We are a company based on quality care accessible to people throughout the lifespan and in various socioeconomic contexts. The main objective of Forefront Therapy is to meet the Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Mental Health Therapy needs in Evansville, IN, and surrounding Tri-State regions. Forefront Therapy bases its foundation on three main Pillars.

Our CORE Three Pillars

1.       One-on-one care

It is our strong belief that every individual deserves one on one medical care from their provider.  With individualized attention, it will allow us the best opportunity to deliver the most effective and efficient care possible.

2.       Education and research

We at Forefront Therapy believe it is both our social and professional duty to be at the forefront of education and research in the fields of physical, occupational, speech, and mental health therapy.

3.       Accessibility for all

Forefront Therapy has a call to serve all aspects of the community, including those with limited access to healthcare. 

Finding a therapy and wellness service provider that meets your specific needs and expectations is so important. When you become a patient with us, we will meet with you one-on-one to ensure we provide you with the best care possible, customized just for you.

Mission

To be the leader of therapy and wellness services and provide the best standard of care, research, and education to a diverse community.

Vision

Lead healthcare, grow access, inspire community wellness, and thrive in our culture.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Forefront Therapy takes pride in providing care across the entire community. We strive to partner with and employ diverse individuals and organizations who share our values and will join us in improving the lives of every member of our society. This principle is a key aspect to who we are and for what we stand.

Dr. Sara Aucoin, PT, DPT, OCS received her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology: Exercise Science from the University of New Hampshire where she was a four-year varsity letter winner for their volleyball team. She then earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Washington University in St. Louis and is now recognized as an APTA board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. She completed extensive specialization training and is a certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist, armed with the most up-to-date evidence-based approaches at treating acute and chronic pain. Her experience lies in working with young athletes and individuals diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and hypermobility syndromes. Along with general orthopedics, she is passionate about treating children with exceptional care and encouraging optimal movement patterns for life starting from a young age. In addition to her clinical interests, Dr. Aucoin also teaches Anatomy and Physiology at Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions as she actively engages in a lifetime of continued education.

Dr. Tonya Barringer, PT, DPT, WCS is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Evansville. Along with general orthopedics and neurological care, she is passionate about women’s health and pelvic floor therapy. Tonya has been successfully certified for the treatment for men and women with pelvic floor dysfunction through Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute.  She passed her Board Specialty Certification Exam in Women's Health Physical Therapy through the APTA and is officially a Board-Certified Specialist Women's Health Physical Therapy. Tonya also completed extensive specialization training and is a certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist, armed with the most up-to-date evidence-based approaches at treating acute and chronic pain.

Dr. Devika Bellamy, PT, DPT, CPT, CYT is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with her doctoral degree from the University of Florida. She initially earned her undergraduate degree in Business at IUPUI, playing collegiate volleyball for four years. 1. She completed extensive specialization training in pelvic floor therapy as well is a certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist, armed with the most up-to-date evidence-based approaches at treating acute and chronic pain. She realized her passion of studying the human body and teaching others how to use that knowledge to manage and treat pain and dysfunction non-invasively. Despite being a life-long athlete, her clinical passions are women’s health, pelvic floor therapy, and hypermobility syndromes. Prior to becoming a physical therapist, she was a personal trainer and yoga teacher and traveled to India for first-hand opportunity to better learn the ancient practice. 

Dr. Hannah Brooks, PT, DPT, OCS, LAT, ATC is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with undergraduate and doctoral degrees from the University of Evansville. After completing the Forefront Therapy/Arcadia University Orthopedic Residency, Hannah successfully passed her board certification and is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. She is originally from the St. Louis area but fell in love with the charm of Evansville while studying at the University of Evansville. Hannah is also a licensed certified athletic trainer and holds certifications in SFMA Level 1. She also completed extensive specialization training and is a certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist, armed with the most up-to-date evidence-based approaches at treating acute and chronic pain. Hannah has developed a love for working with the older adult in various forms throughout her Orthopedic, Neurologic, and Balance/Vestibular passions! She loves being on a Forefront team that is so invested and mission focused in working with the entire Tri-State community!

Kyle Courtney M.S. OTR/L is an occupational therapist with a Bachelor’s of Science In Exercise Science, Minor in Psychology, and Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy from The University of Southern Indiana. Kyle grew up in Evansville, Indiana and graduated from Reitz Memorial High School.  Kyle moved to Atlanta, GA, in 2017 to provide pediatrics in outpatient settings with corresponding hippotherapy services. Kyle’s approach focuses on learning through structured play and interactive activities to assist in the development of fine motor skills, coordination, sensory integration, social skills, and self-care. He knows that kids tend to excel when they are enjoying themselves and thrives in making as great of an atmosphere as possible. In his free time, he enjoys spending time outdoors, playing board games, attending sporting events, attending concerts, and exploring new restaurants.

Hope Cope, MS, CCC-SLP is a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) who received her Master’s of Science in Speech Language Pathology as well as her Bachelor's of Science degree in Communication Disorders from Murray State University. Hope has clinical experience in inpatient rehabilitation and outpatient pediatric settings. She is passionate about treating all areas within the scope of practice of a SLP. From articulation and language to augmentative and alternative communication. Hope is dedicated to family-centered therapy and evidence-based intervention. She strives to provide ultimate care and build successful interpersonal relationships with her patients. Hope enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and dog, being involved in her church community, exercising, and traveling.

Dr. Brian Grant, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with undergraduate and doctoral degrees from the University of Evansville. Brian has successfully completed the 12-month Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency at Forefront Therapy in collaboration with Arcadia University and is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. Brian has thorough experience and passion working with individuals with orthopedic, sports, and neurological conditions. He has been accredited through the National Strength and Conditioning Association as a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist. He completed extensive specialization training and is a certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist, armed with the most up-to-date evidence-based approaches at treating acute and chronic pain. A native of Evansville, he has immense pride and passion for his community!

Emma Hake, MS, CF-SLP is a Speech-Language Pathology Clinical Fellow (CF-SLP) who received her Master’s of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Purdue University, and her Bachelor’s of Health Science in Speech, Language & Hearing Sciences from the University of Missouri. Emma has clinical experience in outpatient pediatric settings, including with neurodiverse and medically complex children. Though Emma loves all areas within the SLP scope of practice, she will admit to being particularly passionate about articulation intervention, as well as pediatric feeding. In her treatment, Emma is focused on providing the best possible care to her patients, including: evidence-based practice, neurodiversity-affirming care, and trauma-informed care. A self-proclaimed "homebody," Emma tends to spend her free time with family, her dog, reading, or engaging in creative outlets.

Alicia Harris, LCSW, MSW, MPSA, CPT, YT 200 is a mental health therapist with a Master's in Social Work from the University of Southern Indiana as well as a Master’s in Public Service Administration and a B.F.A in Creative Writing from the University of Evansville.  Alicia is a Certified Poetry Therapist through the International Federation of Biblio/Poetry Therapy.  Additionally, Alicia has been trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy for chronic pain, somatics, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Ego State Therapy. Prior to counseling, Alicia has worked as a freelance writer/editor, grant writer, higher education educator and administrator, healthy local foods advocate, and yoga instructor. Alicia believes in the possibility of healing and transformation, and is especially passionate about helping those who are living in chronic pain/discomfort. She desires to inspire authenticity, community, and creativity in her clients and feels true healing occurs when people connect with the deepest part of themselves and each other.

Dr. Sarah House, PT, DPT is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with undergraduate and doctoral degrees from the University of Kentucky. Sarah has clinical experience in pediatric acute inpatient rehabilitation, NICU, and outpatient pediatric settings, which have provided her with a vast array of experience with children at all levels of development and medical complexity. Sarah is certified in Infant Massage and the TMR Tots approach. Additionally, she has trained in pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction, myofascial release, cranial sacral release, and the Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration approach. Sarah is passionate about helping children of all ages maximize their potential and find confidence in themselves. She loves having the opportunity of getting to know the unique personalities and skills of every child she has the privilege to work with and provide family-centered therapy. Sarah has served the suburban Chicago population for the last nine years and as a western KY native she is looking forward to serving the children and families of the Evansville community and surrounding areas!

Anna Kuhn, MSOT, OTR/L is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist who received her Master’s of Occupational Therapy as well as her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Exercise Science at the University of Southern Indiana. Anna has clinical experience in the acute care and outpatient pediatric settings. Anna is passionate about providing client-centered care to children and their families to help them be successful in their everyday lives. In her free time, Anna enjoys spending time with family, reading, and attending concerts.

Justin Merritt, PTA, is a Physical Therapist Assistant and Clinic Manager at Forefront Therapy-The Bronstein Clinic who graduated from Madisonville Community College. Justin is an experienced orthopedic specialist with well over a decade of experience and a background in management and leadership. The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce has recognized him as Ambassador of the Year for three consecutive years. As a native of Owensboro, he is eager to become involved in the local Evansville community through the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership. Justin is completing the Advanced Proficiency Pathways in Orthopedics program the American Physical Therapy Association offers. He completed extensive specialization training and is a certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist, armed with the most up-to-date evidence-based approaches at treating acute and chronic pain. He is dedicated to improving each patient's quality of life using the latest evidence-based practices. Justin is known for his compassionate and friendly demeanor and is committed to serving the underserved.

Jenna L. McClary, PT, MPT holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Evansville.  Jenna has decades of exceptional experience in the field, having worked in outpatient orthopedics, home health, and inpatient rehabilitation. She is excited to be working as part of the local community at the Bronstein Clinic, as much of her professional and volunteer life has been dedicated to geriatric and neurologic care.  Jenna is currently serving as an adjunct faculty member in the DPT Program at the University of Evansville. She continues to engage in the local Evansville community through her church, enjoys playing the piano, as well as spending time with her husband and 3 adult children.

Leslie Presson is an Administrative Assistant at Forefront Therapy. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of Southern Indiana. She brings outstanding experience in both direct and indirect patient care within the radiology field and various clerical positions. Originally from a small town in central Indiana, Leslie now resides in Mount Vernon, IN. Her primary goal within her professional career but also everyday life is driven by her passion to support and improve the lives of those in need in any capacity.  She is dedicated to enhancing patient experience and well-being. Leslie enjoys being a part of the Forefront team as she finds that it is a great way to grow, connect and serve a community in need.

Dr. Abigail Rexing, PT, DPT holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise Science and is a Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Evansville. She is passionate about providing holistic, client-centered care in the orthopedic and neurologic populations. Abigail grew up in France and is fluent in English, French, and conversational in Spanish, which she utilizes to provide quality care for non-English speaking patients focusing on client education and connection. She loves meeting new people and enjoys getting to know her patients on a personal level throughout their plan of care. In her free time, Abigail enjoys singing at church, playing piano, exercising, and spending time with her friends and family.

Wendy Schapker is an Administrative Assistance at Forefront Therapy. She is an Evansville native, who resides on the west side. Wendy has worked in the healthcare field for over 20 years, gaining valuable knowledge along the way. She is fortunate to have previously worked with underprivileged members of the Tristate, which has helped grow her compassion for helping others and providing excellent customer service.

Dr. Briley Serletic, PT, DPT is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with a doctoral degree from the University of Evansville. Prior to PT school, Briley attended the University of Southern Indiana where she graduated with her Bachelors in Exercise Science. She has found her passion in orthopedics as well as pelvic health. Briley is currently Level 1 Pelvic Health Certified through The American Physical Therapy Association: Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy. She completed extensive specialization training and is a certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist, armed with the most up-to-date evidence-based approaches at treating acute and chronic pain. She has had experience in outpatient orthopedics, skilled nursing facilities, and acute care hospitals. Briley is an Evansville native and loves giving back to her community as well as serving underrepresented populations.

Dr. Joe Todd, PT, DPT, OCS is a Doctor of Physical therapy with a doctoral degree from Belmont University in Nashville, TN.  Prior to PT school, he attended The University of Mississippi and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. In the interim six years between Ole Miss and Belmont, he proudly served in the military. Joe has successfully completed the 12-month post-doctoral Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency at Forefront Therapy in collaboration with Arcadia University and is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. He also completed extensive specialization training and is a certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist, armed with the most up-to-date evidence-based approaches at treating acute and chronic pain. Originally from Henderson and a Memorial High School graduate, Joe is passionate about the Evansville community. He enjoys helping individuals from all walks of life and appreciates the relationships he builds with each one of them.

Ashlee Vindhurst is an Administrative Assistant at Forefront Therapy-First Street Clinic.  She is an Evansville native, who received her Bachelor’s degree in Physiology from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Life guided her to live in Colorado and Florida before she settled back home, where she can fully utilize her experiences in health care customer service. Her compassion for others is evident in each client interaction. Ashlee has experience collaborating with health care plans and takes pride in providing the best customer experience possible with every one of our clients!

Ashlyn Williamson is an administrative assistant at Forefront Therapy-First Street Clinic. Ashlyn is currently completing a Bachelor’s degree in Health Services at the University of Southern Indiana. She brings an exciting passion and joy for healthcare administration with each patient interaction!  Originally from Haubstadt, IN, she loves serving in the local Tri-State community!  She loves getting coffee with friends, thrifting, and is a proud plant and dog mom.

Dr. Jessica K Wood, OTD, OTR/L, BCP is Co-Owner of Forefront Therapy and Co-Founder of Forefront Community Therapy.  As the Director of Pediatric Service, she has found the love and calling to serve the children and families of the Tristate community.  Jessica is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Saint Louis University, and her Doctoral degree at Mount Mary University with study focused on sensory integration therapy. She is an AOTA Board Certified Specialist in Pediatrics. She has a breadth of knowledge in her field including work at University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital in the NICU, PICU, SICU, neurological units, orthopedic units, and burn units. Jessica moved home to serve as an Assistant Professor in the Occupational Therapy Program at the University of Southern Indiana. She is currently conducting pediatric research on sensory integration, presents at local, state, and national conferences, and has multiple publications in peer-reviewed medical literature.

Dr. Ryan Wood, PT, DPT, MHA, OCS is Co-Owner of Forefront Therapy and Co-Founder of Forefront Community Therapy. He operates as CEO for both organizations and is proud to work with such an amazing team. He is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with undergraduate and doctoral degrees from Saint Louis University. Ryan attended the Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency at the University of Chicago Medicine and is a board certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. He received his Master’s of Health Administration (MHA) at the University of Southern Indiana. He also completed extensive specialization training and is a certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist, armed with the most up-to-date evidence-based approaches at treating acute and chronic pain. He has participated in research, participates in lectures, presented at local, state, national, and international conferences, and has multiple publications in peer-reviewed medical literature. He is a strong advocate for his profession, serving in multiple roles for the American Physical Therapy Association Indiana Chapter, currently as a Delegate for the state.

Jackeline Yagual, MSOT, OTR/L, BCP is a bilingual Pediatric Occupational Therapist who completed her Master’s and undergraduate degrees at the University of Southern Indiana. She is an AOTA Board Certified Specialist in Pediatrics. She is originally from Ecuador and grew up sharing her parent's passion for their family business which specializes in creating developmentally appropriate and sensory based environments for children. She moved to Evansville to further her education and commitment to helping children through up-to-date sensory integration practices. She is very compassionate and attentive to families and strives to support caregivers in the process!