1-on-1 Physical Therapy Treatment

Navid Hannanvash

PT, DPT, CSCS, FMR, CAFS, FAFS, AT Ret. | CEO & Owner

Navid is the driving force behind RISE Physical Therapy’s 1-on-1 patient model. He opened RISE in 2014 after working in the industry for some years prior and witnessing frequent sub-par patient care. His goal? To give each patient a full hour of quality treatment and attention by a provider, without exception. Now, Navid runs the business and works diligently to expand our services, extend our geographical reach, and continuously educate our staff. He enjoys spending time with his wife (Alexandra) and dogs (Rumpy and Jasmine).

Alex Kelso

alex@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, FMR, CAFS, FAFS | Chief Operating Officer

Alex has been a part of the RISE Physical Therapy team since mid-2014, and has grown with RISE into his current role as Chief Operating Officer. Alex fell in love with RISE’s unique 1-on-1 approach, both as a patient and as a clinician. Now, Alex works to provide this 1-on-1 treatment model to other clinicians through the management of RISE’s growing operations, staff, and projects. He holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Southern California, a degree in Health and Human Performance from the University of Florida (Go Gators!), and is an Applied Functional Science fellow. He enjoys his free time with his wife, Janelle, and their Goldendoodle, Jackson.

Martin Nguyen

martin@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS, IASTM, BFR | Director of Community Relations

Dr. Nguyen has been a part of the RISE Physical Therapy family since 2016. He enjoys helping the communities of north county San Diego get back doing the things they truly love! His interest in physical therapy was sparked by overcoming his own injuries as a competitive basketball player and cross-country/track runner while growing up in Texas. He loves working with all diagnoses and populations, but specifically enjoys working injuries related to the shoulders,hip, knee, and ankles. Outside of the clinic, he enjoys playing basketball, running along the beach, trying new restaurants and exploring San Diego!

David Bailey

david@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, FAFS | Chief Clinical Officer and Regional Director

David first became interested in physical therapy when introduced to Applied Functional Science in 2006. At the time he was practicing Tai Chi, Kung Fu and Qigong, and was working on his bachelors degree in Kinesiology at SDSU. David received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from University of St. Augustine in 2010, and completed his fellowship in Applied Functional Science in 2012. David enjoys hanging out with family and friends, reading, hiking and can be found exploring the various coffee shops around the county.

Bradley Bourgeois

brad@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS, CCI, AIB-VR/CON | Director of Operations

Brad is a San Diego native with a passion for therapy that developed taking care of his own family. He earned his dual bachelor’s from SDSU and later earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St Augustine. Brad enjoys working with people from all different backgrounds and tailoring therapy to fit their needs. He has a passion for new innovations and used modern technologies such as 3D printing to improve his and his patients’ day to day lives. Outside the clinic he enjoys hiking, adventures with his dog, and enjoying time with his family and friends.

Darren Mallinson

darrenm@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, OCS, CAFS, CSCS | North County Director of Business Development

Darren is a European trained physical therapist with a wide breadth of experience. He received is training from the Hoogeschol van Amsterdam, and he has maintained a lifelong passion to help people return to their lives. Darren uses his physical therapy training supplemented with a Strength and Conditioning certification to treat the whole patient. From working with soccer players in Holland, dancers in New York, Surfers in San Diego, and injured workers in Seattle, he has been able to help many people return to the activities that they love. In his free time he likes to travel, hike, play soccer, surf and golf.

Alisha Mitchell

alisha@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Alisha was born and raised in Atlanta, Ga. where she earned her bachelors from The University of Georgia in Athens, Ga. She eventually received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia after being inspired by her uncle’s therapeutic journey to walking again after military service. She has recently moved to the San Diego area and enjoys site seeing and cooking new recipes for her husband and daughter as well as going on long walks with their rescue dog, Apollo.

Alyssa Burkitt

alyssa@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Alyssa grew up in New Jersey, where she fell in love with PT at a young age as she realized the impact it could have on people’s lives. She received her B.S. in Kinesiology and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at San Diego State University, and she loves going to the beach, taking long walks with her dog, spending time at the gym, and hiking.

Amy Goto

amy@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Amy grew up in Southern CA and finished her undergraduate degree at UC Davis, where she found a passion for movement working in group fitness and athletic training. She returned to Southern CA to receive her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at CSULB. Amy enjoys working with patients to achieve their goals and get back to what they love. In her spare time, Amy enjoys exploring the outdoors, hiking, playing volleyball, cooking, and gardening.

Brandon Funk

brandon@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Brandon grew up a San Diego native and attended SDSU for his undergraduate studies before completing his Doctoral degree at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma , WA. Loving the great outdoors and activities such as hiking and surfing, he knew he wanted to find ways to encourage and help others to stay active and able enjoy the life around them. He thrives by helping to teach people to not fear movement or exercise and to embrace their body and feel resilient in the face of injury. Aside from physical activity, he enjoys exploring all things cooking, food, and drink with his wife and dog around town.

Ciara Hoernke

ciara@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Ciara grew up in Fairfax, Virginia, and completed her doctorate of physical therapy at Virginia Commonwealth University. As a former level 10 gymnast and gymnastics coach, she was exposed to many injuries, which ultimately lead to her interest in physical therapy. Ciara has a passion for movement, athletics, and providing people with tools for improving their overall wellness. In her free time, she enjoys being active, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Claire Herm

claire@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Claire was born and raised in Tulsa, OK. She attended the University of Oklahoma for her undergraduate degree and later attended the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and graduated with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2020. She started her career in Virginia before moving to San Diego. Claire enjoys working with all ages and making lasting changes in people’s lives. She enjoys weightlifting and hiking in her free time.

Dana Hazlett

dana@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Dana Hazlett hails from San Jose, California. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Health Sciences from Point Loma Nazarene University and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos, CA. His professional interests include chronic pain, spine, and sports rehab. His passion is helping people live pain free lives. In his free time, Dana enjoys volleyball, strength training, and yoga.

Darren Sumbillo

darren@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS

Darren is a San Diego native who earned his bachelor's degree in Kinesiology at SDSU and his Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. He developed his passion for health and fitness while working in the fitness industry, living in the gym, going on hikes, and playing basketball. He wanted to evolve and devote his skills to those who were limited by injuries and unable to perform their favorite activities. As a physical therapist, he believes that improving one aspect of someone’s life can positively affect all others.

Deniz High

deniz@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CMT, CAFS

Deniz is originally from the Bay Area, but completed her undergraduate degree at SDSU and doctor of physical therapy from the University of St. Augustine. She grew up playing all sports, but her main passion is for soccer where an injury brought her into the world of PT. She knows full well what it’s like to not be able to do the things you love due to pain. She hopes to help her patients live pain-free and improve their quality of life. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, baking, and any outdoor activities.

Diego Schoch

diego@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, MFA, SFMA, CPI, PBT

A SoCal native, Diego earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in 2021. Before that he had an extensive career as a professional dancer, college professor, and Pilates instructor. Diego’s motto is “move well and often” and enjoys helping his clients do just that. He enjoys streaming movies and shows, hanging out at local coffee shops and breweries, and staying fit with various activities including surfing, climbing, hiking, and dancing.

Eric Lee

eric@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS

Eric was born and raised in the Bay Area and fell in love with San Diego during his undergraduate time at UCSD. After completing his Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Chapman University, he returned to the area. Providing empathetic and skilled care to get his patients back to what they love to do is his passion. In his free time, Eric enjoys martial arts, surfing, volleyball, climbing, snowboarding, yoga, diving, and all-you-can-eat restaurants.

Eric Prante

ericprante@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT

Eric joins Rise from Rehabilitation Strategies In La Mesa. He has been a PT in San Diego since 1980 after graduating from the University of Texas Medical Branch. He has spent most of his career treating orthopedic injuries in private practice, the last 22 years at Rehab Strategies. When away from the clinic Eric enjoys spending time with Cathy, his wife of 43 years, his family, and showing and their Great Dane Rosie. Eric loves cooking great meals with friends, wood fired pizza, and Liverpool Football Club.

Gina Gerber

gina@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, RYT

Gina graduated from California State University, San Marcos with a B.S. in Kinesiology, then received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. She is also a yoga alliance registered yoga instructor. She is passionate about helping others by promoting a healthy, holistic lifestyle focused on movement and mindfulness. In her free time, she is probably doing hot yoga, traveling, or going on adventures with her golden retriever.

Jake Hodgens

jake@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS

Jake attended San Diego State University for undergrad, and received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine. While Jake enjoys all sports, he is particularly drawn to water sports and the beach. Much of his time during undergrad and PT school was spent coaching water polo, even coaching his school to a CIF championship. Unfortunately, he witnessed a variety of injuries which has lead to his desire to help injured athletes and drove Jake to pursue physical therapy.

Jamil Kassam

jamil@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Jamil received his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology Pre-Physical Therapy at San Diego State University, and his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Saint Augustine. He is experienced in working and communicating in Spanish with non-English speaking patients. Outside of work, he loves spending time with his wife, and pets. He also loves to box, run, and lift weights.

Jon Cabral

jon@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Jon is a Southern California native who received his Bachelor’s of Science in Kinesology with an emphasis in clinical exercise science from California State University Fullerton. He then completed his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Mount Saint Mary’s University in Los Angeles. During this time he also completed his national certification as a Pilates reformer and mat instructor with specialized training for physical therapists using reformers for orthopedic and sports injury rehabilitation. Jon has a background in mindfulness meditation and enjoys playing tennis, volleyball, yoga, Pilates, strength-training, boxing, muay thai and cooking in his free time.

Katie Gilliland

katiegilliland@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS

Katie’s passion for movement began with her participation in sports growing up, including soccer, dance, water polo, and swim. She continued to learn about the human body while pursuing her undergraduate degree at UCLA and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at the University of St Augustine in San Marcos. Katie loves to use her own experience with sports and movement to help others optimize their movement to be pain free and achieve their own personal goals. When not in the clinic she enjoys hiking, spending time outdoors, swimming, and cuddling with her cat Mango.

Katie Hemphill

katie@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS

Katie grew up in Anchorage, Alaska where she developed a love for the outdoors and living an active lifestyle. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of San Diego, and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at San Diego State University. Katie has been a professional dancer, loves working with kids, and values her role at RISE getting to incorporate those things while helping people move better and get back to pursuing their life passions!

Kayla Hatki

kayla@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Kayla grew up on Long Island in New York where her passion for movement sciences began as a lifelong athlete playing softball, volleyball, and dance as well as accompanying her grandmother to PT frequently when she was little. She pursued her undergraduate Exercise Science and Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Scranton in PA. After completing a research project in graduate school, she became certified in LSVT BIG which she uses to treat patients with Parkinson’s Disease.

Kevin Bender

kevin@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, MTC

Kevin grew up on Long Island, NY and graduated from the University of St. Augustine in Florida in 2012. Over his ten years of practicing, Kevin has become passionate in both manual therapy and teaching and utilizes the above to help return his patients to their optimal function. He has lived in many different places over the years including recently moving from Maui. In his spare time, Kevin enjoys playing music, running, hiking, and exploring the San Diego area.

Lauren Sugay

laurens@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS

Lauren has spent a majority of her life in Southern California where she has been able to enjoy rockclimbing, hiking, surfing, and playing lacrosse. She enjoys maintaining an active lifestyle and understands the importance of injury prevention and recovery. Lauren was first introduced to a career in Physical Therapy during her study abroad program in South Africa and after returning to America she pursued her Doctorate at the University of St. Augustine, San Marcos. Her career interests include pelvic health, vestibular rehabilitation, pain neuroscience rehabilitation, and general orthopedics.

Lena Parker

lena@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Lena hails from Southern CA and spent her formative years training as a ballet dancer. After she retired from dance she became a yoga instructor and completed her BS in Exercise Science at CSULB. Lena received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from Regis University in Denver, CO. Lena has spent most of her life communicating through movement, and enjoys sharing the language of movement with her patients. You can find Lena rock climbing and sunbathing on the weekends.

Ling Sun

ling@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Ling grew up in various regions throughout southern California including San Bernardino and Encinitas where she developed a love for the outdoors and being active. Ling completed her undergraduate studies at UCSD and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of St. Augustine. Outside of the clinic she enjoys hiking, spending time with her Australian Shepherd, Sadie, and cheering for the San Diego Padres and San Francisco 49ers.

Liz Turner

liz@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Liz grew up in Fishers, Indiana where her passion for exercise and movement began as a competitive gymnast and cheerleader. Liz obtained her bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from Indiana University and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Rosalind Franklin University in Chigaco. Her career interests include pediatrics, vestibular rehabilitation, and general orthopedics. In her free time, Liz enjoys hiking, yoga and exploring local coffee shops.

Luke Mathison

luke@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CSCS, CAFS | Lead Physical Therapist, Encinitas

Luke grew up in Minnesota and, as a lifelong athlete playing hockey and collegiate soccer, he understands the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle as well as the pitfalls associated with injury recovery. Earning his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from The University of Illinois at Chicago, he enjoys working with athletes of all ages and abilities (amateur to professional) to help them achieve their performance goals. Now living in Cardiff, Luke enjoys weight training, skiing, surfing, and spending time with his family.

Marcos Cisca

marcos@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Marcos was born in California but raised in a small town in South Carolina. He grew up playing soccer but has become a big fan of every major sport. For undergrad, he attended University of South Carolina – Beaufort and later Northwestern University in Chicago for PT school. During his free time, he like to explore everything that SD has to offer, mostly restaurants and nature.

Mark Tameta

market@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS

Mark was born and raised in the Bay Area but is now a resident of sunny San Diego. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of California, Irvine and went on to obtain his Doctorate of Physical Therapy at the University of St. Augustine in San Marcos. Mark hopes to be an instrument of hope and change for the patients in his community. In his free time, he likes to get outdoors, watch movies/tv shows and spend time with friends and family.

Michael Mitri

michael@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Michael specializes in working with the Jiu Jitsu, Grappling, Muay Thai, Boxing, MMA, and Rugby communities. He is extremely passionate about getting athletes to return to their respective sport with improved performance and function. Hobbies include continually geeking out learning how to optimize human performance. He holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, is a Certified Athletic Trainer and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist.

Morgan Manini

morganm@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Morgan grew up in Lexington, South Carolina where her love for exercise and movement began growing up as a competitive cheerleader. She received her bachelor's degree in exercise science at the College of Charleston then went on to achieve her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at the University of St. Augustine. She is passionate about helping others get back to the activities they enjoy and lead a long-term active lifestyle. Outside the clinic, she enjoys going to the beach, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

Nick Eckman

nicke@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS

Nick grew up in the Washington, DC area. He received his Bachelor’s in Biology from Lewis & Clark College in Oregon, and his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Southern California. His interest in PT and movement science stems from playing sports as a youth, and love of biology. New to San Diego, he enjoys spending time with his family, dog, and cat.

Nickolas Boyol

nickolas@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS

Nick grew up in LA county where he earned his bachelors degree in Kinesiology Clinical Exercise Science at California State University Fullerton. He moved to north county San Diego to obtain his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. He enjoys getting patients back to being able to do the things that they enjoy. He enjoys hanging out with his dog, hiking, and grilling/cooking with his family.

Noora Cholagh

noora@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Noora was born and raised in San Diego and loves to take advantage of this beautiful city by surfing, rock climbing, playing soccer, and doing martial arts. Through her experience in martial arts, she grew a passion for healing the body with restorative motions, determination, and a naturalistic approach—which guided her into a career in Physical Therapy. She graduated from the University of St. Augustine and is passionate about pursuing her Certified Functional Manual Therapist (CFMT) from the Institute of Physical Art.

Peter Huynh

peter@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CSCS

Peter was born and raised in Seattle. He received his bachelor's in Civil Engineering and Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Washington. He seeks an individualized approach to treating his patients and loves working with all diagnoses and populations. These days you may find him on his free time hiking, backpacking, or attending yoga, Pilates, or CrossFit classes in the San Diego area.

SarahMargaret Mason

sarahmargaret@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

SarahMargaret is a native of South Carolina where she participated in a variety of sports growing up. Her interests included competitive swimming, volleyball, basketball, running, and horseback riding. The moving human body and the ability to optimize movement after injury has always fascinated her, especially after sustaining several significant injuries of her own. SarahMargaret received her undergraduate degree from the College of Charleston and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine San Marcos. When she is not in the clinic, she enjoys hiking, going to the beach, spending time with her husband Michael, walking her beagle Lucy, and Carolina Panthers football.

Tamara Trily

tamara@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CCI

Tamara became a physical therapist in 2017 and specializes in outpatient orthopedic rehabilitation. She is bilingual in Spanish and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree with honors from the University of St. Augustine. Her passion for physical therapy is fueled by the joy she receives from helping others regain function and get back to what they love. In her spare time, Tamara enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time with her husband and her dog Stitch.

Tyler DiLorenzo

tylerdilorenzo@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CSCS

Tyler grew up in Northern California before moving to San Diego in 2014 to pursue his physical therapy career. He uses his experience as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist to create the perfect program suited to your goals. If you are a golfer, Tyler has a special interest in both developing your rehabilitation program as well as improving your golf game.

Tyler Hoftsee

tyler@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS

Tyler was born and raised in San Diego and his journey with physical therapy began with a knee injury in high school playing baseball and football. He then wanted to help others achieve pain free lives with improved function and ability to achieve a happy life. Tyler received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Chapman University. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, camping, going to the beach, playing sports and watching baseball and football.

Vanessa Amezquita

vanessa@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Vanessa, born and raised in Las Vegas, NV, first obtained her bachelors at UNLV. Now in San Diego’s Little Italy, and with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St Augustine, Vanessa is passionate about Pelvic Floor Health, and strives to denormalize living with dysfunction. Outside of the clinic, Vanessa enjoys geeking out with games while cozying up with her dog, Obi Wan Canoli and her cat, So Kno.

Will Danse

will@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT

Born in upstate New York, Will spent his formative years in Japan, Australia, and California. He completed his undergraduate studies at Santa Clara University and received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Regis University. A lifelong tennis player, yoga enthusiast, and avid surfer, he is passionate about helping patients achieve their goals to get back to the life they want. His career interests include general orthopedics and vestibular rehab. On the weekends you can find him at the beach or looking for the best cappuccino in town.

Zac Vano

zac@risephysicaltherapy.com

PT, DPT, CAFS | Lead Physical Therapist, Carlsbad

Zac is originally from Ventura County, California but made his way down to San Diego to attend San Diego State University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology as well as a minor in psychology. He then attended the University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences where he obtained his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Zac originally became interested in physical therapy in high school after suffering a shoulder injury while playing baseball. He was able to rehab his shoulder and found a passion for the healing capacity of the human body through movement. He is interested in sports and athletics and likes to focus on the body as a whole while providing his treatments. In his spare time Zac enjoys going to the beach, golfing, hiking, cooking and traveling.

Zachary Shampain

zacharys@risephysicaltherapy.coms

PT, DPT

Zach grew up in New Jersey, received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Pittsburgh and earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY. He focuses on optimizing movement to help the human body heal. He understands that everyone’s body is unique and requires an individual rehabilitation plan to recover. New to San Diego, he plans to spend time surfing, hiking, and biking.