Our Therapists and Staff
Our Extraordinary Team
Here at Orange Pediatric Therapy, we are staffed with therapists and administrative personnel who strive to meet every individual’s needs that walks through our doors. We take great pride in what we do and find joy in the smiles of every child and family we treat. For more details on our staff, select the appropriate team tab below.
Physical Therapy Team
Occupational Therapy Team
Speech Therapy Team
Administrative Team
Physical Therapy Team
Craig Goldstein
Owner, Physical Therapist
Craig attended Thomas Jefferson University and has been practicing since 1996. He opened Cheshire Fitness Zone on January 1, 2001. Craig is an adjunct professor at Quinnipiac University, Department of Physical Therapy. In his spare, time Craig enjoys spending time with family, hiking, biking and skiing. Craig has also led a group of physical therapy and occupational therapy students to Guatemala to provide therapy services to people in need for the past two years and has participated in Skiers Unlimited for the past 20 years, a program that teaches children with special needs to snow ski. Want to know why Craig opened Cheshire Fitness Zone? Find out in his exclusive Employee Spotlight!
Kristen Kolwicz
Rehab Director, Physical Therapy Department Supervisor, Physical Therapist
Kristen attended Quinnipiac University and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2005, starting as an aide before becoming a PT in 2007. If Kristen is not spending time with her husband and kids, she enjoys doing DIY home projects. Get a glimpse into Kristen’s day-to-day: check out her exclusive employee spotlight interview!
Jessica Carbone
Physical Therapist Assistant
Jessica attended Eastern Connecticut State University and Naugatuck Valley. She has been a member of Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2008. Jessica really enjoys the problem solving involved in toe walking gait abnormalities. In her spare time Jessica enjoys spending time with her family and friends, hanging with their dogs, Bonnie, Clyde and their growing family of goats. She is a music lover and Zumba Fitness Class Teacher. Jessica also belongs to a book club and enjoys listening to educational podcasts. Want to learn more about Jessica? Check out her exclusive employee spotlight interview!
Caitlin Kearns
Physical Therapist
Caitlin attended the University of Connecticut’s Physical Therapy program for her graduate degree and Stonehill College for her undergraduate degree, majoring in Health Sciences. She has been practicing PT since 2016 and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2017. In her spare time, Caitlin enjoys being with her family and friends, running and playing with her cat, Shera. To learn more about Caitlin and her role at Cheshire Fitness Zone, check out her exclusive employee spotlight interview!
Amanda Morgan, DPT
Physical Therapist
Amanda attended Sacred Heart University and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since the beginning of her career as a Physical Therapist in 2012. She specializes in Aquatic Therapy, Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy and is a Children’s Yoga Instructor. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, hiking, bike riding, going to the beach, teaching graduate students at Sacred Heart and cheering for the Patriots! Get a glimpse into Amanda’s day-to-day: check out her exclusive employee spotlight interview now!
Katherine Velez
Physical Therapist Assistant
Katherine attended Norwalk Community College and has been practicing since 2015. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, bike riding and running.
Stephanie Komp
Physical Therapist
Stephanie attended The University of Hartford and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since becoming a Physical Therapist in 2015. In her spare time, Stephanie enjoys hiking, running and spending time with her family.
Valerie Enge
Physical Therapist, Supervisor, & Engagement Coordinator
Valerie attended Quinnipiac University for her undergraduate and Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2021 and in her spare time, enjoys exercising, exploring new places, and spending time with family and friends!
Liana Pagano
Physical Therapist/ Supervisor
Liana Pagano is a physical therapist who graduated from Quinnipiac University as a Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2015. She has worked in pediatrics ever since and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2018. Liana leads Cheshire Fitness Zone’s hippotherapy program at SpiritHorse Therapeutic Riding Center of Canton on Mondays. She has participated in trainings through the American Hippotherapy Association, completed a capstone project on therapeutic riding while in grad school, has volunteered at therapeutic riding programs, enjoys horseback riding in her free time, and is passionate about helping children of all abilities, especially neuromuscular challenges. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and dog, as well as traveling!
Michelle Brennan
Physical Therapist
Michelle attended UCONN and has been practicing for over 20 years. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2007 and specializes in developmental delay, torticollis, CP; DOC Band Clinician. In her spare time, she loves to spend time with her husband, Chris, her children, Ella, Liam, and Colin, and their dog, Millie. She also loves reading a good book and going outdoors.
Stefanie Alia
Physical Therapist & Student Coordinator
Stefanie attended Quinnipiac University and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since the beginning of 2022. She enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with friends and family in her spare time.
Jessica Storch
Physical Therapist & Mentor Coordinator
Jessie attended Springfield College and graduated in May 2022. She has been working at CFZ since August 2022. Jessie likes to hike, read, workout, and spend time with friends and family!
Marissa Bowen
Physical Therapist
Marissa graduated from University of Hartford in 2022, as long as her time at CFZ! In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and being active, painting and crafting, and reading new books!
Katie Kelly
Physical Therapist
Katie graduated from Quinnipiac University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023! In her spare time, she enjoys working out, reading, spending time with family and friends, and going to the beach!
Annie Dey
Physical Therapist
Annie graduated from Northwestern University and has been practicing since 2020. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023. In her spare time, Annie enjoys crafting, baking, reading, and spending time outside!
Becca Houle
Physical Therapist
Becca graduated from Russell Sage College and has been practicing since 2022. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023. In her spare time, Becca enjoys spending time with family and friends, going for walks, and completing puzzles, (1000+ pieces the harder the better)!
Mikaela Magee
Physical Therapist
Mikaela graduated from Sacred Heart University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023!In her spare time, Mikaela likes to read and spend time with her friends and family!
Danielle Novak
Physical Therapist & Site Lead
Danielle graduated from the University of Hartford, and began practicing in 2019. In her spare time, Danielle enjoys traveling to new places, practicing yoga, going to hockey games, and crafting!
Ariana Savarino
Physical Therapist
Ariana received her bachelor’s and Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Quinnipiac University. She has been at Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2022! In her spare time she enjoys kayaking, dancing, spending time with her family and nephew, gardening, and learning about bee keeping.
Brianna “Bri” Mengold
Physical Therapist Assistant & Engagement Coordinator
Bri graduated from Naugatuck Valley Community College. She has been practicing since 2019, and has been at Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2021. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, hanging out with friends and family, and trying new foods!
Lauren “Laur” Shanley
Physical Therapist
Laur graduated from Quinnipiac University for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys exercising, reading, traveling, and spending time with her fiancé, Chris, and her mini-Aussie, Chai.
Annaliese Herrera
Physical Therapist Assistant
Annaliese graduated from NVCC and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she loves to read and spend time with her daughter!
Julia Lagace
Physical Therapist
Julia graduated from UConn for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024. In her spare time, she enjoys crafting, baking, and spending time with family and friends!
Angelique Donati
Physical Therapist
Angelique graduated from Quinnipiac University. She has been practicing since 2021 and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and enjoying the outdoors, playing the piano and guitar, and spending time with family and friends!
Occupational Therapy Team
Amy Cahill
Occupational Therapy Department Manager, Occupational Therapist, Co-Owner of Orange Location, Administrative Director
Amy attended the University of New Hampshire and has been practicing for over 20 years. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2009. Her specialties include Feeding, Therapeutic Listening, SI Certification, and Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy. In her spare time, Amy enjoys spending time with her family, traveling to new places, exercising, being outdoors and reading.
Katie Steffens
Occupational Therapy Department Supervisor & Occupational Therapist
Katie attended the University of New Hampshire and has been practicing since 2006 and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2012. She specializes in ASD and sensory processing. In her spare time, Katie enjoys spending time with friends and family, Crossfit, going to concerts, going out to eat, gardening, organizing and DIY projects.
Bianca Lane
Occupational Therapist
Bianca attended Ithaca College and has been practicing since 2007. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2013. Bianca specializes in feeding and ages birth to 5 and is a Certified Lactation Counselor. In her spare time, Bianca loves running, yoga, rock climbing and being outside with her family! Want to learn more about Bianca’s feeding therapy role? Click here to watch her Employee Spotlight!
Lori Brown
Occupational Therapist
Lori attended the University of New Hampshire and has been practicing for over 25 years. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2012. She specializes in vision and in her spare time, Lori enjoys playing tennis, spending time with her family and running.
Jennifer Evangeliste
Occupational Therapy Department Associate Manager & Occupational Therapist
Jennifer attended Quinnipiac University and has been practicing since 2000. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2012 and is also a part time faculty member at Quinnipiac University. In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys going to the beach, spending time with her two daughters, and visiting family and friends in her home state of Rhode Island.
Amanda Quigley
Occupational Therapist & Student Fieldwork Coordinator
Amanda attended Springfield College and has been practicing since 2016. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2017 and is interested in Sensory Integration Therapy and early childhood neuromotor development and rehabilitation. In her spare time, Amanda likes to play with her dogs, spending time with friends and family and working on DIY and craft projects.
Alex Grey
Occupational Therapist, Supervisor, & Feeding Lead
Alex attended the University of Scranton and has been practicing since 2015, just as long as she has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone. She specializes in feeding therapy and in her spare time, enjoys cooking for family and friends, traveling and outdoor walks with her dog. Check out Alex’s Employee Spotlight here!
Julie Fortuna
Occupational Therapist
Julie attended Quinnipiac University and has been practicing since 2014. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2017 and specializes in feeding therapy. In her spare time, Julie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling to new places, and going to the beach in the summer.
Sara Wayland
Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant
Sara attended Lincoln College for the COTA program and Boston University for her BA in English. She is a school based COTA in the Farmington Public Schools and has been practicing since 2016, just as long as she has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone. Sara is very interested in visual perceptual and ocular motor skills as they relate to academic function. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking with her dog, camping, live music, bird watching and growing indoor and outdoor plants. She also loves cooking and eating!
Michelle Bochiccio
Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant
Michelle graduated from CCSU with bachelors in English as she wanted to be a teacher but was then introduced to Occupational Therapy and received her Associated from Lincoln College of New England. She has been practicing since 2015 and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2018. Michelle is excited to learn all that Cheshire Fitness Zone has to offer and eventually work more in helping kids who have difficulty with feeding. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, baking and babysitting her 5-month old niece.
Allison Vachon
Occupational Therapist, Supervisor
Allison attended the University of Southern Maine. In her spare time, she enjoys running, hiking with her dog, doing yoga, and spending time with her family and friends.
Beth Baker
Occupational Therapist, Mentor Coordinator
Beth attended Hofstra University and is interested in feeding therapy and sensory integration. She is interested in music, photography, beach trips and travel!
Brittney Gravel
Occupational Therapist, Supervisor, Site Lead, & Engagement Coordinator
Brittney attended Quinnipiac University and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2020. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing with her dogs, cooking new recipes and attending motorsports races.
Kyeana Martone
Occupational Therapist
Kyeana attended Quinnipiac University for her Bachelors and Masters Degrees. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2021 and is excited to continue learning and growing at CFZ. Kyeana is interested in feeding therapy and hopes to work with children who have difficulties with feeding. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, hanging out with friends and family, cuddling her two dogs, and trying new activities.
Julianne Boggs
Occupational Therapist & Site Lead
Julianne attended Gettysburg College for her bachelor’s degree and Mary Baldwin University for her doctorate degree. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2021! Julianne is interested in sensory processing and reflex integration. In her spare time, she enjoys dancing, seeing Broadway musicals, and spending time with friends!
Kia Silverstrim
Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant
Kiia attended Goodwin University and is interested in sensory integration. In her spare time, she enjoys doing crafts, online shopping, spending time with friends and family and making memories with her kids!
Mikayla Giana
Occupational Therapist
Mikayla attended Husson University for her undergraduate and graduate degrees. In her spare time, she enjoys going to the beach, baking, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.
Alyssa Vugdalic
Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant
Alyssa attended Bay Path University for her Bachelors Degree in Health and Human studies before attending Lincoln College of New England where she received her Associates of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistance. She has been practice since 2018, previously working in hand therapy. In her spare time, she enjoys trips to the beach, crafting, baking and spending time with her family. Working with the pediatric population has always been her passion and she looks forward to exploring more feeding therapy and sensory integration.
Sue Allen
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant / Authorization & Benefits Specialist
Sue attended Keuke College and Champlain College. She has been practicing since 2002, and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2021! Sue enjoys outdoor activities, camping, and spending time with friends and family.
Marlee Zyskowski
Occupational Therapist
Marlee attended Bay Path University and started working at Cheshire Fitness Zone as an Occupational Therapist in 2022. In her free time, Marlee enjoys getting outside for a walk or hike, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends.
Amanda Casey
Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant
Amanda attended CCSU with a Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise Science and graduated from Goodwin University with an Associate’s in OTA. Amanda joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in April of 2022. In her spare time, Amanda enjoys singing and listening to music, playing with her dog named Ollie, and spending time with friends and family.
Hilary Berk
Occupational Therapist & Supervisor
Hilary started working for CFZ October 2022, but she has been practicing OT since 2008. She attended the University of Connecticut for her bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies, then Towson University in Maryland for her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with family, eating sweets, doing yoga, listening to music, and being outdoors!
Alyssa Law
Occupational Therapist
Alyssa started working at CFZ in 2022 and graduated from Worcester State University. Her favorite thing to do outside of work is swimming, shopping and going to the beach!
Morgan Salerno
Occupational Therapist
Morgan graduated from Bay Path University in 2020 with her Masters in Occupational Therapy. She started working for CFZ in December 2022 and is interested in sensory processing and constraint induced movement therapy. Outside of work Morgan is a competitive powerlifter who enjoys adventuring and eating ice cream.
Karissa Laramie
Occupational Therapist
Karissa earned her bachelor’s and master’s from Quinnipiac University. She has been practicing since 2022, as long as her time at CFZ! In her spare time, she enjoys running and biking, as well as hiking and traveling to National Parks!
Ashley Boehm
Occupational Therapist
Ashley earned her bachelor’s and master’s from Quinnipiac University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023! In her spare time, she enjoys running, going to Disney, reading, and spending time with friends and family!
Elizabeth “Lizzy” Darin
Occupational Therapist
Lizzy earned her bachelor’s from University of Connecticut and her master’s from Sacred Heart University. She has been practicing since 2021. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with my family and friends!
Erin Buckingham
Occupational Therapist
Erin earned her bachelor’s at the University of Saint Joseph and her Doctorate from Murphy Deming College. She has been practicing since 2022, and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023! In her spare time, she likes to crochet, bake, and cuddle with her cats (Elliott and Oliver)!
Julianna Dodge
Occupational Therapist
Julianna graduated from Bay Path University. She began practicing in 2022, and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling to new places, going to movies and to the beach, and eating food!
Laurie Faughnan
Occupational Therapist
Laurie graduated from Temple University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023! In her spare time, she likes to spend time with her family.
Erica Elliott
Occupational Therapist
Erica graduated from Bay Path University. She has been practicing since 2022 and joined CFZ in 2023. She was a COTA for 5 years, which helped her become who she is today, and inspired her to become an OT! In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, fiancé, friends, and her dog Sadie! She likes to golf, run, dance, bake, read, eat, and go on adventures. She’s also a huge Disney fan!
Rachael Albertson
Occupational Therapist
Rachael received both her bachelor’s and master’s degree from The University of Scranton. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023! In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, going out on the boat, going to the beach, and doing yoga!
Delaney Hayden
Occupational Therapist
Delaney received her undergraduate degree from Randolph College and her graduate degree from Brenau University. She has been practicing since 2022 and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023. In her spare time, she likes to shop, refurbish furniture, play card games, and try new restaurants!
Nicole Kellner
Occupational Therapist
Nicole earned her undergraduate degree at Southern Connecticut State University and her graduate degree at Bay Path University. She has been practicing since 2020, and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her free time, she enjoys running, painting, and spending time with family and friends.
Hannah Kelly
Occupational Therapist
Hannah earned her bachelor’s degree from UCONN and master’s degree from Bay Path University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her free time, she enjoys reading, shopping, spending quality time with friends and family, watching basketball (go UCONN!), and traveling to Florida.
Meghan Weeks
Occupational Therapist
Meghan graduated from Springfield College for her undergraduate degree and Bay Path University for her graduate degree. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024, and has been practicing since 2021! In her free time, she enjoys swimming, biking, running, surfing, and walking on the beach! She also likes to hang out with friends and explore new places!
Brittani “Britt” Barry
Occupational Therapist
Brittani received her undergraduate and graduate degree from Bay Path University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her free time, she enjoys hiking, pilates, reading, crocheting, and cooking!
Sarah Farnsworth
Occupational Therapist
Sarah earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Utica University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys playing Pickleball, hiking, taking walks, and yoga!
Shannon Barkan
Occupational Therapist
Shannon earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Quinnipiac University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys running, golfing, doing crafts, playing with her dogs, spending time with her family, and traveling!
Caitlin “Cait” Pursell
Occupational Therapist
Cait received her undergraduate degree from Providence College and earned her graduate degree at Sacred Heart University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, running, skiing, hanging with friends and family, spending time at the beach, and playing with her dog Tootsie!
Raleigh Silvia
Occupational Therapist
Raleigh graduated from Ithaca College for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She has been practicing since 2018 and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys hiking with her daughter, husband, and two dogs.
Gianna Polletta
Occupational Therapist
Gianna received her undergraduate degree from UConn and her graduate degree from Sacred Heart University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys going for walks, visiting different coffee shops, and hanging out with friends!
CaraMarie Carboni
Occupational Therapist
CaraMarie received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Quinnipiac University. She has been practicing since 2006, and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, gardening, spending time with her husband and children, and reading!
Kelly DiBiaso
Occupational Therapist
Kelly graduated from Russell Sage College for her undergraduate degree and The Sage Colleges for her graduate degree. She has been practicing since 2020, and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her free time she enjoys hiking on local trails, going for scenic car rides, and playing Dungeons and Dragons with friends and family!
Speech Therapy Team
Kimberly Doherty
Speech-Language Pathologist & Speech-Language Pathology Department Supervisor
Kimberly attended Southern Connecticut State University and has been a Speech-Language Pathologist since 2003. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2008, specializing in feeding and oral motor. Kim is also PROMPT trained. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking and spending time with her family.
Hannah Wilson
Speech-Language Pathologist
Hannah attended Southern CT State University and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2015. She is Hanen certified in the More Than Words program. In her spare time she enjoys hiking and going to the beach! Hannah was lucky enough to know she wanted to pursue a career in Speech and Language Pathology when she was in high school. Find out more about her and why she knew this at such a young age at her Employee Spotlight video!
Ali Brown
Speech-Language Pathologist
Ali attended Southern CT State University where she received a B.S in Communication Disorders and the University of Rhode Island where she received a M.S. in Speech Pathology. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2017. She enjoys working with families to create programs for the home environment as well as fluency and pragmatic language intervention. In her free time she enjoys walking her dogs, reading and photography! To get a glimpse into Ali’s day-to-day, check out her employee spotlight!
Kaitlin Louie
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kaitlin received her B.A. from Ohio State University and her M.A. from University of Cincinnati. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and playing board games.
Grace Potwardowski
Speech-Language Pathologist
Grace attended The College of Saint Rose for her Bachelors degree and Molloy College for her Masters degree. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2019. Grace is most passionate about stuttering cases and in her free time she enjoys singing, kayaking, biking, hiking, painting, writing poetry, reading, riding rollercoasters and visiting family and friends.
Alicia Rahim
Speech-Language Pathologist/ Supervisor/ Meriden Site Lead/ DEI Lead
Alicia attended Sacred Heart University for her masters degree. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2020. Alicia is interested in expressive/receptive language intervention and articulation. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, shopping, watching movies, and reading.
Emily Sudhoff
Speech-Language Pathologist
Emily attended Springfield College for her bachelors degree and Sacred Heart University for her masters degree. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2020 and specializes in Autism spectrum disorders. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking, and paddleboarding.
Jack Roth
Speech-Language Pathologist
Jack attended UConn for his undergraduate degree and Southern Connecticut State University for his graduate degree. He specializes in Autism and B23. In his spare time, Jack enjoys hiking, cooking, and reading.
Warren Adams
Speech-Language Pathologist
Warren attended Southern Connecticut State University for both his undergraduate and graduate degrees. He specializes in working with ASD or social-communication disorder. He also specializes in fluency disorders, implementing aspects of a fluency enhancement or stuttering modification approach. In addition, he has experience working with articulation/phonological disorders and receptive/expressive language impairments. In his spare time, Warren loves to spend time with family, read, play sports, travel, and be outside!
Jill Rosoff
Speech-Language Pathologist & Supervisor
Jill Rosoff attended UConn for her Bachelors degree and received her Masters degree at MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston. She has been practicing since 2018 and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2021. Jill loves scrapbooking, cooking, traveling, hiking, playing with her nephews, and spending time with her friends and family!
Lindsay Zissis
Speech-Language Pathologist
Lindsay attended New York University and has been practicing since 2015 and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2022. She specializes in oral motor, voice, expressive/receptive language development, executive functioning skills and literacy. In Lindsay’s spare time she is an aerial artist and competitor!
Jenifer Kelly
Speech-Language Pathologist
Jenifer attended Loyola University for her BS and MS. She starting working at CFZ in 2022 but has been practicing since 1999. She is a board-certified specialist in child language disorders (BCS-CL) and is passionate about working with and supporting children on the autism spectrum, particularly promoting social use of language and connecting with others through communication. In her free time Jenifer enjoys to read, write stories, hike with her dog in the many trails and state parks near her home, and travel to Puerto Rico and Baltimore to visit her children and grandchildren.
Ledia Fazo
Speech-Language Pathologist
Ledia attended Southern Connecticut State University for her undergraduate and masters degree. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2022. In her spare time, Ledia enjoys time in nature, climbing, biking, knitting, trivia, and doing yoga.
Catherine Soto
Speech-Language Pathologist
Catherine attended Southern Connecticut State University, and began working at Orange Pediatric Therapy in August 2022. Catherine likes to stay active by playing volleyball with her family, going out to restaurants, and trying new foods.
Emily VanLoo-Hsu
Speech-Language Pathologist
Emily started working with Cheshire Fitness Zone in July 2022, after moving from the Bay Area in California where she had been practicing in a multidisciplinary tech-driven Autism clinic. She completed her undergraduate double major in Linguistics and Italian Studies at University of California Berkeley, and her post-baccalaureate undergraduate credits and Master’s of Science in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences at California State University. She loves to try new restaurants, spend time with her Scottish Terrier, Bob (he talks using buttons!), and read books or watch TV!
Kasia Sroka
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kasia started working at Cheshire Fitness Zone in February 2022. She went to Penn State University for undergrad and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and graduated in December 2017. She attended graduate school at Hofstra University and received her Master’s Degree in Speech and Language Pathology and graduated in May 2020. Outside of work she enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends in her free time.
Jazmin Gonzalez
Speech-Language Pathologist
Jazmin earned her bachelor’s at UConn and master’s from Mercy College. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023! In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, hanging out with her dog, reading, listening to music, and watching TV. She also occasionally fosters pups!
Caitlyn Koster
Speech-Language Pathologist
Caitlyn earned her bachelor’s and master’s from SCSU. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023! In her spare time, she likes to write and crochet. She also has a cat named Benny that always keeps her on her toes!
Sierra Taylor
Speech-Language Pathologist
Sierra earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Hartford and her graduate degree from SCSU. She has been practicing since 2021 and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2022. In her spare time, Sierra enjoys going to the park with her dog, reading (specifically thrillers), and hopes to get more into rollerblading and skiing!
Tanya Burton
Speech-Language Pathologist
Tanya earned her bachelor’s and master’s from Southern Connecticut State University, and has been practicing since 2015. In her spare time, Tanya loves to craft and play with her dogs!
Shelby Herzfeld
Speech-Language Pathologist
Shelby earned their bachelor’s degree from Stony Brook University and their master’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University. They joined Cheshire Fitness in 2023! In their spare time, Shelby enjoys cooking and eating delicious food, traveling, doing crossword puzzles, and spending time outside with loved ones!
Michaela Zegarelli
Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant
Michaela graduated from Springfield College. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023! In her spare time, she likes to go hiking, do CrossFit, and try new restaurants!
Matt LaPorta
Speech-Language Pathologist
Matt graduated from Southern Connecticut State University. They joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023! When they are not at work, Matt enjoys watching movies, hiking, and reading!
Kimbelyn “Kim” Ortiz
Speech Language Pathologist
Kim earned her bachelor’s from Lehman College and master’s from Emerson College. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023! In her spare time, she enjoys reading, shopping, knitting, and crocheting.
Samantha Glasow
Speech Language Pathologist
Samantha earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Southern Connecticut State University. She began practicing in 2020 and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2022! In her free time, she enjoys reading, working out, and spending time with family and friends!
Kristina Detweiler
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kristina graduated from Southern Connecticut State University for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She has been practicing since 2016, and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her free time, she enjoys reading, exercising, hiking, spending time with her 2 cats, and going to the beach!
Elizabeth Fox
Speech-Language Pathologist
Liz graduated from University of Connecticut for her undergraduate degree and Southern Connecticut State University for her graduate degree. She has been practicing since 2017, and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, hiking, baking, reading!
Natalie Arneson
Speech-Language Pathologist
Natalie earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southern Connecticut State University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she likes to hike, swim, walk her dogs, and go to the beach!
Kelli Krofssik
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kelli earned her bachelor’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University and her graduate degree from Sacred Heart University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys going to the beach, cooking, reading, traveling, and going on nature walks.
Nina Traub
Speech-Language Pathologist
Nina earned her undergraduate degree from UConn and her graduate degree from SCSU. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, going to the beach, reading, and spending time with friends and family!
Keriany “Keri” Otero Garcia
Speech-Language Pathologist
Keri earned her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree at SCSU. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, reading, watching movies, going on long walks with her Frenchie, and spending time with her family and friends!
Annie Gunn
Speech-Language Pathologist
Annie earned her undergraduate from Southern Connecticut State University and graduate degrees from Sacred Heart University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time she enjoys running, watching documentaries, hanging out with her family, and going for drives in her convertible.
Lilly Mastrogiovanni
Speech-Language Pathologist
Lilly earned her undergraduate degree from UConn and her graduate degree from Southern Connecticut State University. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys reading, hanging out with her three cats, traveling, and shopping!
Annamarie Nuwagaba
Speech-Language Pathologist
Annamarie graduated from Southern Connecticut State University for her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys playing piano, cooking, and taking walks.
Emma Goodwin
Speech-Language Pathologist
Emma graduated from Springfield College for her undergraduate degree and Emerson College for her graduate degree. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, hanging out with family and friends, and reading!
Kelsey “K” Hall
Speech-Language Pathologist
K received their undergraduate degree from the University of New Hampshire and their graduate degree from Sacred Heart University. They have been practicing since 2018, and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In their spare time, they enjoy weightlifting, spending time outdoors, watching anime and reading manga, indulging in k-pop, and exploring neat little vegetarian places!
Penina Martin
Speech-Language Pathologist
Penina received her undergraduate degree from Mercy College and her graduate degree from University of Cincinnati. She has been practicing since 2019, and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys hanging out with her family and reading a good novel.
Administrative Team
Shay Munson
Marketing and Office Manager
Shay attended Sacred Heart University where she received her B.A. in Marketing and her Masters in Business Administration. Shay specializes in social media and experiential marketing. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends and two dogs, trying new restaurants, running and the occasional Netflix binge.
Jackie Gomes
Front Desk Manager
Jackie attended Emerson College and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2001. Her career had been in television, working at Fox TV in Hartford and Media Networks in Stamford. After having her third child, whom was born with a disability, Jackie decided to change careers and met Craig, owner of Cheshire Fitness Zone. Craig pinpointed her child’s delays and provided therapy services to improve these delays. She has grown close to most of the families and children that come through the door. In her spare time, Jackie enjoys shopping, going for morning walks and spending time with her family. Take a deeper look at the group of administrative staff on their employee spotlight page!
Michelle
Billing Manager
Michelle has been working at Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2002. She started working here in August of 2002 as a part-time billing assistant just a few hours a month and worked her way up to a full-time billing manager. Her background previously has been in the bookkeeping/human resource fields. Michelle has experience in processing A/R, A/P, payroll, human resources and a school secretary, sometimes holding multiple jobs at one time. In her spare time, Michelle enjoys exercising, going for walks and spending time with her family.
Audra Wahlberg
Billing/Authorization Specialist
Audra attended Branford Hall and has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since August of 2014. In her spare time, Audra enjoys exercising, cooking and hanging out with friends.
Ambreen Khan
Front Desk Associate
Ambreen has a Bachelors in Political Science and has recently completed a Medical Billing and Coding Certification. In addition to working as a front desk associate, she works as a Paraprofessional in a local school system. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, reading, spending time with family and traveling to different parts of the country.
Maureen Dupuis
Billing
Maureen attended Southern Connecticut State University. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, reading, taking long walks on the beach and scrapbooking.
Diane Baum
Front Desk & Pool Site Lead
Diane attended North Branford and Endicott College in Beverly, Massachusetts. In her spare time, she enjoys photography of all sorts, tending to her multitude of rescue pets, and volunteering with Yalesville Little League junior league as a scorekeeper!
Lauralyn Schultz
Human Resources
Lauralyn earned her BBA from Western Connecticut State University and specialized in Human Resources. She has been working in Human Resources since 2005, working for both Fortune 500 companies and for small non-profits. Prior to going back to school, Lauralyn worked in Human Services, in both direct care and as a manager. The populations she worked with included individuals with developmental behavioral disabilities and severe medical conditions. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening whenever possible and playing with her furry children, Trouble and Kato.
Lindsay Swann
Human Resources
Lindsay Swann joined Cheshire Fitness Zone as a Human Resource Manager in 2023, and has been working in Human Resources since 2011. She graduated from Central Connecticut State University a Business Management Degree with a focus on Human Resources. In her free time, Lindsay likes to spend time with her dogs, hanging out with family and friends, and shopping!
Meghan Jones
Front Desk Associate
Meghan attended Trident Technical College in Charlestown, South Carolina. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2020. In her spare time, Meghan enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new places, and gardening/spending time outside.
Susan Velleca
Billing Specialist
Sue has worked in our billing department since July 2020. She came to us with over 10 years of billing experience. Sue loves to spend time with her large family which includes her husband, 5 daughters, and 14 grandchildren, with number 15 due soon. Most Sundays you can find her cooking for her families weekly dinners. Sue is also active in the Sons & Daughters of Italy club, and also likes to exercise, play golf, and spend time with friends.
Cindy Franzis
Scheduling Specialist
Cindy attended Naugatuck Valley Community College and Porter and Chester. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, gardening, bee keeping, traveling and yoga.
Tina Blue
Front Desk Associate
Tina attended Notre Dame High School and Sacred Heart University. She has been with Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2021 working at the front desk. Tina enjoys spending time with her friends and family, especially with her two sons. She enjoys live music and keeping her house filled with as many plants as she can!
Laureen Gonzalez Namias
Front Desk Associate
Laureen attended the University of Phoenix. She started working at Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2022. Laureen has a large skill set and has experience in Human Resources, Elementary Education, Nursing, Education, Head Teaching, Food Service Management, Marketing, and Customer Service. In her spare time, Laureen enjoys spending time with her husband and children discovering new adventures.
Valentina Troncoso
Scheduling Specialist & Site Coordinator
Valentina has been our scheduling specialist since July of 2022. She has come to us with over 4 years of experience as an administrative assistant. In her spare time Val enjoys spending time with her two boys and family, going to the beach, and traveling.
Courtney Kummer
Front Desk Associate
Courtney graduated from Dean College. She has been at Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2022. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, baking, gardening, and decorating for the holidays!
Lucy Vorio
Benefits Coordinator
Lucy received a certification from American Association of Medical Assistants. She has been at Cheshire Fitness Zone since 2015. In her free time she enjoys baking, cooking, shopping, and walking.
Cathi Sharshniou
Front Desk Associate
Cathi graduated from Trinity College. She joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2023. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, hiking, and gardening.
Cristal Garcia
Front Desk/ Scheduler
Cristal studied at Andrews University and joined Cheshire Fitness Zone in 2024! In her spare time, she enjoys crafting and spending time with her friends and family!