Our Team
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Joni is a comprehensively trained Pilates instructor through Polestar Pilates Education, a curriculum developed by a physical therapist. Grounded in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and motor control, the Polestar approach integrates cutting-edge research in orthopedics, sports medicine, and movement science to deliver safe, effective, and evidence-based training.In addition to Pilates, Joni is a certified instructor in TRX Suspension Training and CoreAlign, and has completed extensive coursework with Balanced Body in Pilates Mat, Roller, and Arc techniques. With over 30 years of experience in fitness and sports performance, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients.Joni’s journey into Pilates rehabilitation began in 1999 following a leg injury, giving her firsthand insight into the imbalances and movement challenges that often accompany sports training, as well as the effects of overuse and improper mechanics on the body.She offers private lessons, small group personal training, and specialized injury prevention programs, tailored to support all types of active lifestyles and athletic pursuits.
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Joni is a comprehensively trained Pilates instructor through Polestar Pilates Education, a curriculum developed by a physical therapist. Grounded in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and motor control, the Polestar approach integrates cutting-edge research in orthopedics, sports medicine, and movement science to deliver safe, effective, and evidence-based training.In addition to Pilates, Joni is a certified instructor in TRX Suspension Training and CoreAlign, and has completed extensive coursework with Balanced Body in Pilates Mat, Roller, and Arc techniques. With over 30 years of experience in fitness and sports performance, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients.Joni’s journey into Pilates rehabilitation began in 1999 following a leg injury, giving her firsthand insight into the imbalances and movement challenges that often accompany sports training, as well as the effects of overuse and improper mechanics on the body.She offers private lessons, small group personal training, and specialized injury prevention programs, tailored to support all types of active lifestyles and athletic pursuits.
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Joni is a comprehensively trained Pilates instructor through Polestar Pilates Education, a curriculum developed by a physical therapist. Grounded in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and motor control, the Polestar approach integrates cutting-edge research in orthopedics, sports medicine, and movement science to deliver safe, effective, and evidence-based training.In addition to Pilates, Joni is a certified instructor in TRX Suspension Training and CoreAlign, and has completed extensive coursework with Balanced Body in Pilates Mat, Roller, and Arc techniques. With over 30 years of experience in fitness and sports performance, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients.Joni’s journey into Pilates rehabilitation began in 1999 following a leg injury, giving her firsthand insight into the imbalances and movement challenges that often accompany sports training, as well as the effects of overuse and improper mechanics on the body.She offers private lessons, small group personal training, and specialized injury prevention programs, tailored to support all types of active lifestyles and athletic pursuits.
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Katie Tryon has been helping others find their own love for movement since 2006. In 2010 she completed her STOTT Reformer and Mat Pilates certifications and has been growing a passion for Pilates ever since. Also certified in Barre and TRX, Katie loves incorporating different props and Pilates apparatus into her classically based teaching background. “I love when a client walks in with a back issue or muscle instability but walks out confident that I can help give them tools they need to walk taller and more confidently.” Having used Pilates as a way to rehab her own back injury, Katie knows how much success any person can have with a little dedication and patience. Katie has experience working with the young, the young at heart and special populations including Prenatal clients as well as those who have recently been cleared for movement following hip/knee/joint replacement.
We may not see results overnight, but if we give it some time and effort clients are amazed by the stability, core strength and longevity Pilates offers those who give it their best shot!”
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Katie Tryon has been helping others find their own love for movement since 2006. In 2010 she completed her STOTT Reformer and Mat Pilates certifications and has been growing a passion for Pilates ever since. Also certified in Barre and TRX, Katie loves incorporating different props and Pilates apparatus into her classically based teaching background. “I love when a client walks in with a back issue or muscle instability but walks out confident that I can help give them tools they need to walk taller and more confidently.” Having used Pilates as a way to rehab her own back injury, Katie knows how much success any person can have with a little dedication and patience. Katie has experience working with the young, the young at heart and special populations including Prenatal clients as well as those who have recently been cleared for movement following hip/knee/joint replacement.
We may not see results overnight, but if we give it some time and effort clients are amazed by the stability, core strength and longevity Pilates offers those who give it their best shot!”
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Katie Tryon has been helping others find their own love for movement since 2006. In 2010 she completed her STOTT Reformer and Mat Pilates certifications and has been growing a passion for Pilates ever since. Also certified in Barre and TRX, Katie loves incorporating different props and Pilates apparatus into her classically based teaching background. “I love when a client walks in with a back issue or muscle instability but walks out confident that I can help give them tools they need to walk taller and more confidently.” Having used Pilates as a way to rehab her own back injury, Katie knows how much success any person can have with a little dedication and patience. Katie has experience working with the young, the young at heart and special populations including Prenatal clients as well as those who have recently been cleared for movement following hip/knee/joint replacement.
We may not see results overnight, but if we give it some time and effort clients are amazed by the stability, core strength and longevity Pilates offers those who give it their best shot!”
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Dynamic alignment and dynamic mobility are compromised often by our western civilization. As a Pilates coach, health educator and Physical therapist assistant, Lorna’s passion is developing Pilates based programs and educational materials that promote mental and emotional wellness, and physical fitness. GRADUATE EDUCATION: Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc) Master of Science in Kinesiology (MS), CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSE: Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA/ Outpatient) National Certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT), Polestar Pilates Rehabilitation Graduate, TheraPilates ® Pilates for Osteoporosis, Pilates for MS & Neurological Disorders. Certified Personal Trainer (10 years), National Strength and Conditioning Association. American Institute of Balance-Vestibular Rehabilitation (5 years) COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP: Clinical Director- Special Olympics (Fun Fitness Physical Therapy Screenings), American Physical Therapy Association (PTA Council Rep, Health Promotion and Wellness).
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Dynamic alignment and dynamic mobility are compromised often by our western civilization. As a Pilates coach, health educator and Physical therapist assistant, Lorna’s passion is developing Pilates based programs and educational materials that promote mental and emotional wellness, and physical fitness. GRADUATE EDUCATION: Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc) Master of Science in Kinesiology (MS), CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSE: Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA/ Outpatient) National Certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT), Polestar Pilates Rehabilitation Graduate, TheraPilates ® Pilates for Osteoporosis, Pilates for MS & Neurological Disorders. Certified Personal Trainer (10 years), National Strength and Conditioning Association. American Institute of Balance-Vestibular Rehabilitation (5 years) COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP: Clinical Director- Special Olympics (Fun Fitness Physical Therapy Screenings), American Physical Therapy Association (PTA Council Rep, Health Promotion and Wellness).
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Dynamic alignment and dynamic mobility are compromised often by our western civilization. As a Pilates coach, health educator and Physical therapist assistant, Lorna’s passion is developing Pilates based programs and educational materials that promote mental and emotional wellness, and physical fitness. GRADUATE EDUCATION: Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc) Master of Science in Kinesiology (MS), CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSE: Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA/ Outpatient) National Certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT), Polestar Pilates Rehabilitation Graduate, TheraPilates ® Pilates for Osteoporosis, Pilates for MS & Neurological Disorders. Certified Personal Trainer (10 years), National Strength and Conditioning Association. American Institute of Balance-Vestibular Rehabilitation (5 years) COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP: Clinical Director- Special Olympics (Fun Fitness Physical Therapy Screenings), American Physical Therapy Association (PTA Council Rep, Health Promotion and Wellness).
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Kathy is a retired physical therapist who practiced for 42 years and was undeniably one of the best of the best. She graduated from Kansas State University and KU Medical Center with primary interest in the field of orthopedics and sports medicine. She practiced for 21 years in collaboration with orthopedic pioneer, Dr. Phillip Baker, founder of Kansas Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. She became familiar with Pilates when she assumed the role of Clinical Manager of Rebound Physical Therapy's Satellite Clinic, which was originally located in, Absolute Fitness, where Pilates Performance & Rehab originated in 2000. When both facilities relocated to temporary accommodations due to construction delays, she worked side by side with many Pilates staff in a co-op space. Kathy saw the profound benefits of Pilates Apparatus and Methodology and began incorporating fundamentals of core strengthening and muscle balance into her practice. The staff and clients of PPR also greatly benefited from Kathy's expertise and patient care. Kathy has now ventured into a new wellness role and has completed the certification course in CoreAlign® training. She has enjoyed this functional progression of her interest in Pilates. Kathy has a long-standing concern for decreasing core strength and balance deficits in the general and aging population. Kathy will be focusing on Fall Prevention and Gait Training with weight bearing exercises and strengthening of the core muscles facilitated through the CoreAlign®. Kathy and her husband live in the country with their three lab puppies and enjoy time with their children and families, including three beautiful granddaughters.
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Kathy is a retired physical therapist who practiced for 42 years and was undeniably one of the best of the best. She graduated from Kansas State University and KU Medical Center with primary interest in the field of orthopedics and sports medicine. She practiced for 21 years in collaboration with orthopedic pioneer, Dr. Phillip Baker, founder of Kansas Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. She became familiar with Pilates when she assumed the role of Clinical Manager of Rebound Physical Therapy's Satellite Clinic, which was originally located in, Absolute Fitness, where Pilates Performance & Rehab originated in 2000. When both facilities relocated to temporary accommodations due to construction delays, she worked side by side with many Pilates staff in a co-op space. Kathy saw the profound benefits of Pilates Apparatus and Methodology and began incorporating fundamentals of core strengthening and muscle balance into her practice. The staff and clients of PPR also greatly benefited from Kathy's expertise and patient care. Kathy has now ventured into a new wellness role and has completed the certification course in CoreAlign® training. She has enjoyed this functional progression of her interest in Pilates. Kathy has a long-standing concern for decreasing core strength and balance deficits in the general and aging population. Kathy will be focusing on Fall Prevention and Gait Training with weight bearing exercises and strengthening of the core muscles facilitated through the CoreAlign®. Kathy and her husband live in the country with their three lab puppies and enjoy time with their children and families, including three beautiful granddaughters.
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Kathy is a retired physical therapist who practiced for 42 years and was undeniably one of the best of the best. She graduated from Kansas State University and KU Medical Center with primary interest in the field of orthopedics and sports medicine. She practiced for 21 years in collaboration with orthopedic pioneer, Dr. Phillip Baker, founder of Kansas Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. She became familiar with Pilates when she assumed the role of Clinical Manager of Rebound Physical Therapy's Satellite Clinic, which was originally located in, Absolute Fitness, where Pilates Performance & Rehab originated in 2000. When both facilities relocated to temporary accommodations due to construction delays, she worked side by side with many Pilates staff in a co-op space. Kathy saw the profound benefits of Pilates Apparatus and Methodology and began incorporating fundamentals of core strengthening and muscle balance into her practice. The staff and clients of PPR also greatly benefited from Kathy's expertise and patient care. Kathy has now ventured into a new wellness role and has completed the certification course in CoreAlign® training. She has enjoyed this functional progression of her interest in Pilates. Kathy has a long-standing concern for decreasing core strength and balance deficits in the general and aging population. Kathy will be focusing on Fall Prevention and Gait Training with weight bearing exercises and strengthening of the core muscles facilitated through the CoreAlign®. Kathy and her husband live in the country with their three lab puppies and enjoy time with their children and families, including three beautiful granddaughters.
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Jen Nichols is comprehensively trained through Polestar Pilates Education, an internationally recognized program focused on whole body wellness, healing through movement and mind-body-spirit connection. With a background in dance and a deep understanding of movement, Jen designs her classes to promote strength, flexibility and balance while emphasizing proper form and technique. After having her first son, Jen decided it was time to follow her passion for teaching. Jen’s love of Pilates grew out of her love of dance, as they share many of the same principles of movement. Her journey began at Pilates Performance and Rehab in 2007, where she taught reformer, mixed apparatus, mat and yoga. After several years and following the birth of two more babies, she decided to take time off to focus on her family. Time has flown and now her oldest is off to KU, and with her younger chicks not far behind, she has decided to return to PPR to continue her teaching career. Jen’s passion is to bring out the potential in every student by building strength, confidence and pride in oneself. She is most gratified when her students tell her how they have applied their newfound strength, balance and mindfulness in everyday life.
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Jen Nichols is comprehensively trained through Polestar Pilates Education, an internationally recognized program focused on whole body wellness, healing through movement and mind-body-spirit connection. With a background in dance and a deep understanding of movement, Jen designs her classes to promote strength, flexibility and balance while emphasizing proper form and technique. After having her first son, Jen decided it was time to follow her passion for teaching. Jen’s love of Pilates grew out of her love of dance, as they share many of the same principles of movement. Her journey began at Pilates Performance and Rehab in 2007, where she taught reformer, mixed apparatus, mat and yoga. After several years and following the birth of two more babies, she decided to take time off to focus on her family. Time has flown and now her oldest is off to KU, and with her younger chicks not far behind, she has decided to return to PPR to continue her teaching career. Jen’s passion is to bring out the potential in every student by building strength, confidence and pride in oneself. She is most gratified when her students tell her how they have applied their newfound strength, balance and mindfulness in everyday life.
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Jen Nichols is comprehensively trained through Polestar Pilates Education, an internationally recognized program focused on whole body wellness, healing through movement and mind-body-spirit connection. With a background in dance and a deep understanding of movement, Jen designs her classes to promote strength, flexibility and balance while emphasizing proper form and technique. After having her first son, Jen decided it was time to follow her passion for teaching. Jen’s love of Pilates grew out of her love of dance, as they share many of the same principles of movement. Her journey began at Pilates Performance and Rehab in 2007, where she taught reformer, mixed apparatus, mat and yoga. After several years and following the birth of two more babies, she decided to take time off to focus on her family. Time has flown and now her oldest is off to KU, and with her younger chicks not far behind, she has decided to return to PPR to continue her teaching career. Jen’s passion is to bring out the potential in every student by building strength, confidence and pride in oneself. She is most gratified when her students tell her how they have applied their newfound strength, balance and mindfulness in everyday life.
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Ashley’s journey reflects a deep commitment to blending movement, science, and the arts to help others heal and thrive. With her background in Exercise Science from K.U. and dance, she has cultivated a unique approach to movement that integrates the technical understanding of biomechanics with the joy of movement that comes from dance. Her professional path was born through injury into the world of physical therapy, where she gained hands-on experience through shadowing and internships, including a role at Bird Physical Therapy in Lawrence, KS. She transitioned into Pilates, finding it to be the perfect medium to merge her interests in movement and rehabilitation, becoming an instructor herself in 2002. Ashley is a Corrective Exercise Specialist in the BioMechanics Method with a comprehensive education from Balanced Body, as well as certifications in Fletcher towel, barre, floorwork, HARDCORE barre, the Franklin Method, CoreAlign, and more. Her diverse training allows her to address various needs and adapt her approach to each individual's unique body and goals. A passionate advocate for Trauma-Informed Care, Ashley has worked with professionals in law and healthcare to integrate trauma-sensitive approaches into movement practices. Her belief in the holistic benefits of movement for the mind, body, and soul shapes the way she teaches and connects with her clients. She is dedicated to supporting people through movement, helping them find strength, healing, and a love for movement.
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Ashley’s journey reflects a deep commitment to blending movement, science, and the arts to help others heal and thrive. With her background in Exercise Science from K.U. and dance, she has cultivated a unique approach to movement that integrates the technical understanding of biomechanics with the joy of movement that comes from dance. Her professional path was born through injury into the world of physical therapy, where she gained hands-on experience through shadowing and internships, including a role at Bird Physical Therapy in Lawrence, KS. She transitioned into Pilates, finding it to be the perfect medium to merge her interests in movement and rehabilitation, becoming an instructor herself in 2002. Ashley is a Corrective Exercise Specialist in the BioMechanics Method with a comprehensive education from Balanced Body, as well as certifications in Fletcher towel, barre, floorwork, HARDCORE barre, the Franklin Method, CoreAlign, and more. Her diverse training allows her to address various needs and adapt her approach to each individual's unique body and goals. A passionate advocate for Trauma-Informed Care, Ashley has worked with professionals in law and healthcare to integrate trauma-sensitive approaches into movement practices. Her belief in the holistic benefits of movement for the mind, body, and soul shapes the way she teaches and connects with her clients. She is dedicated to supporting people through movement, helping them find strength, healing, and a love for movement.
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Ashley’s journey reflects a deep commitment to blending movement, science, and the arts to help others heal and thrive. With her background in Exercise Science from K.U. and dance, she has cultivated a unique approach to movement that integrates the technical understanding of biomechanics with the joy of movement that comes from dance. Her professional path was born through injury into the world of physical therapy, where she gained hands-on experience through shadowing and internships, including a role at Bird Physical Therapy in Lawrence, KS. She transitioned into Pilates, finding it to be the perfect medium to merge her interests in movement and rehabilitation, becoming an instructor herself in 2002. Ashley is a Corrective Exercise Specialist in the BioMechanics Method with a comprehensive education from Balanced Body, as well as certifications in Fletcher towel, barre, floorwork, HARDCORE barre, the Franklin Method, CoreAlign, and more. Her diverse training allows her to address various needs and adapt her approach to each individual's unique body and goals. A passionate advocate for Trauma-Informed Care, Ashley has worked with professionals in law and healthcare to integrate trauma-sensitive approaches into movement practices. Her belief in the holistic benefits of movement for the mind, body, and soul shapes the way she teaches and connects with her clients. She is dedicated to supporting people through movement, helping them find strength, healing, and a love for movement.
Collaborators
Collaborators
Sara Armbrister
Sara Armbrister, Aligned Pilates Founder - Trainer
Aligned Studio founder Sara Armbrister was originally introduced to the Pilates method to help her body keep up with the physical demands of a pre-professional musician and dancer. As a cello performance major at the University of Kansas, Pilates helped her recover from an overuse injury. Inspired to help other performing artists avoid and overcome injury, she began teaching in 2004. Sara initially completed her Pilates education through Centerworks® Pilates, and has received additional comprehensive training and continuing education through Balanced Body®, Fletcher® Pilates, Polestar, and many first-generation and master teachers. She has also received research grants and presented numerous lectures on injury prevention for musicians and dancers.
Sara served as Studio Director and Lead Trainer of Pilates Performance & Rehab Lawrence for many years, until she took over ownership and transitioned the studio to Aligned in 2016. She is also an educator for Balanced Body Pilates. She teaches the Balanced Body Pilates & Barre instructor training programs, as well as specialty workshops, at Aligned and as a guest presenter throughout the Kansas City area and across the country.
A dynamic, inspiring teacher, Sara aims to make Pilates accessible to all. Her diverse clientele includes athletes, dancers, fitness professionals, musicians, pre/post-rehab clients, and men and women of all ages and abilities.
Sara Armbrister
Sara Armbrister, Aligned Pilates Founder - Trainer
Aligned Studio founder Sara Armbrister was originally introduced to the Pilates method to help her body keep up with the physical demands of a pre-professional musician and dancer. As a cello performance major at the University of Kansas, Pilates helped her recover from an overuse injury. Inspired to help other performing artists avoid and overcome injury, she began teaching in 2004. Sara initially completed her Pilates education through Centerworks® Pilates, and has received additional comprehensive training and continuing education through Balanced Body®, Fletcher® Pilates, Polestar, and many first-generation and master teachers. She has also received research grants and presented numerous lectures on injury prevention for musicians and dancers.
Sara served as Studio Director and Lead Trainer of Pilates Performance & Rehab Lawrence for many years, until she took over ownership and transitioned the studio to Aligned in 2016. She is also an educator for Balanced Body Pilates. She teaches the Balanced Body Pilates & Barre instructor training programs, as well as specialty workshops, at Aligned and as a guest presenter throughout the Kansas City area and across the country.
A dynamic, inspiring teacher, Sara aims to make Pilates accessible to all. Her diverse clientele includes athletes, dancers, fitness professionals, musicians, pre/post-rehab clients, and men and women of all ages and abilities.
Sara Armbrister
Sara Armbrister, Aligned Pilates Founder - Trainer
Aligned Studio founder Sara Armbrister was originally introduced to the Pilates method to help her body keep up with the physical demands of a pre-professional musician and dancer. As a cello performance major at the University of Kansas, Pilates helped her recover from an overuse injury. Inspired to help other performing artists avoid and overcome injury, she began teaching in 2004. Sara initially completed her Pilates education through Centerworks® Pilates, and has received additional comprehensive training and continuing education through Balanced Body®, Fletcher® Pilates, Polestar, and many first-generation and master teachers. She has also received research grants and presented numerous lectures on injury prevention for musicians and dancers.
Sara served as Studio Director and Lead Trainer of Pilates Performance & Rehab Lawrence for many years, until she took over ownership and transitioned the studio to Aligned in 2016. She is also an educator for Balanced Body Pilates. She teaches the Balanced Body Pilates & Barre instructor training programs, as well as specialty workshops, at Aligned and as a guest presenter throughout the Kansas City area and across the country.
A dynamic, inspiring teacher, Sara aims to make Pilates accessible to all. Her diverse clientele includes athletes, dancers, fitness professionals, musicians, pre/post-rehab clients, and men and women of all ages and abilities.
Tamara Neff
DPT
Educational Background: Tamara graduated with her BA from Washburn University while earning her Physical Therapist Assistant degree, practiced for a few years and then went on to receive her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She has been practicing in the field of physical therapy since 2000, with experience in the outpatient setting as well as inpatient rehabilitation. Since graduation Tamara has pursued extensive training in neurological rehabilitation with training in Neuro-Developmental Technique, Body Weight Support Treadmill Training, and vestibular rehabilitation. She is also a LSVT BIG® certified practitioner specializing in treatment of individuals with Parkinson's disease. As a physical therapist with extensive clinical experience and specialty training, she brings a comprehensive approach to the care of her patients and clients.
Pilates: Tamara began studying Pilates in 2000 with Polestar Pilates Education. While attending graduate school she worked at the Polestar Pilates Center in Coral Gables, Florida. This education and experience has allowed Tamara to implement Pilates based rehabilitation into the inpatient rehabilitation setting to facilitate motor recovery with neurological patients and utilized Pilates practice in outpatient settings to decrease pain and restore movement. Additionally, Tamara has presented on utilizing Pilates in rehabilitation to local organizations including the Kansas Occupational Therapy Conference. She understands and implements the philosophy and principles of Pilates and sees it as a vital tool that empowers the patient to manage and reach her/his maximum potential in a wide spectrum of neurologic and orthopedic conditions.
Neurological Rehabilitation: Tamara specializes in the evaluation and treatment of individuals with movement impairments due to disease or injury to the nervous system. She is a specialist in the rehabilitation of neurologic disorders such as: stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Parkinson’s, Guillan-Barre, balance deficits, and multiple sclerosis. She has extensive experience and training in this, and uniquely utilizes Pilates equipment accomplish profound success. With years of hands on clinical experience, Tamara is able to help patients achieve motor recovery with facilitation techniques that improve their quality of life.
Sports Medicine: Tamara enjoys working with the novice to experienced athlete. As an athlete and runner she is able to relate to individuals with a strong desire to compete and stay active. Tamara is able to identify faulty movement patterns and improper mechanics and enjoys helping athletes improve their motor control to further enhance their athletic skills.
Tamara Neff
DPT
Educational Background: Tamara graduated with her BA from Washburn University while earning her Physical Therapist Assistant degree, practiced for a few years and then went on to receive her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She has been practicing in the field of physical therapy since 2000, with experience in the outpatient setting as well as inpatient rehabilitation. Since graduation Tamara has pursued extensive training in neurological rehabilitation with training in Neuro-Developmental Technique, Body Weight Support Treadmill Training, and vestibular rehabilitation. She is also a LSVT BIG® certified practitioner specializing in treatment of individuals with Parkinson's disease. As a physical therapist with extensive clinical experience and specialty training, she brings a comprehensive approach to the care of her patients and clients.
Pilates: Tamara began studying Pilates in 2000 with Polestar Pilates Education. While attending graduate school she worked at the Polestar Pilates Center in Coral Gables, Florida. This education and experience has allowed Tamara to implement Pilates based rehabilitation into the inpatient rehabilitation setting to facilitate motor recovery with neurological patients and utilized Pilates practice in outpatient settings to decrease pain and restore movement. Additionally, Tamara has presented on utilizing Pilates in rehabilitation to local organizations including the Kansas Occupational Therapy Conference. She understands and implements the philosophy and principles of Pilates and sees it as a vital tool that empowers the patient to manage and reach her/his maximum potential in a wide spectrum of neurologic and orthopedic conditions.
Neurological Rehabilitation: Tamara specializes in the evaluation and treatment of individuals with movement impairments due to disease or injury to the nervous system. She is a specialist in the rehabilitation of neurologic disorders such as: stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Parkinson’s, Guillan-Barre, balance deficits, and multiple sclerosis. She has extensive experience and training in this, and uniquely utilizes Pilates equipment accomplish profound success. With years of hands on clinical experience, Tamara is able to help patients achieve motor recovery with facilitation techniques that improve their quality of life.
Sports Medicine: Tamara enjoys working with the novice to experienced athlete. As an athlete and runner she is able to relate to individuals with a strong desire to compete and stay active. Tamara is able to identify faulty movement patterns and improper mechanics and enjoys helping athletes improve their motor control to further enhance their athletic skills.
Noelle Dowma
PT, DPT, BFA, NCPT, CMTPT, BSPTS
Educational Background: Noelle graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ballet Pedagogy from the University of Oklahoma and then received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She has been working in outpatient orthopaedic settings since 2002. Since graduation, Noelle has pursued extensive continuing education through Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (has taken ALL of the offered courses), Kinetic control, Pilates based coursework, C1 and C2 BSPT Schroth certified, manual lymph drainage certified by Evergreen Certifications, Progressing Ballet Technique, and is Dry Needling Certified through Myopain seminars. Musculoskeletal injuries of the spine and all extremities are her main realm of experience. In addition, her areas of specialization include: osteopathic based manual therapy, Pilates based rehabilitation, dance medicine, craniosacral therapy, dry needling, manual lymph drainage, osteoporosis, hypermobility syndromes, and scoliosis. Noelle is the owner of Kinesphere Physical Therapy LLC.
Pilates: Noelle began studying Pilates when rehabilitating a dance injury in 1992. Since that time, she trained through the Physical Mind Institute, Polestar Pilates Education and is Nationally Pilates Certified. She is a Principal Educator for Polestar Pilates Education, where she teaches fitness and rehabilitation professionals how to use Pilates with their clients and patients. Having taught across the United States, Caribbean, and Mexico, Noelle is a regular presenter at courses and conferences. Pilates was a part of Noelle’s life before becoming a Physical Therapist and it continues to be an essential part of her success with patients. Noelle developed the Pilates program at the Kansas City Ballet school. Noelle also teaches for Oov Education and is trained in the Konnector.
Dance and Figure Skating Medicine: Noelle continues to dance today, but the professional training of her Bachelor of Fine Arts allows her the understanding of a dancer’s career, body and injuries. The Miami City Ballet and Broadway shows were Noelle’s past dance medicine experience before moving to Kansas City in 2006. Noelle teaches at local dance schools, including the Kansas City Ballet School and has been invited to teach at dance schools in the US and Mexico. As a sought after dance medicine physical therapist, Noelle works on touring Broadway shows coming through Kansas City and also served as the dance medicine specialist at Children's Mercy. She most recently presented in the 2017 International Association of Dance Medicine and Science conference. Additionally, she is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT). Noelle figure skated as a child and chose to continue only with dance. As an adult, she trains regularly, competing and testing. She is a member and volunteer through the Kansas City Figure Skating Club, where she works the medical shift at competitions.
Noelle Dowma
PT, DPT, BFA, NCPT, CMTPT, BSPTS
Educational Background: Noelle graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ballet Pedagogy from the University of Oklahoma and then received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She has been working in outpatient orthopaedic settings since 2002. Since graduation, Noelle has pursued extensive continuing education through Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (has taken ALL of the offered courses), Kinetic control, Pilates based coursework, C1 and C2 BSPT Schroth certified, manual lymph drainage certified by Evergreen Certifications, Progressing Ballet Technique, and is Dry Needling Certified through Myopain seminars. Musculoskeletal injuries of the spine and all extremities are her main realm of experience. In addition, her areas of specialization include: osteopathic based manual therapy, Pilates based rehabilitation, dance medicine, craniosacral therapy, dry needling, manual lymph drainage, osteoporosis, hypermobility syndromes, and scoliosis. Noelle is the owner of Kinesphere Physical Therapy LLC.
Pilates: Noelle began studying Pilates when rehabilitating a dance injury in 1992. Since that time, she trained through the Physical Mind Institute, Polestar Pilates Education and is Nationally Pilates Certified. She is a Principal Educator for Polestar Pilates Education, where she teaches fitness and rehabilitation professionals how to use Pilates with their clients and patients. Having taught across the United States, Caribbean, and Mexico, Noelle is a regular presenter at courses and conferences. Pilates was a part of Noelle’s life before becoming a Physical Therapist and it continues to be an essential part of her success with patients. Noelle developed the Pilates program at the Kansas City Ballet school. Noelle also teaches for Oov Education and is trained in the Konnector.
Dance and Figure Skating Medicine: Noelle continues to dance today, but the professional training of her Bachelor of Fine Arts allows her the understanding of a dancer’s career, body and injuries. The Miami City Ballet and Broadway shows were Noelle’s past dance medicine experience before moving to Kansas City in 2006. Noelle teaches at local dance schools, including the Kansas City Ballet School and has been invited to teach at dance schools in the US and Mexico. As a sought after dance medicine physical therapist, Noelle works on touring Broadway shows coming through Kansas City and also served as the dance medicine specialist at Children's Mercy. She most recently presented in the 2017 International Association of Dance Medicine and Science conference. Additionally, she is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT). Noelle figure skated as a child and chose to continue only with dance. As an adult, she trains regularly, competing and testing. She is a member and volunteer through the Kansas City Figure Skating Club, where she works the medical shift at competitions.
