Meet our amazing team!
Michelle Biele, OTR/L, Founder and CEO
Michelle Biele graduated with honors from The Ohio State University's School of Allied Medical Professions in 1990, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy. She has over 32 years of experience in a variety of diversified settings, from Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation to Psychiatry. She utilizes her wealth of knowledge to assist her clients with conventional, and integrative methods of holistic healing, treating the symptom AND the cause.
Michelle specializes in Upper Extremity Quadrant Disorders, Splinting, Sports Medicine, Myofascial Release, Joint Mobilization, and Mental Health. She believes that an integrative approach to holistic healing is the key to wellness, and is therefore able to assist/guide clients in areas such as pain management, coping skills, and healing of the Mind/Body/Spirit. Michelle loves educating her clients so that they become part of the solution.
Occupational Therapy
Rachel Presti, OTR/L
Rachel comes to Raise The Bar with more than 25 years of experience in Occupational Therapy. She has an extremely diverse background in therapy, specializing in multiple areas including inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, home health, stroke rehabilitation and neurologic impairments including Parkinson’s Disease,
Rachel Presti, OTR/L
Rachel comes to Raise The Bar with more than 25 years of experience in Occupational Therapy. She has an extremely diverse background in therapy, specializing in multiple areas including inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, home health, stroke rehabilitation and neurologic impairments including Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and vestibular deficits. Rachel is also proficient in treating acute orthopedic injuries and degenerative diseases. Rachel is passionate about supporting patients and families in the community that have been affected by a stroke, and she has been instrumental in creating multiple stroke support groups and committees throughout Mecklenberg County and most recently in Pender County. When Rachel is not working she enjoys swimming, biking, running and spending time with her family in beautiful Topsail Island. Rachel is thrilled to be part of the Raise The Bar team as the organization’s mission statement and treatment philosophy embodies an interdisciplinary and holistic approach to wellness, which ultimately equates to quality of life and empowerment for patients and their caregivers!
Diana Matthews, COTA/L,
LMT, Massage 4 Spirit LLC
Diana has been a practicing COTA for over 27 years, and is also a licensed massage therapist, and Certified Healthcare Coach. She specializes in hands on manual therapy, energy work, neuromuscular reeducation, guided imagery, pain management, and PTSD. As a retired military wife with 22 y
Diana Matthews, COTA/L,
LMT, Massage 4 Spirit LLC
Diana has been a practicing COTA for over 27 years, and is also a licensed massage therapist, and Certified Healthcare Coach. She specializes in hands on manual therapy, energy work, neuromuscular reeducation, guided imagery, pain management, and PTSD. As a retired military wife with 22 years of service, she innately realizes all that the military life entails and she loves treating our Veterans! Diana recently relocated from FL to assist in building the RTB Holistic Healing Program, and to live her dream of healing as many people as she can. Watch out for her Wellness Education Series she will be providing to the community , and certified Healthcare Coaching!
Jeanette Bullard, COTA/L
Jeanette Bullard graduated from Cape Fear Community College Allied Health OTA program in 2019 with an Associates Degree in Applied Science. She has been working in the field of Occupational Therapy for the last 3 years with a background in Upper Extremity rehabilitation, Neuromuscular rehabilitation, Geriatric reh
Jeanette Bullard, COTA/L
Jeanette Bullard graduated from Cape Fear Community College Allied Health OTA program in 2019 with an Associates Degree in Applied Science. She has been working in the field of Occupational Therapy for the last 3 years with a background in Upper Extremity rehabilitation, Neuromuscular rehabilitation, Geriatric rehabilitation, functional independence and Hand
Therapy. She is passionate about practicing a holistic approach to OT and expanding her proficiency into Manual Therapy and Pediatrics. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her husband, son and dog. She enjoys, cooking, swimming at the beach and tending her rose garden. She is an active leader in her son's Boy Scout Troop and also a member of the local Rose Society.
Rachel Howard, COTA/L
Rachel is a wonderful COTA from Mooresville NC with years of experience in Pediatrics. She loves her kids and they love her! She finds innovative ways of connecting with both the children and their families to provide the best possible care, while successfully setting boundaries and assisting in their social develop
Rachel Howard, COTA/L
Rachel is a wonderful COTA from Mooresville NC with years of experience in Pediatrics. She loves her kids and they love her! She finds innovative ways of connecting with both the children and their families to provide the best possible care, while successfully setting boundaries and assisting in their social development. Rachel has been an awesome addition to the team and deals extremely well with
behavioral challenges. She is also our media guru and can often be found 'out and about' taking pictures and shooting videos for our Facebook and Instagram page. Her Corgi's Ryder and Titan are famous on Instagram! If you are a dog lover check them out!
Olivia LaFrenz, OTR/L
Olivia Lafrenz graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin in 2020 with her Master of Occupational Therapy degree. She was the recipient of the Suzanne Floyd Endowment Scholarship Student Leadership Award and was an accepted speaker for a poster presentation at the AOTAAnnual Conference in 2020. Olivia has experie
Olivia LaFrenz, OTR/L
Olivia Lafrenz graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin in 2020 with her Master of Occupational Therapy degree. She was the recipient of the Suzanne Floyd Endowment Scholarship Student Leadership Award and was an accepted speaker for a poster presentation at the AOTAAnnual Conference in 2020. Olivia has experience working with pediatrics in the outpatient setting and completed her Level II Fieldwork rotations in the school setting and with adult patients in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. Prior to becoming an occupational therapist, Olivia was a professional ballerina dancing with various companies including Dayton Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, and Charlottesville Ballet. She attended the University of Cincinnati’s College Conservatory of Music earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Dance in 2014. Olivia has a passion for pediatric occupational therapy, but is also interested in working with adults in hand therapy. Although originally from Elgin, Illinois, Olivia has lived and traveled to many different states and countries training for ballet. She recently moved to this area and enjoys going to the beach, traveling, and spending time with her husband, Zach, and their dog Finn. She is thrilled to join the team at Raise The Bar Therapy Services and it is her hope that patients and their families feel valued, understood, and a part of the goal-setting and therapy process.
Sarah Battaglia, MS, OTR/L
Sarah graduated from D'Youville University where she earned her Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy. Sarah has experience working with many different age groups including with adults in a hand therapy clinic, where she treated upper extremity and neurological conditions. Sarah also enjoys working with the
Sarah Battaglia, MS, OTR/L
Sarah graduated from D'Youville University where she earned her Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy. Sarah has experience working with many different age groups including with adults in a hand therapy clinic, where she treated upper extremity and neurological conditions. Sarah also enjoys working with the pediatric population and is especially interested in primitive reflex integration and using sensory integration techniques to serve her clients' needs. Sarah moved to Wilmington from Buffalo, New York in 2022. She misses the snow and the Buffalo Bills, but enjoys the beautiful weather here. Sarah likes exploring Wilmington, going to the beach, exercising, and spending time with her family and friends
Kimberly McCall, OTR/L
Kimberly graduated from UNC-Asheville in 1988 with a degree in Sociology. She utilized this degree for working with developmentally delayed children in the school setting and through early intervention. She graduated with honors from Lenoir Rhyne College in 1998 with a degree in Occupational Therapy. She has worked i
Kimberly McCall, OTR/L
Kimberly graduated from UNC-Asheville in 1988 with a degree in Sociology. She utilized this degree for working with developmentally delayed children in the school setting and through early intervention. She graduated with honors from Lenoir Rhyne College in 1998 with a degree in Occupational Therapy. She has worked in pediatrics within the NC state school system for 25 years with an additional 3 years in the private sector and ongoing “as needed” opportunities in skilled nursing, and clinic-based pediatrics. She also holds a specialty certification in
Sensory Integration and Praxis Test administration and sensory integration training from the University of Southern California. Kimberly loves spending time making adapting toys for children with motoric challenges, making pottery, sewing, boxing, gardening, and boating. She enjoys spending time. with her husband, Bo and their three fur babies, Gidget, Vita, and Arno.
Megan Stout, OTR/L
Megan received her Bachelors of Human Performance and Health, followed by her Masters of Occupational Therapy at the West Virginia University School of Medicine in 2017. Since then she has furthered her education with specialized trainings in stroke care, women’s health, and dynamic movement intervention. Megan is excit
Megan Stout, OTR/L
Megan received her Bachelors of Human Performance and Health, followed by her Masters of Occupational Therapy at the West Virginia University School of Medicine in 2017. Since then she has furthered her education with specialized trainings in stroke care, women’s health, and dynamic movement intervention. Megan is excited to join the Raise the Bar Therapy team as she has always had a passion for pediatrics and loves working with children because “We get to use games and every day play to help facilitate a child’s development. One of the best parts of being an OT is seeing how excited and proud both the kids and their parents get when they accomplish something that is challenging for them. In this setting, every goal and milestone reached feels like the biggest celebration.”
Maggie Bowman, OTR/L
Maggie graduated from East Carolina University in 2022 with her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. She also obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology at the same university, "Go Pirates!". She moved to Holly Ridge in January of 2023 and is eager to explore her passion with helping adults and children achieve
Maggie Bowman, OTR/L
Maggie graduated from East Carolina University in 2022 with her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. She also obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology at the same university, "Go Pirates!". She moved to Holly Ridge in January of 2023 and is eager to explore her passion with helping adults and children achieve optimal independence. Through fieldwork opportunities, Maggie has gained clinical experience with adults and children in an outpatient setting, as well as working with adults in acute, inpatient, and behavioral health settings. Maggie is a people person , and enjoys learning and discovering new hobbies. On the weekends, you can find her at the beach with friends, or boating on Lake Gaston with her family!
Lydia Ash, OTR/L
Ashley Dubuque, COTA/L
Lydia Ash, OTR/L
Lydia is a graduate of Walsh University, where she earned her Master of Occupational Therapy. Prior to her having her MOT, she attended Youngstown State University for exercise physiology. Lydia is from Columbiana, Ohio, and came to Raise the Bar as a student in 2020, and she has been with us ever since. She has a passion for working wit
Lydia is a graduate of Walsh University, where she earned her Master of Occupational Therapy. Prior to her having her MOT, she attended Youngstown State University for exercise physiology. Lydia is from Columbiana, Ohio, and came to Raise the Bar as a student in 2020, and she has been with us ever since. She has a passion for working with adults and the pediatric populations. She also has clinical experience in acute care, inpatient rehab, and has worked as a personal trainer and swim lesson instructor. Lydia has a passion for travelling and has been to over 20 countries and counting! She loves her family and is forever grateful she has found her home here in Wilmington! On the weekends, you can find her at the beach, or shooting pool with friends!
Erin Helms, OTR/L
Ashley Dubuque, COTA/L
Lydia Ash, OTR/L
Erin is an occupational therapist from Maryland who is passionate about pediatrics. She received her Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from Nova Southeastern University. Erin has experience working with children of all ages to support their sensory processing skills, self and emotional regulation, feeding/picky eating, primitive refl
Erin is an occupational therapist from Maryland who is passionate about pediatrics. She received her Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from Nova Southeastern University. Erin has experience working with children of all ages to support their sensory processing skills, self and emotional regulation, feeding/picky eating, primitive reflexes, executive functioning, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, visual motor skills, strength, and coordination. She also works with babies and their caregivers to support development, breast and bottle feeding skills, and pre- and post- frenectomy care. Erin has completed trainings in Feed the Peds ®, The AEIOU Approach to Feeding, Infant Positioning and Handling Techniques, The Lactation OT, and The Tummy Time! Method ™. Erin’s favorite part about working in pediatrics is being able to utilize her creativity, laugh, and have fun, all while helping children succeed. In her free time, she enjoys running, hiking, cooking, going to the beach, and spending time with family and friends.
Ashley Dubuque, COTA/L
Ashley Dubuque, COTA/L
Ashley Dubuque, COTA/L
Ashley is a New Jersey native who has lived in Wilmington since 2020. She has always had a passion for serving others and comes to Raise the Bar with over ten years of professional experience. Prior to moving to North Carolina, Ashley served as a group home manager for individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilit
Ashley is a New Jersey native who has lived in Wilmington since 2020. She has always had a passion for serving others and comes to Raise the Bar with over ten years of professional experience. Prior to moving to North Carolina, Ashley served as a group home manager for individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities while attending school to pursue her degree as a COTA. She has a passion to assist others with building confidence as well as promoting independence and social interaction in everyday life. In her down time, she enjoys traveling, playing disc golf, cooking, and spending time with her husband, friends, family, and dog.
Physical Therapy
Candace Romero PT, DPT
Alison Baskeyfield, PT, DPT, Pediatric Clinical Manager
Rich Ferriggi PT, DPT, Director of Operations
Candace graduated in 2020 from the University of St.Augustine for Health Sciences with her Doctor of Physical therapy degree. Prior to that, she received her Bachelor's in Exercise Science from the University of North Florida. She has worked in the outpatient setting with adolescent to geriatric patients with varying orthopedic and neuro
Candace graduated in 2020 from the University of St.Augustine for Health Sciences with her Doctor of Physical therapy degree. Prior to that, she received her Bachelor's in Exercise Science from the University of North Florida. She has worked in the outpatient setting with adolescent to geriatric patients with varying orthopedic and neurological conditions, post-operative, chronic pain, and general deconditioning. She also has experience providing physical therapy to the geriatric population living in a SNF, assisted living/memory care to help regain their balance, walking, and overall safety. She has a strong focus on hands-on,manual therapy, and loves to provide one-on-one care to listen to her patients’ needs and help restore function and quality of life. She is excited to expand her knowledge and passion to provide PT to pediatrics as well.
Candace recently moved to Surf City, as her husband is in the Coast Guard. She is a military brat and has travelled around the world.
When not at work she enjoys exploring her new town, the beaches, hiking, or just spending time with her husband, 3 little boys, and new baby girl.
Rich Ferriggi PT, DPT, Director of Operations
Alison Baskeyfield, PT, DPT, Pediatric Clinical Manager
Rich Ferriggi PT, DPT, Director of Operations
Rich has 17 years of experience as an outpatient orthopedic Physical Therapist. He received his Bachelor of Science degree at Sacred Heart University in Exercise Science in 2001, while playing D1 Baseball as a 3 year starter. He received his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from New York Institute of Technology in 2005. During his ti
Rich has 17 years of experience as an outpatient orthopedic Physical Therapist. He received his Bachelor of Science degree at Sacred Heart University in Exercise Science in 2001, while playing D1 Baseball as a 3 year starter. He received his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from New York Institute of Technology in 2005. During his time at NYIT, he coached baseball at both the High School and College level. Rich began his career at Gold Coast PT on Long Island, NY, and was quickly made Partner in 2007. While growing his practice, he specialized in treating High School and Collegiate athletes, and was the head PT for Stony Brook University Men's Hockey Team. Living in the same town as his practice, he made it an emphasis to create a family atmosphere in his offices. He had the privilege to work with several NFL and NHL athletes, but took as much pride in treating the people of his community. His basis of treatment is utilization of NKT, while also being trained in McKenzie, Maitland, and several other methods of treatment. He is certified in Blood Flow Restriction, and was a CSCS throughout most of his career. He and his wife, Kristin, are proud parents of Jenna, Elle, and RJ, and recently moved to North Carolina in 2020. His passions include all things sports, and continues to play Ice Hockey and Golf. He also coaches Pee Wee Football. He looks forward to creating the same atmosphere at Raise The Bar Therapy Services!
Alison Baskeyfield, PT, DPT, Pediatric Clinical Manager
Alison Baskeyfield, PT, DPT, Pediatric Clinical Manager
Alison Baskeyfield, PT, DPT, Pediatric Clinical Manager
. Alison graduated from Radford University in 2016 with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Prior to obtaining her DPT, Alison earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine, specifically concentrated in Athletic Training, also from Radford University. She has a passion for pediatric physical therapy and has also spent several
. Alison graduated from Radford University in 2016 with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Prior to obtaining her DPT, Alison earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine, specifically concentrated in Athletic Training, also from Radford University. She has a passion for pediatric physical therapy and has also spent several years providing physical therapy services for the adult ad geriatric population. She has experience in pediatrics, outpatient orthopedics, sports medicine, home health therapy, geriatrics, memory care, and short term rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities. Alison grew up in Hampton, Virginia and moved to Hampstead, North Carolina in 2018. She can be found spending most of her free time on the beach with her husband, Mike, her baby boys, Leo and Jett, and her golden retriever, Knox.
Shawna Shockey, PT, MPT
Shawna Shockey graduated from Ohio University where she earned her Master's Degree in Physical Therapy in 2000. Over her many years working in physical therapy, Shawna has truly enjoyed getting to help all different age groups but her passion is treating pediatrics. Her primary areas of interest have included pediatric early intervention, autism/ sensory integration disorders, PreK-12 motor delays, post-op orthopedic rehab, balance training, and fall prevention with adults. Shawna moved from southern Ohio to Surf City in 2021. She fell in love with the Topsail Island area & the beauty of the NC mountain lakes choosing to make this her new home. Shawna enjoys anything involving sunshine & the water! She spends her free time at the beach, kayaking, fishing, and making as many fun memories as possible with her loved ones
Jonathan Noble, PTA
Jonathan graduated from NASHCC PTA Program in 2014. His experience ranges from sports medicine to balance disorders, and he loves working with those who have suffered from neurological diagnoses and orthopedics. Jonathan also loves to work out and take care of his body and is knowledgeable in exercise physiology and nutrition. Jonathan and Alison often work together to provide quality hands on care to their clients. He can often be found on the elliptical or using the TheraBand in between patients. He is an educator as well as an exemplary PTA! Check him out on the Facebook page as he provides weekly tips for back pain, shoulder pain and ergonomics.
Julia Robinette, PTA
Julia, AKA, “Jules” graduated from Guilford Technical Community College in 2009 with a Physical Therapy Assistant degree. She also obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from Liberty University in 2007 with a focus on Exercise Science and Fitness Programming. Jules has spent the past 12 years serving our community in the hospital setting, outpatient pediatrics, outpatient geriatrics, and short-term rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities. She is a North Carolinian native and is excited to be able to do what she loves where she loves. When not at work Julie can be found spending time with her family and serving at Scotts Hill Baptist Church.
Mackenna Hanley, PTA
MacKenna is a dedicated and passionate healthcare worker who graduated in 2021 from Madisonville Community College with a Physical Therapist Assistant degree. She has accomplished clinical experience in the hospital setting, long-term acute care, and outpatient setting during her education. After completing her degree, she moved back here to her hometown with her family, which includes her husband and young son, so they could be closer to family and friends. Mackenna is proud and honored to be giving back to this lovely community that she grew up in. She looks forward to helping people maximize their movement, minimize their pain, and improve their quality of life while creating friendships along the way.
Gabby Kane, Rehabilitation Technician/ Future DPT
Gabby is a graduate of Stony Brook University, where she earned her Doctorate in Physical
Therapy this past May. Prior to her having her DPT, she attended Hofstra University pursuing a
dual degree in Exercise Science and Dance. Gabby is from Franklin, MA, and came to Raise the
Bar as a student this past January. She has a passion for working with adults, pediatrics,
orthopedics, and the performing arts populations. Gabby is currently helping around the clinic as
a rehab tech, but will be joining our staff full time after taking her licensure exam. In her free
time, she loves boating with her family, trying new restaurants, exercising, dancing, and
spending time with her family and friends.
MASSAGE THERAPY
Angelica Biele, LMBT #21217, Director of Massage Therapy, Executive Assistant
Angelica is a former collegiate athlete, a musician, and an honor student. We are lucky to have her as a leader in our company. She assists all therapies with quality treatment, assists Selena at the front desk, and is able to provide valuable support for each and every patient. In regard to the more challenging Autistic population, you can often find her in the ball pit with her guitar singing to them and assisting them to strum and sing along with her. Alongside her twin sister, Angelica is currently attending management education programs throughout the coming months in preparation to take full ownership of the practice in the near future. Her passion for therapy assistance and devotion to delivering quality care to all of her patients has also led her into Massage Therapy! Angelica has recently graduated from The College of Wilmington's Therapeutic Massage Program and is beyond excited to (finally!) join her fellow therapists in providing quality care for our community!
Jasen Dippel, LMT #19336
Jasen is a Licensed Massage Therapist with 10 years of experience in Massage Therapy and 3 years of experience in Yoga. His mission is to apply the knowledge that he has gained in anatomy, physiology, and energy to help heal our medical massage patients. His focus on holistic health and wellness has been a lifelong endeavor that has lead Jasen on a spiritual journey in the pursuit of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual harmony. He is also an educator in the training of myofascial meridians, myofascial release, lymphatic drainage, trigger points, hot stone massage, Reiki, chakras, and yoga for autism.
Jasen customizes services to meet the needs of the client. Services range from relaxation to medical massage and may include the following as needed: guided breathing and/or meditation; structural analysis, gait analysis, opposing muscle theory, and balancing myofascial meridians; energy healing; breath-work to integrate the nervous and musculoskeletal systems; psychosomatic release and integration of mind, body, and emotions; and exercise instruction to promote balance. Jasen also teaches group and private yoga classes, and yoga for autism and other disabilities. His goal is to empower humanity to realize greater physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual harmony.
Speech Therapy
Erin Regan, CCC-SLP
Erin has recently moved to the Wilmington area after being born and raised in Dutchess County, New York. Erin attended a 5-year Speech Language Pathology Master’s Program at Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania. She graduated with her master’s degree of Science in Speech Language Pathology in 2018. Erin h
Erin Regan, CCC-SLP
Erin has recently moved to the Wilmington area after being born and raised in Dutchess County, New York. Erin attended a 5-year Speech Language Pathology Master’s Program at Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania. She graduated with her master’s degree of Science in Speech Language Pathology in 2018. Erin has experience with early intervention in a home setting as well as preschool and elementary students in a school setting. From her experience, she has become passionate about her work with the pediatric population. She is excited to take her northern roots to this beautiful southern beach town and be a part of the team at Raise the Bar! Start date 8/29/22 for full-time employment.
Kelly Ipock, MS-CCC-SLP
Kelly obtained her Bachelor’s and Masters degree in speech/language and auditory pathology at East Carolina University in 1990 and 1992. Kelly comes to Raise The Bar Therapy Services with 30 years of experience as a Speech Language Pathologist. Kelly has a wide range of experience with both children and adults. He
Kelly Ipock, MS-CCC-SLP
Kelly obtained her Bachelor’s and Masters degree in speech/language and auditory pathology at East Carolina University in 1990 and 1992. Kelly comes to Raise The Bar Therapy Services with 30 years of experience as a Speech Language Pathologist. Kelly has a wide range of experience with both children and adults. Her experience includes working in the school system with elementary age children, working in a hospital setting with acute care, sub-acute rehabilitation and outpatient rehabilitation, in skilled nursing facilities and home health settings. Kelly’s experience includes working with adults and preschool age children with diagnosis’ of speech/language delays, stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, mild to moderate TBI, oral/pharyngeal/laryngeal cancer, Multiple Sclerosis for evaluation and treatment of speech/language disorders, aphasia, dysarthria, cognitive impairments, swallowing impairments, voice disorders and swallowing disorders. Kelly performed Modified Barium Swallow studies for 13 years. Additionally, Kelly has certification with Vital Stim swallowing therapy. Kelly is from New Bern, N.C. She has a 25 year old son who lives and works in the Raleigh area with his wife Stevie. Her hobbies include spending time with family and her two dogs, listening to music and going to the beach.
Cameron Brown, CCC-SLP
Cameron, aka “Cam” is a certified Speech Language Pathologist and Feeding Therapist. She has had the privilege to be a collegiate athlete at Florida State University and graduated from Radford University with a masters in Speech Pathology in 2020. She has extensive experience with pediatrics in schools, outpatient
Cameron Brown, CCC-SLP
Cameron, aka “Cam” is a certified Speech Language Pathologist and Feeding Therapist. She has had the privilege to be a collegiate athlete at Florida State University and graduated from Radford University with a masters in Speech Pathology in 2020. She has extensive experience with pediatrics in schools, outpatient clinics and a major children's hospital. She is passionate about the pediatric population, medically complex children, feeding and pediatric dysphagia. She has been serving families within the New Hanover and Pender county areas since 2020. She is excited to continue her career at Raise the Bare by providing quality and holistic care in a family centered and collaborative model. When not at work you can find her spending time with family and friends, at the golf course and on the beach. She looks forward to working with you and your families!
April Lowe, C-SLP Assistant, Daycare Coordinator
April has been married since 1997 and has 3 grown children. April's middle child was diagnosed with Autism which is how her love of speech therapy began. April went back to school when her youngest started pre-school and graduated from CCC & TI with her SLP Assistant in May of 2009. She h
April Lowe, C-SLP Assistant, Daycare Coordinator
April has been married since 1997 and has 3 grown children. April's middle child was diagnosed with Autism which is how her love of speech therapy began. April went back to school when her youngest started pre-school and graduated from CCC & TI with her SLP Assistant in May of 2009. She has put most of her focus towards pediatrics while incorporating simple sign language when working with the children. April dedicates a lot of her time to autism research and has recently started exploring cognitive linguistic deficits in adults. April took the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) certification exam in April of 2021 and passed, making her one of the first in the state of North Carolina to become a C-SLP Assistant!
Patricia Rambadt, CCC-SLP
Patricia graduated from Adelphi University in Garden City, New York with a Bachelor’s and Master’s
degree in Speech-Language Pathology. She also earned an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood
Education from SUNY Farmingdale. Patricia started her career in Long Island, New York working in the
public schools with chil
Patricia Rambadt, CCC-SLP
Patricia graduated from Adelphi University in Garden City, New York with a Bachelor’s and Master’s
degree in Speech-Language Pathology. She also earned an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood
Education from SUNY Farmingdale. Patricia started her career in Long Island, New York working in the
public schools with children ranging from Early Intervention through High School. She has experience
providing speech/language therapy to clients in various other settings such as, home, clinic and daycare
through private practice collaboration and as a contracted speech therapist with the Suffolk County
Department of Health - Early Intervention Services.
Patricia’s experience includes evaluation and treatment of a wide range of communication deficits,
some of which include, impaired speech intelligibility, delayed expressive/receptive language, voice and
fluency disorders, autism, and learning disabilities.
Since relocating to North Carolina in 2016, she has been providing speech/language intervention in the
New Hanover County and Pender County schools and community. Patricia has also worked with
children and families from the North Carolina Infant and Toddler Program.
Patricia enjoys providing fun and effective therapy while engaging with families and other professionals
to help clients achieve their maximum potential and meet their speech therapy goals.
Administrative Staff
Selena Biele,
Administrative Executive
Intake Specialist
Selena is a former collegiate athlete, and an honor student.. We are lucky to have her as our Administrative Executive at the front desk. She assists all clients with scheduling, insurance processing, and greets everyone with a smile! Selena works closely with our HR and Insurance Spec
Selena Biele,
Administrative Executive
Intake Specialist
Selena is a former collegiate athlete, and an honor student.. We are lucky to have her as our Administrative Executive at the front desk. She assists all clients with scheduling, insurance processing, and greets everyone with a smile! Selena works closely with our HR and Insurance Specialist so that our patients can be confident with their coverage and frequency and duration of treatment. Alongside her twin sister, Selena is currently attending management education programs throughout the coming months in preparation to take full ownership of the practice in the near future. Aside from therapy, Selena finds her passion in volleyball, hiking, shooting pool, and spending quality time with her friends and family!
Fran Peffer,
Receptionist
Fran was born and raised in Lancaster County, PA. Her and her husband, Brad, raised 5 girls in their blended family along with fostering 16 kiddos over the course of 8 years as foster parents. They moved to Hampstead in the Spring of 2020, and absolutely loved the area and the active, coastal lifestyle! Fran ha
Fran Peffer,
Receptionist
Fran was born and raised in Lancaster County, PA. Her and her husband, Brad, raised 5 girls in their blended family along with fostering 16 kiddos over the course of 8 years as foster parents. They moved to Hampstead in the Spring of 2020, and absolutely loved the area and the active, coastal lifestyle! Fran has one granddaughter who is the absolute light of her life, and 2 crazy, spoiled rotten dogs! In her free time, she loves to cook, bake, read, bike, and go to the beach! She loves when her family comes down to visit and she is so grateful to have found her home so close to Topsail Island! We are so happy to introduce Fran as our newest receptionist!
Julia Savini,
Receptionist
Julia recently relocated from Pittsburgh, PA, where she worked as a patient care technician assisting multiple patients daily with activities of daily living, and providing staff support. Julia helps with taking phone calls, scheduling/rescheduling appointments, taking co-pays, and greeting every one of our pati
Julia Savini,
Receptionist
Julia recently relocated from Pittsburgh, PA, where she worked as a patient care technician assisting multiple patients daily with activities of daily living, and providing staff support. Julia helps with taking phone calls, scheduling/rescheduling appointments, taking co-pays, and greeting every one of our patients with a smile! Julia spends her free time baking speciality cakes, pastries, and cupcakes! Julia also volunteered at a farm caring for surrendered horses. She plans on attending college in the near future to become a registered nurse, specializing in Neo-natal care. We are blessed to be part of Julia's journey in the healthcare field!
Erin de Serres
Receptionist
Erin recently relocated from Southern California where she worked as the X-ray Tech and Front Desk staff for a small office. She loves working in a “small, yet busy” office atmosphere that allows her to truly get to know the patients. In her free time, you can find Erin making pottery, gardening, or camping with her pups and husband
Jewel Lowe,
Office Administrator
Insurance Specialist
Jewel has been an EMT and an integral part of the Fire Department for over 20 years. She comes to us from Pender EMS as Administrative Assistant is responsible for all intake, medical records processing, and coordination with the billing agent. She is also the Human Resources Specialist
Jewel Lowe,
Office Administrator
Insurance Specialist
Jewel has been an EMT and an integral part of the Fire Department for over 20 years. She comes to us from Pender EMS as Administrative Assistant is responsible for all intake, medical records processing, and coordination with the billing agent. She is also the Human Resources Specialist! If you need help with any questions about your insurance, getting approved visits, or run into an issue she is your girl! Jewel serves the patients at Raise The Bar Therapy Services with a smile!
Courtney Colon,
Insurance Specialist
Courtney comes to us after 20 years working in various medical facilities as an assistant admissions coordinator, activities coordinator, and insurance processing specialist for a physician's office. She specializes in INTAKE, and assists patients in completion of the paperwork necessary to provide insurance verification and authorization.
Colton Profic
Rehabilitation Technician
Colton recently moved to the area from Boise, Idaho. As a Rehab Tech, Colton works to provide support for all therapists, clients, and support staff. Helping instruct patients with the proper exercises, setting up modalities, and general cleaning are just a few of the things Colton does to keep our
Colton Profic
Rehabilitation Technician
Colton recently moved to the area from Boise, Idaho. As a Rehab Tech, Colton works to provide support for all therapists, clients, and support staff. Helping instruct patients with the proper exercises, setting up modalities, and general cleaning are just a few of the things Colton does to keep our clinic running smoothly. Colton spent three years as the Assistant Varsity Basketball Coach at Capitol High School where he trained hundreds of high school athletes in group and individual settings, focusing on sports specific technical training, strengthening, and injury prevention. Outside of work, Colton loves to stay active with his family; doing anything from golfing to jet-skiing! He also enjoys bonding with his friends over sports games, movies, and the great outdoors! We are so thankful to welcome such a wonderful tech into our family!
Robin Gregory
ADHS-Medical Assisting/CCMA certified by NHA
Robin is a native of North Carolina and is a wonderful addition to RTBTS as our Patient Care Coordinator. Robin has over 20 years of experience working in the physician'soffice as a certified medical assistant and nurse. She now works as a liaison between the patients and the ph
Robin Gregory
ADHS-Medical Assisting/CCMA certified by NHA
Robin is a native of North Carolina and is a wonderful addition to RTBTS as our Patient Care Coordinator. Robin has over 20 years of experience working in the physician'soffice as a certified medical assistant and nurse. She now works as a liaison between the patients and the physicians as well as addressing any needs in the community. She has a background in marketing and was an outstanding professional in radio broadcasting, social media management and public relations . Robin has been hard at work since she started getting the Raise The Bar name out into the community. We are so excited to have her!
Kevin Biele Finance Manager, Marketing