Staff

Jenny Gearhart graduated from Ivy Tech with an associate degree in Applied Science. She joined Steppin' Up in August 2017 as an Administrative Assistant and Therapy Technician. Jenny enjoys helping people improve their physical health and brighten their day with her cheery disposition. When Jenny is not at the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their five awesome children. They enjoy shopping, traveling, various sports, church activities and experiencing new foods.

Ashley Smith has worked for Steppin' Up since 2009. She is a Physical Therapist and the Director of the Auburn Road clinic. She graduated from the University of St. Francis as a Physical Therapist Assistant in 2005 and went on to earn her master's degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Findlay in 2009. Prior to coming to Steppin' Up, she worked with children in a school setting through the Northeast Indiana Special Education Co-op as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Ashley has advanced training in trigger point dry needling, TMJ dysfunction, and is a Credentialed Clinical Instructor. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons. She also enjoys reading, crafting, shopping and going on road trips.

Craig Van Der Maden graduated from Brown Mackie College in 2012 with a degree in Health and Fitness Training. He returned to school and graduated with a Physical Therapist Assistant degree in 2015. Craig is a certified Kinesio Tape Practitioner and is Graston Technique Trained. He has completed advanced training in vestibular rehabilitation, concussion rehab, orthopedic massage, and manual therapy techniques. Additionally, he is a certified personal trainer with the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). He is a Credentialed Clinical Instructor and the Site Coordinator of Clinical Education for our PT and PTA students. Prior to his education, Craig served proudly in the U.S. Army Infantry active duty for five years. When not working, Craig enjoys spending time with his wife Emily, exercising, working in the lawn, and cooking.

Humberto "Pete" Pizana graduated from the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at the University Of Saint Francis in May 2019. He is expecting to graduate in December 2019 with his Bachelor's in Health and Exercise Science. Humberto, also commonly referred to as Pete, is excited to begin his career at Steppin' Up as a full-time Physical Therapist Assistant at the Auburn Park Drive location. He is looking forward to helping those in the community by working one-on-one with patients to get them on the road to recovery. While not at work, Humberto enjoys cruising on his long board, wake boarding, powerlifting, hiking, skateboarding, and traveling.

Maddie Cook graduated from Trine University with a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science in 2018. She then earned a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Trine University in 2020. Maddie is excited to begin her career at Steppin' Up as a Physical Therapist, and loves the one-on-one time she gets to spend with all of her patients. She is looking forward to pursuing higher education courses. While not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, riding bikes, running, crafting, and making memories while traveling.

Lori Schlatter has worked for Steppin' Up since 2018 and loves the patients she serves as well as her "work family." She has been a Certified Massage Therapist for 20+ years and still sees clients when not at Steppin' Up. Lori is also a Master Gardener and enjoys hard work and getting dirty in her gardens. She has been married to Topher since 1982 and they enjoy camping, hiking, traveling, and a cozy campfire at the end of a good day. Lori recently took up learning upholstery and likes taking on new projects. Lori also holds certificates/degrees in Mental Health and Medical Assisting. She and Topher have two rescue dogs that keep them entertained.

James Jamicich graduated from University of Saint Francis with degrees in Physical Therapist Assistant in 2019 and Kinesiology in 2020. During college, he helped the football team win 2 National Championships and was awarded All-American honors. He is passionate about helping others live healthier, happier lives. James is continuing to absorb as much information as possible and is pursuing higher level certification courses to become the best clinician he can be. Outside of work he finds joy in spending time with loved ones, church activities, camping, grilling, traveling, and all things football.

Amanda Stewart received her Bachelor's of Science from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire in Exercise Science and went on to receive her Masters of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse. She has worked primarily in outpatient orthopedic settings and loves treating disorders of the spine. When not working, Amanda loves spending time with her family, cooking/baking, working in her yard, and anything physically active; especially running!

Pamela Camacho is a bilingual Administrative Assistant at our Calhoun Street location. She has worked at Steppin' Up since February of 2007. What Pamela loves most about working is being able to interact with the patients. She lives by her moto, "A person who makes people feel good will feel good himself" Proverbs 11:25b. When Pamela is not at work, she stays busy being the mother of three young adults: Heaven'Arielle, Jesse, and Isabel Jubilee, and enjoying the company of her husband, Frayland. Pamela and Frayland will celebrate 20 years of marriage in 2020.

Emily Van Der Maden graduated in 2015 from Harding University with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She began working for Steppin’ Up after graduation and is the Clinic Director at our Calhoun Street location. She additionally evaluates and treats patients, performs post-offer employment tests, and Functional Capacity Evaluations. Emily has completed advanced training for Trigger Point Dry Needling, Graston Technique, LSVT BIG for patients with Parkinson’s Disease, and TMJ Dysfunction. Emily’s favorite things about being a physical therapist are spending one-on-one time with patients, helping improve patient's overall function, and performing trigger point dry needling. When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, baking, and being outdoors.

Brooke Murphy graduated from Manchester University in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training and Exercise Science. After earning these, she attended Trine University where she received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2017. Brooke loves the one on one quality time she gets to spend with each of her patients. Brooke loves working with athletes and the amputation population. When she is not working, Brooke enjoys spending time with her husband and family, playing volleyball, attending country concerts and baseball games- GO Cubs!

Jordan Tait graduated in 2017 from the University of Indianapolis with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. He began working for Steppin' Up as a physical therapist upon graduation. He is fluent in Spanish, which he learned while living in Argentina for two years as a missionary. He has taken continuing education courses addressing specific treatment methods for low back and neck pain and enjoys helping patients to understand how to get better and stay better. When not at work, Jordan's interests include spending time with his wife and daughter, enjoying anything outdoors, or relaxing and enjoying a good movie.

Carrie Ferguson graduated with high honors from the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at the University of Saint Francis in May 2017 along with her Health and Exercise Science bachelor's degree in December 2017. Carrie is one of our full time therapists at our South Calhoun location. She loves working one on one with patients to help them achieve their goals and wishes to continuously keep growing in the physical therapy field. In her free time, Carrie enjoys coaching tumbling, working out, hiking, mini-road trips, drinking coffee and spending time with friends and family.

Christy Hankey graduated from the University of Saint Francis in 2017 with a Physical Therapy Assistant degree. She immediately started working for Steppin' Up at the Calhoun Street clinic. Christy's passion is working with pediatric patients and has completed advanced training in TMJ Dysfunction. When not at work, she can be found with her husband and beautiful dogs hiking, biking or tending to her beehives.

Jerad Brickey graduated from the University of St. Francis in 2012 with a Physical Therapist Assistant Degree. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in Health Science in 2014. After graduation, he began working for Steppin’ Up as a physical therapist assistant. He also is currently a lab adjunct at the University of Saint Francis for the Physical Therapy Assistant Program. Jerad is specialized in conducting Functional Movements Screenings to recognize movement pattern imbalance, SI Joint Dysfunction, and neuromuscular rehabilitation. He also is a certified personal trainer through the National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF). Jerad’s favorite things about being a physical therapist assistant is working with patients and helping them improve to enjoy better quality of life. He also enjoys the teamwork of the staff and the positive work environment. Outside of work, Jerad enjoys spending his time with his wife, daughter, and dog. He also enjoys working out, reading, hunting, and camping with his family.

Jorge Pablo graduated from Indiana State University with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in May of 2020. He has taken continuing education with LSVT Big, Graston Technique, and Rocktape. In his free time, he likes to hang out with family and friends. His favorite aspect about Steppin' Up is the one-on-one therapy allowing for good quality care.

Minda Lemmon graduated with honors from Hanover College and Chicago Medical School. She recently joined the Steppin' Up team and is the Clinic Director for our new Coldwater Road Office. With over 19 years of experience, she has expertise in sports and orthopedics. She specializes in running, cycling, Pilates, orthotic fabrication, and vestibular rehab/concussions. In addition, she is a Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner, has certifications in Graston/ASTYM techniques, and performs static and dynamic cupping. Furthermore, she is the only certified Bike PT in the state of Indiana, credentialed with all bikes and aerodynamics. Minda is a certified RRCA running coach and running technique specialist (Pose Method). She is passionate about physical therapy, improving her patients' well-being, patient care, and customer service. She believes in servant leadership and says, "the best gift I can give to someone is the ability to return to what they love doing, injury free." During her free time, she enjoys running marathons, wakeboarding, sailing, boating, paddle boarding, kayaking, cycling, and agility training with her golden doodle, Caicos. Additionally, she enjoys traveling with her husband, Chad, to the Caribbean and Disney.

Heather Richardville graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and from Indiana University with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Since graduation, Heather worked in Indianapolis for an acute hospital setting, ICU orthopedic trauma, and acute rehabilitation. She then joined Steppin’ Up as a physical therapist. Heather and her husband are from Fort Wayne and have three daughters that enjoy spending time outside and playing soccer. When not at work, Heather enjoys reading, playing/watching sports, and running.

Sarah Botts received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Trine University in 2019. She enjoys working with patients of all ages, but has a special passion for pediatrics. She has received advanced training in Integrative Dry Needling and looks forward to taking more continuing education courses to best treat her patients. When Sarah is not treating patients, she is most likely spending time with her Labrador Retriever, Maisey Daisey Paisley. Sarah also enjoys playing volleyball, attending concerts, and has high aspirations to visit all 62 National Parks.

Kacee Kugler graduated from the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at the University of Saint Francis in May of 2016. She also earned a bachelor's degree in Health and Exercise Science in May of 2017. She is certified in Tai Chi Rehabilitation and is working toward a Pilates Certification. In addition to her full time position with Steppin' Up, Kacee has a passion for horses. In her spare time, she enjoys doing therapy and rehabilitation on injured horses, barrel racing, and owns a barrel racing rein business.

Bethany Karber graduated from Southern Illinois University with a Bachelors degree in Recreation in 1995. She has worked as an Activity Director and Preschool teacher for the last 20+ years but her favorite job is being a mom to her young adults Alex and Erin. In the winter, Bethany enjoys doing large jigsaw puzzles and playing games with her family. In the summer she enjoys boating, camping and many other outdoor recreation activities. Bethany has lived in Fort Wayne since 2006 and enjoys the small town feel in a bigger city with her husband Richard, 2 kids, one dog and 2 cats. She is happy to greet you with a smile at our Steppin' Up Physical Therapy Watersong location!

Brittany Biggs joined the Steppin' Up Physical Therapy team in August 2017. She is currently an Administrative Assistant in our Admin office and also trains our new hires. Brittany married her husband in October 2016 and they now have 2 young boys. They enjoy spending time together baking, cooking, and spending quality family time with their sons. In her free time, Brittany enjoys going to the park, taking her 2 chihuahuas on walks, and taking her sons to the Zoo.

Nathan Notter graduated from Rosalind Franklin University in 1992 with a degree in Physical Therapy. Prior to working at Steppin’ Up, he worked in two outpatient clinics for a total of 21 years. Nathan is the Clinic Director at our Jefferson Blvd. location. He additionally evaluates and treats patients, performs post-offer employment tests, and functional capacity testing. He has completed advanced training for Trigger Point Dry Needling and TMJ Dysfunction. Nathan’s favorite things about being a physical therapist are working one-on-one with patients, helping people achieve their goals, and working alongside a motivated staff. When not working, Nathan enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching his children participate in sports, running, biking, and reading.

Tayler Schortgen graduated from Trine University in 2017 with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Following graduation, Tayler joined the Steppin’ Up team and works at the Southwest location. Tayler evaluates and treats patients presenting with a variety of diagnoses and has received advanced training in Trigger Point Dry Needling. In addition, Tayler is a Level I certified provider of Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation through the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute. Tayler is passionate about the benefits of physical therapy and loves to spend one-on-one time with her patients to understand their story and build lasting relationships in order to help restore patients’ function and quality of life. When not at Steppin’ Up, Tayler loves spending quality time with her husband, family and friends and enjoys being outdoors where she can be found fishing, playing beach volleyball and kayaking!

Ashley Rager graduated from Trine University in 2019 with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She completed a clinical rotation with Steppin’ Up as a graduate student and joined the team after graduation as a physical therapist. She has completed training to treat individuals with Pelvic Health issues and is excited to help begin the Pelvic Health program at Steppin’ Up. Ashley enjoys working one on one with patients and helping them reach their full potential! When not working, Ashley loves to spend time with her family and friends, enjoys working out, playing volleyball, attending concerts, and traveling.

Kelly Spitznagel began working for Steppin' Up in 2019, after graduating from Ivy Tech's Physical Therapist Assistant program. Kelly loves physical therapy because, simply put, life is so much better when you can physically do the things you want to do! Whether that's playing with your kids, working in the garden, hiking with friends, or playing a sport, she is passionate about helping her patients reach their goals. In addition to working at Steppin' Up, Kelly is also a CrossFit coach at CrossFit 260. In her free time, Kelly enjoys reading, traveling, working out, and spending time with her husband and two daughters.

Ashley Smith started working for Steppin' Up in 2016 as a physical therapist technician at the south clinic. She then completed a clinical rotation for a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. Ashley graduated from the PTA program at the University of Saint Francis in May 2018. She rejoined Steppin' Up in June 2018 and works at our southwest clinic. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her fiancé and their daughter, going fishing, and going to amusement parks.

Jason Hazelett is the owner of Steppin’ Up Physical Therapy. He graduated from Indiana University in 1995 and received his Master’s in Physical Therapy from Andrews University in 1998. Jason then received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2009 and board certification as an orthopedic specialist in 2015. Jason treated patients fulltime for 19 years, but has recently reduced treatment time to better handle the business functions of Steppin' Up. He still strives to ensure that compassion and hospitality remain key tenets at each office. Jason believes in the adage that people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. Jason is fluent in Spanish and has intentionally developed Steppin' Up to be able to effectively offer physical therapy services to the Spanish-speaking population in their own language. He has been married to his wife Tiina since 1995 and they have three grown children: Paige, Chloe, and Jayda.

Gloria May graduated from the Brown Mackie Physical Therapy Assistant program in 2011 with an Associates in Applied Science. She began working at Steppin' Up in 2011 and is the Director of Offices, overseeing the administrative components of all offices. She handles compliance, human resources, oversees non-clinical staff, and makes sure everyone has what they need. Gloria is married to Richard and has two children. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, shopping, crafts and good food.

Sara Auman-Smith began working for Steppin’ Up in October of 2016 as the Pre-Certification Specialist and Medical Records. She pre-checks patients’ health insurance benefits and schedules new patients upon a doctor referral. Sara graduated from IPFW in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts. Sara married her husband in 2005 and has two boys, two cats and a dog. When not working, Sara enjoys keeping her two boys active, painting and running.

Alicia Shoup began working for Steppin' Up in 2015 as the Billing Specialist. She has since become the Administrative Office Director. She is responsible for overseeing billing claims to insurance companies, posting payments from insurance companies and patients, managing patient accounts, keeping up on the latest insurance and billing changes, patient scheduling. Alicia graduated from Indiana University Purdue University with a bachelor's degree in General Studies/Education. She married her high school sweetheart, Rick, and they have a cat named Max. In her free time, she likes to organize things, ride her bike, and hang out with family and friends.

Whitney McPherson began working at Steppin' Up in December 2015 as a Physical Therapist Technician. After maternity leave, she joined the Administrative Office as the Billing Assistant. Her responsibilities include answering phones, taking new patient intakes, completing patient statements, answering statement and collections questions, and initiating collections. Whitney enjoys cooking and baking. The office especially loves when she brings goodies in to share! In her free time, she takes care of her two beautiful children and enjoys being a football and basketball mom.