they love. Upon graduation in 2016, Kate moved West to San Diego to start her career at PRN Physical Therapy. Kate is excited to be in an outpatient orthopedic environment and enjoys working with, as well as motivating all patient populations. Kate loves the outdoors, surfing, hiking, beach days, and traveling with friends.

La Mesa

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:30 am – 6:00 pm

Seth Egge, PT

Dr. Seth Egge, PT completed his Kinesiology degree at San Diego State University in 2008. He ventured on to earn his doctorate in Physical Therapy at The University of St. Augustine in San Marcos, California with an emphasis in advanced evaluation and manipulation of the lumbopelvic region, thoracic spine, cervical spine, and extremities. Using a combination of joint mobilization, myofascial release, and neuromuscular re-education, Dr. Egge effectively treats patients who suffer from chronic low back and neck pain, craniofacial dysfunction, and complex upper and lower extremity disorders. He enjoys watching and participating in all sports but participates in Snowboading, Surfing, Mountain biking, and Triathalons.

Dr. Nathan Burlakovsky, PT

Nate was born and raised in San Diego, CA and obtained his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine in San Marcos. Nate is enthusiastic about working with patients to develop individual exercise programs related to function and return to play. He works with a variety of patients suffering from post-operative conditions, sports injuries, strokes and degenerative changes. In his spare time, Nate enjoys playing guitar, live music, and hiking.

Samantha Schnur, OT

Samantha Schnur, OTR/L, graduated with a B.S. in Health Science and an M.S. in Occupational Therapy from Gannon University in 2016. Originally from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, Samantha has experience in hand and upper extremity rehabilitation through clinical rotations specializing in hand and upper extremity. Through these rotations, she developed a passion for hand and upper extremity rehabilitation. Samantha enjoys running, hiking, and cooking. She believes in providing the best possible care to meet the individual needs for every client and is dedicated to assisting individuals to reach their highest level of function.

Dr. Shaun Blake, PT

Shaun is a graduate of The University of St. Augustine with high honors where he earned the “Paris-Patla Excellence in Manual Therapy” award.  He has been in practice since 2011 with the majority of his practice occurring in outpatient orthopedics.  His undergraduate degree was earned from CSU San Marcos in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Physiology.   Shaun has rehabilitated a wide range of individuals include collegiate and amateur athletes.  In his spare time, Shaun enjoys participating in healthy maintenance activities and perusing an amateur motorcycle racing career.

El Cajon

Hours:
Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 6:00 pm

Robert Tendick, PT, DPT, CSCS, CGFI
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Certified Golf Fitness Instructor via Titleist Performance Institute

Rob first became interested in physical therapy as a result of a high school soccer injury, and quickly discovered his passion for human movement, educating others, and return to activity following an injury. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of Southern California, and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Saint Augustine in San Diego. He has a particular interest in treating the spine and lower extremity, and screening young athletes for movement dysfunction in order to reduce future injury risk. He has studied spinal treatment methods of McKenzie, Maitland, and Paris, as well as functional screens such as SFMA which help Rob understand the connection throughout the body. He believes that pain is the body’s last cry for help, not necessarily indicative of the true problem or dysfunction, which must be discovered via a thorough assessment. Rob is also passionate about educating future professionals and is a certified Clinical Instructor, taking several DPT students each year for their clinical education rounds. Outside of the clinic Rob enjoys spending time with his wife and young daughter, traveling, or playing sports such as soccer, golf, snowboarding, or hiking many of the local trails.

Kellie Robinson, PT, DPT

Kellie is originally from Hampden, Massachusetts and moved here recently with her husband and Boston terrier puppy, Lucy. Kellie was inspired to become a physical therapist at an early age after witnessing the positive results it provided to her younger sister with special needs. Kellie has her Doctorate in physical therapy and has been a practicing physical therapist for the past 2 years, specializing in outpatient orthopedic care. Outside of practicing physical therapy Kellie enjoys dancing, singing, and exploring all the sights and new adventures San Diego has to offer with her family. She can even be found giving kayak tours along the San Diego waters.

Franklin Maphis PTA, ATRIC

Franklin has been practicing in orthopedic outpatient care for 17 years, specializing and certified in aquatic rehabilitation and exercise.   Originally from Washington, DC, Franklin joined PRN in 2003 after relocating to San Diego. As an avid swimmer himself, after joining PRN he has cultivated an interest and passion for aquatic therapy and is thrilled to be working with the majority or our patients in the pool. He has also acquired several certifications in manual therapy which he applies when working with our patients in the clinic. His interests include skating, volleyball, swimming, weight lifting, animals and gardening.  He is the sole caretaker of our clinic flower garden and enjoys giving tours with his interested patients. He is a dog lover and shares his home with two dachshunds, Abbie and Molly and spends a lot of time at the dog park.

Joanne LeBlanc PTA

Joanne is originally from England and first started working with PRN in 1998 as a rehab aide. During that time she went to school and decided to continue her journey with PRN as a Physical Therapist Assistant. She has been treating patients in the outpatient setting for 16 years and has developed an interest and acquired certifications in the McKenzie method. Joanne is a mother of three who, in her spare time, enjoys exercising, watching her children play sports and exploring San Diego.

Spring Valley

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:30 am – 6:00 pm

Kevin Bresnahan, PT, MOMT
Clinic Director

Kevin Bresnahan graduated from California State University, Long Beach in 1987 earning his Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. In 1991, he was bestowed a Master of Orthopedic Manual Therapy by completing a two-year part time residency program. For nearly thirty years he has been dedicated to providing quality care for his patients. The past 20 years he has been the lead therapist and director of PRN Affiliated Physical Therapy. Outside of Physical Therapy, Kevin has been a life-long golfer and has been active for fifteen years in the Boy Scouts of America as an Assistant Scout Master.

Janet Lee, PT

Janet Lee has been a practicing physical therapist for the past 16 years, 12 of which have been working for PRN at Affiliated Physical Therapy in Spring Valley.  Janet is a graduate from the University of Michigan’s Master of Physical Therapy program.  She also holds a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Michigan.  She enjoys working with the wide variety of conditions and diversity of patients that she encounters on a daily basis.  Janet’s goal has always been to provide excellent patient care with empathy and compassion to everyone who enters Affiliated Physical Therapy.

Brent Furr, DPT, PES

Brent Furr has been in the health and fitness industry since 2008, and has been an impassioned educator/instructor for the past 11 years.  Earning his Bachelors in kinesiology, a Masters in exercise science, and most recently his Doctorate in physical therapy from the University of St Augustine, Brent has dedicated his life to helping others reach their fitness and rehabilitative goals.  He began working as a licensed physical therapist at PRN Affiliated Physical Therapy in 2017, and his treatment approach is one that begins and ends with kindness and compassion.  He utilizes the most up to date evidence based research, along with certifications as a strength and conditioning specialist, performance enhancement specialist, and a speed and explosion specialist, necessary in providing quality and individualized treatments.  Outside of work, Brent enjoys spending time with his family and friends, playing basketball, hiking, strength training, and just about anything involving activity and the outdoors.

Chula Vista

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:30 am – 6:00 pm

Aileen Lands

Aileen Lands PT, DPT went to Illinois State University for her undergraduate coursework and completed her B.S. In Exercise Science. She continued her education, earning her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Aileen strongly believes in patient education and in assisting patients in understanding his or her condition and facilitating their active involvement in rehabilitation. She continues to develop her physical therapy practice through diverse continuing education programs. Although her focus is on treating a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions, she also treats some vestibular conditions and temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Aileen has been working at the Chula Vista clinic since 2013, initial as a co-director before taking on the role of sole clinic director in 2015. She is conversational in Spanish.

Lauren Farwick

Lauren Farwick PT, DPT graduated from University of Toledo with a B.S. in Athletic training. After graduation, she continued with her education and received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Cincinnati University. Lauren enjoys working with patients from diverse backgrounds for orthopedic conditions including temporomandibular joint dysfunction as well as vestibular rehabilitation. Lauren has been working at the Chula Vista clinic since 2012 and is a valuable member of the PRN team.

Victoria Gutierrez

Victoria Gutierrez PTA, has been with the PRN company for almost 10 years. Upon her graduation from University of California, Los Angeles with her Bachelor’s in the Science of Physiology in 2008, she began working at the La Jolla and Hillcrest clinic locations as a physical therapy aide. In 2013, Victoria returned to school and earned her Physical Therapist Assistant degree from Mesa College, then returned to PRN full time as a PTA. She transferred to the Chula Vista clinic in 2016, where she enjoys working with patients to improve their quality of life. Victoria is fluent in Spanish.

Jerome Malimban

Jerome Malimban PT, DPT, joined the PRN Chula Vista team in 2017 and has seamlessly integrated into the clinic environment. He graduated from California State Polytechnic University in Pamona with a Bachelor’s in the Science of Kinesiology, and furthered his education, earning his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Saint Augustine in San Marcos. In the future, he is interested in obtaining his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialty qualifications, to further assist him in caring for his patients.

Eastlake

Hours:
Monday, Wednesday 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Tuesday, Thursday 7:30 am – 5:00 pm
Friday 7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Lizzie Philbin PT, DPT, Clinic Director

Lizzie is the Clinic Director and has been with PRN Physical Therapy since May 2013. She achieved her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos, CA. There she took various courses toward the Manual Therapy Certification (MTC), giving her extensive training in orthopedics and manual therapy. Prior to that, she earned her B.A. degree in psychology from UC Santa Cruz. It is this combination of education and experience that drives Lizzie to provide the most individualized treatment to her patients, emphasizing a hands-on manual therapy approach with client education and a specific home program to allow each patient to achieve optimal outcomes. When not treating patients, Lizzie enjoys being outdoors and spending time with her family.

Don Borja, PT

Don is a Physical Therapist and has been a part of our team since May 2014. Achieving his Bachelors of Physical Therapy in the Philippines at Our Lady of Fatima University, Don has been practicing in the United States since 2007. He has had extensive training and experience in orthopedic and neurologic physical therapy and has been a great asset to our team, providing superior patient care with great results. When not treating patients, Don enjoys a great game of basketball, but is most often found spending time with his wife and two children.

Brawley

Hours:
Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 6:30 pm

Rick Kamakea MPT, MCMT

Rick earned his Bachelor’s degree from California State Hayward where he had a dual emphasis in Athletic Training and Pre-Physical Therapy studies, and a minor in Biology.  He earned his Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from California State University Long Beach in 2003 where he raced triathlon for 2 seasons and rowed crew for one season.  He earned a certificate in Manual Therapy in Sao Paulo, Brazil and is currently pursuing another certificate in Osteopractic Medicine.  Rick grew up in Hawaii and was always surrounded with athletics, but he has worked his entire Physical Therapy career in multiple settings treating both seniors and hospitalized patients as well as a full spectrum of patients in outpatient clinics.  In his spare time, he enjoys body-surfing, mountain biking, paddle boarding and playing music on his guitars and ukuleles.

Dang Ton, PT, DPT

Dang obtained his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Southern California in May of 2015. He found his passion for physical therapy through his interest in sports, and always knew he wanted to pursue a career which helped promote wellness, recovery and restoring quality of life in others. A lot of his clinical experience as a student comes from working in outpatient orthopedic and sports clinics, where he had the privilege of rehabilitating professional NFL players, MMA fighters, collegiate athletes, and more. Over the past year, he developed a new growing interest in neurologic rehabilitation. He has since then taken additional courses in vestibular and stroke rehabilitation, as well as obtained his LSVT-BIG certification for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. During his spare time, Dang enjoys playing basketball, football, and hiking.

Santiago Longoria, PTA

Santiago was born and raised in San Antonio Texas. He served in the Navy for 9 years and was deployed to several combat tours in troubled spots throughout northern Africa and the Middle East. After the military, Santiago attended Concord College and graduated from their Physical Therapy Assistant program in San Diego as one of their most promising students. He has worked with veterans and people of all ages in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and home health settings. When he is not working he enjoys spending time with his daughter and riding his Harley Davidson.

El Centro

Hours:
Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 6:30 pm

James Bedrossian, DPT, CSCS
Clinic Director, El Centro

James has been living in and serving the Imperial Valley for 15 years, treating a variety of patients and diagnoses using an evidence based approach of care. He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Southern California.  James has worked primarily in outpatient orthopedics with additional experience in acute care, neuro rehabilitation, and pediatrics.  Originally from Philadelphia, he consistently overestimates the abilities of the Eagles.

Claudia Jakiel, PT, DPT

Claudia is originally from New Britain, CT and recently moved to the valley and joined PRN Desert Rehab in El Centro. She worked as a traveling physical therapist for 2 1/2 years in both outpatient and inpatient settings in South Carolina, Texas, California and Washington. She obtained her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from New York Medical College in 2013 and completed her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Biology from Mount Saint Mary College in 2010. She is certified in Selective Functional Movement Assessment and enjoys working with patients with orthopedic and sports injuries while incorporating evidence based research. She enjoys traveling, playing basketball and hiking with her dog.

Brandon Phelps, PT, DPT,CSCS, Cert. SFMA

Brandon is a Physical Therapist at PRN Desert Rehabilitation Institute in El Centro, California. He earned his Bachelor’s of Science degree in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota. He went on to receive his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos, CA. Brandon is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist as well as Certified in Selective Functional Movement Assessment. He has also undergone post graduate coursework in Spinal Manipulative Therapy from the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy. Brandon strives to improve patient outcomes by providing the most evidence based treatment techniques through a multimodal approach. Brandon enjoys backpacking, playing sports, snowboarding and weight lifting in his free time.

Amisha Lala, DPT

Amisha is originally from South Africa and moved with her family to Pennsylvania. She graduated from a 6-year Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program at Lebanon Valley College near Hershey, PA. During her time there she was a Student Athletic Trainer to the collegiate athletes, a Valley Ambassador and nominated Class Representative for the graduating PT class of 2017. She is a young, eager clinician with new ideas and the motivation to help people in need of physical therapy interventions to heal and enjoy their lives.

Gisell Torres

Gisell is originally from Calexico, CA. After graduating high school she moved to San Diego where she graduated with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology from San Diego State University. Her passion for soccer inspired her to continue with her education combining health and sport related injuries. Then graduating from Concorde College as a Physical Therapist Assistant, Gisell decided to return to the Imperial Valley to work in an outpatient orthopedic setting where she enjoys giving back to the community where she grew up by providing quality physical therapy services to the ones in need. Gisell likes to attend concerts, go to the movies and travel with her friends and family.

Cody Cooper, DPT

Cody is a physical therapist at PRN Desert Rehabilitation Institute in El Centro. He earned his Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy at University of St. Augustine in San Marcos, CA and his Bachelor’s Degree at Point Loma Nazarene University in 2012. Since graduating in 2015, Cody has worked in the outpatient orthopedic setting.

Judy Liu, OTR/L

Judy graduated with a B.A. in California State University Long Beach and an M.S. in Occupational Therapy from Texas Woman’s University in 2016. Judy has undergone extensive hand and upper extremity mentor ship and training in an acute level 1 trauma center at Parkland Health in Dallas and Shoulder, Elbow, & Hand Therapy Rehabilitation. Hands-on treatment is her bread and butter when it comes to regaining pain-free ROM and combating stiffness. When not in the clinic, Judy is often taking care of her succulent garden, walking her dog, and playing board games.

Calexico

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Dustin Bonhan, PT

Dustin was born in Hutchinson Kansas and moved to Orange County California in first grade.  He received his B.A. in Biology from UC Riverside and his Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy from Western University.  He moved to the Imperial Valley in 2002 and has been with PRN since 2005.  He spends most of his free time with his family and enjoys hiking in Mount Laguna.  Dustin has stayed in the outpatient setting because he loves the wide variety of patients he is able to treat.

Stephany Auyon, PTA

Stephany was born in Mexicali, Mexico and is fluent in both English and Spanish. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with an Emphasis in Pre-Physical Therapy and completed her studies as a Physical Therapist Assistant at Concorde Career College in San Diego, CA. Stephany is currently working in an outpatient clinic and enjoys the diversity in diagnosis which challenge her understanding in different pathologies.