Meet The Corporate Staff

Lisa Fossett

Lisa Fossett earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training from the University of Central Florida in 2002 and her Master’s of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Florida International University in 2006. As a specialist in sports-related injuries, Ms. Fossett has worked with high school, collegiate, and professional athletes. She served as the head Physical Therapist/Athletic Trainer for The Washington Glory, D.C.’s professional fastpitch softball team, for two years.

Ms. Fossett has completed extensive manual therapy training and is currently working towards her Certification in Manual Therapy and a Doctoral Degree in Physical Therapy while completing her Certification as a Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist, as well as becoming a certified Pilates instructor. Ms. Fossett is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association and the National Athletic Trainers Association. Lisa is also TPI certified as well.

Katie Stormes

Katie Stormes is a Connecticut native who earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Central Connecticut State University and a Masters Degree in Forensic Science from the University of Connecticut. While she chose a career outside of criminal justice she brings 19 years of customer skills, 8 years of operational management skills and a certification in Medical Coding and BIlling with her to Saylor.

In her free time Katie loves taking and teaching spinning classes, going to CT to visit her family and friends, and spending time with her husband and their fur babies.

DR. ASHTON LEWIS, PT, DPT

Dr. Ashton Lewis, PT, DPT earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences at the University of Central Florida in 2016 and her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine in 2020. Her educational background includes extensive manual therapy training, and she has completed orthopedic coursework in spinal, myofascial, and upper and lower extremity evaluation, and manipulation. Ashton plans on continuing to learn and develop expertise throughout her career and she aspires to become a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist as well as an interest in becoming a certified Pilates Instructor. Her passion for the field of physical therapy is rooted deep in the care she provides as a clinician, embodying the philosophy that movement is medicine.

Ashton was born and raised in Jupiter, Florida. Outside the clinic, Ashton enjoys playing with and caring for her cat, Simon, who she spoils and loves beyond measure! Ashton is an annual pass holder for both Disney and Universal Studios, so her weekends are often spent at the happiest place on Earth or in the Wizarding World.

Dr. Heather Kennedy PT, DPT, Cert. DN

Dr. Heather Kennedy PT, DPT, Cert. DN received her Bachelor’s in Health Sciences and a minor in fitness training from The University of Central Florida. She then earned her Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from Long Island University and has found a home in outpatient physical therapy.

She has a multitude of experiences with very acute post-op patients and sports-specific training. Heather is trained as a swim instructor and has coached both youth league basketball and volleyball. She has been a medical volunteer for two years with the New York City Marathon and has submitted research to the Combined Sections Meeting of the American Physical Therapy Association. Heather also enjoys fitness and health, surfing, and family time. 

Dr. Amber Hartman, PT, DPT

Dr. Amber Hartman, PT, DPT was born and raised in Vermont where she received her bachelor degree in Exercise Science from Lyndon State College in 2011. While at Lyndon, Amber spent 3 years as a Division III Tennis player and earned her certification as a personal trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association.  Amber completed her graduate studies at Northeastern University in Boston MA where she received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy.

Amber’s goals are to provide all of her patients with a deep understanding of their injury or condition. She strives to provide the tools and education necessary to empower each patient towards better health, improved function, and well being. She has treated a variety of clients with a large emphasis on geriatric health and fitness and spinal disorders. Amber strives to improve her knowledge through the attendance of continued education and has recently completed both level 1 and level 2 of The Meeks Methods, geared toward the prevention and treatment of spinal compression fractures.

On the weekends you can find Amber perusing antique stores, hiking, golfing, or getting in the car and getting lost in the beautiful state of NC.

Dr. Justin Machado, PT, DPT

Dr. Justin Machado, PT, DPT is a doctor of physical therapy, and graduated from the University of St. Augustine. He played baseball since the age of five and was fortunate enough to get accepted to Shorter University on a scholarship. While in college, he suffered an injury that required surgical repair and therapy in order to return to baseball. This is where his passion for physical therapy began.

Justin saw the impact that a physical therapist can have on a person whether it be returning to a sport, recovering from an injury, or even trying to walk again. That was when he knew he wanted to be a physical therapist. After college, Justin began pursuing his doctorate in physical therapy at the University of St Augustine at their Miami campus. He’s excited to now use all of his knowledge that he has gained over the years to help Saylor’s patients to improve their quality of life and return to all activities they love to do.

Dr. Robert “Rob” Pelaez, PT, DPT 

DR. LAUREN KRATOFIL, PT, DPT

Dr. Lauren Kratofil, PT, DPT, earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from Florida State University, and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Florida International University, graduating number 1 in her class. She has experience in a myriad of environments and enjoys working one-on-one with her patients.

She also plans on becoming manually certified in the near future. Lauren was born and raised in Pompano Beach, Florida, and loves the beautiful sunny weather. Her love of physical therapy stems from watching and learning from her uncle who has been a physical therapist for over 30 years.

She was inspired as she watched him have such a positive impact on his patient’s lives and quickly fell in love with the profession. She enjoys hiking and exploring the outdoors with her husband at their family cabin in Montana.

DR. CHRISTINE FISHER PT, DPT, CLT-LANA

Dr. Christine Fisher PT, DPT, CLT-LANA is passionate about treating the breast cancer community. Since obtaining her doctorate in physical therapy from Belmont University in Nashville, TN, Christine has dedicated her career to learning how to treat physical side effects of cancer treatment like lymphedema. Christine is recognized by Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist which is the highest certification for lymphedema therapists in North America.

Christine was born and raised in New Jersey until she attended University of Connecticut to get her bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences. Christine remains passionate about healthy eating and cooking. She moved to Lake Norman after vacationing here for several years, and is out on the lake as much as possible. She enjoys working out, reading, and listening to podcasts.

Christine Corbitt, LPTA, PTA

Christine Corbitt, LPTA, PTA, was born and raised in Palm Beach County, obtained her Associate of Science Degree in Physical Therapy Assistance from South University. With over 10 years of experience, Christine’s interest in physical therapy was sparked due to being involved in cheerleading for many years and wanted to someday help others “get back in the game”. Throughout her physical therapy career, she has always enjoyed treating a variety of orthopedic conditions in an outpatient atmosphere ranging from teenagers to geriatric patients.

In September 2019, she furthered her education and expertise to obtain the GRASTON Technique Specialist credentialing (GTS) for another way to provide quality care to patients with soft tissue restrictions/injuries. Additionally, this year, Christine will be achieving the APTA APP Orthopedic Specialist title which is awarded to those who have completed an extensive amount of CEU’s in orthopedic conditions and has demonstrated required skills to a supervising PT via competency checklist. In her leisure time, Christine enjoys being outdoors; and loves Saylor!

DR. KAYLA BURRIER, DPT

Dr. Kayla Burrier, DPT was born in Staten Island, NY, and lived there for 22 years. She attended her undergraduate school at the State University of New York at New Paltz where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology with a minor in Psychology. Kayla then attended graduate school at Emory & Henry College School of Health Sciences in Marion, VA where she received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy. She had always wanted to live in Charlotte, NC so she chose to complete her graduate school rotations here and make North Carolina her permanent residence. Her goal in becoming a physical therapist initially started in her interest of being an animal physical therapist but with more education and experience treating the human population she realized her purpose had changed. It is fulfilling to work with people, seeing their achievements or even setbacks, and working together to create an optimal plan of care.

During her clinical rotations, she gained experience in treating geriatrics, pre and post-operative joint replacements, trauma, orthopedic and neurological conditions. Kayla provided gait training, strengthening, assistive device education, and even aquatic therapy. She has completed continuing education courses related to Evidence-Based Practice Updates of the Lumbar Spine and Shoulder Joint. She plans to further her education by becoming Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization certified. In her off time, she enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her cats and boyfriend.

DR. BRIAN GAPUTIS PT, DPT

Dr. Brian Gaputis PT, DPT is a dedicated Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) specializing in orthopedic rehabilitation and geriatric care. With a passion for restoring mobility and improving quality of life, Dr. Gaputis has spent years honing his expertise in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions and age-related impairments.

After completing his undergraduate education at the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, he went on to finish his post-graduate studies with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy at the University of Missouri.

Whether working with athletes recovering from sports injuries or elderly individuals seeking to maintain independence and functionality, Dr. Gaputis prioritizes comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of rehabilitation.

Outside of clinical practice, Dr. Gaputis is actively involved in community outreach and education initiatives aimed at promoting health and wellness among diverse populations. He is dedicated to empowering individuals to take an active role in their own recovery and strives to foster a supportive environment where every patient feels heard, valued, and empowered on their journey to optimal health.

Cole Saylor

Cole Saylor comes to Saylor after years as a Redcord and Pilates Instructor as well as a Certified Personal Trainer and instructor. He is also certified as a Core Align Instructor as well. Cole believes in one on one care and patients and clients deserve only the best.

Cole has been a patient at Saylor for years which led to his current role as VP of Public Outreach. In his spare time, Cole enjoys working out and spending time with his family and 3 dogs.

Jaclyn Fisher

 Jaclyn Fisher, is a Florida native who graduated from Florida Atlantic University in 2009 in which she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Health Care Administration. In 2015 she earned a Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding from Palm Beach State College. She is also CPR Certified.

After caring for a close family member that was lost to ALS, she aspired to be part of the medical field which she has proudly served in for over 10 years.  She enjoys the fast-paced ever-changing day-to-day of customer service and prides herself on a work ethic that ensures a positive image of herself and the company she represents. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, her cat and dog and watching the Indianapolis Colts.

Ashley Hoshak

Ashley Hoshak is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She moved into the Lake Norman area about 4 years ago. She fell in love with the area and then she found Saylor PT.

She came to Saylor with 10 years of Customer Service experience including being a General Manager. What she loves about her role at Saylor is being able to talk to all the patients from each location.

Outside of work Ashley enjoys football, traveling, camping trips, tubing on the rivers in the summer and spending quality time with those she loves!

CRYSTAL CASSELL

Crystal Cassell. I was born and raised in small-town North Platte, Nebraska where I had been a resident for the past 30 years. I attended McCook Community College in 2005 where I studied Criminal Justice and was part of the NJCAA volleyball team for two years. After graduating from college, I moved back to North Platte and started my journey as an Office Manager with Mid-Nebraska Physical Therapy.

I was part of their staff for the past 7 years until we decided to make the big move to beautiful Florida. We are still getting adjusted to the faster pace of living here but definitely have no complaints about the great weather. In my spare time, I enjoy hanging out with family and friends, riding horses, going to the beach, photography, and playing volleyball.

Marissa Brownell

Marissa Brownell was born and raised in South Dakota and moved to Florida from Alabama in March of 2022 and is loving everything this state has to offer so far. Marissa is a mother of two, an animal lover, a music enthusiast, and her newest obsession is going to the beach!

Naomi Bohannon

Naomi Bohannon is a native to Florida, born and raised in Broward County. In 2010 she moved to Loxahatchee with her large family of six and then a few years ago to a small farm where Naomi and her family raise cows, chickens, and a vegetable garden. In her spare time she loves the outdoors and enjoys hiking. Most of her career has been in the pharmacy industry working in various settings and specializing in customer service. This experience has prepared her well for this position. She has a passion for helping people in the healthcare field and is excited to be a part of the Saylor Physical therapy team.

Ashley Foley

Ashley Foley was born and raised in the Palm Beach County area spending many days enjoying the natural wonders of the state. She enjoys spending much of her time reading and enjoying historical documentaries.

Currently pursuing a degree in Education with a biology focus she aspires to work with children to instill a love of learning everything about the world around them.

Kristen Barbee

Kristen Barbee is a married mom of two children. She and her husband are both native North Carolinians who relocated to the Charlotte area just in time for their second child to be born. Kristen has a degree in Chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill but has found that working in administration in the medical field is more her speed. She has had several administration positions in
different medical offices through the years. Most recently, she has been a stay-at-home mom to her two children. She decided to come back to the workforce and join the Saylor family when her therapist, Amber, mentioned an opportunity. Kristen has been a patient of Amber’s at Saylor Physical Therapy for several years. She has become a huge proponent of physical therapy in general, and Saylor PT specifically. Kristen is happy to know that she has helped others improve their quality of life.

Kristen spends much of her free time as a Cub Scout leader, as well as a leader for a Scouts BSA Girls Troop. She enjoys hiking, camping, and anything that takes her and her family outdoors.

Emily Leon

Emily Leon was born in South Florida and has lived in many states along the Northeast coast such as New York and North Carolina. She loves the outdoors, theatre, and all things horror. In her free time, you can catch her at Universal Orlando, enjoying nature, or at the gym!