Coastal Pediatric Therapy Team
Coastal Pediatric Therapy Team of Children's Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapists
NANCY TURNER
Founder & CEO
Speech Language Pathologist
Nancy Turner MS, CCC-SLP
Nancy has over 40 years of experience treating children with speech, language, and fluency disorders. She received a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from East Carolina University and a Master’s in Special Education. Nancy has extensive experience treating many diagnoses, including developmental language disorders, articulation/phonological disorders, Autism, Down’s syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Apraxia, and stuttering. She has training in the Kaufman Speech Praxis Program and various oral-motor techniques, including the Beckman Oral-Motor Approach.
Prior to opening Coastal, Nancy provided therapy primarily in school settings, where she treated speech and language-impaired preschoolers. She is a recipient of The Gladys Prior Award for Career Teaching Excellence and has presented countless workshops for teachers and parents on early identification of speech and language delays.
Eventually, Nancy founded Coastal in 1995 in an effort to make quality one-on-one therapy services more accessible to children in the Jacksonville area. Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center is a comprehensive, multi-specialty therapy team that provides speech & language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, sensory integration, feeding intervention, and specialized reading instruction.
Since then, Nancy is committed to providing quality, individualized play-based therapy in a warm and welcoming environment so each child can reach their potential. She strongly believes that communication empowers children to be successful!
When she is not overseeing the therapy center, Nancy enjoys reading, spending time with family, and caring for her grandchildren, Crew and Charlie.
CHRISTY DUKE
CHRISTY DUKE MA, CCC-SLP
Christy has been a part of Coastal since 2006 and brings over 20 years of experience to our team. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Communicative Disorders from the University of Alabama before obtaining a Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Memphis.
Soon after, she gained diverse experience treating children with various diagnoses, including autism, Down’s syndrome, apraxia, developmental delays, phonological disorders, articulation impairments, and language delays. Christy has a keen interest in early speech and language development, specifically in the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten populations.
While at Coastal, Christy enjoys working with families, teachers, and pediatricians to facilitate a coordinated approach to ensure each child’s success. She is committed to providing quality therapy that is fun, motivating, and effective!
During her time off, Christy loves music, being active, sunshine, & spending time with family & friends.
Kellie Wright
KELLIE WRIGHT MOT, OTR/L
Kellie is our Director of Occupational and Physical Therapy and has been with the Coastal Pediatric Therapy team since 2009! She graduated with a Master of Occupational Therapy from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Since becoming a therapist, she has evaluated and treated children with various diagnoses, including autism spectrum disorder, brain injuries, cerebral palsy, stroke, fine-motor delays, and feeding difficulties. She has training in Beckman Oral Motor and sensory integration.
After graduating, Kellie continued her professional education. She completed courses such as Picky Eaters vs. Problem Feeders, Sensory Integration and Self-Regulation in the Infant and Young Child, Autism and the Military Child, amongst others.
Currently Kellie strives to provide a fun learning environment where children can happily engage in challenging activities to increase their confidence in their abilities. She helps children with a variety of fine motor, visual motor, sensory processing, feeding, and motor coordination needs for them to achieve success and independence across all environments.
While away from the therapy center, Kellie enjoys beach life with her husband and two young daughters. She likes coffee, jogging to the beach, and spending as much time as possible by the pool 🙂
KATHRYN DEANGELIS, MHA
A Jacksonville native, Kathryn obtained a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration as well as a Master’s of Healthcare Administration from the University of North Florida. Kathryn has been a part of Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center Team since 2008.
Currently, Kathryn manages daily clinic operations, human resources, and strategic planning.
Pediatric Occupational Therapists
At Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center, our team of Occupational Therapists is experienced in treating Sensory Processing, Coordination, Handwriting, Self-Regulation, Fine Motor Skills, Picky Eating, Infant Feeding Support, and more.
Alyssa Speake
Occupational Therapist
ALYSSA SPEAKE MOT, OTR/L
Alyssa was born and raised in Orlando, Florida. She grew up in Lawrenceville, Georgia, and attended Georgia College and State University. There she received a major in biology and a minor in psychology. Alyssa then received her Master of Occupational Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences.
During her fieldwork experience, Alyssa received training at Atrium Health - Navicent Autism and Development Center. Preceding joining the Coastal team, she worked in the early intervention home health setting, where she gained experience working with children of all ages in their natural surroundings.
Dani Montgomery
Occupational Therapist
DANI MONTGOMERY MSOT, OTR/L
Danielle was born and raised in Indiana. After graduating with her Bachelor’s in Movement and Sport Sciences at Purdue University, she received her Master’s in Occupational Therapy in Grand Rapids, MI.
Soon after, Dani completed her level 2 fieldwork and became a board-certified and licensed occupational therapist in Florida. Primarily working in schools and outpatient settings, Dani has worked with children with diagnoses including Autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, Sensory Processing Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, and fine-motor delay.
After joining our therapy team here at Coastal, Dani has since become a valuable member. Dani has always had a passion for working with children. She wants to help change their lives in a meaningful way. Furthermore, she enjoys working with families to provide the tools necessary for each child she treats so they can live and enjoy life as independently as possible!
During her time off, Dani loves walking on the beach with her family, listening to live music, and being outdoors. She has two dogs at home who think they are just as human as other family members.
Danielle Tenny
Occupational Therapist
DANIELLE TENNY OTR/L
Danielle attended Florida State University and received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Child Development. She then obtained her Master of Occupational Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Her fieldwork training was at Johns Hopkins Outpatient Care in Fort Myers, FL. Before joining the Coastal Pediatric Therapy team in August 2018, she gained experience in various settings, including pediatric outpatient, school, inpatient rehabilitation, and acute care settings.
Since graduating, Danielle has evaluated and treated a variety of diagnoses, including Autism, ADHD, developmental delay, Down Syndrome, genetic disorders, Sensory Processing Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, traumatic brain injury, feeding difficulties, and fine motor delay. Her professional education includes Handwriting Without Tears, Motivating the Pediatric Child through Play, and Primitive Reflex Integration.
Continuing her education, Danielle then went on to complete feeding certifications including Beckman Oral Motor Assessment and Intervention, TOTs (Tethered Oral Tissues) Training, Practical Strategies for Treating Complex Pediatric Feeding Disorders, and Adaptive Baby Led Weaning for Babies with Feeding Challenges.
Danielle is passionate about building strong relationships with each child and their families and working as a team to encourage continued success. Her sessions focus on improving everyday skills while continuing to have fun and build confidence.
At her leisure, Danielle enjoys spending time with her husband and dog, traveling, and reading books.
Emily Peoples
Occupational Therapist
EMILY PEOPLES OTD, OTR/L
Emily received her undergraduate degree at the University of Florida, majoring in Health Sciences and minoring in Disabilities in Society. Afterwards she completed her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in 2020.
Previously, Emily had always had a special bond with rehab services, as her only sister has Down syndrome and Autism. After many years of attending therapy services, Emily knew it was the career she wanted to pursue and welcomed the opportunity to invest in children and families.
Before joining Coastal Pediatrics, Emily specialized in working with clients with Autism in a school and outpatient setting. During this time, she received a certification as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and Autism Specialist certification. Emily is passionate about helping children with various diagnoses reach their goals and have fun during the process.
At the end of the day, Emily enjoys spending time with her family and seven pets, listening to music, and reading books.
Georganna Walker
Occupational Therapist
GEORGANNA WALKER OTR/L
Georganna is a highly-skilled, dedicated, and effective Occupational Therapist with over 20 years of experience! She graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina and has treated in various pediatric settings, including school systems, in-patient, and outpatient facilities.
Since becoming an OT, Georganna's expertise covers various diagnoses, including Traumatic Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy, genetic disorders, sensory processing, and autistic spectrum disorders. In addition to treating children at Coastal therapy, she previously served as Director of OT at Nemours Children’s Clinic and trained new therapists in the neonatal intensive care unit at Baptist Medical Center. Her professional education includes advanced training in Neuro-Developmental Treatment techniques for children and infants.
While at Coastal, her treatment focus is providing a safe environment where children can have fun, challenge themselves, achieve new skills, and build confidence. Currently, she assists children with fine motor, visual motor, social and sensory skills to achieve success in all areas of life.
When away from the Therapy Center, Georganna enjoys reading, tennis, biking, and family time.
Janine King
Occupational Therapist
JANINE KING OTR/L
Janine was born and raised in the sunshine state. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of North Florida with a degree in Psychology and a concentration in child psychology. Afterward, she obtained her Masters in Occupational Therapy from the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, PA.
Before discovering her passion for occupational therapy, she was a registered behavior technician, where she worked with the autistic population and specialized in behavioral analysis. During this time, she gained experience working with children and their families in a variety of settings, including autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing, dyslexia, genetic disorders, as well as overall developmental delays.
Presently Janine strongly believes in utilizing a collaborative and holistic approach to best treat and support the child in reaching their goals, achieving independence, and building their confidence. Furthermore, she is passionate about caregiver education to gain the most beneficial outcomes and improve carry-over at home.
In addition, Janine enjoys giving back to her community and has volunteered at local organizations throughout Jacksonville, including Daniel Kids, Muscular Dystrophy Association, and Dreams Come True.
During Janine's time off, she enjoys being outside with her friends and family, traveling, and playing with her mini goldendoodle.
Lanna Koop
Occupational Therapist
LANNA KOOP OTR/L
Lanna, originally from Ohio, attended Ohio State University, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Human Development and Family Science with a minor in early childhood education. She then received her Masters in Occupational Therapy from Shawnee State University in southern Ohio.
During school Lanna completed her fieldwork at the Cleveland Clinic and a School for children with Autism and other developmental disabilities. Then Lanna moved to New Hampshire and gained experience in a skilled nursing and rehab center. Relocating to Jacksonville, she pursued her love of working with children, serving in schools and private pediatric clinics. She joined Coastal Therapy in 2017.
Since graduating, Lanna has gained experience with diagnoses including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Apraxia, Sensory Processing Disorder, genetic disorders, and developmental delays. Some of her professional education includes courses in the Astronaut Training program, the Integrated Listening System Practitioner Training, Solving the Puzzle of Autism: Using Tactile Therapy Techniques (Talk Tools), Nutrition and Autism, and Handwriting Without Tears.
Additionaly, Lanna loves being a part of her patient's stories and sharing in the successes, small and big. She loves that occupational therapy is both an art and a science, allowing her to be creative and come up with fun activities to implement individualized approaches to help her clients reach their goals.
When not busy with her Coastal kids, Lanna loves spending time with her husband and their energetic border collie, Isabella, riding bikes and playing at the beach.
Maddie Tripoli
Occupational Therapist
MADDIE TRIPOLI OTR/L
Maddie received her undergraduate degree from Florida Southern College with a degree in Human Movement and Performance and a minor in Sociology. She then continued her education at Barry University, where she obtained a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy.
Following this, Maddie has worked in various settings, including skilled nursing, inpatient rehabilitation, and pediatric outpatient facilities. After completing her fieldwork at a local pediatric outpatient facility, she felt she had found her calling.
Meanwhile, Maddie has experience evaluating and treating various diagnoses, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental delay, feeding difficulties, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, down syndrome, and genetic disorders. She is certified in the Beckman Oral Motor assessment and intervention. Maddie enjoys working with children and seeing them grow and gain confidence and independence in themselves and their skills. She loves how pediatric occupational therapy is creative, fun, and functional. Maddie feels truly blessed to work with children and their families.
Away from the pediatric therapy center, Maddie enjoys cooking with her husband, going to dog parks with her dog, and trips to Disney World!
MARY KATE COMBRIATE
Occupational Therapist
MARY KATE COMBERIATE OTR/L
Mary Kate attended Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri, where she received her Master of Occupational Therapy degree.
Since graduating, Marykate's background includes experience treating a variety of diagnoses, including Cerebral Palsy, Traumatic Brain Injury, genetic disorders, developmental delay, sensory processing, and autism spectrum disorders. She has provided family-centered services in the outpatient pediatric setting and NICU follow-up.
Now Mary Kate loves working with children at Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center. She is passionate about creating an environment where children can have fun and develop new skills. She is certified to complete the General Movement Assessment and is a Certified Educator of Infant Massage through Infant Massage USA.
When not treating her Coastal Pediatric kids, she enjoys going to the beach, spending time with her family, and traveling.
Missie Driggers
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
MISSIE DRIGGERS COTA/L, CKTP
Missie graduated from Keiser University with an A.S. degree in Occupational Therapy. She holds her board certification through NBCOT and is also a Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner.
Before joining the Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center Team, her career began as a traveling therapist. During her time as a traveling Occupational Therapist, Missie gained experience working in skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities.
Always desiring to work with children, Missie then relocated to Gainesville, FL, where she dedicated five years to gaining experience working with the pediatric population.
Currently, she has the pleasure of treating kids at Coastal in the clinic and private school settings.
When she not at the Therapy Center, Missie enjoys sunny beach days, swimming in the springs, working out, and going to theme parks!
Roxy Bermeo
Occupational Therapist
Roxy Bermeo M.S. OTR/L
Roxy is from New York City and relocated to Jacksonville. She graduated from Manhattan College with a Bachelor of Science in Allied Health and Mathematics. She then graduated from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences with a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy with a high honors designation.
Undoubtedly it was always her dream to work with the pediatric population. She received extensive training and became a Certified Autism Specialist and a Level 1 Master of Reiki healing. With evidence-based practice and holistic therapeutic approaches, she provides safe, fun, and healing therapy for children. Roxy has experience with treating various diagnoses, including cerebral palsy, autism, sensory processing disorder, ADHD, anxiety, traumatic brain injuries, developmental delays, and genetic disorders.
Currently, her goals on the Coastal Pediatric Therapy Team are to inspire the kids she works with to overcome their challenges and believe in themselves and their dreams. She enjoys educating parents on best supporting their children and loves spreading knowledge about OT through our social media.
When she has time for leisure, Roxy enjoys traveling and experiencing the Florida lifestyle with her kids.
Pediatric Physical Therapists
Meet the Physical Therapy team at Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center. These highly skilled PTs incorporate play-based therapy to treat concerns such as Torticollis, Plagiocephaly, Balance, Milestone Delays, Muscle Strengthening, Flexibility, Improving Mobility, Easing Pain, and More.
Elizabeth Payne
Physical Therapist
Elizabeth Payne PT
Physical Therapist Elizabeth graduated from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale with a Masters in Physical Therapy. She has 22 years of experience as a physical therapist.
Prior, Elizabeth felt a calling to focus on pediatric therapy after her son was diagnosed with Autism. As a physical therapist, she worked in various clinical settings, including adult and pediatric orthopedic outpatient, early intervention, and Early Steps. She also worked in the school systems as an itinerant physical therapist. She has experience with hospital-homebound students.
As a pediatric therapist, Elizabeth worked with a diverse population of children, including medically fragile, with orthopedic impairment, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, genetic disorders, and developmental delay. Elizabeth trained in Integrative Listening Systems, M.O.V.E Basic Provider Training, Kinesiology Taping for Pediatrics, and numerous sensory processing courses.
At Coastal Therapy, Elizabeth says, "My physical therapy method involves treating the whole child by providing motor opportunities in the natural environment through play and large movements. I also incorporate yoga stretches, primitive reflex exercises, and sensory activities into my gross motor sessions."
Karli Taulbee
Physical Therapist
KARLI TAULBEE PT, DPT
Karli received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology with a minor in Developmental Disabilities Studies from Florida State University. Afterward, she pursued her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of North Florida.
While experienced in multiple settings, she has always had a passion for working in pediatrics. Karli has clinical experience working with children from birth to 21 years. She has treated a variety of patient populations, including Developmental Delays, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Stroke, genetic conditions, and vestibular conditions. She has experience treating pediatric orthopedic conditions such as Torticollis, Plagiocephaly, Sports Injuries, Toe-walking, and other gait abnormalities.
Without a doubt, Karli has known that she wanted to be a physical therapist since she was a kid and is passionate about movement and making it fun! She loves seeing the joy that children experience when they can move more functionally and achieve goals that improve their strength, balance, coordination, and overall movement patterns to spend more time doing the things they love doing.
As a Jacksonville native, Karli loves spending her free time in the sunshine with her husband, and she particularly enjoys long runs, good books, hot coffee, and Florida State Football.
Kaylee Janusko
Physical Therapist
Kaylee Janusko PT
Kaylee attended the University of North Florida and received her Bachelor of Health Science, majoring in Exercise Science. She then pursued her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine.
Presently Kaylee has training in manual therapy, soft tissue massage, and orthopedic management of foot deformities. She is educated in infant handling and NDT techniques. She has experience in pediatric vestibular dysfunction as well as sensory-motor needs. Kaylee has worked with various diagnoses, from orthopedic management, gross motor delay, endocrine and metabolic dysfunction, autism spectrum disorder, and genetic syndromes to neurologic dysfunction, including cerebral palsy and traumatic brain injury.
Working at Coastal Pediatrics, Kaylee creates an engaging environment to enhance developmental growth. She finds inspiration from the children she meets and believes children have great potential to learn, grow, and become their best selves.
Away from work, Kaylee enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters in the beautiful outdoors.
Tayler Spang
Physical Therapist
Tayler Spang PT, DPT
Tayler earned her undergraduate degree from Montana State University - Billings and her graduate degree at the University of Mary in North Dakota.
While in school, she volunteered at Icanbike, Homerun Heroes, and Racetrack Heroes - programs designed for inclusive sports for children with disabilities. Tayler also participated in extensive research evaluating the prevalence of inclusive sports in North Dakota schools.
In a clinical setting, Tayler's pediatric background includes working with individuals with Cerebral Palsy (CP), Developmental Coordination Disorder (DSD), Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), rare genetic conditions, spinal cord injuries, developmental delays, toe-walking, childhood cancer, torticollis, orthopedic conditions, as well as working with babies in the NICU and children in the hospital setting.
Working at Coastal Pediatrics, she strives to create an engaging environment for children allowing them to achieve their gross motor goals while having as much fun as possible! She strongly supports a wholesome approach to each child's care plan by including the child and their entire family.
When away from Coastal, Tayler enjoys reading, hiking, camping, and paddle boarding with her husband and their amazing dog.
Pediatric Speech & Language Pathologist
Our Speech and Language therapists work with children to achieve growth with concerns such as Phonological Awareness, Articulation, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices, Language Skills, Lisp, and Stuttering just to name a few.
Tara Hans
Speech-Language Pathologist
TARA HANS MS, CCC-SLP
Tara joined the Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center’s team in 2018 after completing her externship and clinical fellowship with Coastal. During her fellowship, Tara graduated from Jacksonville University - receiving her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. She gained clinical experience while in pediatric outpatient and private practice clinics, acute care, and serving within the Duval County Public School System.
Before this, Tara completed her undergraduate studies at Florida Atlantic University, graduating Cum Laude. In her spare time, Tara worked as a behavior therapist with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Currently, Tara holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association. She is passionate about working with diagnoses such as articulation and phonological disorders, developmental delays, receptive-expressive language disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, and Down Syndrome. Ultimately is committed to providing quality therapy that's fun, engaging, and effective.
On her days off, Tara enjoys a beautiful sunrise, long runs, and biking around the beaches with friends.
Adrianna Gregory
Speech-Language Pathologist
ADRIANNA GREGORY MS, CCC-SLP
Adrianna graduated from Mount Saint Mary College New York Medical College with a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and a Bachelor in Psychology. As a Therapist, she has worked in various pediatric settings in California and Florida.
Overall, Adrianna enjoys working with all pediatric populations! She is passionate about implementing Augmentative and Alternative Communication support for students with diverse communication needs. Currently, her passion is helping those with developmental delays and receptive and expressive language disorders.
Presently Adrianna strives to provide individualized treatment plans to increase success for all the children she treats. She is excited to be a part of the Coastal Pediatric Therapy team and continue to help children reach their goals!
While away from Coastal Pediatrics, Adrianna enjoys cuddling with her mini dachshund, yoga, meditation, and singing. A quote she lives by is: "Don't ask what the world needs, ask what makes you come alive, for what the world needs are people who have come alive."
Kristal Ray MS
Speech-Language Pathologist
KRISTAL RAY MS, CCC-SLP, TSSLD
Kristal relocated to Jacksonville from Queens, New York. She holds her Bachelor of Science In Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and a minor in Spanish Studies from Andrews University. Kristal obtained her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Adelphi University. Accordingly, she currently holds New York and Florida professional licenses.
Previously, Kristal worked for the NYC Department Of Education. As a public school-based speech-language pathologist, she worked closely with administrators, school-based support team members, teachers, and parents to make the best decisions for her students. She also provided speech, language, and feeding therapy for NYC early intervention (birth - 3 years) with various pediatric disorders and medical diagnoses.
Correspondingly, Kristal has experience working with Autism Spectrum Disorder from birth through the school-age population. She is passionate about language development, communication, and helping each child find their voice.
In her free time, Kristal loves music, animals, traveling, exploring hairstyles, trying new plant-based recipes, and inspirational quotes. One of her favorite quotes is, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Hailey Parks
Speech-Language Pathologist
Hailey Parks, MSP, CCC-SLP
Hailey was born and raised in South Carolina. She graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. Afterward, she then graduated with a Master of Speech Pathology in 2017.
Since then, Hailey has gained a broad range of experience, from infant feeding to young adult social skills. Now she has vast experience working with receptive, expressive, and pragmatic language disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, articulation/phonological disorders, AAC devices, fluency disorders, nonverbal populations, and feeding disorders.
All together, Hailey prioritizes caregiver training and family involvement in a child’s journey to better their speech and language skills. She is excited to help more children and their families as a part of the Coastal Pediatric Therapy Team!
Outside of Coastal, Hailey loves to spend time outdoors with her husband, friends, and especially her two golden retrievers. You can usually find her kayaking, biking, fishing, boating, or exploring the beaches and parks!
Kelsey Baggs
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kelsey Baggs
Kelsey graduated with her Bachelor of Science in 2013 from the University of Central Florida. Afterward, she graduated with her Master’s degree from Jacksonville University in 2016.
Since then, Kelsey has been a speech therapist in various settings, such as schools, private practice, and Telehealth treating patients of all ages. Some areas she’s passionate about are articulation disorders, language disorders, apraxia of speech, reading disorders, and aphasia.
When not treating little ones, Kelsey loves spending time in the sunshine, traveling, and spending time with her family and pets!
Ruth Hall
Speech-Language Pathologist
Ruth Hall MS, CCC-SLP
Ruth is a speech-language pathologist who joined Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center in July 2022. Prior, she earned her undergraduate degree from Samford University and her graduate degree from Valdosta State University. Correspondingly Ruth has worked with the pediatric population in public and private schools, private medical clinics, and non-profit clinics.
Ruth’s pediatric clinical background includes working with individuals who have speech, feeding, language, cognition, social communication, and phonological difficulties. Her vast experience includes working with individuals with Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorders, rare genetic disorders, Aphasia, and Cerebral Palsy (CP).
On the Coastal Pediatric Therapy Team, Ruth is committed to expanding her knowledge and growth in the evidence-based application of treatment approaches. Ruth’s objective is to encourage the development of communication skills, in conjunction with families, through individualized, evidence-based treatment.
Outside of Coastal, Ruth finds joy in connecting and building relationships with new people, traveling, visiting the beach, and baking cookies.
Administration
The administration team at Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center is happy to help our families behind the scenes. From scheduling to working with your insurance company, the Coastal Team is here to support you through your journey with us.
Crystal Horton
Crystal's background is in Business Management. She has over 20 years of experience, including four years as an entrepreneur. Crystal has a love for visual arts. Concurrently she has spent the last four years of her career focusing on marketing - including professional photography, website design, social media management, campaign development, and events.
Accordingly, Crystal has always loved working with children. In the community, she loves to volunteer with numerous organizations benefiting children or wildlife. These foundations include the Child Cancer Fund, Girl Scouts of Gateway Council, NFL Alumni Association, and the Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol.
As the Marketing Director, she is excited to have all her passions come together to benefit the Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center Team & the families we serve.
In her time, Crystal stays busy enjoying time with her husband, five children, and Weimaraner. Crystal is also a former NFL Jacksonville Jaguars Cheerleader and a loyal Jags fan!
Rebecca Sanders
Referral Coordinator
Rebecca Kinnaird
Rebecca was born and raised in North Carolina. Later, she relocated to Jacksonville with her family. Here she attended Florida State College at Jacksonville for general studies.
Having a pediatric family member with special needs, she has a special place in her heart for children facing challenges. Eventually, this led her to Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center, where she is passionate about helping assist all the families that walk through the door at Coastal.
Before Coastal, Rebecca's background revolved around customer service. Undoubtedly, Rebecca has become a valued member of the Coastal Team as the referral coordinator. Her drive to deliver an exceptional experience to our families helps parents navigate our services to provide the best possible outcome. You'll likely have the pleasure of speaking with Rebecca when you inquire about our services or have questions about our practice.
Outside Coastal, she loves traveling with her husband, exploring state parks, and hiking with her dog!
Michele Pitarresi
Patient Services Coordinator
Michele Pitarresi
Michele is originally from New York. While in New York, she gained 14 years of experience working at a multidisciplinary pediatric facility. Michele has always loved working with the pediatric population. While in New York, she played a pivotal role in bringing the New York Road Runners Youth Program to Staten Island. She loved volunteering her time with them and went on to coach them for 8 years.
Michele and her husband eventually decided to relocate to Florida and became a valued part of the Coastal Therapy team as a Patient Services Coordinator. As the patient services coordinator, you're likely to talk to Michele often!
On her days off Michele likes going on bike rides and long walks. She also enjoys visiting with her children, family, and friends. Michele is also a sports enthusiast. When traveling, she loves to visit different sports venues.
Mary Curry
Patient Services Coordinator
Mary Curry
Bio coming soon!
Toni Hopkins
Billing Administrator
TONI HOPKINS
Toni was raised in a small town in Alabama and obtained a bachelor's degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from the University of West Florida.
After completing an internship with the Walt Disney Company, she strived to combine her passion for serving others and her skills in administration into a career path that led her to Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center. Toni enjoys navigating the healthcare and insurance industries. She aims to deliver consistent and knowledgeable communication to families during their time with Coastal.
Toni's interests outside of Coastal include spending time with her husband and child, going to the beach, and reading.
Ellen Gambuzza
Billing Administrator
Ellen Gambuzza
Originally from the Northeast, Ellen spent most of her career working for a maternal-fetal medicine practice based in Connecticut. Ellen enjoys working with the pediatric patient population and is excited to be part of the Coastal Pediatric Therapy Center team.
At Coastal, Ellen works with the billing-related aspects of the practice. She is determined to help patients maximize their healthcare coverage. She is passionate about helping families navigate the often frustrating world of insurance billing.
When she's not at Coastal, Ellen loves spending time with her husband and two boys, cooking, swimming, and enjoying the beach.