Meet Our Team
Who we are and why we love helping you
Dr. Nathaniel Hoover, PT, DPT, OCS - Clinic Director
Dr. Hoover is a long-time Wisconsinite who grew up in the Eau Claire area and has been practicing since May 2016.
Why did you want to be a physical therapist?
Dr. Hoover sustained a fracture of his low back when snowboarding at age 16. The experience and care received after his injury taught him how physical therapy can be life-changing. Dr. Hoover’s back injury motivated him at a young age to pursue his dream of helping patients regain their function and decrease their pain to participate in activities they love.
What can the patient expect when they have Dr. Nate Hoover, PT, DPT as their physical therapist?
Dr. Hoover’s patients can expect a detail-oriented, caring approach to their care. He takes great pride in understanding what is limited for his patients and works diligently with them to meet personalized goals. Dr. Hoover values patient education, manual therapy techniques, and exercise interventions. Dr. Hoover shares, “If a patient can understand and learn the reason for their pain or dysfunction, they will be successful in changing it.”
What is the most important factor in the therapist-patient relationship and why?
Communication. Clinicians need to understand what a patient is going through and their personalized goals to be able to help them most effectively. Sound communication allows for empathy, appropriate intervention, education, and ultimately goal attainment.
EDUCATION
Undergraduate: Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Sports Science from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Graduate: Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison
Residency: UW Hospitals and Clinics and UnityPoint Health – Meriter Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency
CERTIFICATIONS & ACHIEVEMENTS
- Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
- Trigger Point dry needling
- APTA Credentialed Clinical Instructor
- American Heart Association CPR and AED Certified
AREAS OF SPECIAL INTEREST
- Sports medicine
- Trigger point dry needling
- Manual therapy
- ACL/Lower extremity return to sport
- Jaw dysfunction
- Physical therapy clinical education
- Physical therapy practice management
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- MEMBERSHIPS:
- American Physical Therapy Association Member
- Orthopedic Section Member
- STAYING FIT: Golfing, hunting, softball, biking, hiking, pickleball
- FREE TIME: Dr. Hoover is a devoted husband and father to two sons, Edwin and Henry, and a Redbone Coonhound, Harley.
Dr. Jennifer Jeschke PT, DPT, CMPT, MFDc - Owner
Jennifer Jeschke is a Wisconsin native, born and raised in Racine, WI. She established her career in Lake Mills in 2004 and opened Optimal Physical Therapy in 2005.
She is an active member of the Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association, currently serving as our district chair and board of directors for the Private Practice Special Interest Group.
She received her Clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, and her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
Areas of special interest and expertise include orthopedic and sports medicine, Injured Worker rehabilitation and injury prevention, Trigger Point Dry Needling, Myofascial Decompression Techniques, and is a Certified Golf Performance Specialist through Nike and the Gray Institute.
In her free time she enjoys volleyball, golf, swimming, travel, and running her 2 Texas rescue dogs.
Dr. Lisa Smith, PT, DPT
Dr. Lisa Smith is a Physical Therapist who grew up in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, and earned both her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Why did you want to be a physical therapist?
Dr. Lisa values the opportunity to get to know her patients and help them achieve their goals as quickly as possible. She is passionate about demonstrating how capable the human body is and how it can adapt with age. Dr. Lisa enjoys empowering individuals to reach their physical potential through thoughtful care and education.
What can the patient expect when they have Dr. Lisa Smith, PT, DPT as their physical therapist?
Patients can expect a compassionate and results-driven approach. Dr. Lisa is dedicated to providing effective care that improves both the physical condition and overall quality of life for her patients. She strives to create individualized treatment plans that facilitate lasting recovery.
What is the most important factor in the therapist-patient relationship and why?
Dr. Lisa believes that honest and respectful communication is crucial in fostering successful doctor-patient partnerships. Open communication allows for collaboration in overcoming barriers and ultimately leads to better outcomes for the patient.
EDUCATION
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Graduate: Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison
CERTIFICATIONS & ACHIEVEMENTS
- American Heart Association Basic Life Support
AREAS OF SPECIAL INTEREST
- Orthopedic rehabilitation
- Injured worker rehabilitation
- Vestibular and balance rehabilitation
- Post-operative care
- Trigger point dry needling
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- MEMBERSHIPS: American Physical Therapy Association Member (APTA)
- STAYING FIT: Enjoys hiking, biking, kayaking, yoga, and weight training.
- FUN TIME: Spends quality time with her husband, two sons, and their dog, Rory. She also enjoys playing games with her family and friends
Dr. Colleen Aubrey PT, DPT
Dr. Colleen Aubrey is a Physical Therapist who grew up in California, completed her Bachelor's degree in Hawaii, and has put down roots in Wisconsin. She earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Why did you want to be a physical therapist?
Dr. Colleen became a physical therapist to empower individuals to lead active, fulfilling lives. As a former collegiate softball player, she experienced firsthand how injuries can affect not just athletic performance but overall well-being. That experience sparked a deep interest in understanding human movement and the rehabilitation process. She finds great fulfillment in providing personalized, evidence-based care that helps patients regain strength, confidence, and independence. Dr. Colleen is committed to making a positive, lasting impact on every patient’s life through compassionate and results-driven therapy.
What can the patient expect when they have Dr. Colleen Aubrey, PT, DPT as their physical therapist?
Patients can expect a personalized, patient-centered approach focused on achieving measurable, positive outcomes. Dr. Colleen takes pride in offering comprehensive care that not only addresses immediate recovery needs but also helps her patients regain functional independence and return to their active lives as quickly as possible.
What is the most important factor in the therapist-patient relationship and why?
Dr. Colleen believes that clear, open communication and a strong partnership between therapist and patient are essential. This mutual understanding allows for a treatment plan that is tailored to each patient's goals, leading to the best possible outcomes.
EDUCATION
- Undergraduate: Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from the University of Hawaii at Hilo
- Graduate: Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison
CERTIFICATIONS & ACHIEVEMENTS
- LSVT Big Certification (specializing in Parkinson’s disease)
- American Heart Association Basic Life Support
AREAS OF SPECIAL INTEREST
- Orthopedic rehabilitation
- Sports injuries, endurance athletes, & return to sport
- Post-ACL reconstruction rehabilitation
- Neurological conditions, specifically Parkinson’s Disease, or individuals with amputations
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- MEMBERSHIPS: American Physical Therapy Association Member (APTA)
- STAYING FIT: Enjoys running, biking, and swimming to maintain an active lifestyle
- FUN TIME: In her free time, Colleen loves gardening, cooking, and spending time outdoors with her chickens. She also enjoys participating in various physical activities and staying active with friends and family.
Marissa Anderson, PT, DPT
Dr. Marissa originally grew up living in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago, but has now moved to the Madison area to establish herself as a practicing physical therapist here in Lake Mills
Why did you want to be a physical therapist?
Dr. Marissa was inspired to pursue a career in physical therapy through personal experience with injury and recovery. As an athlete, she faced a significant setback that tested both physical endurance and mental strength. During that time, the compassionate care and expert guidance received from a physical therapist had a lasting impact, igniting a passion to help others in similar situations. What drives Dr. Marissa in this profession is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with patients and support them in regaining their strength, confidence, and independence. Being part of each patient’s journey—helping them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals—is a source of deep fulfillment and purpose.
What can the patient expect when they have Dr. Marissa Anderson, PT, DPT as their physical therapist?
Dr. Marissa is dedicated to delivering individualized, patient-centered care aimed at maximizing function, with a strong focus on enhancing sports performance for athletes. Her approach combines evidence-based techniques with a deep understanding of the physical and mental demands faced by individuals recovering from injury. Dr. Marissa is committed to creating a compassionate and empowering environment as well as helping patients navigate their rehabilitation journey with confidence. By developing personalized rehabilitation plans and providing consistent motivation, she strives to support each patient in overcoming challenges and returning to the activities they love with freedom and assurance.
What is the most important factor in the therapist-patient relationship and why?
For Dr. Marissa, the most important factor in the therapist-patient relationship is trust. Trust forms the foundation of effective, patient-centered care and is essential for creating a collaborative environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Whether she is working with athletes aiming to return to peak performance or members of the general population striving to regain their prior level of function, Dr. Marissa believes that trust enables open communication, mutual goal-setting, and consistent effort from both parties. By building genuine relationships grounded in empathy and reliability, Dr. Marissa helps patients stay motivated and engaged in their rehabilitation, ultimately leading to better outcomes and a more meaningful recovery experience.
EDUCATION
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science with a minor in Psychology from The University of Kansas.
- Graduate: Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Concordia University Wisconsin.
CERTIFICATIONS & ACHIEVEMENTS
- Animal Assisted Therapy Certification from Concordia University Wisconsin
- American Heart Association Basic Life Support
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- MEMBERSHIPS:
- ACAPT National Honor Society Member
- American Physical Therapy Association Member
- STAYING FIT: Hiking, biking, and playing pickleball with friends and family
- FUN TIME: Dr. Marissa loves hanging out with her family and closest friends. She loves going on runs with her golden retriever puppy, drinking coffee, and playing board games with her family and friends.
Mara Martin, PTA
Mara is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant and has worked for Optimal PT since 2021. She grew up in central Wisconsin, moved to Madison for college, and currently resides in Marshall, WI with her husband Max and Malamute Arya. Mara & Max also own a gym called The Ranch Training Center in Marshall. Mara provides physical therapy treatment PRN at The Ranch, which also serves as a satellite location for Optimal.
Why did you want to be a physical therapist assistant?
Since high school, Mara has always been interested in health, fitness, and the anatomy/physiology of the human body. She went to UW-Madison to study Kinesiology & Exercise Science, but was unsure of where her career would land. Throughout college and shortly after graduation, Mara was given many unique job opportunities, such as in-home caregiving, volunteering with UW-Madison’s Adapted Fitness program, leading recreational programs for MSCR’s Adapted Rec Department, and finally working as a personal trainer for Anytime Fitness. From these experiences, she knew she wanted to continue working with people in a healthcare setting and to somehow incorporate her love for fitness. Physical therapy was the perfect profession to blend these two passions. Mara ultimately decided to become a PTA and to stay in the Madison area, where she had already been building invaluable relationships (both personally and professionally) for almost a decade.
What can the patient expect when they have Mara Martin, PTA as their therapist?
When working with Mara, patients can expect a caring, optimistic therapist who is always willing to listen to her patient’s concerns. Mara finds the most value in strength-training and manual therapy interventions. Therefore, her patients can expect a good mix of exercise and “hands-on” skills provided in therapy sessions. Mara also believes in promoting patient independence and will encourage you to continue your fitness journey long after being discharged from PT.
What is the most important factor in a therapist-patient relationship and why?
Mara believes the most important factor in a therapist-patient relationship is establishing trust. If you can’t trust your provider with your health, you’re not getting the very best care you deserve. Patients should always feel they can speak openly with their therapist and that their therapist is providing appropriate care or referring out to other health care providers when indicated
Why Marshall?
Marshall is a community that has been lacking in both fitness and physical therapy resources. The Ranch had already established many connections in the neighboring town of Waterloo so Mara & her husband Max decided to expand their small personal training studio into a fully operating gym in late 2020. They knew we could offer more services with the size of the new facility, so Mara reached out to Optimal about expanding physical therapy services through the gym in Marshall.
EDUCATION
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Physical Therapist Assistant Degree: Madison College
CERTIFICATIONS & ACHIEVEMENTS
- Barbell Rehab Method Certification
- Injury Prevention Specialist Certification
- American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR/AED Certification
AREAS OF SPECIAL INTEREST
- Barbell strength training
- Manual therapy
- Orthopedic rehabilitation
- Post-operative care
- Injury prevention & “pre-hab”
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- MEMBERSHIPS: American Physical Therapy Association—Wisconsin, Marshall Area Business Association
- STAYING FIT: Lifting weights, biking, pickleball, and walking/hiking with her dog Arya
- FUN TIME: Exploring new restaurants, traveling, cooking, reading, spending time with friends & family
Emily Jensen, PTA
Emily is originally from the suburbs of Chicago and moved to Oconomowoc, Wisconsin to raise her family. Emily received her Physical Therapist Assistant Degree from Bryant & Stratton College in Wauwatosa, WI.
Why did you want to be a physical therapist assistant?
Physical Therapist Assistant is a second career for me. I had a successful career as a Licensed Massage Therapist, but I always felt limited in my ability to help my clients. When we moved to Wisconsin, I had the opportunity to stay at home with my kids when they were still young. When the time came to join the workforce again, I decided, with the support of my family, to return to school and further my education. I found my passion and am very grateful for where this journey has taken me.
What can the patient expect when they have Emily Jensen, PTA as their physical therapist assistant?
Patients can expect treatment to be personalized and patient-centered. As a PTA, Emily gets to approach every new case with one of our great PTs. At Optimal Physical Therapy, we work as a team, along with our patients, to tailor treatments specifically for each new case. This is accomplished by using evidence-based practice to achieve the best outcomes possible.
What is the most important factor in the therapist-patient relationship and why?
Emily believes that communication is the most important factor in the relationship between a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) and a patient because it builds trust, ensures clarity in treatment goals, and enhances patient outcomes. Effective communication allows the PTA to clearly explain exercises, provide feedback, and understand the patient's concerns, pain levels, or progress. It also empowers patients to express themselves openly, which is essential for adapting treatment plans to their specific needs. Without strong communication, misunderstandings can occur, potentially leading to ineffective therapy or injury. Ultimately, open and respectful dialogue fosters a collaborative environment where patients feel supported and motivated throughout their rehabilitation journey.
EDUCATION
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degree from Concordia River Forest
- Massage: Certificate in Massage and Bodywork from The Chicago School of Massage Therapy - Cortiva Institute
- Physical Therapist Assistant Degree: Associate degree in Physical Therapy from Bryant & Stratton College
CERTIFICATIONS
- APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy Clinical Competency Certification
- American Heart Association Basic Life Support
AREAS OF SPECIAL INTEREST
- Aquatic therapy
- Geriatric care
- Balance and fall prevention
- Manual therapy
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- MEMBERSHIPS: American Physical Therapy Association
- STAYING FIT: Emily enjoys running to stay active. She competes in different races and was a Disney World Dopey Finisher in 2024, which is a four-day running challenge where participants complete a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon.
- FUN TIME: Emily is a busy mom with two kids who absorb most of her free time. As a family they like to travel, visit zoos, spend time outdoors, and hang out with their dog and 2 cats. Emily also enjoys reading and listening to music.
Kris Melcher, Patient Care Coordinator
Kris was raised in Beaver Dam and now lives in Watertown. She developed her patient skills while working at the Watertown Regional Medical clinic in Lake Mills, and her people skills as a hairdresser for 20 + years. She likes one-on-one interaction and making a patient’s life easier.
When can a patient expect to engage with you?
Kris makes it a goal to create a safe, positive, caring, and welcoming atmosphere for all who enter the clinic. She goes above and beyond to provide convenient schedules for the patients. She is thrilled to grow as a team member at Optimal Physical Therapy and looks forward to making a difference in the lives of all who enter our building.
What is the most important factor in patients choosing Optimal Physical Therapy?
Patient access to healthcare is so important. The people of Jefferson County can find unparalleled service and expertise in a very easy, uncomplicated way.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- STAYING FIT: Walking, working out at her local gym, kayaking, spin class, and snowshoeing.
- FUN TIME: Kris has been married for 39 years to her Lakeside Lutheran high school sweetheart. They love spending time with their 3 daughters, their husbands, and grandchildren, as well as their English cream golden retriever "Callie.”
Julie Larson, Office Manager
Julie grew up in Crystal Lake, Illinois and lived in Watertown, Wisconsin for 22 years. She has recently relocated to Spokane, Washington.
When can a patient expect to engage with you?
Julie is responsible for the non-clinical aspects of the day-to-day operation, including insurance/benefits verifications, HR, staff training and onboarding. She has always been very passionate about people and wanted to work in healthcare all her life. After 20 years in retail, she decided to change her career path to be part of a wonderful team that has her goals and interests in mind! During the intake process, she helps patients with their insurance questions and makes sure to get authorizations when needed. Julie will be there for all your administrative needs
What is the most important factor in patients choosing Optimal Physical Therapy?
The most important factor is our focus on restoring movement, which is key to health, independence, and quality of life. Patients choose Optimal Physical Therapy because we offer personalized care that helps them return to the activities they love.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- STAYING FIT: Walking her dog, hiking, playing pool, and biking
- FUN TIME: Julie enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. In her free time she also enjoys massage therapy, being outdoors, and traveling.
Morgan Zastrow, Patient Care Coordinator, Marketing Intern
Morgan is a lifelong resident of Lake Mills. She is a recent graduate of Lake Mills High School and is currently pursuing a degree in Marketing at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
When can a patient expect to engage with you?
Morgan is proud to support Optimal Physical Therapy, both in-person and remotely. During the summer months, she welcomes patients at the front desk, assists with scheduling and phone calls, and produces marketing content. While attending the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse during the school year, she continues to contribute by creating engaging marketing content that reflects the values of the clinic. Morgan is grateful for the opportunity to grow with the team and is dedicated to helping create a positive, informative, and welcoming experience for all patients.
What is the most important factor in patients choosing Optimal Physical Therapy?
As a lifelong resident of Lake Mills and a former patient at Optimal Physical Therapy, Morgan knows how impactful genuine, compassionate care can be. Having experienced the welcoming environment and expert support firsthand, she believes patients choose Optimal because they feel seen, valued, and truly cared for. Her goal is to reflect the same warmth and trust that made such a difference in her own experience.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- STAYING FIT: Walking, working out at the gym, playing pickleball, and hiking.
- FUN TIME: Morgan enjoys spending quality time with her family, friends, and her beloved dog, Murphy. During her free time, she loves to travel, go shopping, read, and listen to music.
“Early treatment is the key to maximizing movement, managing chronic pain and recovering from surgery and injuries.”
Dr. Jennifer Jeschke PT, DPT, CMPT, MFDc
Words from Our Patients
Your Health is Our Top Priority
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