Toni A., PT
Clinical Manager/ Physical Therapist PT Team Leader

Location
Lake County First Steps (FGRBI Trained) & Remote for Clinical Management

Meet Toni, a beacon of excellence in the realm of pediatric physical therapy. Her journey commenced with earning a Bachelor of Human Health Sciences earned in 1997, followed by a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Clarke College in 1998, With a profound passion for pediatric care, Toni specialized in early intervention, along with valuable experience in outpatient clinics and educational institutions. Today, she shines not only as the Physical Therapist Lead, but also as the Clinical Manager at Wee Care Therapy. In 2023, She was honored by her colleagues to be the recipient for the state’s First Steps Excellence in Service Award. Toni boasts a diverse skill set, including myofascial release, Kinesio taping, adept handling techniques, and sensory-based strategies. Her collaborative spirit thrives as she closely partners with orthotists, durable medical equipment suppliers, fellow therapists, and, most importantly, families. Her extensive portfolio includes treatment of children bearing a spectrum of diagnoses such as autism, prematurity, cerebral palsy, torticollis, plagiocephaly, sensory processing disorder, Down syndrome, and various genetic and developmental challenges. Equipped with CPR certification, Toni confidently cares for children with G-tubes, ventilators, and tracheostomies. Beyond her professional prowess, Toni channels her “spare time” as a dedicated Girl Scout Troop Leader. As a mother of two, she deeply treasures the value of family involvement in every child’s developmental journey. Toni’s enthusiasm is infectious, and she’s eager to embark on your child’s remarkable developmental odyssey, alongside you!

Christine D., PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

Location
Lake County First Steps (Virtual Only)

Meet Dr. Christine, a board-certified Physical Therapist, who remains at the forefront of pediatric research, ensuring that the strategies she employs are grounded in the latest evidence-based practices. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Dayton in 2017, followed by her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Marymount University in 2020. Her impressive continuing education includes training in Parkinson’s management, stroke rehabilitation, and advanced pediatric therapy techniques, notably neurodevelopmental treatment, orthotic intervention, breathing and postural control, and cerebral palsy. Dr. Christine’s heart lies in pediatrics, where her versatile experience spans various settings, from clinical practice to early intervention and hospital-based care. Currently, Dr. Christine provides her services at Wee Care Therapy exclusively through our Wee See Teletherapy Program, showcasing her adaptability and embrace of modern therapeutic approaches. She has experience working with children facing diverse challenges, such as Down syndrome, autism, hydrocephalus, torticollis, plagiocephaly, coordination disorders, toe walking, and various developmental, chromosomal, and neurological differences. She maintains her CPR certification and emphasizes safety in her treatment techniques. Dr. Christine understands that success lies not only in addressing physical needs but in fostering a comprehensive partnership with children and their families. She believes in the importance of providing a holistic approach when working with children and their families to help them achieve their goals while making therapy fun and engaging. With Dr. Christine, therapy isn’t just a task—it’s a fun adventure where goals are achieved, and smiles are abundant!

Deanne H., PT, C/NDT
Physical Therapist

Location
Dyer Clinic & Lake County First Steps

Meet Deanne, a remarkable Physical Therapist with an unwavering commitment to excellence. With the attainment of a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Marquette University in 1991, she commenced a truly illustrious career. Deanne has garnered the prestigious neurodevelopmental treatment certification in pediatrics. She is also CPR certified. She remains vigilant in ensuring her skills remain at the cutting edge. Deanne has delved into specialized courses including myofascial release, cranial-sacral therapy, Kinesio taping, and sensory-based strategies. She has become a trusted partner for children facing diverse diagnoses, including prematurity, neurological disorders, cerebral palsy, torticollis, plagiocephaly, brachial plexus injury, sensory processing disorder, Down syndrome, toe walking, and various genetic and developmental disorders. Her skill set encompasses proficiency in orthotics and adaptive equipment. Deanne believes that therapy should be a source of joy and inspiration. She understands that optimal learning occurs when a child is fully engaged and motivated, and she infuses every session with this dynamic energy. Deanne prioritizes the family as an integral part of the therapeutic process and fosters a collaborative environment that empowers both children and their loved ones. Her dedication, combined with her ever-evolving knowledge, makes her an invaluable asset in the pursuit of your child’s growth and development. With Deanne by your side, your child’s therapy experience assures progress, engagement, and plenty of giggles!

Mary Lu K., PT
Physical Therapist

Location
Lake County First Steps Fluent in Spanish

Meet Mary Lu whose illustrious journey began with the attainment of a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Northwestern University in 1985. She is fluent in Spanish, but what truly sets her apart is her exceptional breadth of experience. She has been a guiding light for children facing a myriad of challenges, spanning neurological, genetic, developmental, and orthopedic domains. Her diverse caseload has included youngsters with cerebral palsy, prematurity, torticollis, plagiocephaly, idiopathic toe walking, sensory processing disorder, spina bifida, hypotonia, muscular dystrophy, Down syndrome, autism, brachial plexus injuries, osteogenesis imperfecta, and neuromuscular and mitochondrial diseases. Moreover, she ensures the safety of her clients by maintaining her CPR certification. She has worked in various settings, from the hospital (including NICU), to schools, clinic, and early intervention. Mary Lu is masterfully skilled in serial casting to address toe walking stemming from issues like muscle tone fluctuations and sensory processing difficulties. She closely collaborates with local orthotists. Her expertise extends into the realm of tailored and molded seating and positioning solutions. She assists families in navigating the complex landscape of adaptive equipment. She is an enthusiastic, passionate advocate for every child she treats. Mary Lu is eager to share her wealth of knowledge and experience with you and your child!

Fisioterapeuta
Conozcan a Mary Lu, en 1985 obtuvo su Licenciatura en Fisioterapia de la Universidad Northwestern. Mary Lu habla español con fluidez y ha sido una luz guía para niños que enfrentan una infinidad de desafíos. Su experiencia y amplitud de conocimiento abarca Dominios Neurológicos, Genéticos del Desarrollo y Ortopédicos. Por lo cual, ha trabajado en diversos entornos, desde el Hospital (incluida la UCIN) hasta Escuelas, Clínicas e Intervención Temprana. Mary Lu ha trabajado con un diverso número de casos, incluyendo jóvenes con Parálisis Cerebral, Prematuridad, Tortícolis, Plagiocefalia,Trastorno del Procesamiento Sensorial, Espina Bífida, Hipotonía, Distrofia Muscular, Síndrome de Down, Autismo, Lesiones del Plexo Braquial, Osteogénesis Imperfecta y enfermedades Neuromusculares y Mitocondriales. Ella tiene una habilidad excepcional en la aplicación de yeso para prevenir el caminar de puntillas debido a problemas como las fluctuaciones del tono muscular y las dificultades del procesamiento sensorial. Colaborando extensivamente con Ortesistas locales. Además, mantiene su certificación de RCP. Su experiencia se extiende al ámbito de las soluciones de posicionamiento y asientos moldeados y personalizados. Ella ayuda a las familias a navegar y es una defensora apasionada. ¡Mary Lu está ansiosa por compartir su gran conocimiento y experiencia con usted y su hijo!