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Flex With

The Best

Meet our Team

Flex With The Best

Meet our team

Dr. Joel Giffin
PT, DPT, CHT

Founder & CEO

MEET DR. JOEL
Dr. Joel Giffin, PT, DPT, CHT (he/him) founded Flex Physical Therapy in 2014 with the passion of providing outstanding clinical care in a warm environment where treatment is thoughtfully customized to create lasting, life enhancing results. Both the patient and provider experience is designed with application of Joel’s work in varied settings such as private practices, specialty hospitals and health care centers where he was recurrently named “Clinical Director of the Year.”
 
Joel received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy with distinction after earning his Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from Quinnipiac University with Honors where he also played Division 1 lacrosse. He is specialized as a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) which encompassed an extensive additional 5 year training in the education and implementation of the intricacies of hand treatment and splinting methodologies.
 
Dr. Joel is recognized as an ergonomic expert and thought leader in the field. He collaborates with many major wellness and fitness brands (such as Equinox, Reebok, Orangetheory, Row House, Conde Naste) and is featured in publications on the subject of preventing injury, decreasing discomfort and maximizing function.
 
Additionally, Joel worked on Broadway providing theatre performers rehabilitation and crisis management back stage for shows such as The Lion King, Sleep No More, Tarzan, and Sister Act. He attends continuing education courses to stay current on field advancements and techniques, and serves as a supervisor and educator to licensed physical therapists and student physical therapy doctoral candidates. He is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association and American Society of Hand Therapists. When not with his patients at Flex, Joel enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons, especially coaching them in soccer, lacrosse and baseball.

Jade Giffin
MA, LCAT, ATR-BC

Co-Founder & Dir. of Operations

MEET JADE

Jade Giffin, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, (she/her) is a licensed, board certified art psychotherapist and attachment focused EMDR practitioner. Prior to obtaining her masters with honors in the field at NYU, she graduated from Barnard College with distinction and worked in fashion. She brings knowledge of corporate practice, love of artistic design, and commitment to whole person wellness and healing to Flex Physical Therapy.

 

In the Director of Operations role, Jade develops strategies to streamline and elevate aspects of operations such as brand management, clinic design, patient satisfaction, digital presence and TEAM FLEX (please refer to About Us for more information on this program). Jade also applies her clinical expertise to facilitate customized staff trainings on accessing mindfulness, preventing compassion fatigue, and processing vicarious trauma.

 

She and Dr. Joel met working with children at a camp for at-risk youth in the summer of 2001 and have been partners ever since. Jade is proud to further the mission of inclusive and accessible care as an executive board member of this organization, Ramapo for Children, and bring a family sentiment to the practice where her sons occasionally lend a helping hand!

Dr. Joel Giffin
PT, DPT, CHT

Founder & CEO

MEET DR. JOEL
Dr. Joel Giffin, PT, DPT, CHT (he/him) founded Flex Physical Therapy in 2014 with the passion of providing outstanding clinical care in a warm environment where treatment is thoughtfully customized to create lasting, life enhancing results. Both the patient and provider experience is designed with application of Joel’s work in varied settings such as private practices, specialty hospitals and health care centers where he was recurrently named “Clinical Director of the Year.”
 
Joel received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy with distinction after earning his Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from Quinnipiac University with Honors where he also played Division 1 lacrosse. He is specialized as a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) which encompassed an extensive additional 5 year training in the education and implementation of the intricacies of hand treatment and splinting methodologies.
 
Dr. Joel is recognized as an ergonomic expert and thought leader in the field. He collaborates with many major wellness and fitness brands (such as Equinox, Reebok, Orangetheory, Row House, Conde Naste) and is featured in publications on the subject of preventing injury, decreasing discomfort and maximizing function.
 
Additionally, Joel worked on Broadway providing theatre performers rehabilitation and crisis management back stage for shows such as The Lion King, Sleep No More, Tarzan, and Sister Act. He attends continuing education courses to stay current on field advancements and techniques, and serves as a supervisor and educator to licensed physical therapists and student physical therapy doctoral candidates. He is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association and American Society of Hand Therapists. When not with his patients at Flex, Joel enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons, especially coaching them in soccer, lacrosse and baseball.

Jade Giffin
MA, LCAT, ATR-BC

Co-Founder & Dir. of Operations

MEET JADE

Jade Giffin, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, (she/her) is a licensed, board certified art psychotherapist and attachment focused EMDR practitioner. Prior to obtaining her masters with honors in the field at NYU, she graduated from Barnard College with distinction and worked in fashion. She brings knowledge of corporate practice, love of artistic design, and commitment to whole person wellness and healing to Flex Physical Therapy.

 

In the Director of Operations role, Jade develops strategies to streamline and elevate aspects of operations such as brand management, clinic design, patient satisfaction, digital presence and TEAM FLEX (please refer to About Us for more information on this program). Jade also applies her clinical expertise to facilitate customized staff trainings on accessing mindfulness, preventing compassion fatigue, and processing vicarious trauma.

 

She and Dr. Joel met working with children at a camp for at-risk youth in the summer of 2001 and have been partners ever since. Jade is proud to further the mission of inclusive and accessible care as an executive board member of this organization, Ramapo for Children, and bring a family sentiment to the practice where her sons occasionally lend a helping hand!

Dr. Lauralee Johnson
PT, DPT

Clinical Director Flex Cold Spring

MEET DR. LAURALEE

Dr. Lauralee Johnson, PT, DPT, (she/her) obtained her Doctorate of Physical Therapy with honors from Touro College of Health Sciences. Her earliest interest in the field began while dancing for a pre-professional company in her hometown of southern Virginia. Lauralee went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Dance Science at Goucher College. During this time, she worked at John Hopkins Hospital as a physical therapy aide, and completed an internship with a world renowned foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon.

 

Lauralee’s experience includes working with a variety of orthopedic and neurological populations of all ages, including athletes and active New Yorkers. She’s mastered her skills through years at orthopedic outpatient facilities, Alvin Ailey School for Dance, and injury prevention educational workshops. She practices from a biomechanical approach, utilizing a neuromuscular and manual foundation supported by evidence based results. Lauralee’s passion is in customizing treatment; targeting the true underlying cause of dysfunction; empowering patients through education; and returning each individual to a safe, active, pain free, and confident lifestyle.

Madison Baughman
MS, OTR/L, CHT

Certified Hand Therapist

MEET MADISON

Madison Baughman, MS, OTR/L, CHT is a Certified Hand Therapist at Flex Physical Therapy. She graduated with a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from NOVA Southeastern University. Great passion and commitment contributed to Madison’s pursuit of the field of Occupational Therapy, and her work as a healing professional, after post undergraduate exploration in the fashion industry in NYC and abroad. While pursuing her graduate studies, Madison gained experience in outpatient orthopedics, hand therapy, and acute care. She continued to obtain valuable skills working in Washington DC with the military population at Walter Reed doing orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation; providing therapy for children with physical and sensory challenges; as well as at Stamford Hospital where she identified and honed her area of expertise as a premier hand specialist.

 

Madison is committed to supporting patients in maximizing and restoring hand function, optimizing executive functioning, meeting developmental milestones, and is especially skilled in the treatment of traumatic injuries to the upper extremity and fabrication of custom-made splints. She has proudly and diligently completed the 4,000 hours of direct client contact and passed the extensive board exam required to obtain the prestigious Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) title. When not working or studying, Madison enjoys traveling, weightlifting, staying active and spending time with family and friends.

 Dr. Sandon Stevens
PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

MEET DR. SANDON

Dr. Sandon Stevens, PT, DPT received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Hunter College and his undergraduate degree in History from the University of Florida. Sandon applies knowledge of interpersonal relationships and stellar communication from several years in sales to passionately ensuring a positive patient experience and high quality care. In the clinical setting, he gained expertise in acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient orthopedics while also conducting research involving multiple sclerosis.

 

Combining an evidence-informed approach, exercise and individualization, Sandon strives to optimize recovery by addressing underlying biomechanical and neurophysiological causes while teaching individuals how best to utilize their movement system given their goals and lifestyle.

 

In his free time Sandon enjoys spending time with loved ones, exploring the city, and playing guitar.

Dr. Lauralee Johnson
PT, DPT

Clinical Director Flex Cold Spring

MEET DR. LAURALEE

Dr. Lauralee Johnson, PT, DPT, (she/her) obtained her Doctorate of Physical Therapy with honors from Touro College of Health Sciences. Her earliest interest in the field began while dancing for a pre-professional company in her hometown of southern Virginia. Lauralee went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Dance Science at Goucher College. During this time, she worked at John Hopkins Hospital as a physical therapy aide, and completed an internship with a world renowned foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon.

 

Lauralee’s experience includes working with a variety of orthopedic and neurological populations of all ages, including athletes and active New Yorkers. She’s mastered her skills through years at orthopedic outpatient facilities, Alvin Ailey School for Dance, and injury prevention educational workshops. She practices from a biomechanical approach, utilizing a neuromuscular and manual foundation supported by evidence based results. Lauralee’s passion is in customizing treatment; targeting the true underlying cause of dysfunction; empowering patients through education; and returning each individual to a safe, active, pain free, and confident lifestyle.

Madison Baughman
MS, OTR/L, CHT

Certified Hand Therapist

MEET MADISON

Madison Baughman, MS, OTR/L, CHT is a Certified Hand Therapist at Flex Physical Therapy. She graduated with a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from NOVA Southeastern University. Great passion and commitment contributed to Madison’s pursuit of the field of Occupational Therapy, and her work as a healing professional, after post undergraduate exploration in the fashion industry in NYC and abroad. While pursuing her graduate studies, Madison gained experience in outpatient orthopedics, hand therapy, and acute care. She continued to obtain valuable skills working in Washington DC with the military population at Walter Reed doing orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation; providing therapy for children with physical and sensory challenges; as well as at Stamford Hospital where she identified and honed her area of expertise as a premier hand specialist.

 

Madison is committed to supporting patients in maximizing and restoring hand function, optimizing executive functioning, meeting developmental milestones, and is especially skilled in the treatment of traumatic injuries to the upper extremity and fabrication of custom-made splints. She has proudly and diligently completed the 4,000 hours of direct client contact and passed the extensive board exam required to obtain the prestigious Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) title. When not working or studying, Madison enjoys traveling, weightlifting, staying active and spending time with family and friends.

 Dr. Sandon Stevens
PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

MEET DR. SANDON

Dr. Sandon Stevens, PT, DPT received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Hunter College and his undergraduate degree in History from the University of Florida. Sandon applies knowledge of interpersonal relationships and stellar communication from several years in sales to passionately ensuring a positive patient experience and high quality care. In the clinical setting, he gained expertise in acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient orthopedics while also conducting research involving multiple sclerosis.

 

Combining an evidence-informed approach, exercise and individualization, Sandon strives to optimize recovery by addressing underlying biomechanical and neurophysiological causes while teaching individuals how best to utilize their movement system given their goals and lifestyle.

 

In his free time Sandon enjoys spending time with loved ones, exploring the city, and playing guitar.

FLEX Physical Therapy NYC & Coldspring, Dr.Alanna Tropelov

Dr. Alanna Trophelov
PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

MEET DR. ALANNA

Dr. Alanna Trophelov, PT, DPT (she/her) obtained her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Stony Brook University following receipt of her BA in Psychology and Education from UC Santa Cruz and a year-long trip across Europe. Her journey into the field of physical therapy began when she became a certified Pilates instructor and recognized the benefits of prehab in preventing injuries.

 

With previous experience in diverse clinical settings including outpatient orthopedics, acute inpatient rehab, and pediatrics, Alanna has developed a well-rounded skill set. Currently, she directs her treatment efforts towards enhancing her patient’s functional capacity and improving their neuromuscular connection. Her goal is to alleviate pain and facilitate a quick return to activity through the implementation of specialized manual therapies and therapeutic activities.

 

Alanna’s dedication to her profession extends to her commitment to ongoing education and professional development. She is actively working towards obtaining her CFMT (Certified Functional Manual Therapist) through the IPA (Institute of Physical Art) to enhance her understanding of these principles and provide her patients with advanced specialized care.

 

Beyond her work in the clinic, Alanna finds joy in traveling, cooking, hiking, and camping.

Flex Physical Therapist- Dr. Joseph Lume, PT, DPT

Dr. Andy Wang
PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

MEET DR. ANDY

Dr. Andy Wang, PT, DPT received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from University of California – San Francisco. Andy provides an individualized and eclectic approach to treating patients while valuing the unique bio-psychosocial factors that shape each patient’s life experience.

 

His treatment approach involves utilizing advanced manual therapy techniques including soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization/manipulation to decrease patient pain and improve movement. This is combined with customized exercise programs that address patient needs to help them reach their full physical potential, whether that be getting back onto the playing field or working from home pain-free.

 

In his free time, Andy enjoys playing basketball, golf, surfing, and playing the piano.

FLEX Physical Therapy NYC & Coldspring, Dr.Alanna Tropelov

Dr. Alanna Trophelov
PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

MEET DR. ALANNA

Dr. Alanna Trophelov, PT, DPT (she/her) obtained her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Stony Brook University following receipt of her BA in Psychology and Education from UC Santa Cruz and a year-long trip across Europe. Her journey into the field of physical therapy began when she became a certified Pilates instructor and recognized the benefits of prehab in preventing injuries.

 

With previous experience in diverse clinical settings including outpatient orthopedics, acute inpatient rehab, and pediatrics, Alanna has developed a well-rounded skill set. Currently, she directs her treatment efforts towards enhancing her patient’s functional capacity and improving their neuromuscular connection. Her goal is to alleviate pain and facilitate a quick return to activity through the implementation of specialized manual therapies and therapeutic activities.

 

Alanna’s dedication to her profession extends to her commitment to ongoing education and professional development. She is actively working towards obtaining her CFMT (Certified Functional Manual Therapist) through the IPA (Institute of Physical Art) to enhance her understanding of these principles and provide her patients with advanced specialized care.

 

Beyond her work in the clinic, Alanna finds joy in traveling, cooking, hiking, and camping.

Flex Physical Therapist- Dr. Joseph Lume, PT, DPT

Dr. Andy Wang
PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

MEET DR. ANDY

Dr. Andy Wang, PT, DPT received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from University of California – San Francisco. Andy provides an individualized and eclectic approach to treating patients while valuing the unique bio-psychosocial factors that shape each patient’s life experience.

 

His treatment approach involves utilizing advanced manual therapy techniques including soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization/manipulation to decrease patient pain and improve movement. This is combined with customized exercise programs that address patient needs to help them reach their full physical potential, whether that be getting back onto the playing field or working from home pain-free.

 

In his free time, Andy enjoys playing basketball, golf, surfing, and playing the piano.

FLEX Physical Therapy NYC & Coldspring, Dr.Alanna Tropelov

Zane Lynch

Practice Manager

MEET ZANE

Zane Lynch (he/him) brings stellar leadership, initiative and attention to detail to the Flex team. He graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre and a Minor in Gender Studies. Zane incorporates his passion for supporting people in regaining movement, stemming from his own experience in the field as a trained dancer and Hot HIIT Bikram instructor, and his strong operations skillset to ensuring a positive patient experience for all. Zane is thrilled to live in the dance capital of the world. When not in the clinic, he can be found supporting and participating in performance arts across the city! 

Ambar Perez

Patient Care Coordinator

MEET AMBAR

Ambar Perez is a native New Yorker who received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Prior to joining the Flex team she worked as a Medical Receptionist at a bustling dental practice here in NYC. She brings her warm spirit and sense of humor to the office each day. Ambar’s adventurous nature has led her on a quest to find the best vibes in New York City.

Gigi Hausman, Patient Liason at Flex Physical Therapy NYC

Ruchir Khazanchi

Marketing Outreach Coordinator

MEET RUCHIR

Ruchir Khazanchi is grateful to be with the Flex PT Team. He enjoys helping people find resources needed to optimize their well-being. Ruchir applies prior experience in communications and education to this outreach role, including work at a nonprofit providing students across New York with arts education they would otherwise not have access to. He is a believer in the power of music, art and healing. Ruchir’s interpersonal skills coupled with his ability to engage others in a productive and meaningful way enhance the Flex experience.

Matt Harris SPT. Patient Liaison Flex Physical Therapy UWS NYC & Cold Spring, NY.

Matt Harris, SPT

Patient Liaison

MEET MATT

Matt Harris, SPT is a Doctor of Physical Therapy student at Columbia University. Prior to his time in New York, Matt received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Virginia Tech. He is eager and impassioned to help all who walk through Flex’s doors. Matt contributes thoughtfulness and thoroughness to ensure a supportive and positive patient experience. In his free time Matt loves to run, cook, and explore Central Park!

FLEX Physical Therapy NYC & Coldspring, Dr.Alanna Tropelov

Zane Lynch

Practice Manager

MEET ZANE

Zane Lynch (he/him) brings stellar leadership, initiative and attention to detail to the Flex team. He graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre and a Minor in Gender Studies. Zane incorporates his passion for supporting people in regaining movement, stemming from his own experience in the field as a trained dancer and Hot HIIT Bikram instructor, and his strong operations skillset to ensuring a positive patient experience for all. Zane is thrilled to live in the dance capital of the world. When not in the clinic, he can be found supporting and participating in performance arts across the city! 

Ambar Perez

Patient Care Coordinator

MEET AMBAR

Ambar Perez is a native New Yorker who received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Prior to joining the Flex team she worked as a Medical Receptionist at a bustling dental practice here in NYC. She brings her warm spirit and sense of humor to the office each day. Ambar’s adventurous nature has led her on a quest to find the best vibes in New York City.

Gigi Hausman, Patient Liason at Flex Physical Therapy NYC

Ruchir Khazanchi

Marketing Outreach Coordinator

MEET RUCHIR

Ruchir Khazanchi is grateful to be with the Flex PT Team. He enjoys helping people find resources needed to optimize their well-being. Ruchir applies prior experience in communications and education to this outreach role, including work at a nonprofit providing students across New York with arts education they would otherwise not have access to. He is a believer in the power of music, art and healing. Ruchir’s interpersonal skills coupled with his ability to engage others in a productive and meaningful way enhance the Flex experience.

Matt Harris SPT. Patient Liaison Flex Physical Therapy UWS NYC & Cold Spring, NY.

Matt Harris, SPT

Patient
Liaison

MEET MATT

Matt Harris, SPT is a Doctor of Physical Therapy student at Columbia University. Prior to his time in New York, Matt received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Virginia Tech. He is eager and impassioned to help all who walk through Flex’s doors. Matt contributes thoughtfulness and thoroughness to ensure a supportive and positive patient experience. In his free time Matt loves to run, cook, and explore Central Park!