The PULSE The PULSE SEPTEMBER 2026
SAME TEAM.
NEW CHAPTER.
Announcements
Save the Date Getting the Most Out of Your UHC Benefits Enrolled in one of PTSMC’s UnitedHealthcare (UHC) medical plans? Join a “Getting the Most Out of Your UHC Benefits” webinar to learn how to make the most of your coverage. UHC representatives will share helpful tips, tools, programs, and resources available to you and your family.
IN THIS ISSUE Employees pg 3-5 Five Promotions!
Tuesday, September 29, 2026 11:30 AM - 12:00PM Wednesday, September 30, 2026 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Main Feature pg 6-10 Same Team. New Chapter.
Look out for email communications to sign up for a date!
2026 SECOND BURST SURVEY The second round of the “Burst Surveys” will be open September 29 – October 13.
Highlights & Happenings pg 11-15
These short, anonymous surveys, will be sent multiple times throughout the year to help us better understand your experience. Employees who are beyond their probation period will be sent the survey to their PTSMC email, from Mallory Izmirlian via SurveyMonkey. This is your opportunity to share what’s going well and where we can improve. Your feedback plays a key role in shaping the PTSMC experience. We encourage everyone to participate!
DON’T MISS OUT!
5K
The Extra Mile pg 16 The Human Side of Efficiency
Clinicians Corner pg 17-18 Choosing the Right Progression in Physical Therapy
PTSMC WALLINGFORD IS HOSTING A RACE!
STRIDE TO PROVIDE
REGISTER NOW!
STRONG STEPS, FULL PLATES. SUPPORTING MASTER’S MANNA SUNDAY, SEPT. 13 9AM-1PM
DAG MIDDLE SCHOOL
September DEI Forum Thursday, September 24 2:30-3:00 PM Topic: The Hidden Rules of the Workplace: Exploring Workplace Subculture RSVP by email to: Marilex.Harwood@ptsmc.com
PTSMC’S
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BENEFITS HUB What you’ll find: Information about your PTSMC benefits Resources to support you through life's important milestones and transitions Mental, physical, and financial wellness tools On-demand resources and helpful guides United Healthcare programs and member resources Employee perks, discounts, and additional support programs HR and benefits contacts when you need assistance
DISCOUNTED EDGE FITNESS MEMBERSHIPS ARE LIVE! A new PTSMC employee perk is here! PTSMC employees can now access discounted membership rates at The Edge Fitness Clubs. READY TO JOIN? Available to all PTSMC employees, including current Edge members Register in person at any CT Edge location Bring the flyer on page 3 of the packet to receive discounted pricing CLICK HERE for full details and the registration flyer. You can also find the flyer in the: PTSMC Benefits Hub Perks & Programs.
→
Visit the Hub PTSMC Benefits Hub
Join us for an
OPEN HOUSE
& Ribbon Cutting
FOOD - DRINKS - FUN! Come celebrate a year of the Norwich clinic with Partner Adam Rosenblatt and others from the PTSMC and Norwich community.
FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
PTSMC NORWICH
Thursday, Oct. 8 | 5pm-7pm 113 Salem Turnpike, Unit 11 www.ptsmc.com/norwich
RSVP BY SCANNING THE QR CODE
Welcome
ptsmc employees
ome Back! Welc
John Allen Wethersfield PCC
Gigi Amatulli Danbury PSC
Alex Belmore Lock Street PT Aide
Mikayla Bibbins Guilford PT
Megan Borghi Hamden PT
ome Back! Welc
Aracelys Cruz Southington PT Aide
Halid Dervisevic Wethersfield PT
Deagan Granville Newtown PT Aide
Riley Hahofer Wallingford PT Aide
Alyssa Dichard Putnam PT Aide
Chris Fillion Hamden PT
Lydia Garneau Hamden PT Aide
David Hoyle Putnam PT
Michael Iwanicki Waterbury PT Aide
Mariah Niday New Haven PT Aide
ome Back! Welc
Jack Post Lock Street Traveler PT
Selina Robertson Glastonbury PT
Aaliyah Rodriguez Hamden PSC
Not Pictured New Employees Kate Cervini, Groton PT Aide
Carson Gotimer, Newington PT Aide
Brooke Cole, Southington PT Aide
Robert Heroux, Norwich PT Aide
Cheryl Dufault, Wallingford ATC
Sara McCrosson, Wallingford PT Aide
Jared Ezer, Easthampton, MA PT Aide
Nathan Ouellette, Windsor PT Aide
Colin Feeney, Southington PT Aide
Ian Spracklin, Guilford PT Aide
Lorelei Garneau, Wallingford PT Aide
Riley Worboys, Southington PT Aide
Greyson Golda, Newtown PT Aide
Years
Year
Matthew San Angelo
Michelle Arrigoni Liz Campoli Patrick Coley Ciara Collins Alexander Cugno Meera Das Ciara Halloran
PTA
Southbury
September Anniversaries
PT PCC PT PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide
West Hartford Wallingford Guilford Wallingford Bristol Middletown Guilford
Kyan Konareski Evelyn Lewis Joseph Mordus Liam Mortimer Ava Saraceno Matteo Tillona Sophia Wellisch Ashlynn Witt
Promotions
PCC PT Aide PT PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide
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Bristol Essex New Milford Newington Fairfield Windsor Fairfield New Haven
Congratulations to Hannah Brennan on her promotion to Patient Services Administrator in Danbury! Since joining the team in 2025, Hannah has demonstrated a commitment to growth, collaboration, and exceptional patient service. Over the past year, she has become a trusted resource for her teammates and the clinic as a whole. In her new role, Hannah has taken on increased leadership responsibilities, including helping train Danbury’s newest PSC, Gigi Amatulli. Drawing from her own experiences and the mentorship she received, Hannah embraces the opportunity to guide others, see it as opportunity to test her own skills, revisit approaches and tailor workflows to the clinic’s needs. Hannah is also very solution oriented and always bring a “Let’s make it happen” attitude to problem solving.
What Hannah loves most about Danbury, are the relationships sha has built with her coworkers and patients. They have a great synergy going as a team! Whether she is supporting a therapist, welcoming a patient, or simply sharing a conversation in the waiting room, Hannah strives to make every interaction meaningful. Congratulations to Jessica Cherwin on her promotion to Patient Services Coordinator in Norwich! Jessica started working in Norwich from opening day in 2025 as a Patient Care Coordinator and is excited to take on additional front desk responsibilities. She explained that in particular, “Learning the insurance side of patient care is something I have always been interested in, and this opportunity allows me to expand my knowledge while developing new skills.” Jessica feels prepared for the PSC role because of the support of her colleagues. She reflected that, “The team members who have trained me were knowledgeable, patient and always willing to help... someone is available to answer questions, creating an environment where learning and growth are encouraged.” One of Jessica’s favorite parts about Norwich is the opportunity to connect with patients. The relationships she’s built while supporting patients through their recovery are what make coming to work each day so meaningful to her. Adam Rosenblatt, Norwich Partner, shared, “One of the things that stands out most about Jessica is her eagerness to learn and willingness to help wherever needed. Jessica brings a positive energy to the clinic each day and genuinely cares about our patients' experiences. This promotion is well deserved, and we are excited to support her as she continues to grow within PTSMC”.
Promotions
Congratulations to Jenna Hancock on her promotion to Patient Services Administrator in New London! Since joining PTSMC in 2017, Jenna has built strong relationships with patients and became someone people naturally turn to for help, guidance, and support.
In her new role, Jenna will be taking on more responsibility supporting the front desk team and keeping clinic operations running smoothly. She’s excited to have more opportunities to support her coworkers, continue growing as a leader, and make an impact on the New London team and their patients. Jenna credits her growth to the many experiences she's had along the way and the support she's received from her coworkers and leaders, especially Scott Olmstead, New London Partner. Through those experiences, she has strengthened her communication skills, built confidence, and developed into the leader she is today. Her mentality is “people first”, and when asked what she enjoys most about leadership, Jenna's answer was simple, “Helping people.” It’s not surprised when asked what her favorite thing about working in New London is, the answer was also, “The people!” Congratulations to Chloe Pearce on her promotion to Credentialing & Billing Coordinator. In her new position, Chloe will take on credentialing responsibilities while continuing to support billing operations. She started as a PSC in Groton in 2018 where she learned front desk operations and developed a peoplefirst way of working that shows in everything she does. In 2023, Chloe joined the Authorization team. She was known for her willingness to jump in any where any time. Chloe then took on a lead role in supporting the Monroe and Newtown acquisition, where she was the onsite and go-to person to help ensure the teams could transition as seamlessly as possible. Shortly after she transitioned into the role of Billing Representative. Adding credentialing to her repertoire, Chloe shared that she is looking forward to, “Becoming a resource that our clinicians and team can rely on. I’m excited to work with different departments, build new relationships, and help keep the process running smoothly!” Senior Director of Revenue Integrity, Jenn Detlefsen, share that, “Chloe delivers on our PT for Life culture daily! Her dedication, attention to detail, and willingness to help have given us every confidence that she will do an excellent job in this expanded role.”
Congratulations to Michele Zemaitaitis on her promotion to Yale Health Referral Team Lead! Michele joined PTSMC January 2023 as a PSC in Groton. She grew her impact across the organization when she stepped into the role of YHP Customer Service Representative. Most recently, the YHP team began to utilize the Epic EMR platform. Michele dove in to learning that system and figuring out how it could strengthen the referral workflows. In her new role, Michele supports Christine Hill, YHP Senior Referral Coordinator, and the YHP team with referral triage, staff training, and making sure the team has the resources they need to succeed. Christine shared, “It’s so exciting to recognize Michele in a role she has been making such a great impact in. Her background as a PSC, combined with previous Epic expertise, tech-savvy skills, and talent for organizing processes and workflows brings so much value to our Yale Health Referral Team. I'm excited to see what is ahead for Michele in her evolving role!”
Congratulations!
SAME TEAM.
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NEW CHAPTER.
Beginning September 1, Mike Durand will serve as Chief Executive Officer and Sandy Wickman Mason as Chief Operating Officer, with Alan Balavender continuing as Owner & Partner. The new leadership structure marks an important next step for PTSMC, one that builds on the people, culture, and values that have shaped the organization while creating greater clarity for the future.
In this month’s PULSE, we hear from Alan on the why, look ahead with Mike as he shares the priorities that will guide PTSMC in the years ahead, and we take a closer look at the people behind the new titles.
Address A LEADERSHIP TRANSITION ROOTED IN GRATITUDE & CONFIDENCE As I reflect on the history of PTSMC, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for where we started, for the people who helped build this organization, and for the opportunity to have served as President during so many meaningful chapters of our growth. From the beginning, PTSMC has always been about people: the patients who trust us, the communities that welcome us, and the team members who bring our mission to life every day. Watching this company grow because of the dedication, character, and commitment of so many individuals has been one of the great privileges of my professional life. This journey fills me with both pride and excitement for what lies ahead. As recently announced, I will transition from my role as President into the role of Owner & Partner. While my title and day-to-day responsibilities are changing, PTSMC ownership is not changing. This transition allows me to continue supporting PTSMC while also creating the opportunity for the next generation of leadership to strategically and intentionally move the organization forward. This decision for me has been an evolutionary process. Some people have asked what my job will be six months from now. To be completely honest, I am not 100 percent sure. The uncertainty gives me pause on
occasion; however I find the prospect of change exciting. I am excited to explore a new role while staying connected to PTSMC’s people, culture and future. Transitions like this naturally bring reflection, but for me they also bring confidence. I have great confidence in Mike Durand stepping into the Chief Executive Officer role. Mike’s history with this organization is inseparable from the story of PTSMC itself and I have equal confidence in Sandy Wickman Mason stepping in to the Chief Operating Officer role. Both have helped shape PTSMC over many years, and I trust the experience, judgement, and commitment they bring to this next chapter. I also have confidence in all of you. The strength of this company has never rested on one person or one title. It has always rested on our shared culture, our belief in doing the right thing, and our commitment to providing exceptional care. While my role is changing, my belief in PTSMC continues, and I remain deeply committed to the company, our patients, and our team. Please feel free to reach out with any thoughts or questions about the transition.
LOOKING AHEAD
A MESSAGE FROM MIKE DURAND I am honored and humbled to step into the role of CEO. As I do, I want to begin by sharing a simple message: while leadership titles may change, our mission, values, and commitment to our people remain unwavering. For nearly three decades, PTSMC has built something special. We have grown from a single clinic into a leading physical therapy organization by staying true to who we are, putting patients first, investing in our people, and creating opportunities for physical therapists and team members to grow their careers and leadership potential. That foundation will continue to guide everything we do.
OUR VISION: To lead the markets we serve in musculoskeletal care as a PT-owned organization, integrating clinical excellence and complementary services to support active living throughout every stage of life. We improve the quality of people's lives through unmatched experience, clinical excellence, and lifelong relationships, powered by a mission-driven, values-based culture where people are supported, developed, and empowered.
Over the coming years, our work will be centered around three strategic pillars:
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PURPOSEFUL GROWTH
We will continue to scale responsibly by investing in clinics, leaders, and partnerships that preserve clinical excellence, improve performance, and create opportunities for physical therapists to lead and pursue ownership.
02
CLINICAL & OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
Our goal is to make it easier for our clinicians and support teams to focus on what matters most: delivering exceptional patient care.
03
PEOPLE POWERED PERFORMANCE
Our greatest competitive advantage has always been our people. We will continue to hire, develop, and retain team members who embrace our mission and culture, while creating new pathways for professional growth, leadership development, and long-term success.
8 A MESSAGE FROM MIKE DURAND
As we move forward, I believe there can be no denying that PTSMC is an organization dedicated to improving lives and a business. The two are not in conflict. In fact, they depend on one another. Strong financial performance allows us to invest in our people, open new opportunities, expand patient access, and continue delivering on our mission. As Alan often reminds us, "No Margin, No Mission." Many organiztions define success by reaching a certain size or revenue. That is not what guides PTSMC.
OUR NORTH STAR
IS OPPORTUNITY.
Our expansion is not driven by clinic count. It is driven by our belief that physical therapists should have meaningful opportunities to lead clinics, pursue ownership, advance clinically, and help shape the future of their profession. When we create those opportunities, we also create opportunities for clinical advancement, leadership development, and career growth throughout the organization. As long as there are physical therapists who aspire to leadership and ownership, and as long as there are communities that can benefit from the PTSMC way of delivering care, we will continue creating pathways for growth. That belief was at the heart of PTSMC when Alan founded it, and it remains at the heart of PTSMC today. It will continue to guide our decisions, strategy, and culture for years to come. In the months ahead, I will share regular updates regarding our progress, priorities, and long-term strategy. I want our PTSMC family to understand not only where we are going, but also why we are going there and how each of us contributes to that journey.
Thank you for your commitment to our patients, your support of one another, and your dedication to the culture that makes PTSMC unique. I am excited about what we will accomplish together.
Mike Durand Chief Executive Officer PTSMC
BEHIND THE TITLE: AN EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
MEET MIKE DURAND
Few people can say they've witnessed the growth of PTSMC from the very beginning… Mike is one of them. Alongside Sandra Boccialetti (Director of HR) and Carol Corbo (Waterbury PSA), Mike was one of the "OGs" of PTSMC, working at the company before Alan purchased the organization in 2000.
His story shares a parallel with Alan's, as Mike was raised in an entrepreneurial family. Both he and Alan had parents who owned small businesses and were raised with: if you weren't playing sports, you were working for your dad. It's a connection that has helped shape their shared appreciation for hard work, persistence, and community. Outside of work, family is at the center of his life. Mike and his wife, Stacey, have two daughters, Sarah and Ali. Sarah recently married her husband, Jeff, and Ali just became engaged to Andrew. Exciting times for the Durand family!
FUN FACT:
Mike began his career as an Athletic Trainer treating patients. He later moved into clinic leadership, first as Assistant Director and later Director of the Waterbury clinic, while also pursuing his MBA from the University of Hartford. As PTSMC evolved, his career did too, eventually taking him from the Business Office and revenue cycle operations into Business Development.
Mike shot his only hole-in-one (so far) at the 2024 CTAPTA Golf Tournament, sinking a 185-yarder with a 5-iron on the 11th hole at Keney Park. The funniest part? There was no hole-in-one prize, so his reward was a $25 gift card for being closest to the pin.
Mike also loves to stay active, read, travel, and, perhaps most of all, golf. Italy, particularly Florence, is his favorite travel destination, although surprisingly, no golf was involved. Mike grew up in Putnam and attended UConn, and he remains a loyal Huskies fan, especially when basketball season rolls around.
WHAT OUR TEAM IS SAYING:
“One of the things that stands out about Mike is how much he enjoys seeing people grow. Mike really enjoys watching someone who has worked hard at PTSMC get to the point where they can become a partner and have a piece of something they’ve helped build.” – Jim Hungerford, AVP of Finance
“I have been fortunate to know Mike Durand both personally and professionally for nearly 25 years. Mike has always brought professionalism, creativity, and a collaborative approach to everything he does. More importantly, he has been someone I have truly enjoyed working with and consider a friend.” -Steve Platt, Guilford & Wallingford Partner
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BEHIND THE TITLE: AN EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
MEET SANDY WICKMAN MASON
When Al first brought Sands to PTSMC in 2004, it was to consult with and analyze PTSMC Accounts Receivable operations. This consulting role soon became something much bigger. At the time, PTSMC had just four clinics. Sands’ early work focused on organizational development and preparing the company to grow, helping build the leadership, management, and operational structures that would support an expanding organization.
Originally from Granby, Sands attended the University of Maine in Orono and later earned her master’s degree in Organizational Behavior from UHart. She lives in Simsbury with her husband, Ken, and loves spending time with her children, Mallory, Marissa and Jeremy, sons-in-law Chris and John, and her extended family. Sports have always been a major part of her life. Sands plays pickleball and tennis, loves to walk, and will happily watch almost any sport. Field hockey, however, has her heart. She played, officiated, spent years as a championship-winning coach, and continues to officiate today.
FUN FACT:
What makes that work especially meaningful is how closely it mirrors her personal values. Having spent her career in the PT industry, Sands believes deeply in the power of physical therapy to improve lives physically, mentally, and emotionally. She is equally passionate about helping people recognize what they are capable of, whether developing leaders at PTSMC, supporting women in leadership, or coaching athletes.
Sands LOVES hearts, and Valentine’s Day is her favorite holiday.
When it's time to relax, you'll find her reading, or gathered around a table with family and friends playing games. Her current favorites include Bananagrams, Trains, and Tapple!
WHAT OUR TEAM IS SAYING: “Sands brings heart, commitment, and our mission into everything she does. She has played an integral role in PTSMC’s success for years, and her dedication to the organization and the people in it is truly unmatched.” -Kristen Forster, AVP of Operations
“Sands has an incredible ability to make the people around her better. She is passionate about teamwork, collaboration, and building strong, meaningful relationships. In the 20 years I have had the privilege of knowing Sands, both as a colleague and a friend, she has consistently been the glue that holds PTSMC together.” -Emily Hansen, Simsbury Partner
HIGHLIGHTS Celebrating our people, clinics, and communities
Matt Holden & Mike Antunes visited the Durham Community Center on Aug 26 for an educational talk on Balance!
SIPTA
Sara Sullivan instructed Athletic Trainers on heat illness, rapid cooling & protocol for cold water immersion at the CATA EAP practice event
ALMDP
GRADUATES
Congrats to the following PT Aides who completed the Skills Introduction for PT Aides Program: Marilexis Abreu, Windsor Samuel Ambrocio, Watertown Sophia Bittar, Monroe Aracelys Cruz, Southington Cristiana De Vivo, Wallingford Michael Galello, Hamden Greyson Golda, Newtown Darshan Hariharan, Monroe Michawl Iwanicki, Waterbury Maguire Mullins, Newington Ian Spracklin, Guilford Cameron Tarasuk, Avon
ALMDP met on August 19 with guest speaker Marilex Harwood for DEI as a Supervisor training. Pictured top left to bottom right: Emily Fillion, Sandy Wickman Mason, Christine Spirtt, Marilex, Chris Colley, Shelby Pocius & Evelyn Villarreal Laclede.
Clinic Anniversaries! Celebrating years of care and community
Naugatuck 2008 Southbury 2014 Branford 2015
New Haven 2015 Fairfield 2019 Lock Street 2020
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CAUGHT IN THE MEDIA! The PTSMC Social Media Team asked the Wallingford staff, “What song will you cross the 5k finish line to?” Let’s just say during editing some of the songs were mixed up. Did you check out your knowledge of PT with Amanda Kell? Check out her series of Trivia and see where you score!
On the Road with the PLs Pat Kinsella (Hamden) & Jane Silva (Shelton) met with Dr. Lindskog from Yale Orthopedic Oncology. Clinicians from Hamden, Guilford, Orange & Wallingford met with foot & ankle surgeon Dr. Irvin Oh from Yale Orthopedic. Andrew Kalach (Fairfield) reconnected with Dr. Karen Sutton and her PA Mackenzie Patterson from HSS Westport. Clinicians from New Milford met with providers from Booth House Primary Care. Connor Sharp (Manchester) shadowed Dr. Cameron Kia from OAH. Clinicians from Bristol, Plainville, Southington, & Wallingford met with Dr. Hudson Seidel, Dr. Brendan Comer & Dr. Ryan Charette from Comprehensive Orthopaedics.
Kasey Adinolfi (Wethersfield) & Connor Sharp (Manchester) met with Dr. Andrew Litchfield & Dr. Amy Bruce from Orthopedic Surgical Partners Manchester. Adam Rosenblatt (Norwich) met with Dr. Nimit Patel from Orthopedic Partners. Heather & Chris met with Yale Orthopedic AT supporting Yale Orthopedic providers for referral communication check-in. Local clinic Partners & Directors were introduced to Xavier High School Athletic Trainer, Kyle Cifarelli for referral coordination of athletes living in their communities.
Fab 5
Quinn (McAnaney) has worked miracles for me! I have two completely severed rotator cuff muscles and have successfully avoided a total shoulder replacement because of PT! Steve (Platt) runs a wonderful practice, and I have been grateful to have had great care for multiple body parts over the past number of decades! Thank you! -Guilford Physical Therapists are the best- Pat (Kinsella) & Ryan (Solorzano) go above and beyond. Very knowledgeable and they listen. The PT Aides are wonderful. I look forward to going to my session. I highly recommend the Hamden location! -Hamden I LOVE the staff at PTSMC Manchester. They are all amazing, knowledgeable, and professional! I feel heard, seen and they have helped me a great deal. Special shout out to Connor (Sharp) who is my primary PT. I so appreciate your thoughtful responses to questions and ideas and your push when needed. -Manchester Physical Therapists and staff are very knowledgeable, and they make the effort to educate the patients as the PT work progresses. They encourage the patients in an upbeat and professional manner to push ahead. -Norwich My therapist Emily (Sternat) is very attentive to my needs to improve physically. She is very observant and listens as I discuss how I'm feeling. She adjusts each session based on how my foot feels. She is very thorough. -Windsor
CLINICAL EXCELLENCE Congrats DOCS Grad! Morgan Gelfand PT, DPT Wallingford Physical Therapist
The DOCS program allowed me to strengthen my foundational skills in physical therapy practice, which is always important no matter how long you’ve been practicing. My next venture is to finish my trigger point dry needling certification this year!
Clinicians attended the DOCS Lower Extremity course at the Wallingford clinic, instructed by Melissa Boutagy and Justin Marceau, and assisted by Bri Boulerice.
Congratulations to our clinicians who obtained their Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist (CMTPT) credentials at the recent Myopain DN 3 course hosted by PTSMC: Daniel Delgado, Windsor Emily Sternat, Windsor Jennifer Ashman, Simsbury Joshua Dobratz, Newtown Kaitlyn Olson, Simsbury Kara Beaupre, Windsor Katherine Fan, Shelton
Congrats DOCS Grad! Danielle Spinella PT, DPT Guilford Physical Therapist
Leah Cummings, Orange Megan McCollum, Windsor Mike Stofko, Shelton Morgan Gelfand, Wallingford Ryan Solorzano, Hamden Sami Brodeur, Watertown Stephanie Santos, Watertown
Student Program Update
My favorite part of the course was the hands-on review and clinical insight from the instructors. Up next, I am taking the OCS exam in 2027!
CI’s with September Students Josh McAdams, Danbury, will host Matthew Martine from University of St. Augustine. Jill Cristaldi, Wethersfield, will host Audrey
“The staff at PTSMC was very welcoming and did a great job of helping me adjust to working in the clinic with them. My CI was terrific and provided timely feedback and helped create numerous learning opportunities to help me grow as a student clinician. Overall, this clinical rotation was an excellent experience.” -Student on final affiliation
Belliveau from Sacred Heart University. Ally Hickey, Watertown, will host Quinn Saltzman from Quinnipiac University (QU). Emily Pelz, Waterbury, will host Noelle Gadue from QU. Brianne Dwyer, Southington, will host Emily Schwartz from QU. Channing Harwood, Wallingford, will host Annissa Ferranti from QU. Kevin Connellan & Adam Willametz, Plainville, will host Elizabeth Pinto-Shaw from QU.
Happenings!
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Pat Kinsella welcomed son Luca Anthony on July 31!
New Haven enjoyed a staff happy hour at Riva in West Haven.
Groton enjoyed some team bonding at a Banana Ball game at Dunkin’ Park!
Matt Baronowski welcomed baby girl Charlotte on August 16!
Danbury celebrated Liza Peressini's upcoming September wedding!
Steven, Lexie, and John were out in the Groton Community for the annual “Blessing of the Fleet”.
PTSMC ATs attended the CATA EAP practice event hosted by Hartford Athletics in collaboration with Dr. Gianpaulo Rufo from UCONN and New Britain EMS to prepare for the Fall sports season.
PTSMC Advisory Board met on August 7, hosted by Alan in Old Lyme.
New London stretched runners and the annual Ocean Beach/ Kelley Half Marathon Race.
Clinicians in action at the DOCS Lower Extremity course!
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The
Extra MILE
The Human Side of Efficiency
In a busy clinic, efficiency matters. We are balancing patients, phones, schedules, paperwork, clinicians, and a dozen other things at once. Moving quickly is often necessary. The challenge is making sure that our pace does not become the patient’s experience. That balance matters because patients can feel the difference between a team that is moving efficiently and an interaction that feels impersonal. There is a difference between being efficient and unintentionally making someone feel rushed. Efficiency says, “I know what needs to happen, and I’ll help you get there.” Rushed can feel like, “I need to get through this interaction so I can move on to the next thing.” Patients notice that difference. They notice when we are focused on the computer instead of making eye contact. They notice when we answer before they finish their question. They notice when our tone changes because the phone is ringing or someone else is waiting. These moments are usually not intentional; they often happen because we are genuinely trying to keep up.
The challenge is making sure our pace does not become the patient’s experience. The good news is that creating a better experience does not always require more time. Often, it is about slowing down the interaction without slowing down the work. Look up. Listen to the whole question. Use their name. Acknowledge when they have been waiting. Let them know what happens next. These are small cues, but they can change how the interaction feels. Those small things tell a patient, “You are not an interruption. You are the reason we are here.”
SLOW DOWN THE INTERACTION. Not the work.
LOOK UP. LISTEN. USE THEIR NAME. ACKNOWLEDGE.
EXPLAIN WHAT’S NEXT.
We can move quickly and still make people feel cared for. That is the difference patients remember, not just that we got things done, but that we made them feel seen, supported, and taken care of along the way.
You are not an interruption. You are the reason we are here.
Clinicians Corner
Choosing the Right Progression in Physical Therapy Adam Rosenblatt PT, DPT, CMTPT Norwich Partner & Director
Exercise progression is often framed as a simple question: Is the patient ready for more weight? An equally important question is whether the patient is ready for a more complex movement. Increasing load primarily increases mechanical demand on the tissues and neuromuscular system, whereas increasing complexity changes coordination, degrees of freedom, stability, variability, or cognitive demands. The appropriate progression should target the patient’s current limiting factor, rather than simply making an exercise “harder.” The practical question is not, “Can the patient lift more?” but “Is inadequate force production limiting the task?” If yes, increasing load is generally preferable to changing the exercise.
Use Movement Quality as the Gatekeeper A key clinical distinction is whether an exercise fails because of insufficient capacity or insufficient control. If the patient maintains alignment, tempo, and technique but cannot complete the task because of force limitations, increase load. If adequate force is present but the patient demonstrates compensations, loss of balance, or difficulty coordinating multiple components, increase complexity. Complexity increases the number of variables the nervous system must coordinate. A lateral step-down, for example, may require frontal-plane control, pelvic stability, proprioception, and eccentric force absorption simultaneously. The goal is not instability for its own sake, but reproduction of the movement problem the patient ultimately needs to solve. Importantly, complexity can reduce the external load a patient can tolerate. A loaded bilateral squat and an unloaded single-leg squat should not be viewed on a simple difficulty ladder; they represent different training stimuli.
Consider the Desired Adaptation The intended adaptation should determine the progression variable. For maximal strength, heavier loading is generally more appropriate. A 2026 American College of Sports Medicine overview incorporating 137 systematic reviews and more than 30,000 participants found that heavier loads (≥80% 1RM) were associated with greater voluntary strength gains, while exercise complexity did not consistently influence outcomes. Conversely, when the goal is transfer to sport, occupation, or a functional task, increasing complexity may provide greater specificity. Research on complex training suggests that combining resistance and
suggests that combining resistance and dynamic exercises can improve sprinting, change-of-direction speed, and countermovement-jump performance, although certainty of evidence remains low to very low for several outcomes.
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A useful conceptual framework for analyzing exercise complexity is:
Each progression increases a different component of task demand. Depending on the rehabilitation goal, complexity can progress through:
Depending on the rehabilitation goal, complexity can progress through:
The external load may remain relatively constant while informational, coordination, and decision-making demands increase substantially.
Clinical Takeaway
Progress complexity when the patient demonstrates adequate physical capacity and movement quality, but the target task still exceeds their coordination, adaptability, or decision-making requirements. If capacity is inadequate, build capacity first. If capacity is adequate but task-specific control or adaptability remains deficient, increase complexity. Do not progress complexity simply because an exercise looks more advanced - progress the variable representing the patient’s next limiting factor. Click Here for References
Cervical Spine Manual Therapy Management Hosted by Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Centers
WHERE PTSMC Southbury 775 Main St S Unit 70 Southbury, CT 06488
WHEN October 17 & 18 8am - 5pm Sat & Sun
REGISTER NOW Registration deadline is September 16
WHY Refine your objective cervical spine examination Improve your understanding of current best evidence for cervical spine manual therapy Refine your techniques with cervical and thoracic mobilization and thrust manipulations Improve your exercise selection for cervical and thoracic spine mobility impairments *For more course details click the link below: ptonice.com/our-courses/cervical-spine/
2026 PTSMC Sponsored Courses Institute of Clinical Excellence: Cervical Spine Management October 17-18, 2026 Location: PTSMC Southbury
CLICK HERE FOR ALL COURSE REGISTRATION LINKS!
2026 DOCS Program Courses Introduction to the Assessment & Treatment of the Concussed Patient November 7, 2026 Instructed by: Rick Purdy, PT, CMTPT, New Haven PT Location: PTSMC New Haven
Editorial Team & Content Contributors
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Co-Editor Marilex Harwood
Co-Editor Mallory Izmirlian
Contributor Alan Balavender
Contributor Meghan Blanusa
Contributor Sandra Boccialetti
Contributor Juliann Chacko
Contributor Emily Fillion
Contributor Kristen Forster
Contributor Aneesa Mohamed
Contributor Caty Mulligan
Contributor Bri Rivera
Contributor
DEI Lead & Senior Internal Communications Coordinator
Clinical Excellence Coordinator & Naugatuck PT
Senior Marketing Coordinator
Director of Culture & Engagement
Owner & Partner
Director of Human Resources
Orange Assistant Director & Director of Student Program
Administrative Office Assistant
AVP of Operations
Janet Tarasuk
Administrative Assistant
Training & Development Coordinator
Practice Liaison
Contributor
Sandy Wickman Mason Chief Operating Officer
Featured This Month: Main Feature Mike Durand
Clinicians Corner Adam Rosenblatt
Chief Executive Officer
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
PT Avon Bristol Danbury Danielson East Hampton Easthampton MA Glastonbury Groton Lock Street Manchester Naugatuck New Haven New London New Milford Newington Newtown Norwich Putnam Simsbury Southbury Wallingford Watertown Westbrook Windsor
OT Lock Street
PT AIDE Danielson Essex Glastonbury Manchester Middletown Monroe New Haven Newtown Orange Putnam Southbury Swansea MA Watertown Westbrook Windsor
PSC Groton Swansea MA Westbrook PCC Westbrook Industrial & Tactical AT Putnam Admin Business Performance Analyst
Contact Karen Havlicek if you are interested in a position
Norwich Partner & Director
Referral Bonus Opportunities ADMIN Hourly: $500 ADMIN Salary: $1000 ADMIN Director: $2000 AT: $1000 PT/OT: $2000
PTA: $1000 PSC: $500 PT Aide: $25 at time of hire, $100 after 180 days of employment.
Contact Us! Comments, suggestions, or questions? Want to contribute to the Pulse? Have photos to share? Email: Marilex Harwood or Mallory Izmirlian
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