Meet the Physical Therapy Team

Vicky McHugh, PT, DPT, PCS

Vicky McHugh, PT, DPT, PCS

About Vicky:

Dr. Vicky has been an accredited physical therapist for over 22 years. She graduated from Creighton University with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy, then completed a postdoctoral LEND fellowship at Munroe Meyer Institute. Vicky has a Master’s certificate in education from Clarkson College and certifications in Kinesiotape/Functional Dry Needling. Additionally, she is a Clinical Instructor for the American Physical Therapy Association, a board-certified Clinical Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy, and Residency Mentor for Creighton Pediatric Residency.

Vicky specializes in complex neurological conditions, manual therapy, and chronic pain. She is a recipient of the APTA Emerging Leader Award, as well as the Nebraska Physical Therapy Award for Clinical Excellence in which she was recognized for her contributions to clinical practice and leadership in business. Vicky chose to become a PT to pursue her passion for teaching people and helping them adapt to their circumstances by learning new methods of doing things. She enjoys empowering people to make a change, seeing when something clicks for them, and celebrating when they are able to do something they thought they couldn’t do. Vicky finds that the most rewarding thing about being a PT is being able to serve people of all ages and learning from them new ways to continue to help others. She is married with a daughter and stepson, has two dogs, and enjoys gardening, cooking, baking, and traveling.

McKenzie Dolph, PT

McKenzie Dolph, PT

About Mckenzie:

Originally from Wayne, NE, I pursued my professional education at UNMC. In my free time I enjoy walking and hiking, reading, tending to my garden, and indulging in my passion for cooking and baking. I’m also involved in my local church and find joy in singing during services.

My true inspiration as a therapist comes from witnessing the incredible growth of children. It’s amazing to see them explore the world in their unique ways and discover their passions. Their sense of wonder and excitement, even for things we often take for

granted, serves as a constant reminder of the beauty of life and keeps me motivated during challenging times.

Karen Clark, PT

Karen Clark, PT

About Karen:

I was born in the beautiful state of Colorado but moved to Omaha to pursue my graduate studies in Physical Therapy. With a passion for helping others, I graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) with my Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) in 1999, and I furthered my education by earning my Doctorate in Education (EdD) from Clarkson College in 2020.

Having lived in Nebraska longer than I did in Colorado, I’ve developed a deep connection to my community. I hold certifications in psychological-informed care, aquatic therapy, and nervous system-informed care, and I’m currently working toward a certification in lifestyle medicine, which I hope to complete by the end of 2025.

Outside of my professional life, I am dedicated to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I enjoy regular exercise, including weightlifting and cycling, as well as gardening and spending quality time outdoors with my family. In my quieter moments, I love to read and tackle jigsaw puzzles.

As a physical therapist, my favorite part of the job is helping my patients move beyond their pain and reclaim their lives. I am passionate about educating them on pain management strategies, nervous system regulation, and overall well-being, empowering them to live their best lives.

Nancy Lenz, PT

Nancy Lenz, PT

About Nancy:

I’m a physical therapist dedicated to helping my clients regain their strength and improve their mobility. With a deep passion for movement and rehabilitation, I graduated with a degree in physical therapy and have spent several years honing my skills in various settings, from outpatient clinics to sports facilities.

I believe in a holistic approach to recovery, tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. Whether it’s recovering from an injury, enhancing athletic performance, or managing chronic pain, I work closely with my clients to create personalized therapy plans that foster healing and empowerment.

When I’m not in the clinic, I love staying active myself—whether it’s hiking, practicing yoga, or trying out new fitness trends. I’m always eager to learn more about the latest advancements in physical therapy, so I can bring the best possible care to those I work with. I’m excited to be a part of your journey to better health!

Tori Sorensen, PT

Tori Sorensen, PT

About Tori:

I’m originally from Hemingford, NE, and I attended professional school at UNMC. In addition to my work as a therapist, I have personal interests that include music and engaging in scouting activities with my kids.

I hold the certification of a Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist, which allows me to provide specialized care.

One thing that drives my passion for therapy is the opportunity to make a positive impact on patients’ lives. Whether it’s connecting them and their families with valuable community resources or teaching them new skills to improve their daily lives, witnessing these transformations is incredibly rewarding for me.

Livia Hartigan, PT

Livia Hartigan, PT

About Livia:

I’m a Physical therapist with a passion for helping individuals improve their quality of life through meaningful activities. With a degree in Physical Therapy and over five years of experience in diverse clinical settings, I specialize in working with patients recovering from injuries, managing chronic disabilities, and adapting to life changes.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients of all ages, from children to seniors, in achieving their personal goals. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, where I not only focus on the physical aspects of rehabilitation but also consider emotional and environmental factors that influence a person’s ability to engage in daily tasks.

In my practice, I employ evidence-based strategies and collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care for my clients. I am committed to ongoing professional development and staying updated with the latest advancements in the field to provide the highest standard of therapy.

In addition to my clinical work, I am dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of Physical therapy and its impact on community health. When I’m not working, I enjoy volunteering, exploring new hobbies, and spending time outdoors with my family.

Tammi Murdock, PTA, LMT

Tammi Murdock, PTA, LMT

About Tammi:

I’m a dedicated Physical Therapist Assistant and Massage Therapist with a passion for helping others lead healthier lives. I grew up in Holdrege, NE, and my journey in health and wellness took me to Chicago, where I attended Trinity International University to study Exercise Science. From there, I pursued my degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant at Clarkson College and earned my licensure as a Massage Therapist at the Omaha School of Massage Therapy.

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, I’ve honed my skills in various therapeutic techniques. In massage therapy, my specialties include trigger point release, myofascial release, cupping, hot stone massage, and pregnancy massage. As a PTA, I focus on outpatient orthopedic therapy, aquatic therapy, balance and vestibular therapy, and home health care, with a strong emphasis on manual therapy and joint mobilizations.

Outside of my professional life, I love to hike, enjoy live music, travel, and read. What I cherish most about being a therapist is the opportunity to connect with individuals and support them on their healing journeys. I’m committed to helping my clients achieve their fullest potential and live their best lives.

Kerry Spady, PTA

Kerry Spady, PTA

About Kerry:

I’m a physical therapist assistant from Hastings, and I graduated from Clarkson College. My passion for health and wellness shines through in my daily work. Originally, I set out to specialize in sports medicine, but a pivotal clinical experience in pediatric therapy completely changed my perspective—I absolutely loved it!

There’s nothing quite like being a part of someone’s journey as they achieve milestones, whether it’s a child taking their first steps or an adult achieving a personal goal. Seeing the joy and pride in both patients and their caregivers when they accomplish something they thought was impossible is incredibly rewarding.

When I’m not working, I love spending time outdoors hiking, playing volleyball, and cheering on my kids at their sports events. I also enjoy challenging myself with puzzles and diving into a good book. Life is all about finding balance and joy, and I strive to bring that spirit into everything I do!

Christina Ousley, PTA

Christina Ousley, PTA

About Christina:

As a dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant, I am passionate about helping individuals regain their mobility and improve their quality of life. With a solid foundation in therapeutic techniques and patient care, I work collaboratively with physical therapists to create tailored treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs.

I have accrued valuable experience in various settings, including outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and hospitals. My hands-on experience has equipped me with the skills necessary to assist patients in their recovery journey, utilizing techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and patient education.

I pride myself on my compassionate approach, always striving to create a supportive and motivating environment for my patients. I believe that healing is not just about physical recovery but also involves emotional support and encouragement. In addition to my technical skills, I continuously seek opportunities for professional development, attending workshops and certifications to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family as much outdoors as possible, which helps me maintain a balanced lifestyle. I am committed to making a positive impact in the lives of my patients and look forward to continuing to grow in my career.

Karen Abboud, PTA

Karen Abboud, PTA

About Karen:

I was born in Savannah, GA but raised in Omaha. I attended Clarkson College for my professional schooling. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and animals. We love hanging out in camper and exploring the outdoors. I also have a keen interest in energy healing practices such as Reiki, meditation, and working with crystals. Crime docuseries are a guilty pleasure of mine, as they always manage to captivate my attention.

I am a Certified Lymphedema Therapist and hold the credential of a Credentialed Clinical Instructor—Level 1 from the APTA. Additionally, I am a Reiki Practitioner at Level 1. These certifications and trainings have allowed me to expand my knowledge and skills in the field.

What inspires me most about being a therapist is the opportunity to make a positive impact in people’s lives and contribute to improving their quality of life. It brings me great joy to see patients progress and knowing that I played a part in their journey. Building connections and relationships with patients and their families is one of the most rewarding aspects of this profession. I also have the privilege of teaching PTA students and interacting with PT students, which allows me to shape the future professionals of physical therapy.

Michele Leuking, PTA

Michele Leuking, PTA

About Michele:

Andre Armstrong, PTA

Andre Armstrong, PTA

About Andre:

I completed my education at Nebraska Methodist College. Apart from my academic pursuits, I have a wide range of interests and hobbies. I enjoy spending quality time with my family, going on motorcycle rides, and indulging in video games.

My fascination with therapy stemmed from my personal experience. During my early college years, I started working out and noticed remarkable changes in my body. This sparked my curiosity about the human body and its capabilities, which ultimately led me to pursue a career in therapy.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a therapist is the bond and connection formed with patients. Building relationships with them and witnessing their happiness when they witness their progress brings me immense joy.

Deborah Gilles, PTA, LMT

Deborah Gilles, PTA, LMT

About Debora:

I was born and raised in Oklahoma, but I made the exciting move to Nebraska during my high school years. I graduated from Clarkson College as a Physical Therapist Assistant in 2006. My career began as a travel PTA, which allowed me to explore different parts of the country, including Washington State and various locations throughout Texas, before returning to Nebraska in 2022.

Alongside my work as a PTA, I’m also a certified massage therapist and a Level II Reiki practitioner. I have two young kids who keep me on my toes, but when I find some time for myself, I enjoy walking and have completed two half marathons—with hopes of tackling a full marathon one day! I’m also an avid reader and movie enthusiast, and astronomy fascinates me. I even have a telescope that I wish I would use more often.

What brings me the most fulfillment in my career is helping people live their best lives. There’s nothing quite like the joy I feel when I see someone taking their first steps after a stroke or when I help relieve someone’s pain. It’s truly satisfying to make a difference in someone’s life, and I’m grateful to be part of their journey!

Meet the Occuptional Therapy Team

Justine Bucy, OT

Justine Bucy, OT

About Justine:

I graduated from Creighton University in 2015 and have since been working as a pediatric therapist. One of my favorite things to do with my patients is to help them develop their play and interaction skills. I enjoy finding creative ways to adapt activities and toys so that my patients can engage with them and interact with their families and surroundings.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and taking my dog for walks. Gardening and reading are also activities I enjoy, and you can often find me cheering for the Creighton Bluejays!

One of my favorite treatment sessions involved taking a patient and their family to the playground. We focused on building strength and coordination while finding ways to make the playground equipment accessible. Additionally, we worked on problem-solving skills for accessibility challenges and improving social interactions with siblings and peers.

I am originally from Tekamah, Nebraska, and I attended Creighton University for my professional schooling. In terms of certifications, I have completed training in Physical Agent Modalities and continued my education with a focus on pediatric feeding.

The best part of being a therapist for me is developing connections with the children and their families while working towards goals that are important to them. It’s truly inspiring to see the progress and impact we can make together.

Miranda Skarupa, OT

Miranda Skarupa, OT

About Miranda:

One of my favorite aspects of being a therapist is building meaningful relationships not just with my patients, but with their families as well. I love being a resource for them and finding creative ways to I am a licensed Occupational therapist based in Omaha, Nebraska, where I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals and their families navigate life’s challenges. I earned my professional degree from the College of St. Mary, which ignited my passion for mental health and wellness.

help their loved ones grow and achieve new things.

When I’m not in the therapy room, I enjoy dancing, working on diamond dotz projects, and spending quality time with my family and friends. I believe that maintaining a balanced life enhances both personal and professional growth, and I’m always looking for opportunities to bring joy and enrichment to those around me.

I welcome the chance to connect and share my therapeutic approach, aiming to make a positive impact in the community!

Kurgan Larsen, OT

Kurgan Larsen, OT

About Kurgan:

I am an occupational therapist based in Omaha, Nebraska. After earning my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from the College of Saint Mary in 2024, I’ve dedicated myself to empowering individuals and enhancing their quality of life. My passion for occupational therapy began at the age of 17 while working at CRCC, a specialized daycare for children and young adults with complex needs.

Over the years, my professional interests have expanded to encompass pediatrics, reflex integration, mental health, and community reintegration, particularly for individuals navigating homelessness. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy that fosters independence and well-being.

When I’m not working, you can find me enjoying quality time with my two cats and my fiancé. We love exploring new restaurants and hiking the beautiful trails around Omaha. I’m also a fitness enthusiast and enjoy cooking healthy meals. I look forward to collaborating with you on your journey toward greater independence.

Rachele Hiebert, OT

Rachele Hiebert, OT

About Rachele:

I am an occupational therapist from Papillion, Nebraska. I earned my professional degree from Creighton University, where I built a strong foundation in patient-centered care and therapeutic approaches. I also hold advanced training and certification in PAMs, which enhances my ability to provide comprehensive treatment to my patients.

I am passionate about holistic health and enjoy blending my professional life with personal interests, finding balance through reading, practicing yoga, and playing golf. These hobbies enrich my life and contribute to my empathetic approach to therapy.

What inspired me to become a therapist is my commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of my patients. My favorite part of being an occupational therapist is the joy I experience when my patients achieve their therapy goals, making significant improvements in their daily lives. I strive to create an environment where everyone feels seen, known, and loved, truly embodying my mission to support others on their journeys toward wellness and independence.

With a deep-seated belief in the power of connection and compassion, I dedicate my career to uplifting others and celebrating their achievements.

Olivia Vander Haar, OT

Olivia Vander Haar, OT

About Olivia:

I am an occupational therapist from Papillion, Nebraska. I earned my professional degree from Creighton University, where I built a strong foundation in patient-centered care and therapeutic approaches. I also hold advanced training and certification in PAMs, which enhances my ability to provide comprehensive treatment to my patients.

I am passionate about holistic health and enjoy blending my professional life with personal interests, finding balance through reading, practicing yoga, and playing golf. These hobbies enrich my life and contribute to my empathetic approach to therapy.

What inspired me to become a therapist is my commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of my patients. My favorite part of being an occupational therapist is the joy I experience when my patients achieve their therapy goals, making significant improvements in their daily lives. I strive to create an environment where everyone feels seen, known, and loved, truly embodying my mission to support others on their journeys toward wellness and independence.

With a deep-seated belief in the power of connection and compassion, I dedicate my career to uplifting others and celebrating their achievements.

Jade Putz, OT

Jade Putz, OT

About Jade:

I am an occupational therapist based in Northeast Iowa, with a genuine passion for helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve their personal goals. I earned my degree in Occupational Therapy from Creighton University, where I laid the foundation for my commitment to patient-centered care.

My favorite part of being a therapist is the relationships I build with my patients. I find immense joy in witnessing their progress and triumphs as they work to overcome obstacles in their lives. Each client’s journey inspires me, and it drives my dedication to provide the best support and guidance possible.

Outside of my professional life, you can often find me exploring the bike trails, hiking, or enjoying walks with my dogs. I also love to unwind by watching sports, which fuels my competitive spirit and camaraderie. Whether on the trails or in the clinic, I believe in the power of connection and resilience, both in therapy and in life.

Mia Lo, OT

Mia Lo, OT

About Mia:

I’m an Occupational Therapist dedicated to helping individuals of all ages achieve their personal goals and enhance their daily lives. My journey in this rewarding field began with a passion for health and wellness, combined with a deep appreciation for the unique ways people adapt to their environments.

I believe that everyone has the potential to overcome challenges, and my role is to guide and support them in that process. Whether I’m working with children to develop their fine motor skills, assisting adults in recovering from injuries, or helping seniors maintain their independence, I approach each case with empathy and creativity.

In my practice, I enjoy using a holistic approach that considers not just physical abilities but also emotional and social aspects. I love collaborating with clients and their families, finding tailored solutions that fit their lifestyles. When I’m not working, you can find me exploring new activities, staying active, or volunteering in my community to promote health and well-being. I am passionate about making a positive impact and empowering others to live life to the fullest!

Meet the Speech Therapy Team

Katy Miller, SLP

Katy Miller, SLP

About Katy:

I’m a proud Omaha, NE native, born and raised. I pursued my undergraduate and graduate studies at The University of Kansas in Lawrence, KS, where I proudly donned the Rock Chalk spirit!

During my free time, you’ll often find me enjoying leisurely walks with my loyal companion Chewie, and embracing the beauty of the outdoors. Music and podcasts have a special place in my heart, and I’m always eager to explore new genres and interesting discussions.

My true passion lies in being a therapist, as it allows me to forge meaningful connections with each of my clients and their families. Witnessing people find their voice and communicate their thoughts and emotions brings me immense fulfillment.

Kara Carlson, SLP

Kara Carlson, SLP

About Kara:

I am from Hastings, Nebraska, and pursued my professional education at the University of Kansas. I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling. We enjoy cheering on the Huskers, Chiefs, Royals, and Jayhawks, as well as supporting all of my son’s sports teams. Attending concerts and musicals, watching thuderstorms, family game night & Netflix binging are also favorites!

I am a Certified Autism Specialist and have completed the certification in the Hanen program known as “It Takes Two To Talk.”

The most rewarding aspect of being a therapist is the ability to positively impact the lives of individuals, both in substantial and subtle ways. Witnessing firsthand the transformative power of therapy inspired me to embark on this meaningful career path.

Madison Williams, SLPA

Madison Williams, SLPA

About Madison:

I proudly come from the small farming town of Waterford, California. I graduated from Fresno State University, where I pursued my passion for helping others through therapy.

In my personal life, I enjoy working out, cooking, and watching movies—all activities that keep me balanced and fulfilled. While I don’t have advanced training or certifications, my dedication to my work drives me to continuously learn and grow in my field.

My journey into therapy began when I saw the incredible impact speech therapy had on my younger sister. Watching her transform and gain confidence through improved communication inspired me to pursue this career. I find immense joy in helping children communicate for the first time and assisting adults in enhancing their communication skills. I firmly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to express themselves, and being a part of that journey is what truly motivates me.

Erin Reynolds, SLP

Erin Reynolds, SLP

About Erin:

I grew up in Omaha, where my journey into the world of communication began. Earning my master’s degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln solidified my commitment to this field, especially in speech-language pathology. I have a particular passion for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), as I love supporting individuals in finding their voice and fostering meaningful connections through effective communication.

When I’m not working, you can often find me hiking in the great outdoors, practicing yoga to center myself, or getting lost in the pages of a captivating book. The most rewarding aspect of my job is helping people feel seen and heard. Witnessing someone grow in confidence as they discover new ways to express themselves is a truly fulfilling experience.

Physical Therapy

Do you have difficulty moving safely and effectively around your environment?

Our physical therapists can help. As movement experts, they improve mobility and quality of life for people of all ages so that they can live a more active and independent life. From newborns to those needing end-of-life care, we can prevent and manage your medical conditions through prescribed exercise, hands-on treatment, and patient education.

Occupational Therapy

Are you struggling with day-to-day activities in various environments?

Our occupational therapists are here to assist you with those everyday tasks. By applying therapeutic practices to daily activities, we help people in every stage of life acquire the skills they need to take care of themselves and others by focusing treatment on underlying problems related to strength, dexterity, sensory processing, balance, and cognition. In addition, our occupational therapy practitioners utilize a summary of your history and experiences, daily living patterns, values, and interests to develop a client-centered intervention that’s meaningfully built around your needs.

Speech Therapy

Do you have a hard time speaking, understanding language, or chewing and swallowing food?

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are experts that can treat cognitive communication, fluency, speech, language, and swallowing disorders for people of all ages. Whether you struggle with pronunciation, following directions, learning new words, or speaking in complete sentences, our SLPs can improve your communication and behavior to help you better get along with others. If you have a swallowing disorder, also known as dysphagia, we’ll provide you with a thoughtful set of skills and strategies that keep you safe and competent in social situations.