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Scott Johnson
Co-Founder, PT, MS
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Todd Hayes
Co-Founder, PT, MS
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Susan Adamson
PTA
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Sharon Anderson
DPT
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Hayley Abell
DPT
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Ahmad Abu-Spetani
DPT
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Brooke Bishop
DPT
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Lacey Calvert
Business Development
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Brent Congo
Clinic Director, PT, MS, OCS, MTC
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Selea Cooper
DPT
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Sara Dorr
DPT
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Hunter Dreaden
DPT, ATC
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Katlynne Dreaden
DPT
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Susan DuPre
DPT, MS
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Kayla Farmer
PTA
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Lydia Freund
DPT
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Lindsay Gandy
PTA
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Ricia Garrard
PT, MS
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Aniefiok “Ani” Isen
Telehealth PT, PT, DPT
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Claire Laaker
DPT
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Nathaniel Lang
Clinic Director, DPT
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Allison Lindsey
DPT
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Miller Matzek
Clinic Director, DPT
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Jackson Menefee
DPT
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Joe Metz
Clinic Director, PT, ATC
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Megan Miller
DPT
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Kevin Olds
PT
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Lisa Palacios
Office Manager
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Halee Pegues
DPT
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Amanda Perry
DPT
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Jessica Ratliff
Clinic Director, PTA
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Alyssa Ritter
DPT
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Cassie Schmidt
DPT
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Mara Scruggs
PTA
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Emily Shadoan
DPT
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Felicia Smith
PTA
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Kathryn Smith
DPT
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Martin Stewart
DPT
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Jacqy Stone
PT, MS
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Karen Strickland
Business Development
Scott Johnson
Co-Founder, Physical Therapist
Scott Johnson, a Huntsville native, co-founded Johnson & Hayes Physical Therapists in January 2003. Scott began playing baseball and basketball at an early age, which he continued through college. He graduated from Grissom High School, where he lettered in baseball and basketball, and went on to play baseball at Gadsden State Community College. He then played baseball at Birmingham-Southern College, where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Biology/Psychology.
Scott went on to receive his Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama – Birmingham, and later received a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Alabama – Birmingham. Having undergone physical therapy due to numerous injuries in collegiate sports, Scott always had an interest in the profession. Scott received his Alabama PT license in 1994, and worked as a Physical Therapist/Manager at Baptist Health System for 4 1/2 years. He then worked as a Physical Therapist/Administrator at HealthSouth for 4-1/2 years.
Scott is married to the former Carrie Cason, and they have two children, Sam and Abby. Scott enjoys treating post-operative and nonoperative orthopedic and musculoskeletal injuries with manual therapy emphasis. His areas of interest and expertise include shoulder and knee injuries, scoliosis rehabilitation, and rehabilitation of athletes. In his spare time, Scott loves to spend time with his family and friends, play golf, and serves as a board member with Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Todd Hayes
Co-Founder, Physical Therapist
Todd Hayes, a Huntsville native, co-founded Johnson & Hayes Physical Therapists in January 2003. Todd has an extensive background in sports. He played baseball and basketball at Grissom High School, where he graduated in 1987. Todd was no stranger to sports related injury; he broke his tibia and fibula in his right leg during a baseball collision. The importance of quality rehabilitation became evident at an extremely young age. After graduation from Grissom, Todd played baseball for two years at Gadsden State Community College, and then went on to play at Lipscomb University.
He received a Dual Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering and Math upon graduation from Auburn University, and later a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Upon completing his Physical Therapy degree, Todd worked at HealthSouth for three years. He married his high school sweetheart, Monica Lancaster Hayes, and they have three children: Katie, Carter, and Lauren.
In his spare time, Todd loves to coach youth sports, play golf, snow ski, travel and spend time with his family. He enjoys serving on his church mission board and as board member for Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Todd receives extraordinary joy from being a physical therapist because he is able to return people back to the things they love to do.
Roger Gurley
PHYSICAL THERAPIST
Roger Gurley, from Corner, Alabama, joined the Johnson and Hayes team because he was drawn to the patient-first care-oriented atmosphere at Johnson and Hayes Physical Therapists. Roger attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2003. He went on to earn his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in 2006.
Roger first became interested in Physical Therapy after injuring his ankle while playing basketball in high school and experienced firsthand how integral Physical Therapy is for any type of rehabilitation after an injury. Being involved with returning athletes to their respected sports as well as patients back to independence in their communities is Roger’s passion.
Roger utilizes manual therapy techniques, functional exercises, Kinesio taping, dry needling, blood flow restriction and therapeutic activities in order to restore patients back to optimal function. In his spare time, Roger enjoys playing golf. He also enjoys watching Alabama athletics and spending time with his daughter, Carsyn, and with family and friends.
Brent Congo
Clinic Director, Physical Therapist
Brent Congo, from Athens, AL, joined the Johnson & Hayes team in 2003 because of the excellent camaraderie among staff and the ample time he was able to spend with his patients. Growing up, he had an interest in science and anatomy. As he studied he became fascinated with how the human body heals or, in many cases, does not heal properly. Physical therapy afforded Brent a career where he can have a positive influence in the body’s healing process. He loves being able to provide education and hands-on treatment to patients so that they can understand how to take care of their own bodies properly to prevent injury and to promote good health.
Brent received his Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Alabama – Birmingham, a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama – Birmingham, and a Manual Therapy certification from the University of St. Augustine. He is a certified specialist in orthopedic physical therapy through the ABPTS. Brent is also a certified dry needling practitioner. In his spare time, Brent enjoys boating, reading, coaching baseball and basketball and being active in his church. Professionally, he enjoys neck, shoulder and back rehabilitation.
Jacqueline "Jacqy" Stone
Physical Therapist
Jacqy Stone, a Huntsville native, joined the Johnson & Hayes team in 2003 because it was privately owned, already had wonderful team of therapists on staff, and had a reputation of treating patients throughout their complete recovery process. Jacqy chose the profession of physical therapy because she desired a vocation which allowed her to stay active and assist others in achieving their goals using science and hard work. She especially enjoys treating patients who have orthopaedic issues including trauma, multiple fractures, total joint arthroscopy, cervical/lumbar spine (general pain), shoulder, knee, ankle and epicondylitis.
Jacqy received her Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Music at the University of Montevallo, and a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama – Birmingham. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, cycling, hiking and playing with her dogs. She is a member of APTA, The Orthopaedic & Geriatric Sections and Alabama PTA.
Claire Laaker
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Claire is originally from St. Louis, MO. She attended University of South Alabama for my undergraduate degree in Exercise Science. Claire then graduated from Samford University where she received my DPT degree. She has a passion for orthopedics and really enjoys working with the geriatric population in the outpatient ortho setting. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time exploring new things to do/places to go around Huntsville with her boyfriend, playing with their pets, spending time with family and friends, and being outdoors!
Patricia "Ricia" Garrard
Physical Therapist
Ricia Garrard, from Mobile, AL, joined the Johnson & Hayes team in 2004 because she wanted to work with a company that was owned by physical therapists where the needs of the patients were a priority. Growing up, Ricia wanted to find a career where she could combine her love of science with the opportunity to work with people, and physical therapy provided just that. She finds if extremely rewarding to work to improve a patient’s quality of life. Her interests include manual therapy and treating spinal pain ranging from body mechanics and posture training to core stabilization exercises to Pilates. She greatly enjoys instructing individual clients in Pilates training at THE STUDIO at Johnson & Hayes.
Ricia graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree from Louisiana Tech University and received a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama – Birmingham. In her spare time, Ricia loves to travel, work out, hike, read and play with her two very spoiled dogs.
Megan McKenzie Miller
Physical Therapist
Megan Miller, a native of Huntsville, joined Johnson and Hayes Physical Therapists in 2012 because of the compassionate and friendly staff she met, and the "small town" feel when patients entered the clinic. Through school and internships, she found that patient-focused care rendered the best outcomes and desired to work in a PT-owned clinic that allowed PTs to treat their patients through their full recovery. Growing up, Megan enjoyed helping others and found Human Anatomy and Physiology to be her favorite High school class. A career in Physical therapy has allowed her to pair these two together, with each patient presenting unique problems that keep her on her toes.
Megan graduated from UA Huntsville with a Bachelors in Biological Sciences with an Exercise Physiology Minor. She earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine after graduating with High honors. Since 2012, Megan has completed continuing education towards earning a Manual Therapy certification. Beginning in 2015, Megan began her training through the University of St Augustine in Craniofacial Physical Therapy after finding that there was a lack of care in North Alabama for patients suffering from jaw and facial dysfunction. In her spare time, Megan enjoys traveling, cheering on her Vols/Packers/Predators/Trash Pandas, and spending time with her husband Larry, and kids- Callie and Landon.
Allison Lindsey
Physical Therapist
Allison Lindsey, from Memphis, TN, joined the Johnson & Hayes team in 2013, after working with them as a student in 2010. She was interested in returning to work at Johnson & Hayes because she realized everyone on the team was a great group of people who loved that they did, and that they were able to really make a difference in the lives of their clients. She knew this was the profession for her because she wanted to help improve other’s quality of life. Allison received her Bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. In her spare time, Allison loves good food, biking and helping educate people on ways to make their life better.
Allison Stanford
Physical Therapist
Allison, from Mobile, joined the Johnson & Hayes Physical Therapists team in 2015 because she appreciated the J&H approach to patient-therapist consistency throughout the rehabilitation process. Allison developed her interest in physical therapy at Ole Miss, where she was a member of the cross country and track & field teams. In the training room after practices, she was able to watch and experience physical therapists aid her, her teammates and other athletes in returning to their favorite sport- sometimes even stronger than before. Allison received her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Mississippi and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. In her spare time, Allison loves running, reading, playing the violin, and traveling to Oxford, MS for a weekend of tailgating and Ole Miss football.
Drew Stanford
Clinic Director, Physical Therapist
Drew Stanford, from Hoover, Alabama, joined the Johnson & Hayes Physical Therapists team in 2015 because he appreciated the environment and approach to patient-first care. He became interested in the field while receiving physical therapy after his own baseball related shoulder injury. Drew played baseball at Troy University where he graduated with a degree in Cell and Molecular Biology before receiving his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. In his spare time Drew loves hunting, fishing, spending time outdoors and watching baseball and football.
Sara Dorr
Physical Therapist
Sara Dorr is a Madison native who joined Johnson & Hayes as a physical therapist in 2019. Sara joined for the opportunity to focus on the Vestibular and Balance populations and she loved the quality one on one time that she saw was given to each patient. She has had an interest in physical therapy since high school. She loves getting to help people return to their normal functional levels, improve their understanding of their body, and creating long term goals to help with sustaining function. She played volleyball throughout high school and college and greatly enjoys the work it takes to push to do your best every day. Sara received her Bachelor’s degree from Auburn University and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Belmont University. Sara enjoys spending time with friends and family in her spare time as well as travel and experiencing new foods. Sara also enjoys serving and learning with her church and small group.
Hunter Dreaden
Physical Therapist
Hunter grew up in Muscle Shoals, AL and joined the Johnson & Hayes team in July 2021. He went to Huntingdon College for his undergraduate education, where he played baseball and received his Bachelors in Athletic Training. Hunter worked as an athletic trainer and physical therapy tech for a year in Montgomery, where he discovered a passion for helping patients return to their normal activities after sustaining an injury. He went to Alabama State University where he received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy and met his wife Katlynne, who is also at physical therapist. In his free time, he loves to duck hunt, play golf, and hang out with his wife.
Nathaniel Lang
Physical Therapist
Nathaniel Lang, from Snead Alabama joined Johnson and Hayes in June 2020. He developed his interest in physical therapy after multiple injuries in high school. Nathaniel received his Bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training from Troy University and his Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Nathaniel is also a board-certified Athletic Trainer and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Nathaniel recently completed his Orthopedic Manual Therapy certification through the Institute of Advanced Musculoskeletal Treatments. Throughout his career, Nathaniel has worked with various patient populations from general orthopedic, sports medicine, vestibular, neurological and sport performance. Nathaniel is married to Tiaya Lang and recently welcomed a new daughter Harper Reed. In his spare time Nathaniel enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing golf, and working in the yard.
Susan Adamson
Physical Therapist Assistant
Susan Adamson from Cullman, Alabama joined the Johnson and Hayes team in March of 2019. Susan chose the Johnson and Hayes team due to the rich history of patient satisfaction and individualized quality of care. Susan played multiple sports in high school including volleyball, softball, and basketball that gave her the passion to pursue her career in Physical Therapy. She received her Bachelors degree in Exercise Science from the University of Alabama in Birmingham before pursuing her physical therapist assistant degree from Wallace State Community College. In her spare time she enjoys reading, watching movies, traveling, working out, cycling, spending time with family and is a fanatic basketball fan.
Selea Cooper
Physical Therapist
Selea Cooper, from Madison, AL, joined the Johnson & Hayes team in June 2019. Selea always wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. Once in high school, Selea participated in a program where she observed various healthcare professions. It was in this program that she discovered her passion for becoming a physical therapist. Selea received her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of Alabama and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of South Alabama. Selea shadowed at Johnson & Hayes one summer as an undergraduate student. She also had one of her clinical rotations at J&H. Selea enjoyed the overall environment of J&H and the ability to make meaningful connections with patients. In her free time, Selea enjoys watching Alabama football games, reading, going for walks with her rescue dog (Sugar), and spending time with family and friends.
Sydney Homan
Physical Therapist
Sydney Homan will be joining Johnson and Hayes Physical Therapists in May. A record-holding four-time AHSAA state tennis champion, Sydney is a familiar face returning to the Huntsville area where she attended high school and trained at Athletic Club Alabama. A student athlete at Wingate University where she received the national Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award, Sydney realizes the importance of team collaboration and goal-setting. This focus parallels her approach to patient treatment where she emphasizes creative success plans with individualized prescriptions. After having the opportunity to be mentored by Johnson and Hayes during a summer internship, Sydney knew she wanted to return to practice with this expert and caring team.
After graduating in Exercise Science (BS) at Wingate University, Sydney obtained a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree with honors (Alpha Eta) from the University of South Alabama in May 2022. Her plans include continued education to specialize in orthopedic physical therapy. An all-sports enthusiast, Sydney also enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing tennis, working out, and walks with her dog Nick.
Charlene Mcardle
Physical Therapist Assistant
Charlene is a Rocket City native, coming from a family joined at the hip with the military (both Army and Marines). She attended St. John Paul II Catholic High School and graduated in 2012. She then obtained her Physical Therapist Assistant Degree from Calhoun Community College in 2018.
Charlene’s first passion was to pursue a career in softball as a pitcher but several injuries precluded her from continuing that quest. After the first of several injuries, Charlene came to Johnson & Hayes where she was impressed by the compassion and professionalism of her therapist, who knew exactly how to provide the proper care and management of her injuries.
Charlene performs volunteer work with the Huntsville Human Society and CampLIFE in Danville, AL. She is the recipient of several awards such as Science Fair Regional Award, MVP and All Area in Softball, and the Huntsville Essay Contest. Charlene was also a member of the Delta Zeta Sorority while attending the University of Alabama-Huntsville.
Charlene is very excited about working at Johnson & Hayes PT. She will be the teammate of Josh Cash, DPT, OCS.
Kendall Blasi
Physical Therapist
Kendall’s roots are in Knoxville, TN but also claims Huntsville as her home since moving here in 2012 to begin her collegiate volleyball career at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. At UAH, she earned her Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences with an Exercise Physiology cognate. Prior to college, Kendall developed a passion for Physical Therapy through personal experience and shadowing opportunities of various patient populations. It was early she developed a strong drive and passion for patients with neurological disorders affecting mobility and balance. Kendall was accepted into Belmont University’s DPT program where she graduated from in August of 2019 and got married one week later! It only took an 8-week clinical rotation in 2018 for her to know J&H was a special place. In October of 2019, Kendall accepted a position in the Dizziness and Balance program to assist the very patients she is most passionate about. She believes Physical Therapy is a valuable tool to help those with mobility disorders regain an active lifestyle and improve quality of life through movement and community. Outside of work, Kendall enjoys practicing Pilates, hiking, being on the lake, playing volleyball, and spending time with her husband, Conner, family and friends.
Susan DuPre
Physical Therapist - DPT, MS
Susan DuPre’, a native of Macon, GA, joined the Johnson & Hayes team in its infancy in 2003. She had met Johnson & Hayes owners through church events and, when she learned that they were opening a new, private practice where patients would see their same therapist consistently, and where customer service would be at the top of the list, she actually contacted the owners and asked to be their first PT hire! The owners welcomed her, and she has been in and out as an employee (interrupted by maternity leaves and a calling to homeschool her children) since then, but always looks forward to being a whole-hearted team member at J&H.
Growing up, Susan was a competitive tennis player and played the Southern Circuit for many years through high school. It was through the sports world that Susan became fascinated with the human body and how nutrition and movement play such a huge role in health and function. Her desire was to find a career that would connect her with people one-on-one and enable her to share her knowledge of health and healing with others. She has treated patients in various settings including outpatient orthopedic, home health, and the school system. Her favorite aspect of physical therapy is treating patients with dizziness or balance disorders, which she began doing in 2000.
Susan earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Art History from Vanderbilt University and a Master’s degree in Health and Sport Science from Wake Forest University. She earned her Master’s degree and later her Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from Shenandoah University. In her spare time (ha!) Susan enjoys spending time with her 4 teenagers and her husband, homeschooling her kids, teaching high school classes, volunteering for Revelation Wellness, the Christian fitness ministry she is involved in, working out, and attending church functions and fellowships.
Emily Shadoan
Physical Therapist
Emily grew up in Madison, AL and joined the Johnson & Hayes team in January 2021. She played tennis in high school and has always had an interest in learning how to help people continue to do the activities they love. She went to Auburn University for her Undergraduate degree in Exercise Science with a minor in Psychology. She then moved to Birmingham, Alabama and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from The University of Alabama-Birmingham. Emily had a clinical rotation at J&H in Madison in the Summer of 2020 and enjoyed working with the staff and patients so much that she accepted a position to join the team as an orthopedic therapist. In her spare time she loves to tackle a new cooking/baking project, walk her rescue dog Harvey, upgrade her home coffee setup, and spend time with her friends and family.
Amanda Perry
Physical Therapist
Amanda joined Johnson & Hayes in March 2024. She received her bachelor's degree in biology in 2009 from University of Montevallo and her DPT from The University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2012. After graduation, she focused on manual orthopedic physical therapy, sitting for her manual therapy exam and becoming a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) in 2014. In 2016 Amanda became a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS). In 2019 she had the opportunity to begin treating pelvic health patients and quickly developed a passion for this population. Amanda treats both female and male patients with pelvic health issues. She has a special love for treating the more active pelvic population, allowing patients to maintain or return to exercise. When not working, Amanda is a teaching assistant for Herman and Wallace Institute with their Pelvic Function series. She loves spending time with family and friends, running, lifting weights, reading, cooking, and spending time outside.
Karen Strickland
Business Development, Alabama
Karen Strickland is a Huntsville native and joined Johnson & Hayes in 2015 as Marketing Director. Karen attended the University of Alabama and the University of North Alabama where she played scholarship tennis. She graduated with a Bachelor's degree in both Marketing and Finance.
Karen enjoys spending time with her husband and their two daughters and their husbands. She also continues to enjoy competitive tennis locally and traveling to tournaments, beach trips with friends and involvement with her church at Church of the Highlands.
Mary Emily Sockwell
Physical Therapist
Mary Emily grew up in Muscle Shoals, AL and joined the J&H team in September 2021. She attended Auburn University for her undergraduate degree in Exercise Science and minored in Psychology. She then moved with her husband, Austin, to Chattanooga, TN, where she attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree. Mary Emily grew up playing high school sports and enjoyed learning about the human body in her anatomy and physiology classes. She always had a passion for serving others and loves the ability to help people of all ages regain mobility and functionality to improve their quality of life. One of her favorite aspects of her career is having the ability to build relationships and rapport with her patients. In her free time, Mary Emily enjoys spending time with her husband, friends, and family. She also enjoys cooking, eating good food, spending time on the lake, and taking her two dogs, Sammie and Copper, on walks.
Kathryn Smith
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Kathryn recently moved to Huntsville, AL from Tucson, AZ. Graduating with her DPT from Duke University, she is excited to spend her time caring for musculoskeletal and neurological patients at Johnson and Hayes. She is certified in dry needling and has taken multiple orthopedic manual therapy courses.
With a passion for promoting wellness and restoring function, Kathryn utilizes evidence-based practices to form personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each patient, focusing on patient centered care. She has found that this practice consistently achieves positive outcomes and helps patients regain their independence and quality of life.
In her free time, Kathryn enjoys doing yoga, snowboarding, volleyball, mountain biking, and traveling. She also likes spending time with her friends, husband, and lab-mix rescue dog, Rosie.
Lindsay Gandy
Physical Therapist Assistant
I grew up in the small town of Elkmont, Al and shortly after graduating in 2016 I moved to Madison, Al. I wasn't completely sure what career I wanted to pursue, thinking I may be interested in personal training due to my background in fitness and nutrition. When I took my first anatomy class, I absolutely fell in love with the body and wanted to expand my knowledge even further, so I applied and was accepted into the PTA program at Calhoun Community College. I graduated with my Associate's degree and became a licensed PTA in May 2021.
I have worked at many different types of settings, such as pediatrics, outpatient orthopedic, and a balance oriented clinic. I determined with further training, I had the most passion for patients with balance disorders and dizziness, but also have a love for orthopedics.
I heard about an opening at Johnson and Hayes through an employee, and after hearing all of the amazing reviews from patients and employees, it was an opportunity I couldn't turn down. I am now able to focus balance and dizziness patients one-on-one, which I absolutely love and have always wanted.
Outside of work, I love doing anything outdoors, especially hiking or traveling to new places, going to the gym, and spending time with my two fur-babies!
Aniefiok “Ani” Isen
Telehealth Physical Therapist
Aniefiok "Ani" Isen, PT, DPT is the Director of Telehealth Physical Therapy. With just under 15 years of clinical practice, Dr. Isen brings a diverse background of therapies to this role. With experience in private practice, outpatient orthopedics, pain management, home health, skilled nursing, long-term care, assisted living, and memory care settings, Dr. Isen has a proven knack for helping patients feel and perform better, regardless of the clinical setting. His perspective on patient care is summed up here: "I work every day to help people become better versions of themselves and to help them regain control of their lives again, like I was able to do years ago. Our bodies have an incredible amount of potential to heal. A diagnosis is only detrimental when its symptoms exist. If we learn how to control the symptoms or fix the actual problem, we win."
Ani's interest in physical therapy began in high school when he injured his leg while playing football. Physical therapy helped Ani to regain the use of his leg and his interest in helping others to overcome similar challenges was ignited. Following his undergraduate degree at Lipscomb University, Ani graduated with his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2008 from the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center in Memphis, TN.
Ani has a wide range of passions outside of work, including family, coaching, building and music. He has coached soccer, football, and basketball for 18+ seasons for elementary, middle, and high schoolers, on recreation, school, and travel levels of competition. He also loves woodworking, audio/video installations, tinkering, and fixing things when time permits. With an interest in music since the age of 3, Ani has participated in private recitals, group concerts, string ensembles, chamber groups, youth orchestras, honors bands and choruses, and the Memphis Youth Symphony. Ani also played in the Early Music Consort throughout most of his undergraduate study at Lipscomb University. A former football player, Ani played semi-pro football for 2 years, most recently with the Nashville Storm who was a national powerhouse in the early 2000s. Ani's reward at the end of each day is getting to spend as much time as possible with his amazing wife and 3 kids.
Lauren Robison
Physical Therapist Assistant
Lauren is a Physical Therapist Assistant with over 7 years of experience in the Physical Therapy field. She has a wide range of patient experience, having worked with sports and orthopedics to balance and neuro rehabilitation. She is a certified LSVT clinician, specialized in working with the Parkinson's population.
Brooke Bishop, DPT
Physical Therapist
Brooke Bishop is from Somerville, Alabama and joined Johnson & Hayes Physical Therapists in November of 2021. While Brooke was in high school, she was a varsity cheerleader and she developed an interest in PT when she was receiving therapy for her ankle and lower back. Brooke received her Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science with a minor in Psychology from Troy University and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Samford University. While Brooke was a student at Samford University, she did a clinical rotation at Johnson & Hayes and enjoyed the staff and setting so much that she accepted a position with the company after graduation. Brooke’s interests are in pediatrics, lumbopelvic and hip dysfunction, and pelvic floor. Brooke enjoys treating and helping others achieve their goals through therapy. In her free time, she enjoys working out, hiking, being on the lake or at the beach and spending time with family, friends, and her golden retriever, Sally Mae. Brooke is also active in her local church, Whitesburg Baptist.
Certifications for Brooke Bishop PT, DPT include the Herman & Wallace Pelvic floor 1(pelvic floor muscle function, pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, diastasis recti, and pelvic prolapse) and 2A (incontinence, constipation, pudendal nerve dysfunction, and postpartum tears with delivery), and is advancing her knowledge with Pregnancy and Postpartum through the PCES certification and taking further Herman & Wallace courses. Through Dunning DN 1 and DN 2 she holds a Dry Needling certification for upper and lower extremities.
Hayley Abell
Physical Therapist
My name is Hayley Abell. I have just moved from Columbus, GA, where I was born and raised. I graduated from the University of Georgia with a B.S. in Exercise and Sports Science and Georgia Southern University with my Doctorate in Physical Therapy. I specialize in pelvic floor rehabilitation and orthopedics/ sports medicine. I am also dry needling certified.
New to the Huntsville area, I am excited to explore all the things. I enjoy CrossFit, cooking, and spending time outdoors. You'll find me watching Georgia football on Saturdays in the fall (Go Dawgs!). I geek out on Harry Potter and Game of Thrones, and I can't wait for hiking and camping with my dog, Remi.
My passion is women's health. I'm adamant that you deserve the best care, and I look forward to being with you every step of the way. I want to use what I know to help you perform at your best. Let's get to work!
Hannah Brown
Physical Therapist
I graduated in May of 2022 with my Doctorate from the University of Evansville in southern Indiana.
I grew up in Collinsville, IL which is right next to Saint Louis, Missouri. Being so close to the city, I grew up loving Cardinals baseball. I also love traveling, going on walks, good food, and exploring my new home in Alabama!
My favorite part of physical therapy is being able to drastically improve someone's functional mobility and quality of life. Getting to build trusting relationships with my patients throughout the progression of their treatment is very important to me. My love of helping others and my interests in anatomy & physiology combined to make me love physical therapy. While I was in PT school I participated in my school's student-run, pro-bono physical therapy clinic. Being able to learn and practice my skills while also providing care to an underserved population in my community was one of my favorite parts of being in PT school.
I am certified in LSVT BIG which is a program focused on restoring quality of movements in individuals with Parkinson's disease and other neurologic conditions. I am excited to start my career treating individuals with dizziness and balance difficulties, as well as orthopedic conditions!
Bailey Gardner
Physical Therapist
Bailey Gardner, DPT is from Huntsville, Alabama and joined J&H PT in February of 2023. She is a familiar face returning to the Huntsville area where she was born and raised. Bailey developed an interest in physical therapy when she was a competitive dancer for 16 years growing up and had to receive physical therapy for her lower back at J&H. From there, she was an aide one summer at J&H and fell in love with PT and the J&H staff. Bailey received her Bachelors of Science in Mathematics from Harding University as well as her Doctorate of Physical Therapy. Bailey's plans include continuing education in orthopedic physical therapy with plans of becoming a dance physical therapy specialist. Bailey has a special love and interest for adolescent females who participate in the performing arts and who are hypermobile. In her free time, she enjoys working out, hiking and playing with her dog Ozzie and spending time with family and friends.
Lydia Freund
Physical Therapist
Lydia was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama and is joining the J&H family in July of 2023. She is returning to Huntsville after completing her Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Emory University. Lydia was once a patient at J&H while being a competitive dancer for 15 years when she battled several injuries. She then started falling in love with the profession and became an aide at J&H while completing school. Lydia is now excited to complete the circle by being a full time PT in the J&H family. Within physical therapy, Lydia has a passion for both orthopedic and neurologic populations with a special interest in performing arts physical therapy for adolescent patients. In her free time Lydia enjoys taking dance classes, reading, and spending time with her friends and family!
Alyssa Ritter
Physical Therapist
Alyssa Ritter graduated from Miami University with a B.S. in Kinesiology and Emory University with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She enjoys treating a variety of orthopedic conditions and believes you deserve quality and individualized care to optimize function and quality of life. She and her husband welcomed our third child, a baby girl, in February 2023. In her free time, she enjoys long walks with her dogs, doing yoga, and spending quality time with family/friends. She is excited to join the J&H family and help make a positive impact on the health of those in the community.
Felicia Smith
Physical Therapist Assistant
Felicia Smith moved from her hometown of Melbourne, FL and joined the Huntsville, AL team at Johnson and Hayes in May of 2023. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida in Exercise and Sports Science with a minor in coaching. Her passion for educating and training others to obtain a healthier, functional lifestyle led her to attain a Physical Therapist Assistant degree from Eastern Florida State College. In her physical therapy career, she has experience working in skilled nursing facilities and outpatient orthopedics. In her spare time, she loves outdoor activities, dogs, gardening, and traveling, hoping to pursue an opportunity to coach volleyball.
Cassie Schmidt
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Cassie Schmidt is originally from Garden City, Michigan joining the Johnson & Hayes Team in July, 2024. Cassie developed a love for physical therapy and sports medicine through her background of playing Volleyball and Softball in high school. She studied at Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan while obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and minor in Psychology. Cassie received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Central Michigan University in May, 2020.
Cassie’s areas of interests include all orthopedics, sport’s injury, people with Parkinson’s, chronic pain, knees, and post-operative care. Cassie also has a special interest in treating individuals with Breast Cancer, along with a certification in lymphedema therapy including complete decongestive therapy. She is certified in the Strength After Breast Cancer program and treats survivors during their timeline before, during, and after treatments.
Cassie enjoys spending time with her Husband, Thomas and her chocolate lab, Wilbur. She loves traveling, hiking, working out, practicing yoga, reading and kayaking. She is excited to join the team and provide a fitness forward approach to physical therapy.
Kevin Olds
Physical Therapist
Kevin Olds, MSPT CSCS, CMP, Shroth Certified, MCT, NDN has over two decades of experience in physical therapy and sports conditioning, Kevin has worked with a diverse range of athletes, from high school to professional levels. His background includes serving as the Physical Therapist for the University of Memphis Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams and designing a Return to Throwing Program that has become a standard for treating overhead athletes, particularly baseball players.
Kevin’s career highlights include leadership roles as the Director of Clinical Education and Director of the Mentorship Program at Campbell Clinic in Memphis, TN, where he was instrumental in educating new residents and therapists. His expertise in advanced manual therapy techniques, including certifications in Schroth scoliosis treatment and dry needling, sets him apart as a specialist in the rehabilitation of complex orthopedic conditions.
Committed to providing exceptional care, Kevin brings a comprehensive approach to patient recovery, integrating manual therapy, functional strength training, and sports performance optimization. His experience collaborating with renowned orthopedic surgeons, including Dr. James Andrews, enhances his ability to deliver top-tier treatment for athletes and active individuals. We are confident that Kevin's vast knowledge and patient-centered approach will be a valuable asset to both our clinic and the local medical community.
Joe Metz
Clinic Director, Physical Therapist
Joe has been a licensed physical therapist for 17 years. He has over 34 years of experience working in physical therapy and sports medicine. Over that time, he has worked in hospital inpatient, outpatient, and acute rehab, skilled nursing, home health, and outpatient settings. He has experience working with patients in orthopedics, neurological, geriatrics, pediatrics, prosthetics, and sports. He has spent most of his time as a clinician working in rural areas of Alabama and Georgia. Prior to becoming a physical therapist, he worked as a Certified Athletic Trainer in high school, collegiate, and professional athletics.
Jessica Ratliff
Clinic Director, Physical Therapist Assistant
I have lived in Oneonta my whole life (34 years) and love this community dearly. My husband, Nick, and I have 2 fun kids, Kellen, and Gemma. We enjoy spending quality time together such as riding down to the river, playing golf, and piling up on the couch to watch a movie!
I have been in the PT world for about 10 years altogether, starting as front desk, then PTA, and now Clinic Director for our new Oneonta Clinic. I love what I do and getting to serve the people in this community. I pray that God will continue to use me to reach those who are hurting. Without him I could do nothing.
Martin Stewart
Physical Therapist
Marty Stewart, a Childersburg native and Oneonta resident, has been a physical therapist for 8 years. Marty gained interest in physical therapy after multiple sports injuries during his playing days. Marty received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Alabama and his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Alabama State University. Marty and his wife, Nicole, have two children, Emerie and Evan, and outside of work he enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, Atlanta Braves baseball, and Alabama athletics.
Ahmad Abu-Spetani
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Ahmad was born and raised in Madison, AL and joined the J&H Madison (Hughes Road) team in February 2024. He went to the University of Alabama in Huntsville for his undergraduate degree in Psychology and received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Ahmad grew up playing soccer and after being around many injuries he developed an interest in PT. He has a passion for helping patients recover and return to their normal activities. In his free time, Ahmad enjoys staying active, playing sports, working out and spending time with friends and family.
Mara Scruggs
Physical Therapist Assistant
My name is Mara Scruggs and I was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama. I have been a board certified PTA since 2013 after graduating from Calhoun CC. I learned early into my career that outpatient care is where my heart is, and I have been happily working in outpatient settings for the last 9 years. I enjoy the ability to build trusting relationships with my patients by getting to know what drives them to get better and working alongside them to help achieve their goals. I am the proud parent of two boys, Cole and Jacob, who will be turning 7 this month.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my kids and making new memories with them. You can almost always catch us at the park, an indoor jump zone, the movie theater, or enjoying all of the fun family events this area has to offer. I am excited to join such a well established team and continue to work to make physical therapy rewarding (and also fun) for any patient that I have the pleasure to work with at J&H.
Jackson Menefee
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Jackson was born and raised in Guntersville, AL and joins the J&H Guntersville team. He attended Sewanee: The University of the South where he played football and graduated with a degree in Biology. He then attended Samford University for his Doctor of Physical Therapy. He enjoys treating a variety of orthopedic conditions and believes that each patient deserves high quality and compassionate care with an emphasis on achieving their specific goals and needs. He and his wife, Morgan Hawk Menefee, return to Guntersville where they are happy to plant their roots in the community that they call home. In his free time, he enjoys deer hunting, going on walks with their dog, spending time on the lake, playing golf, and Tennessee football.
Lacey Calvert
Business Development
Lacey Calvert serves as our Physician Liaison for our Guntersville and Oneonta locations. With a degree in Public Relations from Auburn University and more than ten plus years of practice marketing and business development experience, she is committed to connecting healthcare professionals and fostering partnerships. In her spare time she enjoys watching Auburn University athletics and spending time with her children, Bailey and Clay.
Miller Matzek
Physical Therapist
Miller Matzek, DPT grew up in Huntsville, AL where he attended Sparkman High School. He grew up playing many sports but mainly focused on soccer and football in high school. Miller first became interested in physical therapy because of his dad who has been a physical therapist for over 25 years. Miller attended The University of South Alabama in Mobile, AL where he earned his Bachelors degree in Exercise Science. He then graduated from the University of South Alabama's Doctorate of Physical Therapy program in 2022. In his free time, Miller enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife Lizzie and his dog Milo. Miller enjoys serving the community by helping others achieve their goals in therapy.
Kayla Farmer
Physical Therapist Assistant
Kayla is a born-again follower of Jesus Christ and a member of First Independent Church in Oneonta, AL. I am a wife to a wonderful husband, Dalton, and a mother to two beautiful children; Judah who is 3 and Sadie who is 11 months. I have been practicing as a PTA for almost 10 years. I am passionate about my work and love hands on care! I enjoy serving at our church, anything outdoors and spending time with family! I look forward to this new opportunity as a PTA for J&H PT!
Halee Pegues
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Halee Pegues grew up in Huntsville, AL but recently relocated to Grant, Alabama. Due to her love for the city and wanting to remain close to family, she attended the University of Alabama in Huntsville for a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology. Halee's decision to pursue physical therapy was largely shaped by caregiving for a family member with ALS. In 2020, she moved to Chattanooga, TN, where she received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga. During her time at UTC, she became certified in dry needling and LSVT-BIG. Halee's favorite aspect of physical therapy school was participating in the summer camp for children with disabilities. Halee danced ballet throughout her childhood and continues to find ways to incorporate dance into her life by attending Pilates and Barre classes. On weekends, you can find her outdoors - hiking nature trails or kayaking Guntersville Lake. She owns one cat, named Grinch, that she loves to spoil. Serving the Huntsville community has always been her calling. Halee loves working with patients to meet their personal, functional goals. Her favorite aspect of physical therapy is building relationships with patients and individualizing treatment to their needs.
Katlynne Dreaden
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Katlynne is originally from Gadsden, AL. She attended Jacksonville State University where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science and Wellness. She then attended Alabama State University where she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2020. Katlynne was first exposed to Physical Therapy in high school when she underwent treatment for a shoulder injury. She has always loved learning about the human body and helping others which lead her to choosing a career in Physical Therapy. Katlynne joined the Johnson and Hayes team in 2022 after hearing how much her husband, Hunter, enjoyed working with the team. She enjoys treating orthopedic conditions and is certified in dry needling. In her free time, she enjoys spending time on the water, trying new local restaurants, and spending time with family and friends.