Dr. Jess graduated with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2020 from the University of Illinois Chicago. She completed neurological residency at Mary Free Bed in Grand Rapids, and earned her Board Certification in Neurology shortly thereafter. Since then, she has worked at Bronson Methodist Hospital in downtown Kalamazoo, serving a varied neurological and orthopedic population in Kalamazoo.

In her past life, Dr. Jess was an academic, and served as a full-time faculty member at the University of Illinois. Her career change was inspired by her own injury during her powerlifting pursuits. Physical therapist turned mentor Kim Hardin, PT, ATC designed a program to help Jess return to the platform without pain, and eventually inspired the pursuit of physical therapy.

During her training her father, a stroke survivor, inspired her to support those after neurological injury find their own strength. Jess developed a passion for strength training across the lifespan to maintain independence and reduce risk of injury.

Jess has a special interest in treating neurological diagnoses, including traumatic brain injury, stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and dizziness/vestibular dysfunction.

Jess founded Headstrong Physical Therapy, LLC in 2022 to provide high quality neurological physical therapy services right here in Kalamazoo! At Headstrong, Jess will combine her expertise in applying the best available research, her broad clinical experience, and her deep appreciation and understanding of education and community to join you on your path to rebuilding strength.

Dr. Jess graduated with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2020 from the University of Illi... Read More