Meet the Heart of Wholistic Physical Therapy
Dr. Kira E. Harris
PT, DPT, Cert. MDT, CIDN, CMPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy, Certified in Dry Needling, Certified Manual Physical Therapist)
Dr. Emily Martin
PT, DPT, COMT, CIDN (Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist, Certified in Dry Needling)
Jessica Kipela
PTA (Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant)
PT Credentials Explained: What They Mean for Your Care
Behind every title is better care.
Dry Needling (CIDN Certification)
Dry Needling is a treatment technique used by specially trained physical therapists to help relieve muscle pain and improve movement. It involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into tight or knotted muscles—called trigger points—to help them relax. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is rooted in modern science and focuses on muscle function, nerve irritation, and pain patterns.
The goal is to reduce muscle tension, improve blood flow, and help the body heal. Many people find relief from back pain, neck tension, headaches, or sports-related injuries after dry needling sessions.
Both of our licensed physical therapists, Dr. Kira E. Harris and Dr. Emily Martin, are trained and certified in dry needling. They offer this specialized service as part of their individualized treatment plans when appropriate for your condition.
McKenzie Method (Cert. MDT)
The McKenzie Method, or Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), is a proven approach used by certified physical therapists to assess, treat, and prevent back, neck, and extremity pain. Developed by New Zealand physiotherapist Robin McKenzie, this method focuses on patient education and active participation in care.
Therapists use a detailed assessment to identify how specific movements impact pain, then create personalized exercise programs that promote self-treatment and reduce reliance on passive therapies. Patients also learn techniques to prevent future flare-ups and maintain long-term results.
The McKenzie Method is especially effective for sciatica, mechanical low back pain, and neck pain, with research supporting its role in reducing pain and improving function—particularly in chronic cases.
Dr. Kira E. Harris is certified in the McKenzie Method and integrates it into her treatment plans to help patients take control of their recovery and achieve lasting relief.
Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT Certification)
Orthopedic Manual Therapy (OMT) is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on hands-on techniques to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and movement issues. It involves skilled, targeted movements of joints and soft tissues to restore normal function, reduce pain, and improve mobility.
A Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) has advanced training in evaluating and treating conditions involving the spine, joints, and soft tissues using evidence-based manual therapy techniques. These may include joint mobilization, manipulation, soft tissue work, and movement retraining.
This approach is often used to treat back and neck pain, joint dysfunction, sports injuries, and post-surgical recovery. Patients typically experience improved mobility, decreased pain, and faster recovery times.
Our therapist, Dr. Emily Martin, is certified in orthopedic manual therapy and integrates these advanced techniques into her individualized treatment plans to help patients return to pain-free movement.
Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT Certification)
Orthopedic Manual Therapy (OMT) is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on hands-on techniques to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and movement issues. It involves skilled, targeted movements of joints and soft tissues to restore normal function, reduce pain, and improve mobility.
A Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) has advanced training in evaluating and treating conditions involving the spine, joints, and soft tissues using evidence-based manual therapy techniques. These may include joint mobilization, manipulation, soft tissue work, and movement retraining.
This approach is often used to treat back and neck pain, joint dysfunction, sports injuries, and post-surgical recovery. Patients typically experience improved mobility, decreased pain, and faster recovery times.
Our therapist, Dr. Emily Martin, is certified in orthopedic manual therapy and integrates these advanced techniques into her individualized treatment plans to help patients return to pain-free movement.
Craniosacral Therapy (In Progress Certification)
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on technique that helps release tension in the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord, supporting the body’s natural ability to heal. Using light touch, therapists work to improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which can ease pain, reduce stress, and enhance overall wellness.
CST is often used to help with headaches, TMJ dysfunction, neck and back pain, stress-related tension, and nervous system disorders. Many patients describe it as deeply relaxing and restorative.
While CST is not massage, it is a non-invasive therapy focused on improving balance and function within the central nervous system.
Dr. Kira E. Harris and Jessica Kipela, PTA have both received advanced training in Craniosacral Therapy and are currently working toward full certification. They integrate CST into their treatment approach when appropriate to promote whole-body healing.
