Staff

William Weed, PT

Physical Therapist
Co-owner / Co-Founder – New West Rehabilitation

Treatment Philosophy:

• Listen to the patient.
• Always let the patient know through sight, sound, and presentation how much you care, not how much you know.

Education:

• Master of Physical Therapy from Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN in 1991
• Bachelor of Science from Nebraska Wesleyan University in 1989

Specialties:

• Orthopaedic rehabilitation across all age groups
• Emphasis and primary case load of operative and nonoperative shoulder pain and injury
• Manual Therapy
• Sports Rehabilitation, including working with the US Olympic Rowing Team, US Track and Field, as well as multiple college and professional athletes
• Level 1 Functional Dry Needling certified

Personal:

Bill and his wife Peg live in Kearney. Between them they have seven children. His interests include all things family. Bill and Peg also love to travel, pray, hike, golf, exercise, eat well and attend kid's events.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association
• Private Practice Section of the APTA

Terry Nitsch, PTA, ATC

Physical Therapist Assistant
Certified Athletic Trainer
Co-owner / Co-Founder – New West Rehabilitation

Treatment Philosophy:

“I utilize a treatment approach that involves constant communication with my patients and their physician. This communication serves as the backbone of the rehabilitation process. My background in athletic training has helped me understand how important it is to get athletes, and the working population alike, back to activity in the shortest amount of time possible. It is my goal to work with the patient and their physician to be as aggressive as possible, but at the same time, to do it in a safe and productive manner.”

Specialties:

• Sports Medicine and rehabilitation/prevention of sports related injuries. Particular interest in the treatment of the shoulder and knee.

Education:

• Associate of Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant, Colby Community College, 2007.
• Master of Science Degree in Physical Education, Eastern Illinois University, 1993.
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Education, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 1992.
• Completion of Accredited Athletic Training Program, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 1991.

Personal:

Terry lives in Kearney with his wife, Karla. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with friends/family and recreational activities that include basketball, softball, and jogging.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• National Athletic Trainers Association
• Nebraska Athletic Trainers Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association
• Member of the Private Practice Section of the APTA

Matt Lewis, PT

Physical Therapist
Co-owner – New West Rehabilitation
Clinic Director – New West Rehabilitation

Treatment Philosophy:

“I like to establish a good working relationship with the patient starting with a thorough assessment of a patient’s functional and movement limitation. I use a combination of manual techniques, exercise, education, and modalities as needed to help clients reach their goals. Finally, I believe it is important to communicate with patients and their medical provider to optimize quality care.”

Specialties:

• Orthopedic and Sports Rehabilitation
• Spine, Shoulder, Extremity Rehabilitation
• Pediatrics
• Functional Movement – FMS and TPI Certified
• Certified Functional Dry Needling Practitioner
• Neurological Conditions - CVA, TBI, Parkinson's Disease

Education:

• Master of Physical Therapy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 1995.
• Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 1992.

Personal Information:

Matt lives in Kearney with his wife, Jamie, and two children, Betsey & Sam. He enjoys spending time travelling to visit family, home improvement projects, skiing, hiking, golf, and being outdoors.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association
• Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Certified
  • Level 1 Golf Fitness Instructor
  • Level 2 Medical Professional
• Level I&II Certified Functional Dry Needling Practitioner
• LSVT BIG Program certification (for treatment of individuals with Parkinson's Disease)

Kristi Svec, PT

Physical Therapist

Treatment Philosophy:

“I believe listening to a patient is one of the most important parts of an evaluation. I like to spend time with each patient and follow them throughout their rehabilitation program. I believe getting to know my patients helps to achieve their goals and speed up the healing process.”

Specialties:

• Women’s Health
• Oncology
• Orthopedics

Education:

• Master of Physical Therapy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 1996.
• Undergraduate education, Univ. of Nebraska at Kearney.

Personal Information:

Kristi lives in Kearney with her husband, who is also a physical therapist, and their four children. She works part time and in her free time enjoys being outside golfing, playing sports, swimming, and spending time with friends and family.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Member of the Women’s Health section of the APTA

Jennifer McBride, PT

Physical Therapist

Treatment Philosophy:

“I believe a thorough evaluation is imperative for each patient. Listening to the specific history and pain complaints along with assessing all evaluation procedures gives a clear picture for each patients individual needs. Then, a treatment and home exercise program can be initiated and adjusted appropriately through the course of care.”

Specialties:

• Lower Extremity Biomechanical Evaluations (including evaluation of gait at each joint from the foot to the pelvis)
• Running Gait Evaluations and Shoewear Recommendations
• Custom Orthotics
• Evaluation and Treatment of the Extremities

Education:

• Graduated with high distinction from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 1995.
• Attended the University of Nebraska – Lincoln for undergraduate work.

Personal Information:

Jennifer and her husband Mark have three children, Anna, Max, and Ava. Her interests include football, volleyball, and hockey. She enjoys as a family attending sporting events, playing games, and gatherings with friends and family. Personally, Jennifer enjoys running and time with her family.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association
• Orthopedic Section of the American Physical Therapy Association

Brian Malicky, DPT

Physical Therapist
Co-owner New West Rehabilitation

Treatment Philosophy:

“In addition to giving my best to each patient, I believe it is critical to educate the patient on their diagnosis, mechanism of injury, and preventative measures. A thorough understanding of these topics helps further the patient’s desire and efforts as the course of Physical Therapy progresses. I utilize research-based treatments and technological advancements get patients back to doing what they enjoy.”

Specialties:

• Knee and Shoulder Injuries/Rehabilitation
• Complex Multiligament Knee Reconstruction
• High School/College Athletes
• Sports Medicine

Education:

• University of Nebraska Medical Center, Doctorate of Physical Therapy, 2012.
• Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science/Biology, University of Nebraska-Kearney, 2008.
• Graduate of Scotus Central Catholic High School, Columbus, Nebraska, 2004.

Personal Information:

Brian is an alum of the University of Nebraska-Kearney football program. He enjoys attending UNK and high school sporting events as well as hunting, fishing, and traveling with family. Brian lives in Kearney with his wife Nichole and sons Gavin and Layton.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association

Brandon Deeds, DPT

Physical Therapist
Co-owner New West Rehabilitation

Treatment Philosophy:

“My goal is to exceed patient expectations by providing the most up to date and research backed treatment strategies. I believe in using a combination of manual techniques, exercise, and various modalities to ensure a positive experience and successful outcome."

Specialties:

• Orthopedic and Sports Rehabilitation
• Graston Technique Provider
• Certified in Blood Flow Restriction
• Certified Dry Needling Practitioner
• Vestibular Rehab - BPPV and Vestibular Hypofunction
• Occupational Medicine - PCP, Fit for Duty, Functional Capacity Evaluations

Education:

• Doctorate of Physical Therapy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 2013.
• Bachelor of Science Degree, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2009.

Personal Information:

Brandon and his wife, Niki, have two children Jace and Ryann.

Affiliations:

• Adjunct Faculty UNMC - Department of Physical Therapy
• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association
• Student Clinical Instructor

Matthew Shipp, PT, DPT, OCS

Physical Therapist

Treatment Philosophy:

“I believe it is important to begin each patient with a comprehensive examination. This includes the therapists' objective evaluation, but most importantly incorporates listening intently to the patient's main complaints and history. From there, a fun, positive working relationship, consistent education/communication, and the use of evidence-based practice helps each patient work towards their goals and return to the activities that they love."

Specialties:

• Orthopedic and Sports Rehabilitation
• Graston Technique Provider
• Certified in Blood Flow Restriction
• Certified Dry Needling Practitioner
• Vestibular Rehab - BPPV and Vestibular Hypofunction
• Achievement of Orthopedic Clinical Specialist through the APTA

Education:

• Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Creighton University, 2015.
• Bachelor of Science Degree, University of Nebraska - Kearney, 2012.

Personal Information:

I enjoy spending time with family and friends, especially my beautiful wife Shelby and son, Grayson and I typically spend my spare time running, fishing/hunting, or playing with my golden retriever, Ruger.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association

Jordon Potthoff, DPT

Physical Therapist

Treatment Philosophy:

“My goal is to return my patients to their desired level of function and optimize their performance as efficiently and safely as possible. I believe patient's should maintain an active role in their treatment and should fully understand their diagnosis and each intervention utilized. I strive for high quality outcomes using a combination of education, manual therapy, exercise, and communication.”

Specialties:

• Functional Dry Needling
• Manual Therapy
• Sports Rehabilitation

Education:

• Doctorate of Physical Therapy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 2019.
• Bachelor of Exercise Science, University of Nebraska - Kearney, 2015.
• Graduate of Kearney High School, 2011.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association
• Orthopedic Section of the American Physical Therapy Association

Elizabeth Muller, PTA, ATC

Physical Therapist Assistant

Treatment Philosophy:

“I believe each patient should be treated with respect and kindness. The patient should also be able to understand the treatment plan laid out for them, and be comfortable with the therapist.”

Specialties:

• Sports Medicine
• Graston Technique
• Kinesiotaping

Education:

• Associate of Applied Science, Physical Therapist assistant, Colby Community College, 2008.
• Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, University of nebraska at Kearney, 2007.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association
• National Athletic Trainers Association
• Nebraska Athletic Trainers Association

Steph Mosbarger, PTA

Physical Therapist Assistant

Treatment Philosophy:

“I believe in providing a comprehensive treatment including manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and a variety of modalities t ensure every patient returns to the activities they enjoy.”

Specialties:

• Orthopedic and Sports Rehabilitation
• Manual Therapy
• Myofascial Decompression/Cup Therapy
• Advanced Proficiency Pathway in Orthopedics achievement through the American Physical Therapy Association

Education:

• Associate of Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant, Southeast Community College, 2020.
• Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Minor in Health Science, University of Nebraska - Kearney, 2016.

Personal Information:

Steph lives in Kearney with her husband, Jon. She enjoys running, golfing, spending time outdoors, and taking their dogs for walks. Steph is a former NCAA D1 gymnast who now enjoys cheering on the Huskers and Kansas City Chiefs.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association
• Member of the Orthopedic and Sports Sections of the APTA

Brett James, DPT

Physical Therapist

Treatment Philosophy:

“I believe starting each patient with a thorough evaluation that focuses on understanding patient goals and expectations. From there, I emphasize interventions that are evidenced based and patient centered. Education on their medical diagnosis, rehab prognosis, and home exercises are key to the patient meeting their goals and becoming independent with their rehabilitation.”

Specialties:

• Orthopedic and Sports Rehabilitation
• Vestibular Rehabilitation - BPPV and Vestibular Hypofunction

Education:

• University of Nebraska Medical Center, Doctorate of Physical Therapy, 2020
• Concordia University - Seward, Bachelor of Science in Biology, 2017
• Kearney Catholic High School, 2013

Personal:

Being from Kearney, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. Outside of work, I enjoy bass fishing, hunting, golfing, and any outdoor activities.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association
• Orthopedic Section of the American Physical Therapy Association

Janine Walker, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist
Director of Occupational Therapy

Treatment Philosophy:

“As an occupational therapist for over 22 years, I have worked with patients of many unique diagnoses. My philosophy is to treat each patient with the same care and compassion I would want my own family members to experience. I think research and the most up to date treatment techniques are vital in getting the best results from my treatment plans. I also think that the team approach is important to facilitate continuity of care. The patient being the most important part of the team.”

Specialties:

• Hand Therapy
• Orthopaedic Upper Extremity Conditions
• Occupational Medicine-PCP
• Fit for Duty
• Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)
• Splinting
• Certified in Graston Technique 2011

Education:

• Graduated Creighton University in 1988.
• Certified Functional Capacity Evaluator.
• Certified in Physical Agent Modalities.

Personal Information:

Janine is married and has two daughters and one son. Her interests include skiing, walking, biking, and supporting her children in their activities.

Affiliations:

• American Occupational Therapy Association
• Nebraska Occupational Therapy Association

Jackie Kohtz OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Treatment Philosophy:

“I believe open communication is important to build trust and to help a patient in reach their goals.”

Specialties:

• Orthopedic and Hand Therapy
• Occupational Medicine-PCP
• Fit for Duty
• Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)
• Certified in Graston Technique 2011
• LSVT-BIG
• Impairment Ratings

Education:

• Graduated Summe Cum Laude, Creighton University, 1998.
• Undergraduate education, University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
• Graduate of Niobrara Public High School, 1993.

Personal Information:

Jackie and her husband, Ryan, have two children: Lauren and Brayden. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, boating, snow skiing, and running.

Affiliations:

• American Occupational Therapy Association
• Nebraska Occupational Therapy Association

Allison Kiolbasa OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Jeff Gossman, DPT

Physical Therapist

Treatment Philosophy:

"My goal is to exceed patient expectations by providing the most up to date and research backed treatment strategies. I believe in using a combination of manual techniques, exercise, and various modalities to ensure a positive experience and successful outcome."

Specialties:

• Knee and Shoulder Injuries
• Sports Medicine
• Blood Flow Restriction
• McKenzie Treatment of Cervical and Lumbar Spine

Education:

• Doctorate of Physical Therapy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 2013.
• Bachelor of Exercise Science, University of Nebraska Wesleyan, 2009.
• Graduate of Pope John XXIII Central Catholic High School, 2005.

Personal Information:

Jeff and his wife Kellie have two children, Declan and Makai.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association
• Student Clinical Instructor

Scarlett Prorok, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist

Treatment Philosophy:

"I believe in taking a holistic approach to treating my patients by incorporating all aspects of wellness to achieve their therapy goals. Incorporating various types of evidence-based treatment including manual techniques and therapeutic exercises and listening to the patients' needs allows me to provide optimal care. I love creating a safe and comfortable environment for my patients and watching them achieve new heights."

Specialties:

• Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
• General Orthopedic and Sports Rehabilitation

Education:

• Doctorate of Physical Therapy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 2023.
• Bachelor of Exercise Science, University of Nebraska - Kearney, 2020.
• Graduate of Humphrey High School, 2013.

Personal Information:

Any free time I have I love spending quality time with my fiancé and daughter. You can typically find us anywhere outdoors. Other than family time my passions include volleyball and hunting.

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association

Jennifer Marshall, M.S., CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Treatment Philosophy:

“I pride myself on providing a patient centered, therapist guided approach to therapy. I focus on listening to concerns, empowering families, and truly caring to make a difference in the quality of living. I develop individual treatment plans that address functional outcomes for each patient. I am dedicated to providing a respectful and caring atmosphere which utilizes a holistic and collaborative approach that considers communication needs in the home, at work, or in the community. I believe it is essential to provide ethical and excellent therapy services to all my patients and their families and ensure they are treated with the upmost integrity, respect, and compassion. I feel this is my responsibility as a Speech Language Pathologist.”

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Education, Communication Disorders, University of Nebraska- Kearney.
• Master of Science in Education, Speech Language Pathology, University of Nebraska-Omaha.

Personal Information:

Jennifer is originally from Sutherland, Nebraska. She and her husband currently reside outside of Kearney with their two dogs. Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family as well as spoiling her four nieces and nephews. Her hobbies include completing house projects, playing with her dogs and competing in CrossFit.

Affiliations:

• Nebraska Speech Language and Hearing Association
• American Speech Language Association

Doug Cooper, ATC

Certified Athletic Trainer

Treatment Philosophy:

“I enjoy making people laugh and I’ve found humor creates a relaxed and positive environment for patients dealing with orthopaedic injuries. Through my experiences in both collegiate and high school athletics, I’ve found that developing trust and comfort with my patients leads to a faster and more enjoyable healing process. I personally invest in my patients and I am committed to their success on and off the field.”

Specialties:

• Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation/Prevention of athletic injuries
• Shoulder and Low Back Rehabilitation
• Sport specific rehabilitation and return to play intervention
• Emergency care and First Responder
• Concussion Evaluation

Education:

• Master of Arts in Exercise Science, University of Nebraska-Kearney, 2011.
• Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, University of Kansas, 2009.
• Completion of Accredited Athletic Training Program, University of Kansas, 2009.
• Graduate of Stockton High School, Stockton, KS., 2004.

Personal Information:

Doug lives in Kearney and enjoys hunting, fishing and being outdoors. He loves watching sports, primarily the Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas City Royals.

Affiliations:

• National Athletic Trainers’ Assocation
• Nebraska Athletic Trainers’ Association
• Mid-West Athletic Trainers’ Association

Jacy Cramer, LMT

Licensed Massage Technician

Jacy graduated from Omaha School of Massage Therapy with 1000 hours of training in 1997. She has learned many different modalities in Massage, but, specializes in Sports Massage, Neuromuscular Massage and Orthopaedic Massage. Jacy’s main goal is to help heal the body of pain.

Lauren Erickson, OTD, OTR/L, CLT

Occupational Therapist

Treatment Philosophy:

I really enjoy getting to know my patients and their goals for therapy. I work with a wide variety of diagnosis and want to treat the entire individual. I treat people how I would like to be treated.

Specialties:

• CLT Through Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy, 2019
• Graston Certified
• Myofascial Release trained
• Blood Flow Restriction trained
• Pelvic Floor trained
• Certified in Strength After Breast Cancer (ABC)
• LSVT- BIG Certified
• Parkinsons Wellness Recovery Certified (PWR! Moves)
• Physical Capacity Profile Certified
• Fit 4 Duty Certified
• Vestibular Rehabilitation
• Oncology Rehabilitation

Education:

• BS- General Chemistry and Health Science, Wayne State College, 2000
• Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD), Creighton University, 2002

Personal Information:

Lauren lives in Kearney with my husband, Brian, and two children, Paxton and Oaklynn. Lauren enjoys biking, outdoor activities, golfing, cooking, and baking.

Affiliations:

• American Occupational Therapy Association
• Nebraska Occupational Therapy Association
• NOTA Vice President of Hands and Orthopedics (2021-2023, re-elected 2023-2025)
• NBCOT Registered
• LE&RN: Lymphatic Education & Research Network Member

Jake Flint, PTA, MHA

Treatment Philosophy:

"Giving the patient the necessary tools to succeed through educating the patient on their diagnosis and preventative measures. Focus on the person, not the diagnosis."

Specialties:

• Orthopedic and sports rehabilitation
• Certified Clinical Instructor- APTA
• Advanced Proficiency Pathway in Orthopedics through the APTA

Education:

• Northeast Community College, 2011
• Concordia University, 2012
• Bellevue University, 2019

Affiliations:

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Nebraska Physical Therapy Association

Bailey DeVall, CCC-SLP

Speech Therapist