Our Team
At Pappas OPT, we work hard to ensure that long-lasting pain relief is possible for our patients.
That’s why our entire team of physical and occupational therapists have Masters or are working toward Doctoral level degrees, and most hold more certifications like Orthopedic Clinical Specialists (OCS), Sports Certified Specialists (SCS), and Certified Hand Therapist (CHT).
Our shared standards:
Providing long-lasting solutions by understanding and teaching the physical, mental, and emotional experience behind your pain or recovery.
Ensuring compassionate care that connects how the brain works (neuroscience) with how the body moves (biomechanical science).
Treating patients like family and providing a solid foundation for connection and healing.
Brie Rondeau PR, DPT, ATC
Physical TherapistBrie Rondeau PR, DPT, ATC
Physical TherapistBrie Rondeau earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Plymouth State University. Prior to that, Brie obtained her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from Castleton University.
Brie enjoys treating orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions, sports injuries, and balance and fall prevention training.
In her free time, Brie enjoys ice hockey, skiing and hiking with her husband and dog.
Rachel Almonte PT, DPT
Clinic DirectorRachel Almonte PT, DPT
Clinic DirectorRachel has been a part of the Pappas OPT team since 2018, starting as a rehabilitation technician after earning her Bachelor’s of Science degree from Springfield College. She continued her education to earn her Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) from South College in 2021.
Since then, she has completed an Evidence in Motion Orthopedic Residency, which was a year long program for specialized skills to treat patients with orthopedic disorders and injuries, that included continuing education and mentorship. She is a board certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties as well as Functional Dry Needling certified in level 1 and 2. Rachel’s clinical experience lies in outpatient orthopedic physical therapy, treating a wide variety of general musculoskeletal conditions with additional focus on external pelvic floor dysfunction.
In her free time, Rachel enjoys the beach, traveling, spending time with family and friends and snuggling with her cats.
Kristen Baxter PT, CHT
Kristen Baxter PT, CHT
Kristen Baxter earned her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of New England. She has been treating general orthopedics for over 30 years and has been a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) for 20 years. In her free time, Kristen enjoys biking and hiking.
Having honed her expertise through rigorous education and hands-on experience, Kristen has developed a profound understanding of the intricate mechanics of the human hand. Her dedication led her to specialize in hand therapy with a special interest in upper extremity prosthetics, where she meticulously craft tailored treatment plans to address a wide range of hand-related conditions, from injuries to post-operative rehabilitation.
Beyond her proficiency in hand therapy, Kristen also treats work-related injuries with work hardening. She recognizes that the road to full recovery often involves bridging the gap between rehabilitation and the demands of the workplace. Through her work conditioning programs, Kristen guides patients through targeted exercises and simulations of their job that help them regain the strength, endurance, and functional skills required to return to their job.
Additionally, Kristen possesses a profound skill set in general orthopedic physical therapy. Her comprehensive approach extends beyond specific areas of the body, catering to individuals seeking rehabilitation for various musculoskeletal issues. She provides patients with the tools to regain strength, flexibility, and movement across all orthopedic concerns.
Furthermore, Kristen is trained in dry needling—a technique that enhances pain relief and muscle function through the precise insertion of needles into trigger points. Her proficiency in this modern approach showcases her commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in physical therapy.
With an unwavering commitment to her patients’ well-being, Kristen has demonstrated time and again the transformative power of personalized care. Through her expertise in hand therapy, work hardening, general orthopedics, and dry-needling, she empowers individuals to reclaim their independence, redefine their capabilities, and embrace a future of mobility and vitality.
Involved in the Providence VA Medical Center, Kristen does research using the AM-ULA / Activities Measure for Upper Limb Amputees. She has been published in the Journal of Hand Therapy October / December 2013 Vol 26 No 4 “Is the UNB Test Reliable for Use With Upper Limb Amputations?”
Shawn Baxter M.S., OTR/L, CIE
Occupational Therapist, Board-Certified Industrial ErgonomistShawn Baxter M.S., OTR/L, CIE
Occupational Therapist, Board-Certified Industrial ErgonomistShawn is an Occupational Therapist and Board-Certified Industrial Ergonomist/Loss Prevention Specialist. He is also Certified in OSHA Public Sector Safety and Health Fundamentals. Prior to earning these certifications, Shawn graduated Cum Laude from University of New England in 1988, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. After UNE, he graduated from Salve Regina University with a Master of Science in Health Administration in 1993.
Shawn’s specializes in Workers’ Compensation involving both the public and private sectors. He has extensive experience in industrial rehabilitation including providing Functional Capacity Evaluations, work conditioning/job simulation, pre and post offer physical/functional assessments, ergonomic assessments, job hazard/risk analysis, injury prevention/mitigation and providing injury prevention safety training.
During his free time, Shawn enjoys spending time by the ocean time with family and friends, as well as exercising and biking.
Jodi Bergeron OT, CHT
Occupational Therapist, Certified Hand TherapistJodi Bergeron OT, CHT
Occupational Therapist, Certified Hand TherapistJodi Bergeron earned her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Worcester State University.
Jodi has been a HTCC Certified Hand Therapist since 2008 and is most interested in treating sports injuries.
In her free time, Jodi enjoys travelling with family and friends and anything in the sunshine.
Michael Bisconti PT, DPT
Physical TherapistMichael Bisconti PT, DPT
Physical TherapistMike graduated from Lasell College in 2014 with a BS in Exercise Science. He earned his Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Rhode Island in 2017 and joined Pappas OPT Physical and Hand Therapy that same year. Mike is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist whose clinical focus is in orthopedics. He is also certified to perform Functional Capacity Evaluations for patients returning to work. He is a member of the APTA. His personal interests include powerlifting, cooking, woodworking and large bowls of pasta.
Elizabeth Carey MS, OTR/L, CHT
Elizabeth Carey MS, OTR/L, CHT
An Occupational Therapist and Certified Hand Therapist, Liz joined Pappas OPT Physical and Hand Therapy in 2011. She graduated from the University of New England in 2001 with a Masters in Occupational Therapy and has been a Certified Hand Therapist since 2011. In 2016 she received her certification in Advanced Practice in Hand Therapy from Evidence in Motion. Her specialties include hand and upper extremity rehabilitation, including orthopedic and neurological injuries, wound care, work-related injuries and custom splinting. Her interests include spending time with her husband and two boys and volunteering in the schools.
Sarah Carrington MOT, OTR/L
Occupational TherapistSarah Carrington MOT, OTR/L
Occupational TherapistSarah Carrington earned her Master of Occupational Therapy from Sacred Heart University. Prior to that, Sarah obtained her Bachelor of Science – Kinesiology from the University of Rhode Island.
Sarah specializes in hand and upper extremity rehabilitation and is most interested in treating fractures and splinting of the wrist and hand.
In her free time, Sarah enjoys hiking, watching movies, and spending time with friends and family.
Tracy Cate PTA
Physical Therapist AssistantTracy Cate PTA
Physical Therapist AssistantTracy Cate is a dedicated and compassionate Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) who has seamlessly blended her passion for movement and healing. A graduate of the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI), Tracy embarked on a journey that has taken her from coaching gymnastics to becoming an invaluable asset in the field of outpatient physical therapy.
Upon completing her studies, Tracy transitioned smoothly into clinical practice, bringing with her a unique perspective that only a former gymnastics coach could offer. Her clinical experience in outpatient physical therapy solidified her expertise in creating tailored treatment plans, helping patients regain their mobility, and enhancing her patient’s overall quality of life.
Tracy’s journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment and the seamless fusion of her athletic background with the world of rehabilitative care. With each patient she assists, Tracy leaves a lasting impact, exemplifying how a passion for movement and a heart for healing can come together to make a remarkable difference.
Scott Comparetto PT, DPT
Physical TherapistScott Comparetto PT, DPT
Physical TherapistScott earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from the University of Rhode Island in 2023 and his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Rhode Island College in 2007. He is a strong believer in the power of positivity to aid in recovery and is committed to helping patients reach their physical therapy goals with care and compassion. Scott is an avid animal lover and enjoys spending his free time outdoors with friends and family.
Justin Costa PTA
Justin Costa PTA
Justin Costa is a graduate of Austin Community College with an Associate in Applied Science degree in Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA).
Justin earned his Physical Therapist Assistants Specialty Certification in Orthopedics through Evidence in Motion in 2020.
His personal interests include running, hiking, quahogging, and spending time with his wife, Katie, and son, Miles.
Andrew D’Agostino PTA
Physical Therapist AssistantAndrew D’Agostino PTA
Physical Therapist AssistantAndrew is a graduate from CCRI’s Associate in Applied Science Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program.
Andrew is a veteran of the Army National Guard and native Rhode Islander. Fitness is a priority for Andrew, with weightlifting being a central part of his routine.
In his free time, Andrew enjoys playing pool, ping pong, movies and traveling the world with his wife Deanna and their adorable pitbull Bubbles.
Ashley Daniels PTA, CKTP, CPS
Ashley Daniels PTA, CKTP, CPS
Ashley Daniels earned her Associate of Science of Physical Therapy Assistant from New England Technical Institute.
Ashley and is most interested in treating orthopedics and sports.
In her free time, Ashley enjoys all things sports-related including softball, football, hiking, anything with water, and spending time with her dog. She also loves to cook, try out new recipes, do anything creative with DIY projects, and organize all the things.
Denise Deleone PTA
Denise Deleone PTA
Denise has been in the health and fitness industry for over 30 years. She received her Physical Therapy Assistant’s degree from the Community College of Rhode Island and was previously a fitness and aerobics instructor.
Denise joined OPT in 2001 and has experience working with a broad range of diagnoses working and patients of all ages. She is also an IFPA Certified Fitness Trainer and enjoys designing and implementing individual fitness programs.
Sevan Donoian PTA
Physical Therapy AssistantSevan Donoian PTA
Physical Therapy AssistantSevan Donoian earned his Associate in Science from the New England Institute of Technology.
Sevan is most interested in treating osteoarthritis.
In his free time, Sevan enjoys yoga, sports, and trivia.
Justin Dufrene PT, DPT
Physical TherapistJustin Dufrene PT, DPT
Physical TherapistJustin is originally from Lake Charles, Louisiana. He graduated from McNeese State University with a B.S. in Health and Human Performance for Exercise Science in 2015. He received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Rhode Island in 2019. A passion for coaching and teaching led Justin to his career as a physical therapist. He enjoys working with patients of all ages to help them reach their rehab goals by focusing on patient education, manual therapy techniques, and functional movement science. He is also certified in Functional and Integrative Dry Needling. In his spare time Justin enjoys traveling with his family, hiking, camping, skiing, snowboarding, going to the beach, and cooking traditional home-made Louisiana Cajun cuisine. He is also a big fan of the Boston Celtics, Boston Red Sox, New Orleans Saints, and LSU Tigers.
Interested in Joining the Team?
We’re always looking to expand our talented team.