Physical Therapy Team

OUR PHYSICAL THERAPISTS

A Physical therapist (PT) is a healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats individuals of all ages, who have health-related conditions, illnesses or injuries that may limit their ability to move and perform functional activities, as well as they, would like in their daily lives. PTs examine each individual and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function and prevent disability. PTs evaluate and diagnose movement dysfunction and use therapeutic interventions to treat patients.

A therapist massaging hand of client
Kevin Murdoch is a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist (OCS) who completed his Doctorate in Physical Therapy at University of Montana, MS in physical therapy at the University of Colorado at Denver, and MS in Physical Education at Indiana University. Kevin has been a practicing physical therapist since 1997, most recently as an Assistant Professor at the University of South Florida. Prior to USF, Kevin was in private practice as Director at Bollettieri Sports Medicine Center/IMG Academy, where he had the opportunity to care for professional and collegiate athletes including pro tennis players. From 2002-2007, Kevin was a Managing Partner of Legacy Physical Therapy and Sports Training in Sarasota/Longboat Key. Professional interests include orthopedic physical therapy, as well as movement dysfunction in the complex patient. Kevin and his family have been Bradenton residents since 1997.
Miranda moved from California to Florida 14 years ago in the pursuit of expanding her educational career. In 2006 she received her BA in Gerontology and in 2012 she obtained her doctorate in Physical Therapy, both from the University of South Florida. Following graduation, she began working as an acute care therapist at Blake Medical Center, during which she was the primary Physical Therapist for the Stroke Team in addition to covering in inpatient rehab, ICU.CVICU, PCU, and the orthopedic unit. In October 2018 she joined Coastal Orthopedics to further her professional growth and development as a therapist. In her free time, Miranda enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, and dabbling in creative arts, decorating, and doing various craft projects around the house.
Debra Hallenbake, MS, PT, received her Bachelor of Science, followed by her Master of Science in Physical Therapy, from Springfield College in Massachusetts. Having practiced physical therapy for 22 years in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Florida, Debra’s areas of interest include orthopedics and aquatic therapy.

Ryan Hanks, PT, DPT, joined Coastal Orthopedics in August of 2023. He received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Exercise Science from the University of South Dakota before managing a gym and working as a personal trainer. He later returned to his alma mater and received his Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy. Ryan has spent plenty of time working with individuals of all ages, specializing in youth and professional athletes. In his free time, Ryan enjoys powerlifting and spending entirely too much money on shoes.

Lora Yoder, PT, DPT joined Coastal Orthopedics in May 2022. She received her B.S. degree in Kinesiology at the California State University San Marcos in 2015. Lora then completed her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Diego, CA. After 17 years in San Diego, Lora moved back to her home state of Florida in May 2022. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, going to the beach, and exercising.

Leanne joined Coastal Orthopedics’ Physical Therapy team in July of 2014. She received a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Oklahoma in 1991 and has more than 24 years of experience in outpatient orthopedics and sports medicine. Leanne worked for TriHealth and Beacon Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Cincinnati, Ohio for 20 years before joining Coastal Orthopedics. Prior to her PT career, Leanne received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Bowling Green State University in Ohio and taught elementary physical education and health classes for students in first through fifth grade, as well as adaptive physical education classes for students ages 6-20, in Edmond, Oklahoma for 8 years.
Leslie Toscano, PT, graduated from the University of North Florida, where she also played Division II tennis for the Ospreys! Leslie has practiced physical therapy for more than 15 years in a variety of orthopedic, neurological, geriatric, and pediatric settings. She completed her Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapy training through Maitland-Australian Physiotherapy Seminars, and has extensive manual therapy training from a variety of sources. Leslie is originally from Canada but loves living in the Sunshine State where she is free from snow! Leslie and her family live in Lakewood Ranch where they are very involved in athletics. She is passionate about her career and the opportunity of helping patients meet their physical therapy goals.
Marne Salinas, MPT, graduated from the University of the Pacific, and has spent more than 15 years practicing physical therapy in a variety of diverse backgrounds, including orthopedics, aquatic therapy, work hardening and work stimulation programs. Marne is passionate about maintaining a healthy and happy attitude and lifestyle, both at work and at home, and is adored by patients and co-workers for her caring and nurturing personality.

Holding a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology and a Doctor of Physical Therapy, both from the University of Florida, Maria, is a licensed Physical Therapist in the states of Florida and Illinois. With more than 15 years of experience as a physical therapist, Maria’s background includes treating patients in Sports Outpatient and Orthopedic settings, as well as Inpatient Rehab and Acute Care. College football and Major League Baseball are close to Maria’s heart as she enjoys cheering on the Florida Gators and Chicago Cubs. Maria also enjoys spending her weekends on the boat and showing off her puppy, Sir Francis Drake.

Kevin Velasco earned his Bachelor in Physical Therapy from the Philippines on 2015. He ranked 1st place out of 868 test takers when he took his licensure examination. He decided to migrate to the USA to be able to advance his knowledge and skill as a Physical Therapist. In his pursuit of professional growth, he underwent a fellowship program in Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy from the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy. During his fellowship, he earned a certification in Spinal Manipulative Therapy and Dry Needling. He graduated on 2018 and earned his status as a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapist (FAAOMPT). Kevin is also a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). He joined Coastal Orthopedics in November 2021. He has a special interest in the management of complex orthopaedic conditions. He enjoys traveling with his wife, and spending time upside down as he has a goal of achieving the elusive one-arm handstand.
Received his Bachelor Degree in Physical Education from the State University of New York at Cortland, followed by his Master of Science in Physical Therapy from Long Island University in Brooklyn, New York. Having trained in the HealthSouth Sports Medicine system for 10 years, where he worked with collegiate and professional athletes, Mike now has more than 23 years of experience in outpatient physical therapy. Manual therapy trained in spine and extremities and Board Certified in Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Mike has earned his certification as an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), and has maintained an active role as an ice hockey player.
Ricky Wood, PT, DPT joined Coastal Orthopedics in September, 2021. He received his B.S. degree in Health Science Studies at Quinnipiac University 2017. Ricky then completed his Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Quinnipiac University in 2020. After growing up in New Jersey, and going to PT school in Connecticut, Ricky moved to Florida with his now fiancé to spend time with family and begin his PT career. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his fiancé and family, kayaking, going to the beach, grilling, and exercising.

OUR HAND THERAPISTS

An Occupational Therapist (OT) is a healthcare professional whose goal is to help patients participate in the things they want or need to do, occupationally, through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. OTs focus on adapting a specific environment to fit to the individual patient, by use of common interventions which may include helping children with disabilities participate fully in school and social situations, helping people recovering from an injury to regain skills, and/or providing support for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes. OT services typically include individualized evaluation and goal planning, customized intervention to improve the patient’s ability to perform daily activities and reach goals, followed by an outcomes evaluation to ensure that the goals are being met or that appropriate changes are made to the intervention plan.


Susan Funk joined Coastal Orthopedic in 2022, just in time for Hurricane Ian. As a Florida resident for more than 40 yrs, and a graduate from the University of Florida, she knew that great people and places make a community. Coastal’s staff and patients proved that to be right! Susan developed a love of hand therapy early on in her career, and has been a certified hand therapist since 1999. She and her husband, Charles, who is a physical therapist, have many friends in the Bradenton/Sarasota area and are happy to be able to work and live here. She enjoys exercise, riding her motorcycle and seeing their son, Zack, when his busy schedule as a 2nd year emergency medicine resident in Jacksonville, FL permit.


Krista (she/her) obtained her Bachelor’s in Exercise Science in 2017 from Slippery Rock University and her Occupational Therapy Doctorate in 2022 from Gannon University. As natives of Pittsburgh, PA, she, and her partner have found new community in the sunshine state. Prior to becoming an occupational therapist (OT), she was a personal trainer and trauma-informed yoga instructor, and still teaches classes online. Through a holistic lens, Krista loves to incorporate fun activities combined with activity analysis to reach your fullest potential for various orthopedic conditions. As an advocate for her patients, Krista’s goal is to improve quality of life by providing client-centered, trauma-informed, and evidence-based care. Krista plans to become a Certified Hand Therapist in the next three to five years as she works with specialized orthopedic conditions of the upper extremity. She hopes to spread happiness and health wherever she is. In her free time, she enjoys strength training, yoga, pottery, going to the beach, cooking, and traveling.


A native of Richmond, Virginia, Kim attended Emory University for both Master and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees. Kim had an early academic and clinical interest in upper extremity joints and has been a practicing Certified Hand Therapist for more than 20 years. She stays engaged with colleagues and developments in hand therapy through service to the International Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy and by serving on the Board of Directors of the American Society of Hand Therapists. In 2020, the American Association for Hand Surgery awarded her the Vargas International Hand Therapy Award. Kim, an avid gardener and hiker, enjoys reading, travel, and wellness.

OUR PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANTS

A Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) works under the direction of a physical therapist to provide care to patients who are recovering from injuries, illnesses or surgery. Physical Therapy Assistants provide therapy to patients through specific exercises, educate patients and family members about what to do after treatment, observe patients before and during therapy and report patients’ responses to treatment to the physical therapist.

TJ Brown is a born and raised Manatee county native. He graduated Keiser university 2019 and has been an active PTA since 2020 all in outpatient setting. He has a background in customer service he is dedicated to helping patients reach their goals. In his spare time he enjoys going to concerts, comic conventions, and travel with his wife and son.

Anna earned her A.S. Physical Therapist Assistant degree from Broward College in 1999. She has had the opportunity to work in many different settings including acute rehab, subacute rehab, inpatient, and geriatrics but has dedicated the past 20 years to outpatient orthopedics. Anna takes pride in providing high quality and compassionate care to her clients. She has a passion for utilizing exercise, manual therapy, and function training to assist patient in returning to their optimal health. As a native of Peru, Anna is also fluent in Spanish. She enjoys spending her free time outdoors.
Joel Cheatham has been working in physical therapy since 2019 and joined the Coastal team in 2022. He enjoys working with people to facilitate their recovery and help them return to their lives. In his off time he enjoys spending time with his family.
Jocelyne Albrecht Drain joined Coastal Orthopedics in August 2016. She has a background as a professional dancer and teacher in Europe and in the USA. In 1992 she completed in Menlo Park, California a three year program in the F.M. Alexander Technique, specializing in posture, injury prevention/recovery, body mechanics and performance enhancement. In 2007 she obtained in Butler, PA her Associates Degree in Applied Sciences as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Jocelyne has worked in the acute, rehabilitation, nursing home and outpatient Physical Therapy settings. Core stabilization, Women’s Health, balance, posture and orthopedics remain her primary focus. She is fluent in English, French, Spanish, Italian and has knowledge of German. She participates in an international orthopedic mission providing total knee and hip joint replacements to the underprivileged. She also volunteers to help women regain safety and become productive members in the community.
After serving as a member of the United States Navy for eight years, Christopher Everett, PTA, received his Associate in Applied Sciences degree in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Manatee Community College, now State College of Florida. Dedicated to quality patient care, Christopher enjoys motivating patients to reach their goals and returning them to quality of life.

Sherrie has held a license as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) since 2009, contributing her expertise to diverse healthcare settings such as Sub-acute Rehab, Skilled Nursing, Pediatrics, Home Health, and Outpatient care.

Beyond her professional commitments, Sherrie actively engages with her church community, where she coaches and guides women in developing meaningful relationships and cultivating leadership skills.

Family holds a special place in Sherrie’s heart, particularly her daughter and son-in-law who recently relocated to Panama. Eager to explore the country and visit her loved ones, Sherrie embraces the opportunity for new adventures and experiences.

An enthusiast of travel, live theater, concerts, dance, and beach outings, Sherrie finds joy in embracing life’s diverse pleasures. She considers herself blessed to be a valued member of the Coastal Orthopedics Physical Therapy Team and eagerly anticipates many more fulfilling years with the organization.

Adriana attained her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at the University of Indianapolis, where she was a long and triple jumper for the Track and Field team for 3 years. While a student at Keiser University in Sarasota, where she achieved her Associate of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant, she injured her ankle and became a patient at Coastal. After being a patient and completing a clinical affiliation at Coastal, she joined the team full-time after graduation. She is certified by Rocktape in FMT Basic and Performance. In Adriana’s spare time she enjoys playing soccer and Crossfit training.

Hailing from Philadelphia, PA, Stephen has garnered over ten years of experience working as a Physical Therapy Assistant. He has worked in various settings specializing in outpatient orthopedics and sports medicine. Stephen enjoys working with challenging cases and in particular, the cervical spine. Stephen also has a special interest in getting patients back to golf and holds is Titleist Performance Institute Certified. When he is not working, Stephen enjoys spending time with his wife and two boys.

Natasha Hansen, PTA, joined Coastal Orthopedics in May 2023, and has worked as a PTA for 7 years. She attended St. Petersburg College and has experienced multiple care settings including outpatient, hospital and nursing home. Her bachelor’s degree was in advertising. Natasha wanted a career that would improve people’s lives and being a PTA is very rewarding.
Jessica, also known as Jess graduated from the State College of Florida in 2021, earning her Associate of Science for Physical Therapist Assistant. She comes from a family of therapists- her father is a Physical Therapist and her twin brother is also a Physical Therapist Assistant. Since graduating, Jess has worked in home health therapy, aquatic therapy and outpatient clinics. When Jess is not working, she enjoys running, paddle-boarding, and visiting the family cabin in North Carolina.

Alex graduated from South University located in West Palm Beach, Florida in 2014 and has been practicing as a Physical therapist assistant for the past 9 years. A native to Lake Okeechobee area, Alex has spent nearly his entire life in the sunshine state. He has experience working in the outpatient, home health, and Skilled nursing settings. When he is not actively treating patients, Alex enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, going to the beach, or attending sporting events/concerts.
Adam Mosholder, PTA, has spent the past eight years working as a Physical Therapy Assistant, specializing in Orthopedics. Adam’s experience includes treating patients of all ages, from adolescents to geriatric patients. Adam enjoys working for Coastal Physical Therapy, where professionalism and comprehensive care are persistently demonstrated.

Wayne is a distinguished graduate of Keiser University, specializing as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in 2014, following his commendable 9-year service in the United States Army. With a wealth of experience in outpatient rehab, home therapy, and inpatient settings, Wayne eagerly became part of the esteemed team at Coastal Orthopedics.

Originally hailing from Northwest Indiana, Wayne has called the Sarasota/Manatee area home since 2012, dedicating his practice exclusively to the community. Beyond his professional commitments, he finds joy in spending quality time with his three children and cherished loved ones.

Having been a patient himself, Wayne intimately understands the dedication required for a successful recovery. He values the pivotal role that Physical Therapy plays in restoring a good quality of life and empathizes with the challenges his patients face. This personal connection fuels his commitment to providing compassionate and effective care.

Morgan graduated from Keiser University as a Physical Therapist Assistant in May 2023. With a background in Yoga, Pilates, and holistic health, her passion lies in movement as medicine.  You can find her on nature walks, thrifting, or baking cookies with her young daughter. With strong roots in deep core strengthening, improving hip mobility, and women’s health, Morgan will help you meet your personal goals!

Nathan, a Virginia native raised in Sarasota, Florida, embarked on a journey through competitive soccer during his youth, traveling across the U.S. and Europe. However, his life took a turn when he experienced a car crash during his early adolescence. Unsuccessful in finding relief through chiropractic care, Nathan turned to physical therapy and corrective exercise. This pivotal experience not only restored his health and well-being but also ignited his passion for Physical Therapy.

Determined to make a difference, Nathan pursued and excelled in earning his Physical Therapist Assistant degree from the State College of Florida. In October 2023, he joined Coastal Orthopedics, contributing his expertise and commitment to patient care. With over four years of experience in orthopedic shoes and custom orthotics, Nathan brings a comprehensive approach to his practice.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Nathan serves as a running and soccer coach. He continues to actively engage in travel soccer and running during his leisure time. Above all, he cherishes moments with his Grandmother and Mother, making the most of every opportunity to connect with family.

Josette was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida and has always had a love and interest in pursuing a career in the medical field. While attending college at the University of South Florida, she discovered her love for the fitness industry and using movement as a natural way to help the body heal. She attended Keiser University Sarasota to study physical therapy and graduated in 2017. In her free time, Josette enjoys outdoor activities, rock climbing, weightlifting, and training for American Ninja Warrior competitions.

Coming Soon.

Eric was born and raised in Bradenton, Fl. After graduating high school, he attended Youngstown State University playing football and eventually receiving his Bachelor of Science in Sport and Exercise Science. Eric attained his Associate of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant studies from Keiser University. Eric has been working with coastal orthopedics since Jan, 2021. Eric spends his free time with his wife and 3 kids.

Kane is native to Florida, born and raised in Manatee County. He graduated in 2023 from Keiser University in Sarasota, FL, though Kane currently has two careers! One licensed in physical therapy, and the other in professional dancing. Kane has been in the medical field for over 4 years with experience in kinesiology, acute care, and infectious diseases. While he has been dancing since the moment I was born, mainly inspired by pop culture of the 2000’s. Kane has been a dance instructor for over 6 years, and it’s a growing passion alongside physical therapy. His style of therapy focuses on safety, education, and evidence-based practice. Kane’s goal is to restore function, while providing knowledge to boost your therapeutic benefit. Outside of work, Kane enjoys being at the gym, dance competitions, or at the nearest coffee shop. Kane is excited to be a part of the physical therapy team at Coastal Orthopedics, and ready to see where life takes him.

Upon receiving his Bachelor of Science in Sport and Exercise from the University of Rio Grande, where he served as a four-year starting pitcher, Brent Watterson attained his Associate of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant studies from St. Petersburg College in 2009. Brent performed his last clinical affiliation with Coastal Physical Therapy, and joined the team full-time upon the completion of his schooling. In his spare time, Brent enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, and also enjoys playing the guitar.

Coming Soon.

Matt Yoder is very interested in sports which made the time he spent working for US soccer at IMG Academy and Major League Soccer in Columbus, Ohio even better. In 2015, he graduated from The State College of Florida as a Physical Therapist Assistant. While attending school, he performed a clinical rotation at Coastal Orthopedics and has now returned to join the team full time. Matt’s hobbies include snowboarding and going to the beach.
Amber was born in Bradenton, Florida and has always had a love and interest in the fitness industry. Growing up, she was a gymnast and a cheerleader for Manatee High School. She graduated from Keiser University in 2023, earning her Associates of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant. Amber is a huge Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan and watches every game. When she is not working, you can find her at the beach, gym, or bartending at her other job!

OUR ATHLETIC TRAINERS

An Athletic Trainer (AT) is a healthcare professional who specializes in preventing, diagnosing and treating acute and chronic muscle and bone conditions involving impairment, functional limitations and disabilities. ATs collaborate with physicians to optimize activity and participation of patients, and work with patients of all ages and skill levels.


Paul joined Coastal Orthopedics in April 2023. He received his bachelor degrees in Exercise Science and Educational Studies from Concordia University Chicago in 2015. He then went onto obtain his Master’s in Athletic Training from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in 2018. He has had the opportunity to work at a variety of different settings of athletic training such as clinical, high school, and collegiate levels. In his free time, he likes to give back to the soccer community by officiating local club leagues or tournaments.


Megan was born and raised in Jacksonville, FL. She played a lot of different sports over her life, which ultimately led her to her career today. Megan’s high school was fortunate enough to have an athletic trainer; getting to know him and his profession, plus her love for sports inspired her to pursue a career in athletic training. Megan attended Florida Southern College where she played on the women’s soccer team and received her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and a minor in Exercise Science in 2018. After graduation, Megan completed her Master of Science in Exercise Physiology in 2020 at Baylor University. Megan was the head athletic trainer for a high school in Texas for 3 years until moving to Sarasota and joining Coastal’s team. In her free time she likes to play soccer or go boating with her husband and dog. Megan’s favorite part of being an athletic trainer is building relationships with her patients and athletes.


Chelsea is originally from Upstate New York, but moved to Florida 13 years ago to study Athletic Training at Barry University. After graduating, she held various positions as an ATC most recently being at Bethesda Academy through Chatham Orthopaedic Associates, in Savanah, GA for the last 6 years. Chelsea is a sports fanatic, specifically the New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Steelers, and the US Women’s soccer team. She is a proud Aunt to her nephew, Sullivan, and her family is very important to her. When she is not working or watching sports, you can find her at the beach, traveling, or dancing.