ABOUT
We are a company based on quality care accessible to people throughout the lifespan and in various socioeconomic contexts. The main objective of Forefront Therapy is to meet the Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy needs in Evansville, IN, and surrounding regions. Forefront Therapy bases its foundation on three main Pillars.
Our CORE Three Pillars
1. One-on-one care
It is our strong belief that every individual deserves one on one medical care from their provider. With individualized attention, it will allow us the best opportunity to deliver the most effective and efficient care possible.
2. Education and research
We at Forefront Therapy believe it is both our social and professional duty to be at the forefront of education and research in the fields of physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
3. Accessibility for all
Forefront Therapy has a call to serve all aspects of the community, including those with limited access to healthcare.
Finding a therapy and wellness service provider that meets your specific needs and expectations is so important. When you become a patient with us, we will meet with you one-on-one to ensure we provide you with the best care possible, customized just for you.
Mission
To be the leader of therapy and wellness services and provide the best standard of care, research, and education to a diverse community.
Vision
Lead healthcare, grow access, inspire community wellness, and thrive in our culture.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Forefront Therapy takes pride in providing care across the entire community. We strive to partner with and employ diverse individuals and organizations who share our values and will join us in improving the lives of every member of our society. This principle is a key aspect to who we are and for what we stand.
MEET THE TEAM
Dr. Sara Aucoin, PT, DPT, OCS received her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology: Exercise Science from the University of New Hampshire where she was a four-year varsity letter winner for their volleyball team. She then earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Washington University in St. Louis and is now recognized as an APTA board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. Her experience lies in working with young athletes and individuals diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and hypermobility syndromes. Along with general orthopedics, she is passionate about treating children with exceptional care and encouraging optimal movement patterns for life starting from a young age. In addition to her clinical interests, Dr. Aucoin also teaches Anatomy and Physiology at Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions as she actively engages in a lifetime of continued education.
Dr. Tonya Barringer, PT, DPT, WCS is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Evansville. Along with general orthopedics and neurological care, she is passionate about women’s health and pelvic floor therapy. Tonya has been successfully certified for the treatment for men and women with pelvic floor dysfunction through Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute. She most recently passed her Board Specialty Certification Exam in Women's Health Physical Therapy through the APTA and is officially a Board Certified Specialist Women's Health Physical Therapy.
Dr. Devika Bellamy, PT, DPT, CPT, CYT is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with her graduate degree from the University of Florida. She initially earned her undergraduate degree in Business at IUPUI, playing collegiate volleyball for four years. She realized her passion of studying the human body and teaching others how to use that knowledge to manage and treat pain and dysfunction non-invasively. Despite being a life-long athlete, her clinical passions are women’s health, pelvic floor therapy, and hypermobility syndromes. Prior to becoming a physical therapist, she was a personal trainer and yoga teacher, and traveled to India for first-hand opportunity to better learn the ancient practice.
Dr. Hannah Brooks, PT, DPT, OCS, LAT, ATC is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Evansville. After completing the Forefront Therapy/Arcadia University Orthopedic Residency, Hannah successfully passed her board certification and is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. She is originally from the St. Louis area but fell in love with the charm of Evansville while studying at the University of Evansville. Hannah is also a licensed certified athletic trainer and holds certifications in SFMA Level 1. Hannah has developed a love for working with the older adult in various forms throughout her Orthopedic, Neurologic, and Balance/Vestibular passions! She loves being on a Forefront team that is so invested and mission focused in working with the entire Tri-State community!
Kyle Courtney M.S. OTR/L is an occupational therapist with a Bachelor’s of Science In Exercise Science, Minor in Psychology, and Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy from The University of Southern Indiana. Kyle grew up in Evansville, Indiana and graduated from Reitz Memorial High School. Kyle moved to Atlanta, GA, in 2017 to provide pediatrics in outpatient settings with corresponding hippotherapy services. Kyle’s approach focuses on learning through structured play and interactive activities to assist in the development of fine motor skills, coordination, sensory integration, social skills, and self-care. He knows that kids tend to excel when they are enjoying themselves and thrives in making as great of an atmosphere as possible. In his free time, he enjoys spending time outdoors, playing board games, attending sporting events, attending concerts, and exploring new restaurants.
Dr. Brian Grant, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Evansville. Brian has successfully completed the 12-month Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency at Forefront Therapy in collaboration with Arcadia University and is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist.. Brian has thorough experience and passion working with individuals with orthopedic, sports, and neurological conditions. He has been accredited through the National Strength and Conditioning Association as a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist. Brian has also taken a regional leadership role as Vice President of the Southwest District, American Physical Therapy Association Indiana Chapter. A native of Evansville, he has immense pride and passion for his community!
Hope Hansen, MS, CCC-SLP is a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) who received her Masters of Science in Speech Language Pathology as well as her Bachelor's of Science degree in Communication Disorders from Murray State University. Hope has clinical experience in inpatient rehabilitation and outpatient pediatric settings. She is passionate about treating all areas within the scope of practice of a SLP. From articulation and language to augmentative and alternative communication. Hope is dedicated to family-centered therapy and evidence-based intervention. She strives to provide ultimate care and build successful interpersonal relationships with her patients. Hope enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and dog, being involved in her church community, exercising, and traveling.
Anna Hoefling, MSOT, is a Pediatric Occupational Therapy who received her Masters of Occupational Therapy as well as her Bachelors of Science degree in Exercise Science at the University of Southern Indiana. Anna has clinical experience in the acute care and outpatient pediatric settings. Anna is passionate about providing client-centered care to children and their families to help them be successful in their everyday lives. In her free time, Anna enjoys spending time with family, reading, and attending concerts.
Justin Merritt, PTA, is a Physical Therapist Assistant and Clinic Manager at Forefront Therapy- The Bronstein Clinic who graduated from Madisonville Community College. He is excited to join the exceptional team at Forefront Therapy and Forefront Community Therapy. Justin is an experienced orthopedic specialist with 13 years of experience and a background in management and leadership. The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce has recognized him as Ambassador of the Year for three consecutive years. As a native of Owensboro, he is eager to become involved in the local Evansville community through the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership. Justin is completing the Advanced Proficiency Pathways in Orthopedics program the American Physical Therapy Association offers. He is dedicated to improving each patient's quality of life using the latest evidence-based practices. Justin is known for his compassionate and friendly demeanor and is committed to serving the underserved.
Jenna L. McClary, PT, MPT holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Evansville. Jenna has over 29 years of experience in the field, having worked in outpatient orthopedics, home health, and inpatient rehabilitation. She is excited to be working as part of the local community at the Bronstein Clinic, as much of her professional and volunteer life has been dedicated to geriatric and neurologic care. Jenna is currently serving as an adjunct faculty member in the DPT Program at the University of Evansville. She continues to engage in the local Evansville community through her church, enjoys playing the piano, as well as spending time with her husband and 3 adult children.
Leslie Presson is an Administrative Assistant at Forefront Therapy. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of Southern Indiana. She brings outstanding experience in both direct and indirect patient care within the radiology field and various clerical positions. Originally from a small town in central Indiana, Leslie now resides in Mount Vernon, IN. Her primary goal within her professional career but also everyday life is driven by her passion to support and improve the lives of those in need in any capacity. She is dedicated to enhancing patient experience and well-being. Leslie enjoys being a part of the Forefront team as she finds that it is a great way to grow, connect and serve a community in need.
Wendy Schapker is an Administrative Assistance at Forefront Therapy. She is an Evansville native, who resides on the west side. Wendy has worked in the healthcare field for over 20 years, gaining valuable knowledge along the way. She is fortunate to have previously worked with underprivileged members of the Tristate, which has helped grow her compassion for helping others and providing excellent customer service.
Dr. Briley Serletic, PT, DPT is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with a graduate degree from the University of Evansville. Prior to PT school, Briley attended the University of Southern Indiana where she graduated with her Bachelors in Exercise Science. She has found her passion in orthopedics as well as pelvic health. Briley is currently Level 1 Pelvic Health Certified through the The American Physical Therapy Association: Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy. She has had experience in outpatient orthopedics, skilled nursing facilities, and acute care hospitals. Briley is an Evansville native, and loves giving back to her community as well as serving underrepresented populations.
Joe Todd, PT, DPT, OCS is a Doctor of Physical therapy with a graduate degree from Belmont University in Nashville, TN. Prior to PT school, he attended The University of Mississippi and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. In the interim six years between Ole Miss and Belmont, he proudly served in the military. Joe is successfully completed the 12-month post-doctoral Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency at Forefront Therapy in collaboration with Arcadia University and is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. Originally from Henderson and a Memorial High School graduate, Joe is passionate about the Evansville community. He enjoys helping individuals from all walks of life and appreciates the relationships he builds with each one of them.
Ashlee Vindhurst is an Administrative Assistant at Forefront Therapy-First Street Clinic. She is an Evansville native, who received her Bachelor’s degree in Physiology from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Life guided her to live in Colorado and Florida before she settled back home, where she can fully utilize her experiences in health care customer service. Her compassion for others is evident in each client interaction. Ashlee has experience collaborating with health care plans and takes pride in providing the best customer experience possible with every one of our clients!
Dr. Jessica K Wood, OTD, OTR/L, BCP is Co-Owner of Forefront Therapy and Co-Founder of Forefront Community Therapy. As the Director of Pediatric Service, she has found the love and calling to serve the children and families of the Tristate community. Jessica is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy with Bachelor and Master degrees from Saint Louis University, and her Doctoral degree at Mount Mary University with study focused on sensory integration therapy. She is a AOTA Board Certified Specialist in Pediatrics. She has a breadth of knowledge in her field including work at University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital in the NICU, PICU, SICU, neurological units, orthopedic units, and burn units. Jessica moved home to serve as an Assistant Professor in the Occupational Therapy Program at the University of Southern Indiana. She is currently conducting pediatric research on sensory integration, presents at state/national conferences, and has multiple publications in peer-reviewed medical literature.
Dr. Ryan Wood, PT, DPT, MHA, OCS is Co-Owner of Forefront Therapy and Co-Founder of Forefront Community Therapy. He operates as CEO for both organizations and is proud to work with such an amazing team. He is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with undergraduate and graduate degrees from Saint Louis University. Ryan attended the Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency at the University of Chicago Medicine and is a board certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. He received his Master of Health Administration (MHA) at the University of Southern Indiana. He has participated in research, participates in lectures, presented at state/national conferences, and has multiple publications in peer-reviewed medical literature. He is a strong advocate for his profession, serving in multiple roles for the American Physical Therapy Association Indiana Chapter, currently as a Delegate for the state.
Jackeline Yagual, MSOT, OTR/L is a bilingual Pediatric Occupational Therapist who completed her masters and undergraduate degrees at the University of Southern Indiana. She is originally from Ecuador and grew up sharing her parent's passion for their family business which specializes in creating developmentally appropriate and sensory based environments for children. She moved to Evansville to further her education and commitment to helping children through up to date sensory integration practices. She is very compassionate and attentive to families and strives to support caregivers in the process!