Our Team of Therapists


LICENSED SPECIALISTS

 
Erica Azzaretto Michitsch

Erica Azzaretto Michitsch

PT, DPT, WCS, CO-OWNER OF SOLSTICE PT
Location: Manhattan, Long Island

 
  • BS Biology, Villanova University, PA

    Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Rutgers University

    Women’s Health Clinical Specialist (WCS), American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

    Member, American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

    Member, International Pelvic Pain Society (IPPS)

    Pilates Teaching Certification, Polestar

    Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Certification, Hawks Grips Tools

    Endometriosis Physical Therapist, iCareBetter.com

    Published in the Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy (JOSPT) September 2013: The Efficacy of Dry Needling for Upper Quarter Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review

    Additional Training: Low Pressure Fitness, Hypopressives; Dry Needling, Visceral Mobilization, Institute of Physical Art (IPA) Movement Techniques

    Pelvic Health Sexuality Counseling Certificate, Pelvic Guru

    Erica’s passion for physical therapy began after she suffered a knee injury as a competitive athlete at Villanova University. She earned her BS in Biology from Villanova and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Rutgers University.

  • “Early in my career, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to develop and launch a pelvic-floor therapy program and was thrilled with the positive feedback from both doctors and patients. As a result, I became hooked on the pelvic-floor specialty field of therapy!

    I believe there is a mind-body connection that impacts health. And there is evidence to support this. I also believe that patients can get back to doing a sport or exercise with the right guidance. So using an evidence-based, holistic treatment approach, my patients will develop a better awareness of their bodies, which may contribute to a reduction of pain and symptoms. Less pain means you can return to doing what you love.

    I embrace challenges and together, patients and I will work to resolve their pelvic-floor condition. As co-owner of Solstice Physiotherapy, I know our team is ready to help. Even though owning a business keeps me busy, I make time to have fun with my husband and three children. I love to ski, play tennis, a dedicated yogi and practice pilates.”


 

Kara Mortifoglio

PT, DPT, WCS, CO-OWNER OF SOLSTICE PT

Location: Manhattan, Long Island

 
  • BS Exercise Physiology, University of Delaware, DE

    Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) , Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions

    Women’s Health Clinical Specialist (WCS), American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

    Member, American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

    Member, International Pelvic Pain Society (IPPS)

    Pilates Teaching Certification, Polestar

    Teaching Assistant, Herman & Wallace

    Endometriosis Physical Therapist, iCareBetter.com

    Pelvic Health Sexuality Counseling Certificate, Pelvic Guru

  • “During my clinical rotations and at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, I worked in various patient-care speciality areas. I found treating pregnant and postpartum women and patients with pelvic-floor dysfunction, to be the most rewarding. I relocated to a pelvic-floor therapy specialty clinic where my skills grew. I became interested in the mind and body connection. As a result, I follow a holistic approach to patient treatment, helping patients get back to what they love to do. It’s important that patients are comfortable speaking with me and that they know I am interested in listening to what they have to say.

    When I’m not busy treating and managing Solstice Physiotherapy as a co-owner, I enjoy traveling and being active with my husband, daughter, and son. We live in Queens where there is no shortage of things to do! I love boxing, CrossFit and interval-based classes, as well as yoga. I’m also proud of the fact that I’ve run five half-marathons! I am a big proponent of exercise for my patients, knowing that it doesn’t have to be costly or time-intensive.“


 
Alexandra Burtman

Alexandra Burtman

PT, DPT, PRPC, DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Location: Manhattan, Westchester

 
  • BS Neuroscience, Union College, Schenectady, NY

    Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), New York Medical College

    Member, American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

    Pelvic Rehabilitation Professional Certification (PRPC), Herman & Wallace

    Pilates Mat Certification, Power Pilates

    Teaching Assistant, Herman & Wallace

    Endometriosis Physical Therapist, iCareBetter.com

  • “I began my career in a NYC outpatient clinic, treating patients with a variety of conditions. When I began treating pregnant and postpartum patients, and patients with pelvic floor dysfunction, I knew it was the treatment field for me. I volunteered to begin the clinic’s first pelvic-floor treatment program, including home visits to patients in NYC. It was a rewarding project and it taught me a lot about treatment and the road to recovery. To me, it’s important to meet my patient where they are, listen to their concerns and meet their unique needs. It’s all about a plan tailored specifically to you, one that you are comfortable with. I will be committed to helping you reach you goals.

    I currently live in NYC. My husband, son and I love taking longs walks in Central Park. I also run, ski and enjoy taking Pilates classes. I’ve run several half-marathons as well as the 2019 NYC marathon. I believe the best type of exercise is something you love doing! When I’m not running around the city, I love to enjoy good food with family and friends.”


 
Claire Hamnett

Claire Hamnett

PT, DPT, WCS, PRPC, CLT, DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL EDUCATION

Location: Manhattan

 
  • BS Kinesiology with Biology Minor, BA Spanish, University of Massachusetts Amherst

    Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)/Advanced Orthopedics Specialty Track, Columbia University

    Clinical Residency, Women's Health, Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation

    PhD Student, Women’s-Health Physical Therapy, Texas Woman’s University

    Certificate in Women’s Health & Physical Therapy, Texas Woman’s University

    Women’s Health Clinical Specialist (WCS), American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

    Member, American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

    Pelvic Rehabilitation Professional Certification (PRPC), Herman & Wallace

    Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT), Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy

    Director, Early Professional Special Interest Group (EPSIG), Academy of Pelvic Health (APTA)

    Endometriosis Physical Therapist, iCareBetter.com

    Published in the Journal of Women's Health Physical Therapy (JWHPT) April/June 2021: Can an Outpatient Exercise Program for Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain Improve Pain and Function Versus Education? A Feasibility Study.

  • “During college, I worked at a pelvic-health physical therapy clinic. I was able to see first-hand how life-changing pelvic floor physical therapy can be. This experience is what caused me to choose this therapy field. I am currently continuing my education in a PhD program.

    The more we can learn about pelvic floor dysfunction and the more clinical evidence we collect, the better treatments we can develop. I regularly consult available research and evidence so that I can provide patients with the highest level of care. I believe that listening to a patient’s complete story is the first step in the healing journey. I am committed to fostering an inclusive and comfortable environment for you.

    I live in Manhattan and love to explore NYC and travel beyond. When not relaxing with my cat, Moo, you can find me participating in indoor and outdoor sports, including CrossFit and skiing. (I was a competitive ski-racer in high school and college.) I’m always on the look-out for a good, gluten-free meal in NYC. Let me know if you have a suggestion!”


 
Emma Codman

Emma Codman

PT, DPT, WCS, PRPC, DIRECTOR OF STUDENT PROGRAMS

Location: Manhattan, Long Island

 
  • BS Rehabilitation Science, Northeastern University, MA

    Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Northeastern University

    Women’s Health Clinical Specialist (WCS), American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

    Member, American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

    Pelvic Rehabilitation Professional Certification (PRPC), Herman & Wallace

    Teaching Assistant, Herman & Wallace

    Endometriosis Physical Therapist, iCareBetter.com

  • “For 12 years, I trained to be a classical ballet dancer. I sustained several injuries. I was curious. Why did I get injured? Could it have been prevented? I didn’t realize it at the time, but this was the beginning of my interest in a physical therapy career.

    I was exposed to the field of pelvic-floor therapy when I was an aide at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston. I was immediately drawn to this specialty because of the therapist’s ability to improve a patient’s quality of life for the long term. This is my goal when I treat patients at Solstice Physiotherapy. Throughout the healing process, I will help you learn about your body and how you can impact your own health and well-being. My goal is to empower you to be confident in yourself throughout the healing process.

    When I’m not working, you can find me experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen or trying out a new restaurant in NYC. I can also be found working hard and having fun at Pilates class.”


 

Rebecca Arkin

OTD, OTR/L, PRPC, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Location: Manhattan, Long Island

 
  • BS Behavior and Health, Boston University

    Master of Occupational Therapy, New York University

    Doctor of Occupational Therapy (Chronic Pelvic Pain portfolio)

    Member, American Occupational Therapy Association

    Pelvic Rehabilitation Professional Certification (PRPC), Herman & Wallace

    Teaching Assistant, Herman & Wallace

  • “I was immediately drawn to the field of pelvic health when I observed the profound impact it had on patients' ability to engage in activities they love. This led me to focus my doctoral studies specifically on chronic pelvic pain. Since then, I have been actively seeking opportunities for continuous learning and ongoing training in this specialized area.

    My passion lies in educating individuals of all genders about the role and significance of the pelvic floor. I firmly believe that the more people feel comfortable and knowledgeable about their pelvic floor, the better equipped they are to take control of their health.

    By considering the various aspects of a patient's life, I strive to provide comprehensive care that addresses their unique needs and goals. With a holistic approach in mind, I completed a 200-hour yoga training program, aiming to help patients establish a stronger mind-body connection through movement.

    Outside of the clinic, you can find me exploring New York City, practicing yoga, or cooking.”


 
Devon Dinegar Photo

Devon Dinegar

PT, DPT

Location: Long Island

 
  • BS Kinesiology, Manhattan College, NY

    Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Stony Brook University

    Member, American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) - New York Chapter and Women’s Health Section

    Additional Training: Pediatric Pelvic Health (Ages 4-18), Male Pelvic Pain, Pelvic Health in Gender Affirming Care, Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA) Level 1, Institute of Physical Art (IPA) Movement Techniques

  • When I first learned about the intricacies and foundational necessities of the pelvic floor, I was captivated. During one of my clinical rotations at a pelvic health clinic, my passion for treating people with pelvic health issues emerged. It was especially clear that this is an underserved population and I wanted to be an active part in helping to educate and treat people with pelvic symptoms. Pelvic health concerns can often be intimate and even taboo in our society. I recognize this and am able to provide a safe and comfortable space that allows for open communication and active listening. This allows all people with pelvises of all ages (4 years old and up...I treat kiddos too!) to share their story and, together, devise an optimal and effective plan to accomplish their goals. I strive to teach all of the patients the tools they need to independently manage their pelvic health, maintain their fitness, and prevent future injuries. I trust that each of my patient’s success is a result of hard work from both the patient and the therapist - in and outside of the clinic.

    In my free time, I enjoy running, taking Pilates classes, listening to audiobooks, and traveling with my husband.