Fairfield Clinic

Darien Team

Owner, Physical Therapist
Orthopedic Certified Specialist

Education:

• BS 2001, Quinnipiac University
• MPT 2003, Quinnipiac University
• Orthopedic Manual Fellowship, Mission Viejo CA, 2006

Professional Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Orthopedic Section of the APTA
• Research Section of the APTA
• Sacred Heart University Orthopedic Residency Program – adjunct professor

Specialities:

• Orthopedic Certified Specialist 2008-present
• Functional Dry Needling Level 2
• SFMA Certification (Selective Functional Movement Assessment)
• A.R.T. Spine (Active Release Technique)
• APTA Certified Clinical Instructor

Steve is a master's prepared physical therapist with over 20 years of experience in direct patient care. He became a board-certified Orthopedic Specialist in 2008, after attending a year-long fellowship in California where he learned advanced manual techniques for orthopedic settings. He has since geared his treatment towards an Evidenced Based Approach, and strives to provide the best, up-to-date care to enhance patient outcomes.

Steve was an owner/partner at his last firm for 7 years, where he oversaw the in-house education for all Physical Therapist. His energetic attitude and love for knowledge allowed him to motivate others to further their specialty certifications in the realm of orthopedics. He specializes in the treatment of non-operative and operative orthopedic clients with a niche for stubborn issues that will not resolve.

Steve founded Elevate Physical therapy along with Greg Besson in 2015. He remains committed to carrying out the vision of evidenced based care, with education and communication as the corner stones. At Elevate, not only will he drive the business, but he will also take the role of in-house educator. In 2020 he was asked to join the Sacred Heart Orthopedic Residency Adjunct Faculty Team and has been working with the University since then. He also serves as a mentor to students from local Universities performing their clinical rotations.

When he is not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two boys, working out, golfing and skiing.

Darien Team

Clinic Director, Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science, Sacred Heart University 2018
• Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Sacred Heart University 2020
• Credentialed Orthopaedic Residency Graduate, Sacred Heart University 2021

Specialties:

• Orthopedic Certified Specialist 2022-present
• Dry Needling Certification

Michael graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Sacred Heart University in 2020, and completed an orthopaedic residency at Sacred Heart University in 2021. He has also worked as a Part Time Adjunct Professor at Sacred Heart University in the DPT musculoskeletal examination and intervention labs and frequently takes student for observation hours and clinical rotations. He became a Board Certified Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy in 2022.

Michael was a Division I Cross Country/Track & Field athlete during his undergraduate years at SHU and has a passion for treating musculoskeletal conditions and sports injuries. He is particularly interested in running biomechanics, running gait retraining, and running related injuries. In his spare time, Michael enjoys running, watching sports, and playing music.

Darien Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science 2018, University of Scranton
• Doctorate of Physical Therapy 2021, Long Island University
• Sacred Heart University Orthopaedic Residency Program, 2022

Specialties:

• Functional Dry Needling- Level 1 and 2, Intramuscular Electrical Stimulation Certified
• Titleist Performance Institute Level 1 and Level 2- Strength and Conditioning Certified 
• SFMA Level 1 Certified

Katie graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Long Island University in 2021. She was a Division III Golfer during her undergraduate years at the University of Scranton and is passionate about helping individuals reach their highest potential at any stage of life. She has a particular interest in pain management and promoting total body wellness as a part of a healthy lifestyle

Following graduate school, Katie enrolled in Sacred Heart University's Orthopaedic Residency Program, where she took classes on advanced treatment methods and Evidence Based Practice and become a Board-Certified Specialist in Orthopedics. She hopes to continue to explore new research and techniques as the field of Physical Therapy continues to grow. In her free time, Katie enjoys playing golf, cheering on the New York Mets, and hiking in the area.

Darien Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelors in Science in Biology with minor in Chemistry and Psychology 2016; Clarkson University
• Doctorate in Physical Therapy with concentration in Sports Performance 2020; Northeastern University

Specialties:

• Acute Management of Injury and Illness of the Athlete
• Mulligan Concept Lower Quadrant Certified
• Interprofessional Techniques of the Endurance Athlete
• Management of the Athletes Hip, Knee and Ankle
• Kinesiotaping Techniques of the Upper and Lower Extremity

Hanna graduated from Northeastern University with her Doctorate in Physical therapy with a Concentration of Sports Performance in 2020. She played DIII lacrosse during her undergraduate degree at Clarkson University and has a special interest in sports medicine and working with athletes post-operatively as they return to sport. Having gone through sports rehab herself, she has a special interest in post-operative ACL rehabilitation and continues to stay up-to-date on the latest data for return to sport testing and clearance. She has experience working with all level athletes (youth through professional), having spent her final clinical rotation at Notre Dame University working with the DI Men’s Lacrosse Team.

In her free time Hanna also works as a fitness trainer at Madabolic in Stamford, CT. She has also stayed active in the lacrosse community by coaching for a local club program, Gold Coast Lacrosse, and playing recreationally.

Fairfield Team

Clinic Director, Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelors of Exercise Science, Sacred Heart University 2018
• Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Stony Brook University 2021
• Credentialed Orthopedic Residency Graduate, Sacred Heart University 2022

Specialties:

• Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist 2023-Present
• Functional Dry Needling - Level 2
• Titleist Performance Institute Certified Level 1

James graduated from Stony Brook University in May of 2021 prior to enrolling in an orthopedic residency program at Sacred Heart University, which he completed in August of 2022. James has worked with a variety of patients which have included post- surgical sports injuries and ranged through chronic low back pain. Previously, James has worked as an adjunct professor at Sacred Heart University during their musculoskeletal based semesters.

James enjoys utilizing a holistic approach and build relationships with his patients that span past their time with him during their rehab. A special interest of his is working with overhead athletes and rehabbing their wide range of injuries. In March of 2023, James passed his Orthopedic Certified Specialist Exam and continues to grow through a range of evidence-based literature and continuing education. When not working, James loves spending time with his Wife Leah and their dog Maple. He is also an avid NY Yankees and Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles fan.

Stamford Team

Owner, Clinic Director, Physical Therapist

Education:

• MS clinical science 2009, Ithaca College
• DPT 2010, Ithaca College

Professional Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Orthopedic Section of the APTA

Specialities:

• Cupping
• Functional Dry Needling

Pamela has been working in outpatient orthopedic setting with emphasis on sports medicine for 6+ years. She is dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal functional outcomes incorporating evidence based practices and professional experience into her individualized treatment programs and manual centered approach.

Pamela recently joined Elevate PT as a director and has been practicing as clinical site director for over 3 years in outpatient orthopedics. Special interests include working with athletes, shoulder and hip dysfunction and spine care.

Pamela has special interest in movement disorders and an active member of Team Fox, the grassroots fundraising portion of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's research.

When not working Pamela enjoys spending time with her fiance, family and friends as well as fitness and traveling.

Stamford Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Doctorate of Physical Therapy 2022, Sacred Heart University
• Bachelor of Science 2019, Sacred Heart University

Patrick graduated from Sacred Heart University's Doctor of Physical Therapy program in 2022 following the completion of his BS in Exercise Science at SHU in 2019. Patrick was a Division 1 football player for 5 years at Sacred Heart, which is how he developed a love for exercise and sports medicine.

Patrick has a special interest in orthopedics where he advocates using physical fitness to help enhance wellness. His treatments focus on optimizing functional mobility and neuromuscular control to improve body awareness and promote independent management of pain. In regard to athletes, he uses these areas to improve athleticism, return to sport, and reduce the risk of re-injury.

In his free time, Patrick enjoys spending time with friends and family, working out, and watching Giants games and UFC fights.

Stamford Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelor's of Science in Health Science 2020, Quinnipiac University
• Doctorate of Physical Therapy 2023, Quinnipiac University

Specialties:

• Dry needling level 1
• Mckenzie Certified Levels A, B, and C.

Jake Courtman graduated from Quinnipiac University with his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2023. He is passionate about helping all individuals achieve their highest quality of life through movement. His special interests include orthopedics and pediatrics.

When not working, Jake enjoys playing softball, skiing, and golfing. He is also a passionate Yankee, Knicks, and Giants fan.

Stamford Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Clinical Health Studies 2022, Ithaca College
• Doctorate of Physical Therapy 2024, Ithaca College

Brendan graduated from Ithaca College with his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2024. There he was a member of the football team and a three-year starter on the offensive line.

Brendan became a physical therapist for the opportunity to help individuals develop strength and confidence through exercise. He has a special interest in various orthopedic conditions and assisting athletes to return to their sport after an injury.

While not treating in the clinic, Brendan enjoys quality time with friends and family, spending time outdoors, and cheering on the New York Giants and Ithaca Bombers.

Fairfield Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Sports medicine, UVA
• Master of Science in Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis

Specialties:

• Board Certified Specialist in Sports Physical Therapy
• Member of International Association of Dance Medicine and Science
• Certified Athletic Trainer

Paddy was the Founder and President of 'Sports and Orthopaedic Physical Therapy by Paddy Jarit' which first opened its doors in 2002 and then joined forces with Elevate Physical Therapy in 2023. Paddy prides himself on bringing the highest level of athletic and orthopaedic rehabilitation skills to Fairfield County. Paddy received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Sports Medicine from the University of Virginia and his Master of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Indianapolis. He is a Board Certified Specialist in Sports Physical Therapy, a Certified Athletic Trainer and a proud Member of the International Association of Dance Medicine and Science. Paddy's wide array of experience includes working with U.S. National and Olympic Festival Teams, the National Hockey League (NHL Mighty Ducks of Anaheim), the National Basketball Association (NBA Indiana Pacers), Major League Baseball (Cleveland Indians), as well as a multitude of National Football League, and NCAA athletes. He has also worked with dancers of all levels, including the travelling company for Phantom of the Opera and Kinky Boots. As adjunct faculty at Scared Heart University Paddy keeps current with the ever-changing science of physical therapy. Paddy also lectures nationally on shoulder and groin injuries as well as other sports and dance injury related topics.

Paddy resides in Trumbull, CT with his wife Rebecca and son Harrison. His two older children, Shaina and Zachary, are doing great and spreading their own wings.

Fairfield Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelors in Human Movement/Sports Science – Athletic Training, Sacred Heart University 2001
• Masters of Science in Physical Therapy, Sacred Heart University 2003

Professional Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Orthopedics, Pelvic Health and Oncology Section Member
• Connecticut Physical Therapy Association

Specialties:

• Scar management
• ATC (Athletic Training Certified)
• Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner
• Cupping and Koh IASTM Certified (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization)
• SFMA Certification (Selective Functional Movement Assessment)
• Pelvic Health Specialist (Herman & Wallace)
• PCES (Certified Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist)
• CLT (Certified Lymphedema Therapist - LeDuc Method)
• The Perimenopause & Menopause Certificate Program (Integrative Women’s Health Institute)

Noël has been working in the private outpatient orthopedic and sports setting for over 20 years. She has a particular interest in pelvis, spine and hip rehabilitation and loves to work with athletes in all stages of life. Her individualized and manual based approach has helped her patients achieve optimal functional outcomes through the years.

Noël is a former Adjunct Faculty member in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Sacred Heart University for over 18 years and she continues to lecture regularly on various topics including pregnancy, postpartum and pelvic health.

Noël has been able to unite her love for orthopedics and women's health adding to her education in the advanced treatment of pelvic pain and dysfunction, incontinence, pre-natal and postpartum care and general wellness in Pelvic Health through the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute and other various courses. Helping females of all ages, through every season of their lives, get back to what is important is a passion. She recently finished her Perimenopause & Menopause certificate program through the Integrative Women’s Health Institute. She is also certified in the treatment and management of lymphedema and is highly experienced in all post-surgical breast issues.

When not busy at work, Noël enjoys working out, sports, music and beach time. She is an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Noël lives in West Haven with her husband Doug, and their dogs, Astro, Bella and Brooks.

To visit her Women's Health website, please click the below link

Fairfield Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelor of Health Sciences with a Minor in Business Administration, Eastern CT State University 2020
• Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Sacred Heart University 2024

Ryan graduated from Sacred Heart University in 2024. His background as a Physical Therapy Aide for the past 6 years has increased his desire to help optimize sports performance. His interest in athletics has drawn him to orthopedics with a focus on the athletic population. Ryan grew up playing baseball, basketball and swimming, before transitioning to CrossFit over the course of 4 years. Outside of work Ryan likes to spend time on the family boat, enjoy quality time with friends and of course, exercise. He is an avid Syracuse basketball fan as well as the New York Giants fan.

Trumbull Team

Owner, Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology, 1996 University of Connecticut
• Master of Science in Physical Therapy, 1999 Sacred Heart University

Professional Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Orthopedic Section of APTA

Specialties:

• Etcheberry Tennis Certified
• Kinesiotaping
• Graston Technique
• Functional Dry Needling
• SFMA – Selective Functional Movement Assessment

Greg received his Master's in Physical Therapy from Sacred Heart University and was awarded the Dean's Leadership Award. He was an avid tennis player growing up until he was referred to Physical Therapy for a back condition. It was there that he developed an admiration for the Physical Therapy field.

Greg is an owner of Elevate Physical Therapy. He and his business partner have a desire to provide the community with exceptional care and service based on research and evidence. The company is founded on continuous learning and educating the community on how to decrease their own pain. 

Clinically Greg has a passion for assessing and treating functional movement with a hands on approach where he uses multiple techniques, communication and education in order to achieve the patients' physical therapy goals.

When Greg is not working he enjoys spending time with his wife, Emily and three sons, Jack, Connor, and Henry. Greg is an avid University of Connecticut Athletics supporter.

Trumbull Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelor's of Science in Health Science 2016, Quinnipiac University
• Doctorate of Physical Therapy 2020, Quinnipiac University

Specialties:

• Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist 2024-Present
• Titleist Performance Institute(TPI) Level 1 Certified
• Functional Dry Needling Certified
• SFMA Certification (Selective Functional Movement Assessment)
• HSS Rehabilitation Hip Preservation Certified
• Mulligan Concept Lower Quarter Certified

Taylor has been with Elevate Physical Therapy since graduating with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Quinnipiac University in 2020. Taylor enjoys treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. She became a physical therapist to help her patients lead a pain-free life and get back to the activities they love.

When she is not playing golf, she is using her TPI certification to perform movement screens on fellow golfers to analyze each golfer’s strength, flexibility and range of motion that could alter their swing.

She also enjoys cheering on her New England Patriots and Quinnipiac Bobcats ice hockey team.

Trumbull Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• BS Psychology 2005, Sacred Heart University
• Doctorate in Physical Therapy 2007, Sacred Heart University

Professional Affiliations:

• America Physical Therapy Association (orthopedic section)

Specialties:

• Post concussion syndrome
• TMJ/facial pain
• Kinesiotaping
• Functional Dry Needling
• APTA Certified clinical instructor

Emily has experience treating patients with orthopedic injuries since graduating with her doctorate in 2007. Throughout her career she incorporated her dance background helping dancers recover from and prevent injury, and volunteering at local dance schools. She is certified in and specializes in treating temporomandibular dysfuction, facial pain and headache pain via dry needling. Emily loves sharing her knowledge and experience with aspiring therapists by teaching students in their clinical experiences.

When not at work she can be found on the ball field cheering for her three boys.

Trumbull Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology & Health Sciences, Minor in Psychology – The College of William & Mary, 2018
• Doctor of Physical Therapy – Sacred Heart University, 2023

Certifications & Specialties

• Functional Movement Screening SFMA Certified
• Myopain Dry Needling Certified

Professional Affiliations

• American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Member

Sami earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Sacred Heart University in 2023. While in the program, she completed an integrative therapies elective that introduced her to techniques including myofascial release, dry needling, Pilates, yoga, and mindfulness-based approaches. She incorporates this holistic lens into her treatment sessions for a variety of orthopedic and neurological diagnoses, with a focus on helping individuals achieve their functional goals and return to the activities they love.

A Connecticut native, Sami grew up playing competitive soccer and went on to compete at the Division I level for The College of William & Mary. Earlier in her athletic career, she sustained a sports-related injury that required surgery and extensive rehabilitation — an experience that gave her firsthand insight into the powerful role physical therapy plays in recovery and performance. That journey ultimately sparked her passion for the profession. In 2024, Sami was honored with induction into the St. Joseph’s High School Athletic Hall of Fame (Trumbull, CT) in recognition of her outstanding achievements in the sport. She continues to enjoy staying active and playing pick-up soccer in her free time.

Before becoming a licensed physical therapist, Sami worked at Elevate Physical Therapy for three years as a PT aide. She’s returned to the team with the same motivation and positive energy, now paired with an advanced clinical skill set and a deeper appreciation for delivering personalized, high-quality care to every patient who walks through the door.

Outside the clinic, Sami enjoys hot yoga, reading at the beach, and spending time with her BIG family.

Westport Team

Owner, Clinic Director-Westport, Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelors of Art of Science 2015, Western Connecticut State University
• Doctorate of Physical Therapy 2019, University of Hartford

Specialties:

• Cupping
• Orthopedic Certified Specialist 2022-present
• Functional Dry Needling

Mitchell Graduated University of Hartford with a Doctorate in Physical therapy in 2019. His primary focus has been sports medicine rehab focusing on returning athletes back to sport with improved function and confidence. Evidence based treatments are created tp focus on return to sport and reduce re-injury. Special interest includes shoulder and elbow injuries in overhead athletes.

Other interest includes amputee rehab, where he did extensive research at the University of Hartford in conjunction with their prosthetic and orthotic program under Dr. Daniel Lee on self-management of a new prosthesis wearers in the geriatric community. Outside of work Mitchell loves playing baseball and Golf. Mitchell is a die-hard Mets fan and additionally coaches summer/fall baseball in Wilton, CT for 5 years.

Westport Team

Physical Therapist

Education:

• Bachelor of Health Sciences, Quinnipiac Unviresity 2019
• Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Quinnipiac University 2022

Erin completed both her Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees at Quinnipiac Unviersity. During her time at Quinnipiac, Erin was a four-year starter and captain of the Division 1 Acrobatics and Tumbling team.

Erin enjoys treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions throughout an individual's lifespan, including pediatrics. Erin has a strong passion for helping others improve their quality of life and achieve their goals.

When Erin isn't treating in the clinic, she enjoys spending time outdoors skiing and hiking, and sharing good times with friends and family.