Our Staff

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Get to Know Our Team

When you come in for your treatment sessions at Taylor Physical Therapy, you can feel secure knowing each session is overseen by a licensed therapist who will help guide you through a program that was developed specifically to meet your therapy goals.

Get to know the team of physical, occupational, and speech therapy professionals at each of our eight locations by reading their bios below.

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  • Executive

  • Jerod Gayer, PT, DPT, ATC

    Jerod Gayer, PT, DPT, ATC

    Owner, Physical Therapist, Certified Athletic Trainer

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Noah Clinic Division: Executive

    In 1997, Jerod graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science. He pursued his Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Washington University and graduated in 1999. He then went on to achieve his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2003 from the Arizona School of Health Sciences. He is proud to be one of the owners of Taylor Physical Therapy and welcomes the challenges faced with continuing the legacy that Bill Taylor started with the company. His job duties include administrative and management duties for the company, orthopedic and sports medicine, patient care at the Wartburg Clinic and Waverly Health Center and has been on the sideline for Waverly-Shell Rock football since 2000. 

     

    Jerod spends his time away from the office with his wife, fellow PT Deb, and their three kids and two dogs. He also volunteers to provide sports medicine coverage at WSR High School and Wartburg College. He serves as a board member for the WSR Grid Iron Club. Jerod's favorite sports teams include the University of Northern Iowa Panthers, St. Louis Cardinals, the Dallas Cowboys, and the WSR Go-Hawks.

  • Debra R Gayer, MSPT-CLT

    Debra R Gayer, MSPT-CLT

    Owner, Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center Division: Executive

    Deb graduated in 1996 from the University of Northern Iowa with a Bachelor of Science degree and continued her education to graduate with a Masters of Physical Therapy degree from Washington University in St. Louis. In addition to her duties as owner of Taylor Physical Therapy, Deb also works as a full-time physical therapist with an expertise in concussion management and breast cancer rehabilitation. She is a Certified Lymphedema Specialist and a Vestibular Rehabilitation Specialist. She also focuses on providing care to women for pelvic pain, bowel and bladder dysfunction, SI joint dysfunction, pregnancy, and post-pregnancy pain, and is trained in pelvic biofeedback.

     

    Deb is a long-time co-chairman on the Butler County Advisory Committee and the Butler County Board of Health. She enjoys the role this allows her to play in maintaining the health and safety of our communities.

     

    In her free time, Deb enjoys traveling to visit family, junking and refurnishing furniture.

  • Ronald Ragsdale, PT, DPT

    Ronald Ragsdale, PT, DPT

    Owner, Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Sumner Clinic Division: Executive

    Ronald Ragsdale received his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from St. Ambrose University after receiving his Master of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Iowa, and a Bachelor's degree in biology and chemistry from Briar Cliff University. Ron has been with Taylor Physical Therapy since 1997. As an owner of Taylor Therapy, he feels blessed to be working with such talented, committed, and genuine colleagues.  

     

    Ron is also the manager of the Sumner Clinic and enjoys working closely with the student-athletes of Sumner and Tripoli schools. He has had additional training and coursework in trigger point treatment with dry needling, lower extremity biomechanics and custom orthotic fabrication, chronic wound care management, and temporal mandibular joint dysfunction. He currently sees patients in the Sumner Clinic and at the Waverly Health Center. Ron and his wife live in Waverly and have three adult children. They enjoy traveling, biking and spending time outdoors. Ron also enjoys the Hawkeyes, fishing and golfing.

  • Management

  • Casey Doyle, PT

    Casey Doyle, PT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Waverly Industrial Rehab Division: Management

    Casey attended Wartburg College and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Biology in 2001. He continued his education at the University of Iowa Graduate Program in physical therapy. Casey graduated with a Master's degree in physical therapy in 2003. Casey offers outpatient and home healthcare services while working on business wellness program development, occupational health rehabilitation which includes functional capacity evaluations, post-offer testing design, and job-site analysis.

     

    Casey's favorite sports teams include the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and the Chicago Bears. In his free time, he enjoys coaching recreational soccer and youth wrestling. Casey and his wife stay busy with their three children and two dogs.

  • Kristin Kahler, PT, DPT

    Kristin Kahler, PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist, Center for Pediatric Therapies Manager

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Center of Pediatric Therapies Division: Management

    Kristin attended Waverly-Shell Rock High School and went on to get her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology in 2010 from Wartburg College before receiving her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2013 from Des Moines University. Kristin enjoys working with a variety of patients from pediatrics and elderly patients to neurological and orthopedic patients. She is easy to find in the clinic because she is known for being loud and talkative at times. She is also known to not do a great job at counting repetitions during exercises so if you're one of her patients, you may need to count your exercise repetitions for her!

     

    When Kristin and her husband aren't playing with their three daughters and dog, you can find them volunteering alongside the Wartburg College Men's and Women's Tennis Teams while serving as "family friends" for two Wartburg College International Students. Kristin and her husband are always looking for ways to stay involved in the community and their alma mater, Wartburg College. When it comes to sports, Kristin cheers on the Iowa Hawkeyes, St. Louis Cardinals, and the Green Bay Packers.

  • Brian Miller

    Brian Miller

    Director of Business Development, Employee Health & Safety Program

    Locations Served: Waverly Industrial Rehab Division: Management

    Brian attended Buena Vista University and graduated in 2000 with a Bachelors degree in Sports Management and Health and Safety. He has a background in leadership and environmental health and safety. Brian works at Waverly Industrial Rehab as the Director of Business Development. He leads the support of our customer relationships and meeting customers' needs through our clinic-based and onsite wellness services, including our Safety Consulting Program. Brian enjoys the opportunity to work with new and existing customers.

     

    In his free time, Brian enjoys spending time with his wife and 5 kids. Brian also enjoys watching and coaching sports, spending time outdoors and worshiping with his church family. Brian and his family reside in Waverly.

  • Jordan Smith, PT, DPT

    Jordan Smith, PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist, Nashua Clinic Manager

    Locations Served: Nashua Clinic Division: Management

    Jordan obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology and Health from Iowa State University in 2016. He then continued his education at the University of Iowa while completing the Doctor of Physical (DPT) program. Since graduating, Jordan has enjoyed treating patients in rural communities because of the large variety of patients and diagnosis that makes every day in the clinic different and exciting! His certification in dry needling is a great addition to the many tools in his therapy treatment "tool kit". 

     

    Jordan and his wife, Laurie, welcomed their first son, Teague, in the fall of 2023. When Jordan is not treating patients or coaching wrestling, he enjoys outdoor activities or cheering on the Cyclones, Vikings, and Cardinals.

  • Destry Sperfslage, ATC, CSCS

    Destry Sperfslage, ATC, CSCS

    Director of Athletic Training and Sports Medicine, Certified Athletic Trainer and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist

    Locations Served: Waverly-Shell Rock School, Waverly Health Center and Waverly Industrial Rehab Division: Management

    In 2012, Destry graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a Bachelors degree in Athletic Training. He then went on to attend Southern Illinois University where he graduated with a Masters degree in Kinesiology. Destry works as the Head Athletic Trainer and Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Waverly-Shell Rock High School. As the school's primary sports medicine caregiver, he specializes in the prevention, recognition, assessment, physical evaluation, management, treatment and physical reconditioning of athletic injuries. Destry manages the program design and implementation for Waverly-Shell Rocks High School and Middle School strength and conditioning programs. He is also a resource for directing plan of care following sports medicine-related injuries. Through Taylor Physical Therapy, Destry also helps manage the Sports Performance programs in the advancement of an athlete's physical capability while decreasing the likelihood of injury.    

     

    In Destry's free time, he enjoys being outdoors with his wife (Haleigh), daughters (Norah and Lennyn), son (Baylor) and their family dog (Ace). Destry is an avid outdoorsman and hunter, and enjoys all things sports and wellness related! 

  • Brooke Toohey, PT, DPT-CLT , Manager

    Brooke Toohey, PT, DPT-CLT , Manager

    Physical Therapist, Denver Clinic Manager

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Denver Clinic Division: Management

    Brooke graduated from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Biology with a minor in Psychology. In 2008, Brooke graduated from the University of Iowa Rehabilitation Science program with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. At the Waverly Health Center and in our Denver clinic, Brooke enjoys working with geriatric patients for the treatment of vertigo, balance, and general orthotics. Getting the opportunity to work one-on-one with patients, spending quality time educating patients on the role of physical therapy in their life, and making patients and co-workers smile with her banter are Brooke's favorite parts of her job. 

     

    In her free time, Brooke is busy with her husband, two children, and two dogs. She enjoys volunteering at various school activities within the community. Brooke is a fan of the Wartburg College Knights football team, the Iowa Hawkeyes, and the Chicago Cubs.

  • Occupational Therapy

  • Lynda Bohlmann, OTR/L

    Lynda Bohlmann, OTR/L

    Occupational Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center, Center for Pediatric Therapy and Parkersburg Clinic Division: Occupational Therapy

    Lynda joined our team at Taylor Physical Therapy in 2012 after graduating from Hawkeye Community College with an Associate of Applied Science for Occupational Therapist Assistant. Lynda then went back to school and graduated in 2017 from the Concordia University of Wisconsin with her Master of Occupational Therapy degree. Lynda treats the patients in a variety of settings – outpatient, home health, hospital inpatient and pediatric outpatient therapy. She enjoys treating and interacting with patients of a variety of ages and diagnoses.

     

    Lynda currently resides in Cedar Falls with her husband, Scott,  daughter, Ella, and son, Almerik. During their free time, they love to cheer on their favorite teams: the UNI Panthers and the Green Bay Packers.   

  • Margo Jebe, OTR/L

    Margo Jebe, OTR/L

    Occupational Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center, Denver Clinic and Waverly Industrial Rehab Division: Occupational Therapy

    Margo graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Leisure Studies and an emphasis in Speech-Language Pathology. She enhanced her knowledge by moving on to graduate from the University of Kansas Medical Center with a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy. Margo primarily provides inpatient and outpatient care while assisting with some home health and nursing home care patients.

     

    Margo has a son and a daughter and also rescued a Brittany Spaniel-Poodle mix named Stamos.

  • Annelise Klenk, OTR/L

    Annelise Klenk, OTR/L

    Occupational Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Center for Pediatric Therapies Division: Occupational Therapy

    Annie graduated with a degree in Kinesiology and Health from Iowa State University before moving to Des Moines to get her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Drake University in May of 2024. Annie grew up in the Cedar Valley so she is happy to be back in the area serving the people of Waverly and surrounding communities! She enjoys working with a variety of patients, from infants to adults, to help them meet their goals and needs to be successful in their daily lives!

     

    Annie loves spending time with her husband, Rob, and golden retriever, Georgie, as well as her family and friends. She enjoys golfing and playing pickleball, baking and reading. Annie can also be found cheering on Iowa State whenever they are playing!

  • Bailie Rieken, OTR/L

    Bailie Rieken, OTR/L

    Occupational Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center, Center for Pediatric Therapies and Parkersburg Clinic Division: Occupational Therapy

    Bailie graduated from Allen College with a Master's of Science degree in Occupational Therapy in 2019. Bailie enjoys working with a variety of different patients ranging in age and condition. Currently Bailie provides care to inpatient, adult and pediatric outpatients, as well as some home health and nursing home patients. Bailie's favorite part of her job is the opportunity to get to know each and every one of her patients and collaborating with them to design a treatment plan so they are able to get back to doing things that are most important to them.

     

    Bailie is from Aplington and grew up being involved in the Aplington-Parkersburg community. In her free time, Bailie enjoys spending time with her husband, Reagan, as well as her family and friends. She also enjoys being outdoors, reading, and playing and watching sports.

  • Physical Therapy

  • Ashley Appleman, PT, DPT

    Ashley Appleman, PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center Division: Physical Therapy

    Ashley attended the University of Northern Iowa where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Movement and Exercise Science and Sports Psychology and a minor in Biology. She earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at St. Ambrose University. Ashley enjoys working with patients of varying diagnoses and focuses on quality over quantity of movement. She is attentive to each patient's goals and seeks to provide patient-centered care.

     

    When not in the clinic, Ashley enjoys serving in her church, spending time with her husband, being outdoors, and running.

  • Brayden Biermann, PT, DPT

    Brayden Biermann, PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Nashua and Sumner Division: Physical Therapy

    After obtaining his physical therapist assistant certification in 2018, Brayden spent five years gaining extensive experience and knowledge in rehabilitation before graduating from Allen College with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2023. While treating a variety of patients in the Nashua and Sumner clinics, Brayden's favorite part of physical therapy is helping them build strength and progress toward their goals. After growing up on a farm near Tripoli, Brayden is excited to return and serve in communities close to home!

     

    Brayden and his wife, Miranda, welcomed their first baby girl (Emersyn) in July of 2024. Outside of the clinic, Brayden enjoys being active outdoors, weightlifting, bike riding, hiking, walking his dog, Berkley, and cheering on the Cyclones.

  • Jennifer Burke, PT, DPT, TPS

    Jennifer Burke, PT, DPT, TPS

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Noah Clinic Division: Physical Therapy

    Jennifer attended the University of Northern Iowa and graduated in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a minor in Biology. She earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2009 from the University of Iowa. Jennifer is also our Therapeutic Pain Specialist.  She received her certification from the Spine and Pain Institute. As a physical therapist, Jennifer evaluates and assesses patients thoroughly to create an individualized plan of care. She incorporates training in Selective Functional Movement Assessment, Functional Dry Needling, and Therapeutic Pain techniques to provide evidence-based care to help her patients meet their goals, improve their functional mobility, and increase their quality of life.

     

    Jennifer enjoys working with a diverse patient population and loves when she can help a patient to reach their goals to live more fully. She especially loves working with runners and recreational athletes.

     

    Along with her three children, husband, and dog, Jennifer and her family love being outdoors, hiking, biking, and swimming. She also completes triathlons with her husband and loves to travel and spend time with friends and family. You can always find Jennifer and her family cheering on the Hawkeyes and Boston Red Sox,  and Crosspoint Church.

  • Garrett Cox, PT, DPT, ATC

    Garrett Cox, PT, DPT, ATC

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Denver Clinic Division: Physical Therapy

    Garrett attended the University of Northern Iowa and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Athletic Training. In 2017, he earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from Clarke University. Garrett works at both the Waverly and Denver clinics as a physical therapist and offers outreach services to Janesville high school students with sports injuries. Garrett specializes in outpatient orthopedics and sports medicine providing individualized 1-on-1 care to patients of all ages and injury types. He works to provide a fun, yet hard-working atmosphere to make your rehabilitation process a great experience.

     

    Garrett is originally from Illinois and is the oldest of 4 brothers. He enjoys spending time with his wife, son and daughter, and extended family. Garrett also enjoys the outdoors, and in his spare time, cheering on his favorite teams: the Green Bay Packers, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bulls and the Fighting Illini.

  • Samuel DeBoer, PT, DPT, CSCS

    Samuel DeBoer, PT, DPT, CSCS

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Parkersburg Clinic Division: Physical Therapy

    Sam graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2013 with a Bachelor of Arts and then continued his education at Des Moines University earning his Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2018. Sam currently treats patients at the Parkersburg Clinic. He enjoys getting to know each one of his patients on a personal level to help assist them in reaching their physical therapy goals. Sam understands what a lot of his patients are going through due to the many injuries he sustained during sports in high school. He enjoys using functional movements in his treatments and educating patients about their condition/health/fitness. Sam enjoys working with all patient populations, but especially enjoys working with athletes because he gets to be creative with exercise and often gets a good workout himself.

     

    Sam resides in his hometown of Parkersburg, Iowa, with his wife, Michelle, and their four sons: Kai, Crew, Case and Cove. Sam’s favorite sports teams include the Chicago Bulls, Bears, Cubs and the Iowa State Cyclones. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family such as playing games, going for walks, and playing at the park.  

  • Julie Eddy, PT, DPT

    Julie Eddy, PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Parkersburg Clinic Division: Physical Therapy

    With a Bachelor's degree in biology from the University of Northern Iowa, a Master's degree in physical therapy from the University of Iowa, and a Doctor of physical therapy degree from Des Moines University, physical therapist Julie Eddy brings valuable knowledge to her patients. She enjoys working to improve the quality of life of her patients by getting to know them and their personal needs. Her belief is if patients have confidence in her, they can work together to develop a plan to meet all their goals. Julie works with a diverse range of patients and diagnoses and believes that the correct diagnosis is a key step in developing the proper care plan for her patients. 

     

    Julie enjoys spending time with family, friends, her husband, and their three children in her free time. She also loves a good book, outdoor adventures, traveling, running, coffee, and yoga. Julie is an active member of the Parkersburg United Methodist Church, where she is a Sunday School Teacher and Sunday School Board Member. She also serves as a youth volleyball coach and a community board member for youth soccer. She and her family follow Iowa Football, Iowa and UNI basketball, and the Parkersburg Falcons.

  • Nathan Folkerts PT, DPT

    Nathan Folkerts PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center Division: Physical Therapy

    Nathan holds an Undergraduate Degree from the University of Northern Iowa as well as a Graduate Degree from Des Moines University. He works at our Nashua Therapy Clinic as a physical therapist specializing in outpatient orthopedics. Nathan enjoys working with all types of patients, surgical or non-surgical, and has a special interest in the treatment of patients who suffer from back or shoulder pain.

     

    Nathan has three wonderful children with his wife, as well as a family dog. You can expect Nathan to be rooting for his favorite teams, the UNI Panthers and the Iowa Hawkeyes.

  • Katie Lindeman, PT, DPT

    Katie Lindeman, PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Center for Pediatric Therapies Division: Physical Therapy

    As a four-year member of the Wartburg women's basketball team and a Wartburg College graduate, Katie hoped to one day return to treat patients in the community she loved. After graduating from Plymouth State University in 2023 with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Katie did just that! While treating both the adult and pediatric populations, Katie enjoys developing a personal connection with each patient. She strives to end each therapy session on a positive note and with her patients living a higher quality of life.

     

    Outside of the clinic, Katie enjoys spending time with family and friends and being active by walking, playing sports, and being outdoors. She continues to, and always will, cheer on the Wartburg Knights while also making time for the Iowa Hawkeyes and New England Patriots!

  • Brady Meyer PT, DPT

    Brady Meyer PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Sumner Clinic Division: Physical Therapy

    Brady attended Wartburg College and graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology. He earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Briar Cliff University in May 2021. Currently seeing patients at the Waverly Health Center and the Sumner Clinic, Brady has passion for sports medicine and orthopedics. Brady is a leader and has accepted the role of being the Northeast Iowa Director for APTA Iowa into 2025.

     

    Brady values time with family and friends. Brady and his wife, Kim, welcomed their first son, Dax, in September of 2023. Outside of the therapy world, Brady remains actively involved with wrestling in Sumner. He enjoys maintaining an active lifestyle, full of exercise and being outdoors hunting, fishing or golfing. 

  • Jacob Norton PT, DPT

    Jacob Norton PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center Division: Physical Therapy

    Jacob attended the University of Iowa where he majored in Exercise Science with a minor in Aging and Longevity Studies. He continued his education at the University of Iowa earning a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2023.

     

    Jacob strives to provide patient-centered care while creating relationships built on trust and accountability. A care session with Jacob involves a welcoming environment, education, exercise, hands-on care and a commitment to do his best.

     

    In Jacob's free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife, son, friends and family. Jacob enjoys playing cards and can often be found outdoors, golfing, and cheering on his favorite sports teams including the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Bears, and Cubs.

  • Adam Rave, PT, DPT, ATC

    Adam Rave, PT, DPT, ATC

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Noah Clinic Division: Physical Therapy

    Adam attended Luther College and graduated in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in both Athletic Training and Exercise Science and a minor in Biology. He earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2014 from the University of Iowa and began traveling as a physical therapist for over three years before settling down in Waverly. Adam specializes in Sports Medicine and primarily works in our Noah Clinic with the student-athletes on the campus of Wartburg College. Adam utilizes a multitude of assessment strategies to evaluate his patients as a whole in order to treat the cause of their problem and not just their symptoms. 

     

    Adam lives in Waverly with his wife, Christine, and their daughter, Sydney. In his free time, Adam enjoys spending time with his family either golfing, running, biking, or cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and Wartburg Knights.

  • Jodi Reyerson, PT, DPT

    Jodi Reyerson, PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Denver Clinic Division: Physical Therapy

    Jodi Reyerson received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, SD. She received her Master’s of Physical Therapy degree in 1990 and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree in 2006, both from Des Moines University. In 2004, she became a certified Lymph Drainage Techniques Practitioner, through the Upledger Institute in Florida.  Her extensive post-graduate studies over the past 29 years include Primal Reflex Release (PRRT), Lymph Drainage (LDT), Visceral Mobilization, Craniosacral Therapies (CST), Muscle Energy, Mechanical Link, and Soft Tissue Mobilization techniques. She has taught coursework in the Cedar Valley and has assisted teaching courses with the Upledger Institute.

     

    Jodi has helped hundreds of patients from the Cedar Valley achieve freedom from chronic and acute pain symptoms, using traditional and alternative physical therapy methods. The techniques she uses help people of all ages, regardless of their condition. Her full-body manual therapy approach promotes each person’s natural healing ability.

  • William Rossmiller, PT, DPT

    William Rossmiller, PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center Division: Physical Therapy

    William attended Iowa State University where he received a Bachelor's of Science degree in Kinesiology and Health and a Business minor, graduating in 2019. He then went on to earn his Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Briar Cliff University, graduating in 2022. Currently, he works in the Waverly Health Center. William enjoys treating and helping a wide variety of patients, and emphasizes a balance of manual therapy/hands on techniques paired with a strengthening program to help individuals achieve their therapy goals.

     

    Outside of the clinic, William enjoys fishing, hiking, kayaking, nature photography, playing guitar, and maintaining his aquariums. He is always cheering on his Iowa State Cyclones, the Los Angeles Rams, and the Boston Celtics during their respective seasons as well.

  • Leah Thier, PT

    Leah Thier, PT

    Physical Therapist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center Division: Physical Therapy

    Leah earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Saint Louis University in May of 1995, and her Masters in Physical Therapy in December 1996. Her primary work is focused on inpatient acute and skilled care at the Waverly Health Center, as well as outpatient care at our Waverly Clinic for all pediatric, geriatric, and amputee patients. Her approach to treatment in both settings is always positive with a great sense of humor and a team approach to patient care.

     

    Leah was born and raised in Waverly, Iowa. She has previously been employed at Jefferson Memorial Hospital in Crystal City, Missouri, and Iowa Health System in Des Moines, Iowa. Leah is married with two children. In her spare time, Leah volunteers as the IPTA Board of Directors for NE Iowa District and cheers on the W-SR Go-Hawks and the St. Louis Cardinals.

  • Physical Therapy Assistants

  • Megan Buchholz, PTA

    Megan Buchholz, PTA

    Physical Therapist Assistant

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center Division: Physical Therapy Assistants

    Megan graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Exercise Science from Metropolitan State University of Denver, CO, where she also played volleyball. After returning to the Waverly area, Megan completed the physical therapist assistant program from North Iowa Area Community College. Currently Megan works jointly with many physical therapists in the outpatient clinic at Waverly Heather Center and loves getting to know her patients while making a positive impact on their lives.

    Outside of work, Megan enjoys cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and Minnesota Vikings with her husband, Beau, and three boys, Braxten, Xander, and Teddy. She also fills her time traveling, running and staying active, and trying new foods and restaurants.

  • Evan Capper, PTA

    Evan Capper, PTA

    Physical Therapist Assistant

    Locations Served: Parkersburg Clinic Division: Physical Therapy Assistants

    Evan received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Recreation Management and Exercise Science from the  University of South Dakota prior to completing the physical therapist assistant program at Hawkeye Community College. While treating patients in our Parkersburg clinic, Evan enjoys collaborating with multiple therapists and the variety of patients he is able to help on a daily basis!

    Outside of patient care, Evan enjoys spending time with his wife, three sons and the great outdoors hunting and fishing! Evan fills the rest of his time with Aplington-Parkersburg athletics by coaching football, wrestling and throwing (track) along with strength development!

  • Madison Crawford, PTA

    Madison Crawford, PTA

    Physical Therapist Assistant

    Locations Served: Denver Clinic Division: Physical Therapy Assistants

    Madison received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology and Health Promotion with a minor in Psychology from Grand View University in Des Moines. Madison then continued her education by completing the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Hawkeye Community College. She joined the Taylor Physical Therapy team in November of 2020. Madison collaborates with physical therapists at the Denver Clinic and occasionally at our clinics in Sumner, Nashua, and Waverly. Madison enjoys the variety of patients and diagnoses she gets to treat on a weekly basis, but her favorite to work with is the geriatric population.

     

    Madison and her husband, Peyton, live in Readlyn. In Madison's free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and son, Dawson, as well as her entertaining and energetic nieces and nephews who range in age from 2 - 10 years old! 

  • Hailee Kent, PTA

    Hailee Kent, PTA

    Physical Therapist Assistant

    Locations Served: Nashua Clinic Division: Physical Therapy Assistants

    Hailee Kent attended Indian Hills Community College where she graduated from the Physical Therapist Assistant Program in 2021. Shortly after graduation, Hailee started her career at Taylor Physical Therapy. She currently works with physical therapists to treat patients in clinics located in Nashua, Sumner and at Waverly Health Center. You can also find Hailee providing patient care in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Hailee enjoys treating a variety of conditions and has a passion for helping patients return to their prior level of function.

    Outside of patient care, Hailee enjoys spending time outdoors, running, and playing board games, cards, and puzzles with friends and family.

  • Todd Kramer, PTA

    Todd Kramer, PTA

    Physical Therapist Assistant

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center Division: Physical Therapy Assistants

    Todd is a 1994 graduate of the Indian Hills Community College Physical Therapist Assistant program in Ottumwa, IA. He joined the Taylor Therapy team in 2009, and felt like his career had come full circle when he was able to work for Bill Taylor, the person that initially played a big role inspiring him to enter the field of physical therapy. 

    Todd provides patient care in a variety of settings for Taylor Therapy including in patients at the Waverly Health Center, local nursing home/assisted living facilities, home health, and at numerous outpatient clinics. He enjoys drawing from his many years of experience when providing care to a wide variety of people, especially geriatric patients, those recovering from stroke or total joint replacements, and individuals living with Parkinson's Disease. He likes to combine his skill set with a good dose of humor during treatment sessions.

    In his spare time, Todd enjoys backpacking/hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and visiting National Parks. Todd and his wife, Theresa, live on an acreage with their Goldendoodle, Tekoa, and three-legged cat, Titan. They enjoy cheering for the Hawkeyes and the New York Yankees.

  • Melisa Lubben, PTA

    Melisa Lubben, PTA

    Physical Therapist Assistant

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center and Noah Clinic Division: Physical Therapy Assistants

    Melisa "Missy" graduated from Wartburg College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1995, and continued her education to complete the physical therapist assistant program in 2008. With many years of experience at Taylor Physical Therapy, Missy provides direct patient care under numerous physical therapists at clinics located at the Waverly Health Center and the Noah Clinic, located on Wartburg's campus. Missy values and enjoys making her patients smile!

  • Brenda Rader, PTA

    Brenda Rader, PTA

    Physical Therapist Assistant

    Locations Served: Sumner Clinic Division: Physical Therapy Assistants

    Although being a physical therapist assistant was not her first career, it will be her last! Brenda worked at Rockwell Automation in Sumner for almost 21 years before going back to school at Hawkeye Community College to become a physical therapist assistant. For the last 9 years, she has been working at Taylor alongside physical therapists treating patients in the Sumner outpatient clinic. Her passion for getting to know patients, while helping them feel better, can be seen in her treatments daily!

    Brenda lives on a livestock and crop farm outside of Sumner. She enjoys spending her free time with her husband, two daughters and sons-in-law, and six grandchildren in the great outdoors - especially fishing!

  • Amanda Ryan

    Amanda Ryan

    Physical Therapist Assistant

    Locations Served: Sumner Clinic Division: Physical Therapy Assistants

    Amanda graduated from Kirkwood Community College Physical Therapy Assistant program in 2012.  She has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient care, skilled care and outpatient care.  Her passion has been working in an outpatient setting since the summer of 2012.  Amanda joined Taylor Physical Therapy, at the Sumner location, in February of 2023, with 10 years of outpatient experience.  She enjoys getting to know her patients so she can help each individual return to their normal activities of daily living, achieve their goals and assist them in returning to the activities they enjoy. With a positive outlook and encouraging demeanor, Amanda strives to bring fun to physical therapy. 

    Outside of patient care,  Amanda (with her husband, Jesse) enjoys traveling, hiking, backpacking, going on adventures, spending time with family and friends, kayaking, boating, water skiing and golfing. She is especially passionate about her gardening.

  • Speech Therapy

  • Kayla Berryman, M.A, CCC-SLP

    Kayla Berryman, M.A, CCC-SLP

    Speech Language Pathologist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center's Center for Pediatric Therapies Division: Speech Therapy

    Kayla attended the University of Northern Iowa and graduated with a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Kayla primarily works with the pediatric population. Kayla's job is to use play, imagination, and creativity to provide children with the opportunity to play an active role in their own education and development. She also works with families to determine their unique goals and provide the tools to help children succeed in their everyday environments. Kayla creates opportunities for kids to learn to express themselves in a safe and effective way. She is also an advocate and lifelong resource for children and families. Outside of “speech and language”, Kayla provides feeding and swallowing therapy, auditory rehabilitation, augmentative and alternative communication opportunities, social skills training, and a variety of cognition services.

     

    Kayla has always had a passion for working with children. She is driven by the overwhelming joy and fulfillment that comes from providing children and families with a successful communication line, whatever that may look like for them. She truly believes that EVERYBODY DESERVES A VOICE and feels so blessed to have the opportunity to help facilitate this for so many amazing young people and their caretakers.

     

    Kayla enjoys spending time with her husband - Jeremy, stepdaughter - Lexie, sons - Theo and Milo, and their 2 dogs - Old Man Oscar and Laney. Kayla also spends her free time volunteering with the Waterloo Schools Mentor/Mentee program.

  • Julia Brewer, M.A. CCC-SLP

    Julia Brewer, M.A. CCC-SLP

    Speech Language Pathologist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center's Center for Pediatric Therapies Division: Speech Therapy

    Julia attended the University of Northern Iowa where she received her Bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2020, and her Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 2022. Julia can be found in the Waverly Heather Center on the pediatric speech team. Julia is a Certified Neurodiversity Affirming Natural Language Acquisition trained clinician. She enjoys working with children and their families to promote speech-language development, create positive social interactions, and establish a successful means of communication.

     

    Julia is originally from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In her spare time you can find her reading, biking, boating, and attending country music concerts. Julia is a former UNI Dance Team member and enjoys watching them perform on Panther game days and throughout the Cedar Valley.

  • Cassidy Reams, M.A., CCC-SLP

    Cassidy Reams, M.A., CCC-SLP

    Speech Language Pathologist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center's Center for Pediatric Therapies and Nashua Clinic Division: Speech Therapy

    Cassidy attended the University of Northern Iowa where she received her Bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2017, and her Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology in December 2019. Cassidy can be found at our Waverly, Parkersburg, and Nashua Clinics working with the pediatric population for both speech and language therapy and feeding therapy. Cassidy is a Certified Neurodiversity Affirming Natural Language Acquisition trained clinician.  Cassidy says the most rewarding part of working with children is getting to witness your patient's pride and excitement when they gain a new skill, meet a goal, or find any success with language, communication, or eating. 

     

    Cassidy is originally from Nashua, Iowa, and enjoys getting to serve her hometown community. In her free time, she can be found with her husband, daughter and son, enjoying the outdoors or traveling, making something with her Cricut, or completing a DIY project.

  • Shae TeGrotenhuis, M.A, CCC-SLP

    Shae TeGrotenhuis, M.A, CCC-SLP

    Speech Language Pathologist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center's Center for Pediatric Therapies and Parkersburg Clinic Division: Speech Therapy

    Shae attended the University of Northern Iowa where she received her Bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2019, and her Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 2021. Shae can be found in the Waverly Heath Center on the pediatric speech team. Shae has had experience working with both the pediatric population and the adult population, improving their skills in speech, language, use of AAC devices, feeding/swallowing, voice, and cognition. She enjoys working with patients and their families to assist in improving their communication and feeding/swallowing skills by highlighting their strengths, passions, and personal goals!

     

    Shae is originally from Charles City, Iowa. In her spare time, she loves to spend time with her husband, family, and friends. She also enjoys spending time outdoors while taking walks, riding bikes, and playing pickleball!

  • Jennifer Westemeyer, M.A., CCC-SLP

    Jennifer Westemeyer, M.A., CCC-SLP

    Speech Language Pathologist

    Locations Served: Waverly Health Center's Center for Pediatric Therapies Division: Speech Therapy

    Jennifer graduated with her Master's degree in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Northern Iowa in 2019. She has experience working with a variety of clinical settings across the lifespan. Jennifer currently focuses on the pediatric population, providing services in language, speech production, and feeding and swallowing intervention. Jennifer has completed advanced training in complex pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders, Vital Stim. She is currently pursuing Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Certification. Jennifer is consistently inspired by her patients and what they are able to achieve and overcome. She enjoys working and getting to know patients and their families and helping them work towards their specific goals.

     

    Jennifer and her husband, who is also a speech language pathologist, welcomed their first son, Thomas, in January of 2024. Jennifer enjoys going for walks and runs with the stroller. You can find her cheering on the Panthers at UNI Basketball games, and spending time with her family and friends.

  • Sports Medicine

  • Kamryn Bailey, ATC, LAT

    Kamryn Bailey, ATC, LAT

    Athletic Trainer

    Locations Served: Denver Schools, Wapsie Valley Schools, Aquatic Wellness at WHC Division: Sports Medicine

    Kamryn attended Southeastern Community College in West Burlington, Iowa, and graduated with an Associates degree in 2020. She went on to the University of Northern Iowa and received her Bachelors degree in 2022. Kamryn stayed at UNI and graduated in 2024 with her Masters degree in Athletic Training. Her inspiration to become an athletic trainer came from the care she received from Athletic Trainers during her years in organized athletics. She hopes to provide the same care for her athletes while building relationships with them.

     

    Kamryn is a native of Fort Madison, Iowa. In her free time, Kamryn enjoys spending time with friends and family. She also likes being active and spending time outdoors.

  • Logan Battreall, ATC NASM-CES

    Logan Battreall, ATC NASM-CES

    Athletic Trainer

    Locations Served: Waverly-Shell Rock Schools, Waverly Health Center and Waverly Industrial Rehab Division: Sports Medicine

    In 2019, Logan graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelors degree in Athletic Training. While at Iowa State, Logan worked as a student athletic trainer with the football, women's gymnastics, and wrestling teams. During his undergraduate experience, he was able to do two summer internships with the Arizona Cardinals. Following graduation, Logan took a seasonal internship with the University of Michigan's football team while finishing his Masters in Exercise Science with a focus in rehabilitative studies. Logan is an Athletic Trainer with Waverly-Shell Rock High School as well as manager of the BeneFit and post-therapy aquatic wellness programs out of the Waverly location. 

     

    Logan grew up in Montezuma, Iowa, and met his wife (Riley) while attending Iowa State University. They welcomed their first child, Mila Mae, in May 2024. In his free time, Logan likes to travel around the United States seeing new places. He also likes to golf, watch football and spend time with his family.

  • Katie Franzen, EdD, ATC/L

    Katie Franzen, EdD, ATC/L

    Athletic Trainer

    Locations Served: Aplington-Parkersburg Schools and Waverly Industrial Rehab, On-Site for Local Employers Division: Sports Medicine

    Katie is a 2010 graduate of Iowa State University with the Bachelors of Science degree in Kinesiology and Health. Katie went on to pursue a Master of Arts degree (2012) in Kinesiolgy and Sport Science and Doctorate of Education degree (2014) in Educational Administration, Adult and Higher Education from the University of South Dakota. Katie has vast experience of providing athletic training services at the collegiate level and has recently transitioned into the occupational health setting. Katie provides athletic training services at Aplington-Parkersburg High School, clinic based occupational health and wellness services at Waverly Industrial Rehab, and on-site programs with employers in and surrounding Waverly.

     

    Katie and her husband, Grant, had their first child (Nolan) in August 2025. The Franzens also have two dogs, Coco and Christian, and enjoy filling their free time with family and friends!

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