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Our Instructors
Learn from the experts.
Our instructors are accomplished, experienced educators and clinicians — Program Directors, Professors, Clinicians, and Fellows — ready to help you pass the exam the first time. Click any instructor to read their full bio.
#1
Allied Health Exam Prep Provider
Physical Therapy
NPTE instructors
Alysha Walter
PT, DPT
Alysha Walter
PT, DPT
Dr. Alysha Walter is a PT Tutor for TherapyEd and has over 14 years clinical experience in acute and critical care settings at two different hospitals. She earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Cleveland State University in 2010 and completed a Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Residency through the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor, MI in 2015. Additionally, she has been a board-certified clinical specialist in Cardiovascular and Pulmonary PT (CCS) since 2016. Dr. Walter also has 6 years of experience in full-time teaching within an entry-level DPT program at Walsh University. She is passionate about helping students and has years of both clinical and teaching experience. She has published in peer reviewed journals and presented at local, state, and national conferences. She makes difficult cardiovascular, pulmonary, and acute care topics easy to understand and loves providing real world examples and supporting students as they master the material. Areas of expertise: Cardiac, Pulmonary, Vascular, Acute Care, Organ Transplantation.
Angelique Dirkes
PT, DPT, MS
Angelique Dirkes
PT, DPT, MS
Dr. Dirkes is a Senior Instructor for TherapyEd and received her degree in Physical Therapy at the Haarlemse Academie voor Fysiotherapie, in The Netherlands. After graduating in 1983, she worked in rehabilitation, private practice and sports medicine, and instructed nursing students in the areas of anatomy and physical therapy. Angelique also served as the physical therapist for the Spanish National Field Hockey Team in Barcelona, Spain. She received her Masters Degree in 1993 and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2004 at the Massachusetts General Institute of Health Professions in Boston. Since coming to the United States in 1988, Angelique Dirkes has worked as a physical therapist in the areas of pediatrics, rehabilitation and Home Care. She is currently a supervising physical therapist at a home care agency in the Boston area and an instructor at MGH.
Cathy Lane
PT, DPT, MS
Cathy Lane
PT, DPT, MS
Dr. Lane is a Senior Instructor for TherapyEd and a clinically based Physical Therapist with hospital, private practice, and home care experience. She graduated from Simmons College and received her Masters in Physical Therapy from Northeastern University in 1982. She has worked at teaching hospitals in the U.S. and England, and has been in supervisory and training positions working with acute care and outpatient orthopedic patients. Currently, Dr. Lane is working in a Sports Medicine Clinic and consulting for the VNA. She is an active member of the APTA, serving as the Massachusetts Chapter President, and served on the Legislative Committee and Political Action Committee.
Edward Kane
PT, PhD, ATC
Edward Kane
PT, PhD, ATC
Dr. Kane is a Senior Instructor for TherapyEd and a Professor for the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences at San Diego, CA. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst (Zoology), a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Duke University, a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy and Diploma of Clinical Specialization in Musculoskeletal Disorders from the University of Southern California, and his PhD in Education/Sports Medicine from the University of Virginia. He is a retired Captain from the United States Navy. One of his assignments was as Associate Professor of the U.S. Army Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy and adjunct professor for the US Army Orthopaedic & Manual Physical Therapy Fellowship from Aug 2001 through Aug 2005. He is also an active member of the U.S. Olympic Sports Medicine Committee and has had numerous USA team assignments. In addition he serves as a manuscript reviewer for the American Journal of Sports Medicine, the Journal of Athletic Training and the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics.
Judith Hershberg
PT, DPT, MS
Judith Hershberg
PT, DPT, MS
Dr. Hershberg is a Senior Instructor with TherapyEd. She received her physical therapy education at Boston University. She was Director of Physical Therapy at the Boston University Medical Center for many years and is currently the owner of the Boston Center for P.T. & Sports Medicine, a private practice. She has been actively involved in the APTA serving in many capacities and is currently the Chair of the Massachusetts Chapter Political Action Committee. Dr. Hershberg’s current interests include sports medicine and occupational health. She is an adjunct professor at the Boston University School of Medicine.
Laura Smith
PT, DPT, MTC, FAAOMPT
Laura Smith
PT, DPT, MTC, FAAOMPT
Dr. Smith is an Instructor for TherapyEd and an Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the Orthopedic Post Professional Certificate Program at the University of Michigan-Flint. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Trinity Christian College and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. She has earned her manual therapy certification and is a Fellow in the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists. Dr. Smith has extensive teaching experience in entry-level, post-professional and continuing professional education. She continues to practice in the clinic to supplement her teaching, privately servicing a wide range of clients including collegiate and professional athletes. Additionally, she is pursuing her PhD in Adult Education with research interests in interprofessional education and orthopedic manual therapy. Dr. Smith is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists serving on several task forces and committees.
Patrick K. McGinty
PT, DPT
Patrick K. McGinty
PT, DPT
Patrick K. McGinty, PT, DPT is an instructor for TherapyEd and the editor of TherapyEd’s PTA Examination Review and Study Guide. Dr. McGinty earned a Bachelor of Science from the United States Military Academy at West Point and served on active duty in the U.S. Army for five years before attending the University of Illinois at Chicago to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. He completed an orthopedic residency at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. Prior to teaching at Cleveland State University, Dr. McGinty served as a physical therapist at Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation and Sports Therapy specializing in orthopedics and the development of a multidisciplinary chronic pain program emphasizing cognitive behavioral therapy and pain neuroscience education. Dr. McGinty is also an onsite reviewer for the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Education accreditation board. He has presented as a featured speaker at the Ohio Physical Therapy Association annual scientific symposium and the Cleveland Clinic Sports Health Summit. In addition, he speaks at community outreach events concerning public health and chronic low back pain. Dr. McGinty’s professional interests include pain neuroscience education, orthopedics, chronic pain, wellness promotion, and decreasing the over-medicalization of society.
Raymond Siegelman
PT, DPT, MS
Raymond Siegelman
PT, DPT, MS
Dr. Siegelman is President Emeritus of TherapyEd and served as President since the company’s founding in 1988. With Dr. Susan O’Sullivan, he is co-author of the National Physical Therapy Examination Review & Study Guide. Dr. Siegelman received his physical therapy education at Columbia University, College of Physicians & Surgeons in New York City, Boston University and the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions. He was a member of the faculty in the physical therapy programs at Boston University and then at Northeastern University for ten years. Between 1977 and 1988 he also practiced in the area of sports physical therapy. From 1982-1987, Dr. Siegelman was the Executive Director of the APTA of Massachusetts. He has also held the position of Chief Delegate, Delegate and Chairman of the Eastern District of the Massachusetts Chapter of the APTA. He has served on and chaired many committees at the district, chapter and national levels of the American Physical Therapy Association. In 2005, Dr. Siegelman received the Kessler Memorial Award from the APTA of Massachusetts.
Scott W. Shaffer
PT, PhD, ECS
Scott W. Shaffer
PT, PhD, ECS
Dr. Shaffer is an Instructor for TherapyEd and serves as a Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Texas State University. He is a retired Colonel from the US Army, serving in a variety of roles, including Chief of Army Physical Therapy, Dean of the Graduate Programs at the U.S. Army Medical Department Center & School, and former director and professor at the US Army Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy. Dr. Shaffer completed his PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences with a focus in adult neurological disorders from the University of Kentucky in 2007 and has served as the director of physical therapy in various assignments, including deployments to Bosnia and Iraq. He is an author on numerous peer reviewed publications and has lectured extensively on neurologic and orthopaedic assessment. He is also an investigator on various research projects to include studies examining injury risk screening, and the influence of neuromusculoskeletal injury on postural stability and physical performance.
Steven G. Lesh
PT, PhD, AT Ret.
Steven G. Lesh
PT, PhD, AT Ret.
Dr. Steven Lesh is an Instructor for TherapyEd and the founding program director of the hybrid DPT program at the University of Charleston in West Virginia. He earned his Bachelors of Health Science Degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Missouri, completed a Master’s Degree in Public Administration through Arkansas State University, and received his Ph.D. in Organization and Management through the Business School at Capella University. Dr. Lesh successfully completed the requirements to earn the Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist credential from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) in 1999. He has extensive clinical experience in sports medicine, neurological rehabilitation, orthopedics, acute care, long term care, and home health and also has significant experience in administration. Current research interests include the impact of new technologies on the learner, pain sciences, and anatomical sciences linking cadaveric dissection learning in health science education. Areas of expertise: Study strategies, Study schedules, Anatomy, Prosthetics/Amputee Management, Sports Physical Therapy, Spinal Cord Injury, Traumatic Brain Injury, Concussion Management.
Susan O’Sullivan
PT, EdD
Susan O’Sullivan
PT, EdD
Susan O’Sullivan, PT, EdD is Professor Emerita at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell and co-author of the foundational text, Physical Rehabilitation. She was an Instructor and Assistant Professor at Boston University and then an Associate Professor and Professor at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, serving as department chair from 2002-2008. She received her B.S. and M.S. in Physical Therapy degrees, as well as her Ed.D. in Human Development (with a specialization in psychomotor development and motor learning), from Boston University. She has co-authored several textbooks, most notably “Physical Rehabilitation,” which is the most widely used textbook by DPT programs and has been translated into five languages for world-wide distribution (Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese). She has also co-authored “Improving Functional Outcomes in Physical Rehabilitation” and the National Physical Therapy Examination Review and Study Guide. While at UMass Lowell, Dr. O’Sullivan taught neurological and geriatric physical therapy courses, receiving awards for her instructional abilities. Most notably, she was the 2012 recipient of the Excellence in Neurologic Education award from the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy.
Suzanne Giuffre
PT EdD
Suzanne Giuffre
PT EdD
Dr. Giuffre is an Instructor for TherapyEd and is the Department Chair and an Associate Professor at Cleveland State University. She earned her B.S. in Physical Therapy from Daemen College, her Advanced Masters of Science in Neurological Physical Therapy from Temple University with an emphasis in Pediatrics, and her EdD in Higher Education Administration from the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to becoming the Director at Cleveland State University she served as the Director of Clinical Education at Youngstown State University for 16 years. She has been an educator in Physical Therapy since 1999. Dr. Giuffre currently publishes in the area of Population Health and the impact of PT. Areas of expertise: Pediatrics, Integumentary, and Lymphatic Systems. For NPTE preparation, she specializes in developing Effective Study Strategies, Analyzing Exam Results, and Personalized Study Plans.
Thomas G. Sutlive
PT, PhD
Thomas G. Sutlive
PT, PhD
Dr. Sutlive is an Instructor for TherapyEd and Professor for the U.S. Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy in San Antonio, Texas. Additionally, he is an adjunct professor for the U.S. Army-Baylor University Doctoral Fellowship in Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy. He earned his B.A. in Physical Education and Religion from the College of William and Mary, his Masters of Physical Therapy from the U.S. Army-Baylor University Graduate Program, and his Ph.D in Anatomy/Physical Therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Sutlive is a retired Colonel from the U.S. Army, having served 23 years on active duty. He is an author of numerous peer reviewed publications and is actively engaged in research, which focuses on examination and intervention strategies for a variety of neuromusculoskeletal disorders. Areas of expertise: Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy, Practice exam/NPTE score analysis.
Vince Lepak
PT, DPT, MPH
Vince Lepak
PT, DPT, MPH
Dr. Lepak is a Senior Instructor for TherapyEd and an Assistant Professor in the Division of Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. He has been teaching for the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center since 1993 and working with International Educational Resources since 2001. In 1989, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy and in 1994 a Master of Public Health. Dr. Lepak completed his DPT at Massachusetts General Hospital Institutes of Health Professions in 2004. Clinical experiences include working in acute care, home health, long-term care, geriatric assessment, outpatient orthopedics and wound care. He is a certified wound care specialist through the American Academy of Wound Management. Clinical and teaching expertise includes wound care, manual therapy (peripheral & spine), modalities, geriatric assessment, physical therapy licensure preparation and webpage development. Dr. Lepak served for six years on the Oklahoma State Licensure Committee; Chair for 2 years. Nationally he worked for the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy and was a Delegate to the American Physical Therapy Association for the State of Oklahoma. He has a wife, daughter and a dog. An avid soccer player and his favorite web site is http://www.quackwatch.org/.
Physical Therapist Assistant
PTA Exam instructors
Angela Heaton
PT, MSEd
Angela Heaton
PT, MSEd
Angela Heaton is an Instructor for TherapyEd and the director of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at James A. Rhodes State College and the interim Dean of Health Sciences. She graduated from the Ohio State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy and received a Master’s degree in Administrative Higher Education from the University of Dayton. Angela is actively involved in the didactic education of the PTA. She has been a program educator for 27 years and currently serves as a team leader for on-site program visits for the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). She also served on the PTA panel commission of CAPTE from 2009-2013. In October of 2011, Angela was selected as Ohio’s Educator of the Year by the Ohio Association of Two Year Colleges. Angela, along with her PTA faculty, received the 2016 Faculty Innovation Award from the American Association of Community Colleges for their innovative implementation of tablet technology into the PTA curriculum.
Christopher Ingstad
PT, DPT, OCS, MTC, ATC, FAAOMPT
Christopher Ingstad
PT, DPT, OCS, MTC, ATC, FAAOMPT
Dr. Ingstad is an instructor for TherapyEd and an Associate Professor in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Cerritos College in Norwalk, CA. He graduated with his Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education with an emphasis on Athletic Training from CSU Dominguez Hills and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. He earned his manual therapy certification and is Board Certified in Orthopedics. He is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists. Dr. Ingstad has extensive clinical practice in sports orthopedics and teaching experience in entry-level, post-professional and clinical education. He continues to practice clinically in the sports and orthopedics world, mostly treating collegiate and professional athletes. Dr. Ingstad is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association, the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist, and serves as the Treasurer for the California Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists Special Interest Group. In his free time, he loves golfing, traveling, camping, hiking and training jiu jitsu.
Cindy Brandehoff
PTA, BS
Cindy Brandehoff
PTA, BS
Professor Brandehoff is in Instructor for TherapyEd and the Academic Coordinator for Clinical Education and an instructor for the PTA Program at Rhodes State College in Lima Ohio, her alma mater. She received her bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of Northwestern Ohio and serves as a site reviewer for the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). She has over 18 years of experience in a wide variety of practice settings as a clinician, educator and director of healthcare marketing.
Daryn Young
PTA, MS
Daryn Young
PTA, MS
Daryn Young is an Instructor for TherapyEd and an Instructor for the PTA program at Kansas City Kansas Community College. He received his PTA training from Kansas City Kansas Community College, his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from Kansas State University, his master’s degree in Human Health and Occupational Wellness from Pittsburg State University and is currently enrolled in a Doctorate of Adult Education and Leadership program at Kansas State University. Daryn worked as a PTA in a private outpatient setting, focusing on orthopedic and sport rehabilitation. He is an active member of the KPTA.
Jane S Baldwin
PT, DPT
Jane S Baldwin
PT, DPT
Dr. Baldwin is an Instructor for TherapyEd and has been teaching courses for over sixteen years. She received her physical therapy education at Northeastern University and received her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Simmons College. Jane is also a Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurological Physical Therapy. She is currently an Assistant Professor at the MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA and practices at Spaulding Rehab Outpatient Center in their Pediatrics and Neurology/Integrated Rehabilitation Programs. She is actively involved in the American Physical Therapy Association both nationally and locally. She has served as Chief Delegate, Delegate, Vice President and Secretary. She has also served on several national and chapter task forces.
Patrick K. McGinty
PT, DPT
Patrick K. McGinty
PT, DPT
Patrick K. McGinty, PT, DPT is an instructor for TherapyEd and the editor of TherapyEd’s PTA Examination Review and Study Guide. Dr. McGinty earned a Bachelor of Science from the United States Military Academy at West Point and served on active duty in the U.S. Army for five years before attending the University of Illinois at Chicago to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. He completed an orthopedic residency at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. Prior to teaching at Cleveland State University, Dr. McGinty served as a physical therapist at Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation and Sports Therapy specializing in orthopedics and the development of a multidisciplinary chronic pain program emphasizing cognitive behavioral therapy and pain neuroscience education. Dr. McGinty is also an onsite reviewer for the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Education accreditation board. He has presented as a featured speaker at the Ohio Physical Therapy Association annual scientific symposium and the Cleveland Clinic Sports Health Summit. In addition, he speaks at community outreach events concerning public health and chronic low back pain. Dr. McGinty’s professional interests include pain neuroscience education, orthopedics, chronic pain, wellness promotion, and decreasing the over-medicalization of society.
Steven G. Lesh
PT, PhD, AT Ret.
Steven G. Lesh
PT, PhD, AT Ret.
Dr. Steven Lesh is an Instructor for TherapyEd and the founding program director of the hybrid DPT program at the University of Charleston in West Virginia. He earned his Bachelors of Health Science Degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Missouri, completed a Master’s Degree in Public Administration through Arkansas State University, and received his Ph.D. in Organization and Management through the Business School at Capella University. Dr. Lesh successfully completed the requirements to earn the Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist credential from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) in 1999. He has extensive clinical experience in sports medicine, neurological rehabilitation, orthopedics, acute care, long term care, and home health and also has significant experience in administration. Current research interests include the impact of new technologies on the learner, pain sciences, and anatomical sciences linking cadaveric dissection learning in health science education. Areas of expertise: Study strategies, Study schedules, Anatomy, Prosthetics/Amputee Management, Sports Physical Therapy, Spinal Cord Injury, Traumatic Brain Injury, Concussion Management.
Tiffany Bohm
PT, MPT, DPT
Tiffany Bohm
PT, MPT, DPT
Dr. Bohm is an Instructor for TherapyEd and is currently the Dean and Director of PTA Education at Kansas City Kansas Community College. She received her Physical Therapy training from Rockhurst University and Simmons College and also works PRN in a variety of patient settings. Prior to becoming a faculty member, she worked as a pediatric therapist in the public school setting and provided outpatient pediatric therapy through her own company. She has presented at the KPTA conference on various topics pertinent to the PTA and at the APTA’s Combined Sections Meetings. She is an active member of the KPTA and serves as a team leader for CAPTE site visits.
Occupational Therapy
OTR® Exam instructors
Amy E. Bryant
M.Ed., OTR/L
Amy E. Bryant
M.Ed., OTR/L
Amy Bryant is an Instructor for TherapyEd and has been an occupational therapist for 32 years. She has served as the OTA program director at Keiser University in Pembroke Pines, FL and at Middle Georgia State University in Cochran, GA. She received her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of New England in 1990, and her Master’s in Adult Education from the University of Georgia in 2007. She has completed one year of the Ed.D program at the University of St Augustine. She has spent the majority of her career in OTA education serving as a faculty member, academic fieldwork coordinator, and as a program director. She is passionate about assisting students in their preparation for the certification exam, both in regards to content and for issues related to test taking skills and test anxiety. Currently she remains active in OT/OTA education through consulting and guest lectures, and uses all her OT skills while teaching ESL classes to adults.
Cathy Dolhi
OTD, OTR, FAOTA
Cathy Dolhi
OTD, OTR, FAOTA
Dr. Dolhi has been an Instructor for TherapyEd since 2012 and is Emeritus Faculty at Chatham University in Pittsburgh, PA. She received her undergraduate degree in occupational therapy at Elizabethtown College, her master’s degree at the University of Pittsburgh, and her professional doctorate in occupational therapy from Chatham University. Dr. Dolhi has served in a number of professional leadership positions, including President of the Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association, Pennsylvania Representative to the AOTA Representative Assembly, and Chair of the Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Political Action Committee. She has published and presented in multiple venues on occupation-based practice and has been recognized as a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association for her leadership in this area.
Colleen Maher
OTD, OTR/L, CHT
Colleen Maher
OTD, OTR/L, CHT
Dr. Maher is an Instructor for TherapyEd and an Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy at Saint Joseph’s University (formerly University of the Sciences,) where she serves as Program Director of the Post-bac MOT Program. She received her B.S. in Occupational Therapy from Temple University, her MS Post Professional Masters in Occupational Therapy from Columbia University, and her OTD Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from the University of St. Augustine. Dr. Maher has over 30 years experience working in hospitals, hand clinics and home care. She is a certified hand therapist and is certified in manual lymph drainage. Colleen’s research interests include Upper Extremity Orthopaedics and Cancer Management. Dr. Maher has mentored seven Critically Appraised Papers (CAPS) that are published on AOTAs Evidence Exchange.
Donna M. Costa
DHS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Donna M. Costa
DHS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Dr. Costa is an Instructor for TherapyEd and formerly an Associate Professor and Program Director at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Donna was also formerly the Chair of the Occupational Therapy Program at Stony Brook University in New York and also served on the faculty of the University of Utah. She earned a doctorate from the University of Indianapolis in Occupational Therapy, as well as a Master’s degree in Health Care Administration from the New School of Social Research in NY, and dual baccalaureate degrees in Occupational Therapy and Psychology from the University of Buffalo. Dr. Costa is a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association and has served on the AOTA’s Board of Directors. She is the author of three books on fieldwork education published by AOTA Press, as well as numerous articles which have appeared in OT Practice. Donna serves on the editorial review boards of the American Journal of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Therapy in Health Care.
Ingrid Provident
Ed.D, OTR/L, FAOTA
Ingrid Provident
Ed.D, OTR/L, FAOTA
Dr. Provident is an Instructor for TherapyEd and Faculty Emeritus at Chatham University, and currently serves as an Education Specialist for Select Rehabilitation providing continuing education content and consultation for over 15,000 therapists nationwide. She has been in higher education for 30 years, having served as an Assistant Professor and Academic Fieldwork educator at Duquesne University as well as an Associate Professor and post-professional online OTD Program coordinator at Chatham University. She received her undergraduate degrees in occupational therapy at Mount Aloysius for her COTA certification and at Dominican College for her OTR. She earned her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Education at Duquesne University. Dr. Provident has served in a number of professional leadership positions, including the Agenda Chairperson and Pennsylvania Representative to the AOTA Representative Assembly. Dr. Provident has presented at state, national and international conferences and has over 35 peer reviewed publications on topics related to occupational therapy. Most recently she has been trained and certified in the use of Mindfulness practices which she incorporates in occupational therapy education and personal meditative practices. She has been recognized as a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association for her leadership in Occupational Therapy Education. When not involved in Therapy Ed efforts, research, or work, she enjoys traveling, quilting, kayaking and spending time with her family, particularly her two young grandchildren.
Kari C. Inda
Ph.D., OTR/L, CEAS
Kari C. Inda
Ph.D., OTR/L, CEAS
Dr. Inda is an Instructor for TherapyEd and serves as the chairperson of the Occupational Therapy program at Mount Mary University in Milwaukee, WI. She received her Occupational Therapy education at Mount Mary College, earned a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Mount Mary University, and a Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. She specializes in teaching kinesiology, orthopedics, and neurorehabilitation. Her previous work experience includes inpatient, outpatient, sub acute, long term care, and home health rehab for adults with various physical disabilities. She has certification as an Ergonomics Assessment Specialist (CEAS). Her research focuses on the role of critical reasoning skills in certification exam performance and in academic performance.
Marlene J. Morgan
Ed.D, OTR/L
Marlene J. Morgan
Ed.D, OTR/L
Dr. Morgan is an Instructor for TherapyEd and an Associate Professor and former Program Director in the Occupational Therapy Department at the University of Scranton. She received her B.S. degree from The Pennsylvania State University, a Master’s degree in occupational therapy (MOT) from Texas Woman’s University, and a doctorate in Educational Administration and Policy Studies from Temple University. Dr. Morgan has over 25 years of academic and clinical experience. She has held a number of academic positions including appointments at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Rush University in Chicago, Illinois and her clinical experiences include a combination of patient care and administrative responsibilities. Dr. Morgan has published and presented nationally and internationally.
Paula Carey
OTD, OTR/L
Paula Carey
OTD, OTR/L
Dr. Paula D. Carey, OTD, OTR/L has been an instructor for TherapyEd for over 18 years and has been an occupational therapy educator for over 30 years at Utica College. She served as the weekend coordinator and as the program director for occupational therapy at Utica College, but has now retired from full-time teaching. She earned her Post-Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Chatham University, Master of Science in Adult Education from Syracuse University, Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Utica College, and Associate degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant from Herkimer College. She is invested in facilitating exam candidates’ successful preparation for the occupational therapy and the occupational therapy assistant certification examinations. Her primary research interests relate to occupational therapy education and productive aging in the areas of driving and stress management and coping.
Rita P. Fleming-Castaldy
Ph.D., OTR, FAOTA.
Rita P. Fleming-Castaldy
Ph.D., OTR, FAOTA.
Dr. Fleming-Castaldy is an Instructor at TherapyEd, and Professor Emeritus at the University of Scranton. She is the Chairperson for the History Preservation Project of the Occupational Therapy Leaders and Legacies Society. Dr. Fleming-Castaldy previously served as Program Director at Dominican College and on the faculty at New York University. She received her Doctor of Philosophy, post-professional M.A., and undergraduate degrees in Occupational Therapy from New York University. In addition to the best-selling “National Occupational Therapy Certification Exam Review & Study Guide”, Dr. Fleming-Castaldy is the editor of several texts and the author of numerous journal articles. She has presented nationally and internationally on a diversity of professional issues. Dr. Fleming-Castaldy serves on the editorial boards of the American Journal of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Therapy in Mental Health. Her areas of expertise include occupational therapy history, professional development and career mobility, mental health practice, community participation, and disability rights and advocacy. In 2002, she was honored by being named a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association, and in 2017 she was given the Award for Excellence in the Advancement of Occupational Therapy by the AOTA in appreciation for her extraordinary contributions to the advancement of occupational therapy.
Susan Robertson
Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA
Susan Robertson
Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA
Dr. Robertson is an instructor for TherapyEd. She received her Occupational Therapy Education and advanced Master’s degree at San Jose State University, San Jose, CA, and her PhD in Human Development from the University of Maryland. Dr. Robertson is a Mental Health Specialist in the Rehabilitation Medicine Department of the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD. She has considerable experience working in community psychiatric settings. She has served as a staff member of the American Occupational Therapy Association and is an expert in OT Continuing Education. Dr. Robertson has been an Assistant Professor in occupational therapy academic programs and has contributed greatly to the profession by numerous publications and national and international presentations. She was recognized as a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association in 1988. She was awarded the AOTA Recognition of Achievement for mental health advocacy, research, and education in 1999, and the Maryland Occupational Therapy Association’s Recognition of Achievement in 2006.
Thomas Fisher
PhD, OTR/L, CCM, FAOTA
Thomas Fisher
PhD, OTR/L, CCM, FAOTA
Dr. Fisher is an Instructor for TherapyEd and Dean Emeritus and Professor Emeritus of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences at Indiana University. He received his PhD in Education Psychology and his EdS in Educational & Counseling Psychology at the University of Kentucky, his MS in Education from Purdue University, and his BS in Occupational Therapy at the Indiana University School of Medicine. He is a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association and was honored with the AOTA Award of Merit in 2016 to recognize him for his notable contributions to the profession. He was also named “One of the 100 most influential people in OT.” Dr. Fisher’s research agenda has two lines of inquiry: (1) professional issues in occupational therapy and rehabilitation and (2) assessments and interventions for neuro-musculoskeletal injuries, including strains/sprains and traumatic brain injuries, especially as they relate to return to work and independent living.
Toni Thompson
DrOT, OTR/L, C/NDT
Toni Thompson
DrOT, OTR/L, C/NDT
Dr. Thompson received her undergraduate degree in Occupational Therapy at the University of Illinois and earned her DrOT from Nova Southeastern University. She also earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration and Management from Webster University in St. Louis. Dr. Thompson was formerly a Team Leader of Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology at the Shriners Hospital for Children of Tampa, FL and her work experience includes service with the Peace Corps in Ecuador and Venezuela. She has significant experience in SI and NDT-Pediatrics, and has written numerous articles for a variety of Occupational Therapy and Orthopedic publications. Her areas of concentration include health care programs for Hispanic populations and the role of occupational therapy in human trafficking. She has been an instructor for TherapyEd for over 25 years and has provided individual tutoring to students as well. In 1995 she received the Award of Excellence from the Florida Occupational Therapy Association.
Yvonne Randall
EdD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Yvonne Randall
EdD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Dr. Randall is an Instructor for TherapyEd and CEO of Caballito, LLC. She is the owner and Director of the future Town Square©® Adult Enrichment Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, and provides consultation services for businesses and educational programs. A long-time educator, Dr. Randall has taught in occupational therapy, occupational therapy assistant, occupational science, educational leadership, and special education/early childhood education academic programs for over twenty-five years. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in occupational therapy education at Texas Woman’s University, her Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Chapman University, and her doctorate in Special Education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Passionate about her profession, she served as Chairperson of the American Occupational Therapy Political Action Committee (AOTPAC) (2016 – 2021), Treasurer – Society for the Study of Occupation (SSO: USA) (2014 – 2017), Speaker – AOTA Representative Assembly (2010 – 2013), AOTA Board of Directors (2010 – 2013), President – Nevada Occupational Therapy Association (1999 – 2003) and Mentor – AOTA Emerging Leaders Development Program (2011 – 2019). In 2022, Dr. Randall received the AOTA Lindy Boggs Award for her advocacy efforts at the national level. She brings experience in leadership, fieldwork education, classroom instruction, and student supervision.
Occupational Therapy Assistant
COTA® Exam instructors
Amy E. Bryant
M.Ed., OTR/L
Amy E. Bryant
M.Ed., OTR/L
Amy Bryant is an Instructor for TherapyEd and has been an occupational therapist for 32 years. She has served as the OTA program director at Keiser University in Pembroke Pines, FL and at Middle Georgia State University in Cochran, GA. She received her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of New England in 1990, and her Master’s in Adult Education from the University of Georgia in 2007. She has completed one year of the Ed.D program at the University of St Augustine. She has spent the majority of her career in OTA education serving as a faculty member, academic fieldwork coordinator, and as a program director. She is passionate about assisting students in their preparation for the certification exam, both in regards to content and for issues related to test taking skills and test anxiety. Currently she remains active in OT/OTA education through consulting and guest lectures, and uses all her OT skills while teaching ESL classes to adults.
Donna M. Costa
DHS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Donna M. Costa
DHS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Dr. Costa is an Instructor for TherapyEd and formerly an Associate Professor and Program Director at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Donna was also formerly the Chair of the Occupational Therapy Program at Stony Brook University in New York and also served on the faculty of the University of Utah. She earned a doctorate from the University of Indianapolis in Occupational Therapy, as well as a Master’s degree in Health Care Administration from the New School of Social Research in NY, and dual baccalaureate degrees in Occupational Therapy and Psychology from the University of Buffalo. Dr. Costa is a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association and has served on the AOTA’s Board of Directors. She is the author of three books on fieldwork education published by AOTA Press, as well as numerous articles which have appeared in OT Practice. Donna serves on the editorial review boards of the American Journal of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Therapy in Health Care.
Heather Panczykowski
D.H. Sc., OTR/L
Heather Panczykowski
D.H. Sc., OTR/L
Dr. Panczykowski is an Instructor for TherapyEd and an Associate Professor and Program Director at Jamestown Community College, SUNY in Jamestown, NY. She received her doctorate in Health Sciences from Nova Southeastern University, her Master’s from the State University of New York at Buffalo and her Bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy from Keuka College. She serves as the Vice-Chairperson of the Academic Leadership Council of the AOTA, and has worked in a variety of health-care settings including in-patient rehabilitation, school systems, early intervention, and in-home health. She continues her clinical practice while teaching, believing that to be a good teacher she needs to continue to be in the practice environment.
Jeanine Stancanelli
OTD, MPH, OTR/L
Jeanine Stancanelli
OTD, MPH, OTR/L
Jeanine Stancanelli is an Instructor for TherapyEd and an Associate Professor in the Graduate Occupational Therapy Program at Mercy College in New York. She received her B.S. in Occupational Therapy from Quinnipiac University, her Master’s of Public Health from Southern Connecticut State University, and her Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine. She has over 21 years of clinical experience and has been teaching in higher education for almost 15 years. She has worked in all facets of adult physical rehabilitation including acute and sub acute rehabilitation, acute care, home health care, and outpatient rehabilitation. Her teaching focuses on adult rehabilitation, geriatrics, and neuroscience and her research is related to healthy aging, health promotion, and driving.
Paula Carey
OTD, OTR/L
Paula Carey
OTD, OTR/L
Dr. Paula D. Carey, OTD, OTR/L has been an instructor for TherapyEd for over 18 years and has been an occupational therapy educator for over 30 years at Utica College. She served as the weekend coordinator and as the program director for occupational therapy at Utica College, but has now retired from full-time teaching. She earned her Post-Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Chatham University, Master of Science in Adult Education from Syracuse University, Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Utica College, and Associate degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant from Herkimer College. She is invested in facilitating exam candidates’ successful preparation for the occupational therapy and the occupational therapy assistant certification examinations. Her primary research interests relate to occupational therapy education and productive aging in the areas of driving and stress management and coping.
Regina M. Lehman
M.S., OT/L
Regina M. Lehman
M.S., OT/L
Regina Lehman is an Instructor for TherapyEd and a Professor and Program Director at LaGuardia Community College, CUNY in New York. She earned her Masters of Science degree in occupational therapy at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. In addition to directing and teaching in the OTA Program, Ms. Lehman is the Faculty Co-Director of Assessment and Institutional Learning for LAGCC. She is a contributor to TherapyEd’s National OTA Certification Exam Review & Study Guide with expertise in Cardiovascular and Pulmonary System Disorders. Ms. Lehman has been an occupational therapist for over 35 years and an occupational therapy educator in both OT and OTA programs for over 30 years. Her areas of expertise include adult, geriatric, and pediatric rehabilitation; health care and rehabilitation administration; outcomes assessment; and education. Prior to joining the faculty at LAGCC as the OTA Program Director, she was an Assistant Vice President and Director of Rehabilitation at St. Barnabas Hospital in New York City. Ms. Lehman is a long-standing advocate of occupational therapy assistant education and practice. She serves on the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) Task Force to examine barriers to practice for OTAs. She has published multiple scholarly works in journals and occupational therapy texts.
Thomas Fisher
PhD, OTR/L, CCM, FAOTA
Thomas Fisher
PhD, OTR/L, CCM, FAOTA
Dr. Fisher is an Instructor for TherapyEd and Dean Emeritus and Professor Emeritus of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences at Indiana University. He received his PhD in Education Psychology and his EdS in Educational & Counseling Psychology at the University of Kentucky, his MS in Education from Purdue University, and his BS in Occupational Therapy at the Indiana University School of Medicine. He is a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association and was honored with the AOTA Award of Merit in 2016 to recognize him for his notable contributions to the profession. He was also named “One of the 100 most influential people in OT.” Dr. Fisher’s research agenda has two lines of inquiry: (1) professional issues in occupational therapy and rehabilitation and (2) assessments and interventions for neuro-musculoskeletal injuries, including strains/sprains and traumatic brain injuries, especially as they relate to return to work and independent living.
Toni Thompson
DrOT, OTR/L, C/NDT
Toni Thompson
DrOT, OTR/L, C/NDT
Dr. Thompson received her undergraduate degree in Occupational Therapy at the University of Illinois and earned her DrOT from Nova Southeastern University. She also earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration and Management from Webster University in St. Louis. Dr. Thompson was formerly a Team Leader of Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology at the Shriners Hospital for Children of Tampa, FL and her work experience includes service with the Peace Corps in Ecuador and Venezuela. She has significant experience in SI and NDT-Pediatrics, and has written numerous articles for a variety of Occupational Therapy and Orthopedic publications. Her areas of concentration include health care programs for Hispanic populations and the role of occupational therapy in human trafficking. She has been an instructor for TherapyEd for over 25 years and has provided individual tutoring to students as well. In 1995 she received the Award of Excellence from the Florida Occupational Therapy Association.