About
forge [fôrj] verb
"to put a lot of effort into making something successful or strong so that it will last"
Forge On Physical Therapy and Performance, PLLC is a cash-based practice that I started in 2024. I am currently based in Snowmass, CO, where I work with horses and humans at their homes or equestrian facilities. My missions are to help active individuals to reach their movement goals, and to enable equestrians and their beloved horses to optimize their movement in order to create healthy, harmonized partnerships. I value compassionate and evidence-based care provided in close collaboration with the rest of the human's/horse's healthcare team, including veterinarians, medical doctors, farriers, dentists, chiropractors, body workers, etc.
​
Physical Therapy for Horses?...
Across the lifespan in human medicine, physical therapy plays a critical role in recovery from injury, management of neurologic and musculoskeletal conditions, as well as injury prevention and sport performance enhancement. The core principles of healing and movement are not different for horses. By applying physical therapy knowledge and techniques to equine rehabilitation, we can improve function and return to sport or other usual activities in less time and with a decreased chance of re-injury. I believe that every horse and human should be treated with respect and regard for their well-being, whether they participate in competitive sport or recreation. I am excited to create lasting relationships to improve long-term health of horses and humans!
My Story
Background
I grew up next door to a horse farm in rural northern Vermont, where I spent much of my free time doing chores and riding. Aside from a few county fair horse shows, I consider myself lucky to have been sheltered from the pressures of competition. I was able to focus on my riding technique (equitation, dressage, hunter/jumper) while also building a deep, trusting connection with my horse, who was my amazing partner for nearly 20 years. My other passion throughout my life has been various forms of dance, which led me to major in dance, along with biology, in college. I have drawn many parallels between riding and dance with regards to how certain muscle groups, body systems, and energy dynamics influence posture and balance, or the movement of another being, such as a dance partner or your horse. I decided to pursue a career as a "movement expert" (physical therapist) based on my fascination with physiology and health. When I'm not working with clients, I enjoy playing with my dog and horse (Pepper & Patrick), working out in the gym, taking modern dance classes, hiking, learning more about physical therapy, and eating.
Education & Experience
In 2019, I graduated from Regis University's Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Throughout my clinical experience in general outpatient PT, acute care, and specialized neurological rehabilitation, I have walked with many patients toward their goals of increased strength, mobility, or neuromotor function, decreased pain, and return to sport. I've been honored to work with people in various stages of life and have gleaned valuable lessons from each personal connection. I became a Certified Equine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CERP) through the University of Tennessee in 2021. This certification requires a degree in veterinary medicine or physical therapy and included approximately 60 hours of online lectures, as well as a 7-day in-person intensive laboratory experience with full cadaver anatomy dissection, education on basic saddle fit, and hands-on skills practice/testing on live horses. The licensing bodies which govern physical therapy licensure require me to attain a number of continuing education hours each year in order to maintain my license and clinical competency. I have attended a number of in-person courses, as well as completed many online courses, to keep up to date on current best practices. In March 2025, I completed my Dry Needling Certification through the Institute of Clinical Excellence.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect!
(970)236-6160