Jennifer Anderson, PT, DPT, NCS, CSRS
Board Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist
Founder, Doctor of Physical Therapy
The driving force in creating Root Physical Therapy is Dr. Jennifer Anderson's passion for working with people with Parkinson's Disease. She knows that the most successful outcomes incorporate principles of neuroplasticity and operates under the concept that "exercise is medicine". Jennifer's vision is to provide clients with exceptional physical therapy along with the additional opportunity to provide physical/mental/emotional services through community outreach/volunteerism and various wellness classes.
Jennifer earned her doctorate degree in physical therapy from A.T. Still University's School of Osteopathic Medicine in Mesa, Arizona. She earned her bachelor's degree in exercise science at Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri. Jennifer has been a group fitness instructor for over a decade and loves the personal connections that come with leading others through exercise classes. She serves on the board of directors for The Parkinson and Movement Disorder Alliance, a non-profit organization.
Jennifer regularly pursues continuing education in various areas of neurological rehab, but has a particular interest in movement disorders. Jennifer is LSVT BIG® certified for the treatment of people with Parkinson's disease, PWR! trained (Parkinson's Wellness Recovery), and a designated Certified Stroke Rehabilitative Specialist through the National Stroke Association. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and a credentialed clinical instructor through the APTA.
When she's not practicing, Jennifer enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, son, and two dogs. She is an avid yogi and is always looking for a new trail to hike.
Jamie Kuettel, PT, DPT, NCS, GCS
Board Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist
Board Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Jamie earned her doctorate degree in physical therapy from A.T. Still University’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Mesa, Arizona in 2010. In 2013, she completed a neurologic residency program through Honorhealth/Northern Arizona University (NAU). Jamie earned her board certified clinical specialties in neurology in 2013 and geriatrics in 2015.
Jamie has a passion for neurologic rehabilitation and continues to advance her education in these areas. She is LSVT BIG® certified for the treatment of people with Parkinson’s disease, PWR! Trained (Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery), and certified in vestibular rehab. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and a credentialed clinical instructor through the APTA. Jamie is also serving her 4th year as a member of the APTA Arizona Chapter House of Delegates.
She is involved in research for people with Parkinson’s disease through A.T. Still University including studies of endurance using standardized outcome measures and hand motor function.
Outside of work, Jamie enjoys spending time with her children. She enjoys traveling, camping, hiking, running, crafting, and supporting University of Arizona athletics!
Kathleen Grady Smith, PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Dr. Kathleen Grady Smith, PT, DPT brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. She received her Physical Therapy Degree from Northeastern University, Boston in 1991. Her main focus of practice throughout her career has been recovery from neurological impairments.
In 2008, Kathleen became LSVT BIG® certified for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Soon after receiving this certification, she became PWR! Trained (Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery), another Parkinson’s specific exercise program. To further her knowledge and keep up with current research, Kathleen returned to the classroom and achieved her transitional Doctorate of Physical Therapy at A.T. Still University's School of Osteopathic Medicine in 2014.
Kathleen has volunteered at multiple Parkinson’s retreats and has presented to various Parkinson’s support groups in the valley. She strongly believes in the power of exercise for symptom management, improved function, and overall well-being. Kathleen is excited to work with people with Parkinson’s disease to help them maximize their health and minimize the progression of the disease.
Katie Gentili, PT, DPT, NCS, CSRS
Board Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Katie is a Board-Certified Specialist in Neurological Physical Therapy who is experienced in adult neurological and vestibular rehabilitation. She believes in staying current on evidenced based approaches to treatment with current research and advances in technology.
She achieved recognition as a Board Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist in 2015. Other advanced certifications and training include Certified Stroke Rehab Specialist, LSVT BIG certification for Parkinson’s Disease, PWR! (Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery) certification, trained in Bioness L300 foot drop and L300 Plus thigh weakness systems. She has also completed advanced vestibular training through the APTA in conjunction with Duke University for their highly regarded Vestibular Rehab competency based course.
Katie is experienced in treating include Movement Disorders including Parkinson’s Disease and Atypical Parkinsonism, Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, Peripheral neuropathies, as well as Vestibular Conditions including but not limited to Benign Positional Vertigo. She strives for excellence through continued professional development and research. Katie takes a philosophy of focusing on the patient through a whole-body approach. She enjoys participating frequently in community service and outreach programs for the Parkinson’s Disease community and geriatrics in-need in her own community.
Mandy Mortenson, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS
Speech-Language Pathologist
Mandy earned her Bachelor’s degree in communicative disorders in 2006 and her Master’s degree in speech-language pathology with an emphasis in adult neurogenics in 2008, both from the University of Northern Iowa. She has experience with a wide range of diagnoses including Parkinson's Disease, Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury, Multiple Sclerosis, Concussion, and Brain tumors.
Mandy holds a Certification in Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association. She is also licensed by the state of Arizona. Mandy is LSVT LOUD® certified, a voice treatment for persons with Parkinson’s disease. Mandy received her certified brain injury specialist certification (CBIS) in 2009 from the Academy of Certified Brain Injury Specialists (ACBIS). She has extensive experience treating various problems including speech/language, cognitive, voice, and swallowing disorders.
Mandy feels passionate about helping people with Parkinson’s disease to live as independently at possible. She focuses on creating new habits that allow people to communicate with friends and family. She works to understand their individualized difficulties and work to overcome day-to-day challenges including staying home alone, managing medications/finances, being heard in a group/over the phone, and returning to work/volunteering.
When she is not working, Mandy enjoys traveling and spending time with family and her 5 pound miniature pinscher, Dudley.
CERTIFICATIONS
Board Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist (NCS)
Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
Certified Stroke Rehabilitative Specialist
Certified Brain Injury Specialist
LSVT BIG Certified
LSVT LOUD Certified
PWR! Trained Therapist
OUR MISSION: TARGET THE ROOT CAUSE OF THE IMPAIRMENT AND RESTORE FUNCTION
WITH AN INDIVIDUALIZED PROGRAM FOCUSING ON REHABILITATION AND NEUROFITNESS
WITH AN INDIVIDUALIZED PROGRAM FOCUSING ON REHABILITATION AND NEUROFITNESS