Thomas Fish
PT, CCI, BS, Owner
Tom Fish received his Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Winston-Salem State University in 2001. After graduation, he worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings while providing orthopedic, neurological, and sports rehabilitation, and acute patient care. In 2003, he established Kernersville Rehab Specialists, an independent outpatient rehabilitation facility to serve patients in Kernersville and the surrounding triad area.
Tom is highly effective in treating patients of all ages, and having widely varying rehabilitation needs. He provides therapy for pre- and post-orthopedic surgeries, neck and back pain, chronic pain syndromes, neuropathy, postural dysfunction, stroke, neurological conditions, sports rehab, and balance and fall prevention. Tom also specializes in manual therapies utilizing Maitland spinal and joint mobilizations, and using the McKenzie spinal approach.
Tom's clinical expertise has developed through the combination of formal physical therapy education and his vast range of patient experience. Tom continues to study developing advancements in the field of Physical Therapy, and pursues specialty certifications. Recent seminars and certifications include: NDT Based Aquatic Therapy, Mainland-Australian Approach seminars #1-4, Maitland UK Spinal Manipulation, Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist 1, Vestibular/Balance Assessment, and the Athletic Neck and Back Pain Symposium. In addition, he has over fourteen years of practical experience in nutrition and physiology gained while participating in competitive bodybuilding, during which time he competed in thirty four events.
As both owner and a treating therapist in the practice, Tom strives to combine both formal knowledge and practical experience to better serve all his patients. He has had the opportunity to help patients ranging from professional to amateur athletes, patients with trauma to the more "routine" injuries, those with sudden acute to more chronic medical conditions, temporary to permanent disabilities, as well as the neighbor next door. With every patient, Tom continues to stress the importance of providing the highest quality, personalized care possible in order to achieve the best results attainable for each patient.
Owner and founder of Kernersville Rehab Specialist Since 2003
Treatment Philosophy:
- Patient is the priority.
- Listen and learn from the patient.
- I’m not treating a diagnosis, but a person with overall medical and life history.
- Genuine care and concern for patient-centered treatment.
- Apply my many years of experience and advanced training to meeting patient needs and optimizing expectations.
- Teach the patient independence by managing their wellness and accountability for their health.
Specialties:
- Orthopedics and sports rehab, all age groups.
- Pre-post surgical extremity and spine rehab
- Neurological conditions
- Maitland Australian approach manual therapy
- Certified Australian approach manual therapy
- Certified dry-needling practitioner
- TMJ
- Vestibular/vertigo rehabilitation/ balance disorders
- Mckenzie's treatment of cervical and lumbar spine
- Postural specialist
- Pediatrics
- Pain management
- Neuropathic pain management and treatment
Education:
Graduate of Winston Salem State
Personal:
Saved by the Grace of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Tom enjoys free time with a focus on family, fishing, fitness, and active outdoor activities.
Affiliations:
APTA– American Physical Therapy Association
Shawn Carey
PT
Shawn Carey is a holistic, outcomes oriented practitioner of evidence based physical therapy with over 30 years of experience. Shawn acquired a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill in 1993. After graduation he worked in acute outpatient and work hardening clinic in Winston Salem and since that time has provided physical therapy services in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home health, and outpatient clinics through the triad for patients ages 3 and up with orthopedic, neurological, pediatric and geriatric populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Shawn is especially effective treating acute and chronic pain syndromes, postural and movement dysfunction, vestibular impairment, prosthetics as well as all your general PT needs.
Shawn has attended extensive post graduate studies focused to the chronic pain patient and include: FOUNDATIONS OF ORTHOPAEDIC PHYSICAL THERAPY, the historical development of manual and manipulative therapies including Hippocrates, Ambrose Pare, Andrew Taylor Still-founder of osteopathic medicine, Cyriax, Mennell, Maitland, Kaltenborn, Paris, McKenzie, Erhard & Bowling, as well as movement and postural dysfunctions, regional pain syndromes presented by Shirley Sahrman, PHD, PT, FAPTA and in depth studies with The Neuro Orthopedic Institute located in Australia of the concept and treatment model for the pathophysiology of chronic pain derived from the principles of neuroplasticity. Shawn strongly believes in the importance of continuing education, keeping his practice and his patient’s treatments as up-to-date as possible.
I am a holistic, outcome-oriented practitioner of evidence-based physical therapy with over 30 years of experience.
Treatment Philosophy:
- I have spent the bulk of my career over the past 30 years focusing on the resolution and management of chronic persistent pain. I am more convinced than ever that pain resolution requires just as much education as it does movement.
- We have learned so much in the past 20 years regarding the function of pain, processes in the brain, and actions in the nervous system which can serve as very powerful tools to manage pain. Physical therapy is uniquely trained and positioned in the healthcare system to bring these tools into patient care.
Education:
I completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy from the University of North Carolina– Chapel Hill in 1993.
Specialties:
I have attended extensive postgraduate studies focused on the chronic pain patient including the historical development of manual and manipulative therapists including Hippocrates, Ambrose Pare, Andrew Taylor Still– founder of osteopathic medicine, Cyriax, Mennel, Maitland, Kaltenborn, Paris, McKenzie, Erhard & Bowling, as well as movement and postural dysfunctions, regional pain syndromes, and in-depth studies with The Neuro Orthopedic Institute of the concept and treatment model for the pathophysiology of chronic pain derived from the principles of neuroplasticity.
I strongly believe in the importance of continuing education, and keeping my practice and patient’s treatments as up-to-date as possible.
Personal:
Outside the clinic, Shawn spends a good deal of time reading history, sci-fi, and gaming– though pretty bad at it. Being in the yard and hiking are also his favorite pastimes.
Affiliations:
APTA– American Physical Therapy Association
Anne Simpson
PTA
Anne has worked in health and wellness for many years in a wide range of capacities including group fitness instructor, personal trainer, and activities coordinator. Taking that passion for exercise to Healthcare, she became a rehab tech at an outpatient physical therapy clinic, which inspired her to go back to school and become a therapist assistant. Anne really enjoys working with people, and likes to share knowledge and understanding with patients. She's also a mom to four kids, still teaches classes, and likes to run most every day where she does some of her best thinking. Anne is very excited to join the Kernersville Rehab family!
Cynthia Leanne Fish
OTR/L, BS, Co-Owner
Co-owner and founder of Kernersville Rehab Specialist Since 2003
Leanne Fish received her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Winston-Salem State University in 2002. She began her Occupational Therapy career specializing in pediatrics--treating physically and developmentally disabled children in both school and clinic based settings. She completed advanced training in Sensory Integration while working at Pediatric Therapy Network in Los Angeles along with protégés of renowned expert Jean Ayers.
Upon returning to North Carolina, Leanne has focused on providing outpatient orthopedics, sports, and work injury rehabilitation therapy. She has extensive experience in treating a wide variety of upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders in patients of all ages. Leanne's expertise includes therapy for pre- and post-orthopedic surgeries, chronic pain syndromes, postural dysfunction, stroke, neurological conditions, and sports rehab. She routinely utilizes treatment techniques such as myofascial release, manual therapy, aquatic therapy, therapeutic exercises for strengthening and conditioning, and ergonomic assessment.
To provide patients with the best care possible, Leanne actively pursues newly developing therapy concepts and techniques through participation in continuing education opportunities. This focus on life-long learning complements her experience in the "tried and true" hands-on approach to rehab.
Leanne has earned the trust and respect of her patients and leading triad physicians for her compassion and motivating positive encouragement during therapy, and her reputation for delivering highly effective and successful, quality patient care.
Anna Templeton
DPT
Treatment Philosophy:
I believe in the importance of helping to maximize my patient's abilities and quality of life, empower parents and caregivers in their abilities to do the same and make them all feel supported.
Specialties:
- Pediatrics, specifically torticollis and development from birth to 2 years old
- Aquatics
Education:
- Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Elon University, 2010
- B.S. Exercise and Sport Science, UNC-Chapel Hill, 2007
Personal:
Anna is married to Davis who is also a physical therapist, they met as classmates in their Elon DPT program. They have 2 young boys and a beloved golden retriever, Avett. Anna was a competitive swimmer from age 5 through high school, it's why she wanted to be a PT - to help others live their lives despite pain or injury. She learned about dedication, perseverance, and hard work from many MANY hours in the pool. She has a big love for Hawaii and was lucky enough to live there for a short time, otherwise, she has lived in central NC her whole life.
Affiliations:
APTA– American Physical Therapy Association
Aeryal Ceaser
PT, DPT
Treatment Philosophy:
As a pediatric physical therapist, I put the child first in my treatment approach. I focus on tailored care and overall growth for each kid. I think it’s key to make a warm encouraging space where children feel secure and eager to join in their therapy. I team up with families and other health experts to create custom treatment plans. These plans address what each child needs to help their physical, emotional, and social health. My aim is to give children the tools to reach their full potential. I do this through methods backed by research, play-based therapy, and care that puts the patient at the center. I make sure to be kind and patient throughout the entire process.
Specialties:
Pediatrics
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science and Health Science with Minor in Psychology from Guilford College
- Doctor of Physical Therapy from Winston Salem State University
Personal:
Aeryal lives in Greensboro, NC with her fur baby, Louie, a super cuddly goldendoodle. She loves to travel and explore new placed whenever she has free time. Fun Fact: Aeryal was named after the movie, “Footloose.” She use to place volleyball in college, and previously coached a middle school and travel team. She enjoys anything outdoors, but is also a huge fan of snuggling up with a bowl of popcorn and a sweet treat to watch a movie.
Affiliations:
APTA– American Physical Therapy Association
Cayce Nance
OTR/L
Treatment Philosophy
My treatment philosophy is based on promoting a fun and safe environment for children to overcome barriers impacting their participation in daily life. I believe that occupational therapy should be a client centered approach that promotes the just right challenge to help each child develop. I strive to build children’s confidence and overall functional skills to maximize their independence in daily occupations.
Specialties:
- Oral motor delays
- Fine motor delays
- Emotional regulation delays
- Sensory Integration delays
- SOS approach for diet expansion
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
- Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant from Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
- Master of Occupational Therapy from Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
Personal:
Cayce is a North Carolina native who lives in her hometown with her husband, Will and dog, Bo. Her interests include spending time with family and friends, traveling, and watching football. Cayce was an occupational therapy assistant for six years and recently transitioned to an occupational therapist. She has worked in a pediatric setting since she graduated from school in 2018 and enjoys watching children grow to overcome life's challenges.
Affiliations:
- NBCOT– National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy
- NCBOT– North Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy
Erin Jackson
COTA/L
Treatment Philosophy:
I believe that building rapport is key when working with children. I also prioritize making treatment sessions client-centered and fun.
Specialties:
- Autism
- Sensory Integration concerns
- Fine motor delays
Education:
Associates in Applied Science Occupational Therapy Assistant from Rowan Cabarrus Community College
Personal:
Erin is a North Carolina Native living with her husband and dog, Maximus. She has also lived in Texas and New Mexico and loved learning about and experiencing different foods and cultures. Her, and her husband are “foodies” and love to try new things. Erin’s hobbies include spending time with friends and family, learning languages, and traveling. Her passion is working with kids with Autism.
Affiliations:
- NBCOT– National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy
- NCBOT– North Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy
- AOTA– American Occupational Therapy Association
Heather Vestal
PTA
Treatment Philosophy:
I believe each patient should be treated with compassion and respect.
I think providing a supportive and encouraging environment helps patients achieve their best outcome and overall well-being.
Specialties:
- General orthopedics, all ages
- Manual therapy
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC)
- Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy Assistant from Central Piedmont Community College
Personal:
With any free time she has, Heather enjoys spending time with her children and family. Her family is very involved in the church and youth activities and they spend most weekends at the soccer field.
Affiliations:
APTA– American Physical Therapy Association
Medison Harrington
BS, COTA/L
Treatment Philosophy:
I believe… sometimes it takes extra hands to mold young minds into their unique selves.
Specialties:
- Emotional regulation delays
- Mental health concerns
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Lenoir Rhyne University
- Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant from Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
Personal:
Madison and her husband have a baby girl and one on the way. Interests include arts and crafts, painting, going walking, and traveling to new places. She enjoys spending time surrounded by family.
Affiliations:
- NBCOT– National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy
- NCBOT– North Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy
Sean McAlarney
PTA
Treatment Philosophy:
To help and assist with improving the quality of life for those in need.
Specialties:
- Orthopedic based injuries
- Post-operative procedures
- Veteran population
Education:
Associate for Physical Therapy Assistant from South University in High Point
Personal:
Sean was born and raised in PA. He has a martial arts background and 5 years of military experience. Sean has been practicing as a PTA for 4 years in an outpatient setting.
Affiliations:
APTA– American Physical Therapy Association
Summer Stamey
COTA/L
Treatment Philosophy:
My favorite part about occupational therapy is building a relationship with my clients and their families. I love to watch clients make progress as we work together as a team to meet my client's goals.
Specialties:
- Emotional regulation delays
- Fine motor delays
- Sensory Integration difficulty
Education:
Associates in Applied Science Occupational Therapy Assistant from Rowan Cabarrus Community College
Personal:
Summer lives in Winston-Salem, NC with her husband Ben and their dog, Berkley. She loves spending time with her family and friends, shopping, and doing activities outdoors. Summer has always wanted and had a passion to work with children, She especially loves working with ids who have autism or developmental delays.
Affiliations:
- NBCOT– National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy
- NCBOT– North Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy
- AOTA– American Occupational Therapy Association
Wendy Mitchell
OTR/L
Treatment Philosophy:
I believe that every child deserves to live a life filled with purpose, joy, and limitless possibilities. My treatment Philosophy is centered around empowering children to reach their full potential, fostering, a sense of confidence and independence, and enriching their lives through meaningful experiences.
Specialties:
- *Infant Feeding*
- Oral motor training
- SOS approach (sensory-based diet expansion)
- Fine motor delays
- Sensory Integration delay
- Emotional regulation concerns
- Neuro concerns
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW)
- Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Winston-Salem State University (WSSU)
Personal:
I am a wife, mother of three, and lover of all things adventure. My family is my rock, and I am constantly inspired by the unique personalities and interests of my children. I believe that life is about creating meaningful experiences and making memories with the people we love, preferably at Ocean Isle Beach. 🙂
Affiliations:
- NBCOT– National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy
- NCBOT– North Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy
