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Michelle Furman, PT
Michelle was born and raised in New York, New York, She went to Suny Albany University for Undergraduate studies and Long Island University Brooklyn for her Masters Degree. Michelle began her career working with children at NYU medical Center/Rusk Institute. Michelle has been working with children for many years in a variety of settings. Since moving to California, she has been supporting children at multiple private practices. Her focus is working with school aged children making the connection between education and motor development.
Nicole Irizarry PT, DPT, CCS
Nicole earned her doctorate in physical therapy from Columbia University in 2007 where she was honored with the Excellence in Pediatrics award.
Dr. Irizarry is passionate about empowering her clients through therapeutic play and helping families achieve their goals through easy to follow home programs. Since 2010 she has been using yoga as part of her practice to help keep children engaged while in physically challenging poses.
Aside from being a guest lecturer at the University of Southern California, Dr. Irizarry is also a certified Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Specialist who enjoys working with individuals with lung and heart disease to improve quality of life and teach that exercise is possible. Dr. Irizarry is looking forward to joining the team at STS!
Christina Howell, APE
Christina is a graduate of California State University at Northridge, where she received her BA in Physical Education and her Physical Education credential. She worked as a PE teacher for 13 years before going back and getting her Adapted PE credential. Christina also has a credential in PE in the state of Oregon where she worked as an elementary PE teacher before coming back to California to work in Adapted PE for Specialized Therapy Services. Christina has worked for Specialized Therapy Services since 2014. Christina has worked with students from preschool to college age for 30 years, but she finally has her dream job working with students with special needs. Christina keeps active walking, hiking and riding her bike, with her husband, around the San Diego area where she loves being outdoors enjoying the lovely weather.
Ryan Sterk, APE
Ryan Sterk has been working for Specialized Therapy Services for 2½ years as an Adapted Physical Education Teacher. He attended California Baptist University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Kinesiology, as well as a teaching credential for Physical Education. He then attended classes through Point Loma Nazarene University to receive an additional authorization for Adapted Physical Education.
Ryan’s favorite thing about his job is that he is able to work with so many different students that come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Ryan loves helping students realize their true potential while they are having fun doing it. He also enjoys helping students exercise and learn how to lead a healthier and more physically active lifestyle.In his free time, Ryan coaches volleyball and enjoys spending time with his wife Ashley and their two dogs, Duke and Jax. Some of his other hobbies include playing volleyball, fantasy football, surfing, and being active however he can.