Hi! My name is Kristin, and I love to learn!

I grew up in Snohomish and spent a lot of time either in the pool or with my nose in a book. I graduated from Pacific Lutheran University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Kinesiology, but also minored in international relations, psychology, biology, and storytelling/mythology. I then went on to receive my Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Eastern Washington University, where I reveled in the value of surrounding myself with a great many experts (and also visited a lot of coffee and tea shops while I studied!). 

I have experience both in pediatrics and in outpatient orthopedics. I have had the privilege of helping little ones learn to use what movement they have as a way to gain both independence and self-expression, and have walked alongside patients recovering from sports injuries, others experiencing cancer, and chronic pain. As a physical therapist I get to create meaningful bonds with people as we journey together toward whatever their goals may be and I am incredibly lucky to do so!

When I was in high school, I became passionate about the value of swim lessons as a life saving tool. I realized that some children with sensory needs or other difficulties had difficulty with traditional swimming lessons, so I began teaching swim lessons specifically for special needs children in the area. I love the freedom of movement (and the fun!) that water can give! This passion grew for me, and I eventually became the assistant director for aquatic therapy for the Ys of Pierce and Kitsap counties as an undergrad. I also had the opportunity to study aquatic therapy under the inestimable aquatic physical therapist who preceded me at the Snohomish Aquatic Center. It wasn’t long before I got my clinical competency certification in aquatic therapy through the Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy.  Now, I am incredibly excited to lead the FSPT Aquatics program. In aquatics we can face challenges that might be harder on land with the help of buoyancy and pressure; I never get tired of seeing the joy on faces when folks realize they can do something in the water that might be very difficult on land! 

When I am in the water, I get the chance to work with people of all ages and backgrounds. When I am on land I get to work with incredible kiddos learning and re-learning movements and mobility. I love learning from the people I get the work alongside.

When out of the clinic I love reading books, hiking, petting dogs, and swimming!

I look forward to working with you! And telling/learning corny jokes from you!