Meet Our Team
Who we are and why we love helping you
Dr. Hoover is a Wisconsin native practicing since May 2012
Why did you want to be a physical therapist?
After sustaining a fracture of my low back when I was 16 years old when snowboarding, I personally learned the great benefits of physical therapy. My back injury motivated me at a young age to pursue my dream of helping patients regain their function and decrease their pain to participate in what they enjoy.
EDUCATION
Undergraduate: UW-La Crosse in Exercise Sports Science
Graduate: Doctorate in Physical Therapy at UW- Madison
Residency: UW Hospitals and Clinics and UnityPoint Health – Meriter Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency
CERTIFICATIONS
- Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
- Trigger Point dry needling
- APTA Credentialed Clinical Instructor
- American Heart Association CPR and AED Certified (this is true for all clinicians)
What can the patient expect when they have you as a doctor?
“My patients can expect a detail-oriented, caring approach to their care. I take great pride in understanding what my patient is having trouble completing and work with them to meet personalized goals. I value education, manual therapy and exercise. I feel that 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 a doctor-patient relationship and why?
Communication. Clinicians need to understand what a patient is going through to be able to help them most effectively. Sound communication allows for empathy, appropriate intervention, education and ultimately goal attainment.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- American Physical Therapy Association Member
- American Physical Therapy Association - Wisconsin Chapter - Member
- Southwest District Committee Member
- AAOMPT Member
FREE TIME: Dr. Hoover is a devoted husband and father to his son, Edwin. His physical activities: Golfing, hunting, softball, biking and chasing after his rescue dog, Redbone Coonhound, Harley.
PATIENT INSIGHTS:
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.
Connect with Dr. Jeschke on LinkedIn
Year you became a physical therapist? 2020
Why did you want to be a physical therapist?
I always knew that I wanted to make a difference and brighten the days of people, but I never knew how. This is when I felt called to the PT profession. I love to be able to help a patient who comes in with pain or issues and have them leave the clinic feeling like they have been heard, understood and have a plan that will help them get back to what they love to do. People and their bodies are stronger than they know. Giving them the right tools to better their movement can aid in their human experience, and I feel incredibly honored to walk side by side with patients through this journey.
EDUCATION
Undergraduate – University of Wisconsin- Superior
Graduate- South College, Knoxville, TN
Areas of special interest: Pelvic Health, CrossFit athletes, on-site injury prevention, work conditioning.
What can the patient expect when they have you as a doctor?
Every patient can expect to be treated with sound listening and understanding of their personal story. I always say “patients know their body the best.” Listening, communicating, and guiding patients towards their own personal solution and treatment plan.
What is the most important factor in a doctor-patient relationship and why?
Open communication, comfort, compassion, and best practices for results. The doctor-patient bond is important for patients to feel comfortable sharing concerns, wins, and defeats as well as empowered as a patient to embark on the healing journey.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- Associations: APTA
- Memberships: Lake Mills Rotary
- Volunteer: Real Hope Community Church
STAYING FIT: CrossFit, family walks, dog walks, hiking, and pilates.
FUN TIME: Going to different restaurants to find the best nachos, quality time with my husband, Brandon, being a mom to our baby, Hudson, our church, family and dog, Webster.
PATIENT INSIGHTS:
“Dr. Sara figured out what my issues were, got me working on the exercised for them and I am now back to being able to move like I had before with no pain.”
John Puhr
“We are so impressed with Sarah!”
Olivia Bartels
“My Dr. listens very well and helps me understand everything she is having me do and how it impacts my healing.”
Patrick Seely
Year you became a physical therapist? 2014
Why did you want to be a physical therapist?
I always knew I wanted to work in health care, but wasn’t sure what avenue to take. Then after a minor injury and going through my own physical therapy I knew it was something I wanted to pursue. I enjoy helping others to become or stay active and use movement as medicine. I have also been interested in Women’s Health since PT school but have a new appreciation for the need for this type of care after going through 3 pregnancies, deliveries and the recovery that comes after.
EDUCATION
Undergraduate – University of Wisconsin- Madison
Graduate- University of Wisconsin- Madison
Areas of special interest: Pelvic Health, pregnancy and postpartum recovery, orthopedics and spine therapy.
What can the patient expect when they have you as a doctor?
Collaboration. We work together to identify and meet your goals.
What is the most important factor in a doctor-patient relationship and why?
Communication is key to a positive doctor-patient relationship. Effective communication goes beyond asking questions and thinking I heard what you have said and what you have heard. Patients have a fear of what to expect when participating in physical therapy. Communication helps reduce fear, increase ownership of their recovery and makes physical therapy safe and goal worthy.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- APTA member
- MEDiC - free clinic PT volunteer
STAYING FIT: Peloton (indoor biking), strength training, walking, and running
FUN TIME: Love spending time with my husband and three small children, especially outdoors. We love exploring new parks and trails, cooking and new vegetarian meals!
PATIENT INSIGHTS:
“After going to the healthcare systems physical therapy, I was so happy to find Optimal and Dr. Brenna. The care and personalization that I received was outstanding. She is great at making sure I understand how I can help myself improve my movement and back pain. Effective, kind, caring and results-oriented. Well worth my time and money.” - SD
Dr. Joy has been practicing Physical Therapy since May 2016 and specializes in treating older adults and patients with neurologic conditions. She is licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin.
Why did you want to be a physical therapist?
Physical Therapy (PT) is my second career. After being in the mortgage industry for 10 years, I decided it was time to start helping people move better instead of helping them put more money in their pockets. At the time, both of my grandfathers were ill which impacted my decision to enter the healthcare sector. More specifically PT because I get to spend quite a bit of time really getting to know my patients, allowing me to better understand their motivators and goals.
EDUCATION
Undergraduate: University of Nebraska-Kearney
Graduate: Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Northern Illinois University
- APTA Geriatrics Credentialed Balance and Falls Professional
- Parkinson Wellness Recovery, PWR! Moves Recertified 2020, Certification 2017
- LSVT BIG Recertified 2020, Certification 2015
- APTA Credentialed Clinical Instructor 2018
- APTA Geriatrics Certified Exercise Expert for Aging Adults (CEEAA), 2017
- American Heart Association CPR and AED Certified
- Rock Steady Boxing Clinician Certification
What can the patient expect when they have you as a doctor?
“My patients can expect an individualized, person-centered approach to their care. I take great pride in empowering my patients to live stronger, healthier, and happier lives by sparking meaning and fun in the tasks that will add function and quality to their life.”
What is the most important factor in a doctor-patient relationship and why?
Listening. Really listening to understand what my patient is experiencing and what their expectations are for the future. It allows us, as a team, to create the best plan of care to accomplish their goals.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- American Physical Therapy Association Member
- Neurology and Geriatric Section Member
- American Physical Therapy Association - Wisconsin Chapter - Member
- Volunteer National Senior Games / Wisconsin Senior Olympics
- Volunteer Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp, Summer 2019 and 2015
FREE TIME: Dr. Joy enjoys running, hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, and spending time with friends, family, and her two dogs, Mia and Otto.
PATIENT INSIGHTS:
"Dr. Joy helped me get back to walking after my stroke. My favorite part of working with Optimal was the smiles, laughs and being mobile again." -Dan Martin
“Everyone's personality is spot on. Each and everyone listens, explains, and communicates why things are done or not done. I just cannot find one bad thing to say. If it was for Sara, Joy, Tiffany, and Alec, I wouldn't be where I am today.” - Heather G
"Optimal Physical Therapy and Dr. Joy helped me get back to walking after my stroke. My favorite part of working with Optimal was the smiles, laughs and being mobile again." - Dan Martin
Tiffany grew up in Winona, MN and made her way to Wisconsin to start her professional education. Her love of learning continues as she is the Director of our Aquatic Therapy program.
Why did you want to be a physical therapist assistant?
I fell in love with learning about the body in a Human Anatomy class in high school. While participating in many sports, I enjoyed learning why we move the way we do and how to correct improper movements in the body.
EDUCATION
Undergraduate - Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Carroll University
Physical Therapist Assistant – Herzing University
CERTIFICATIONS
Aquatic Therapy
Ballroom Basics for Balance Instructor
Areas of special interest:
- Post-op
- Geriatrics
- Knee rehabilitation
- Balance and Falls Prevention/recovery
What can the patient expect when they have you as a therapist?
A personalized one-on-one treatment plan where you not only learn why you are in pain but more about yourself as an individual. Listening to the patient and clearly communicating a plan has made a huge impact on results. You should feel comfortable working on the plan and working with me. Trusting your therapist is imperative as well as making the process fun instead of work.
What is the most important factor in a therapist-patient relationship and why?
Communication! Being open and honest with each other is important in meeting 100% of your goals.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- Memberships APTA, Wisconsin chapter, and Aquatics section
- Volunteer Relay for Life, Parkinson’s class at the YMCA
STAYING FIT: Volleyball and hiking.
FUN TIME: Reading suspense novels while curled up with her cat Milo.
Favorite treatment and Why?
Total knee replacements. We reteach you how to correctly return to walking, challenge your balance, and encourage you on those tough first weeks after surgery.
PATIENT INSIGHTS:
“Tiffany and Optimal helped me move around again without pain. Tiffany was very knowledgeable.” - Bill Blaska
“The staff here are amazing. They are professional, knowledgeable, and encouraging every step of the way. After thoroughly assessing my individual needs, a therapy plan was developed that supported strengthening and returning me to my optimal health. The collaboration is throughout the entire recovery process with constant feedback and communication. They listen, encourage, support, and work with you every step of the way. Another great option that you don't find everywhere is the exercise pool. It's another level of therapy that isn't offered everywhere and it's so wonderful.
I started therapy before my surgery. Dr. Nate and Tiffany helped with strengthening and prepared me for what to expect after my surgery. I am thoroughly convinced that I am walking better because of the therapy plan that Dr. Nate and Tiffany worked with me on both before and after my surgery.
I can't recommend Optimal Physical Therapy enough. I am thankful that I found them and can't imagine going anywhere else!” - Vicki Fitzsimmons
Mara grew up in central Wisconsin, moved to Madison to attend college in 2011. Mara joined Optimal in 2021 and provides physical therapy treatment at The Ranch in Marshall under Optimal Physical Therapy. She also operates a gym in Marshall called The Ranch Training Center with her boyfriend Max.
Why did you want to be a physical therapist assistant?
In high school, I realized from my anatomy & physiology class that I was fascinated by the human body. I researched potential majors and landed on studying Kinesiology in college. I was offered many unique opportunities working with different populations of people throughout the next few years, such as in-home caregiving, volunteering with UW-Madison’s Adapted Fitness program, becoming a personal trainer, and leading multiple programs for MSCR’s Adapted Recreational Department. From these experiences, I knew I wanted to continue working with people in a healthcare setting and was most interested in the profession of physical therapy. I decided to become a PTA because it was more cost-effective for me and I was able to stay in the Madison area, where I had been building invaluable relationships for the past several years.
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 we decided to expand our small personal training studio into a fully operating gym in late 2020. We knew we could offer more services with the size of our new facility, so we reached out to Optimal about expanding its physical therapy services through our gym in Marshall.
EDUCATION
- Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from UW-Madison
- Physical Therapist Assistant Associate’s degree from Madison College
CERTIFICATIONS
- Barbell Rehab Method Certification
- Injury Prevention Specialist Certification
- American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR/AED Certification
Areas of special interest:
Barbell strength training, manual therapy, orthopedics, injury prevention
What can the patient expect when they have you as a therapist?
Listening to my patients because there is often much more to the puzzle underneath the surface. Being stubborn, solutions for your physical limitations can be found in many ways.
What is the most important factor in a therapist-patient relationship and why?
Trust. If you can’t trust your provider with your health, you’re not getting the care you deserve.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- Associations: Marshall Area Business Association and the Lake Mills Chamber of Commerce.
- Memberships: American Physical Therapy Association—Wisconsin
- Volunteer: Assistant coach for The Ranch Training Center’s Powerlifting team
STAYING FIT: I enjoy lifting weights, biking, and hiking.
FUN TIME: Exploring new restaurants, traveling, and spending time with my malamute, Arya.
Favorite treatment and Why?
I love incorporating manual therapy techniques into my practice, particularly soft-tissue mobilization (massage). The human touch is so important for both its physical and emotional benefits, such as establishing trust with a person.
PATIENT INSIGHTS
"Mara is not only my PTA with Optimal, but also my (Personal) Trainer at the Ranch Training Center, helping me to overcome some physical issues through treatment and strength. She has the ability and techniques to not only address the aches and pains that come with life, but also continue to build my strength and agility to be able to help me see my personal health goals become a reality. Her understanding of how the body works is amazing. I ask a lot of questions and she has great answers. She listens, she cares, and she strives to make me strong and healthy.” - Lynn P.
"Optimal Physical Therapy helped me by correcting a bicep issue that was holding back my strength gains, Mara is the best!!" - Patrick Edge
“When I decided to have my knee replacement, I knew I would have a ton of PT appointments. My insurance allowed me choices where I was able to go for therapy. I chose Optimal PT because of its location. From the first appointment, I felt heard, valued and respected. The pain was incredibly intense in the beginning and Dr. Nate devised an exercise routine that allowed for recovery with respect to my pain. He pushed me gently to respect my body and still meet my own goals. As I work with Mara PTA at The Ranch in Marshall now, she is continuing to build on what Dr. Nate started. She has continued to encourage me as I recover. I would highly recommend going to Optimal PT for post-op recovery!” - Rebecca Milam
Greg is a Physical Therapist Assistant that moved here from Marshfield Wisconsin and is a former personal trainer, strength and conditioning coach, current powerlifting coach and competitor who received his associate degree from Bryant and Stratton College for Physical Therapist Assistant.
Why did you want to be a physical therapist assistant?
I have been a personal trainer, coach and competitor for years. In this journey, I found a respect for how the body moves and why we hurt. Being in personal training and coaching I was able to get people to do things they never thought possible, as a PTA I am able to help people move and feel better in a way that not only improves how they are feeling but their overall quality of life.
EDUCATION
Undergraduate - Bachelor’s Degree in Business Marketing with a minor in communication from Carroll University
Physical therapist Assistant - associate degree from Bryant and Stratton College in Wauwatosa
CERTIFICATIONS
Certified Personal Trainer
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Areas of special interest:
Manual Therapy
Myofascial Decompression
Strength and power training
What can the patient expect when they have you as a therapist?
I am results-driven. I like most people do not like to waste their time or money. I am a solutions person in both the restorative and preventive stages of recovery. Love it when people are feeling and moving better which equals a better quality of life.
What is the most important factor in a therapist-patient relationship and why?
Optimizing results. Delivering life-changing patient outcomes while understanding patient goals is my passion.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
STAYING FIT: Powerlifting, coaching, and general fitness
FUN TIME: Spending time with my wife and our dog named Tank. I also love training for powerlifting and getting my athletes ready for meets. I just picked up golf because everyone in the clinic golfs and I can’t embarrass myself.
FAVORITE TREATMENT and WHY?
I love to do myofascial deep tissue work and manual therapy interventions
Julie is the Office Manager, responsible for the non-clinical aspects of the day-to-day operations since 2018. She has always been very passionate about people and wanted to work in healthcare all her life. After 20 years in retail, she is excited to be part of a wonderful team that has her goals and interests in mind!
When can a patient expect to engage with you?
During the intake process, I help patients with their insurance questions and make sure to get authorizations when needed. I will be there for you with all your administration needs.
What is the most important factor in patients choosing Optimal Physical Therapy?
Movement is crucial to a person’s health, quality of life, and independence.
STAYING FIT: Walking my dogs, hiking, and biking
FUN TIME: Family, friends, massage therapy, being outdoors, and traveling.
Favorite Service at Optimal? Aquatic Therapy
Shawn has worked in marketing and business development since 1984. She originates from the Chicagoland area and has been a resident of Wisconsin since 2018. Her early career was in the auction industry with the past twenty years in the healthcare industry.
When can a patient expect to engage with you?
Patients will see my work anywhere from reading relevant conditions or treatment education to treatment adherence. When a patient has a great success story to share.
When a patient visits website, read the newsletters, blogs, or social posts.
What is the most important factor in patients choosing Optimal Physical Therapy?
Local convenience, national expertise with an unparalleled patient experience. The people and their sincerity, devotion to patients, and learning.
Education
Undergraduate: the University of Arizona, Bachelors of International Business
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
- The Beryl Institute, patient experience group
- United Methodist church
- Arthritis Foundation
- Community Crisis Center
FREE TIME: Exercising in the outdoors with walking, biking, boating, golf, cross country skiing, and tennis.
FUN TIME: Enjoying, connecting and caring for her honey, Eddie, and their six adult children, along with a large family and friend group.
Favorite Service at Optimal?
Dry Needling is amazing for relief in a short amount of time.
Tricia grew up in the Chicagoland area. After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, she has been living in Johnson Creek for the past 17 years with her husband, Rich, and their children, Brooke & Garret. Before she worked with the OPT team, she was a stay-at-home mom for several years, has recently worked as a substitute teacher in Jefferson County, and was the office manager for a handyman in Watertown. Tricia is now excited to do the things she loves to do most- be a kind, helpful, friendly face for whoever walks into the OPT office.
When can a patient expect to engage with you?
Efficient handling of patient appointment scheduling, emails, phone calls and payment.
If patients have questions about services, policies, and operations at Optimal.
What is the most important factor in patients choosing Optimal Physical Therapy?
Questions answered and appointments scheduled at their convenience.
STAYING FIT: Walking, snow skiing, boating, and waterskiing.
FUN TIME: She also enjoys spending time with her family, watching her kids play sports, visiting National Parks, taking family vacations, and her chocolate lab, Cooper.
Favorite Service at Optimal?
Kris was raised in Beaver Dam, WI. and lives in Watertown. Her patient skills learned from Watertown Regional Medical clinic in Lake Mills and people skills as a hairdresser for 20 + years is perfect for Optimal Physical Therapy patients. 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.
STAYING FIT: Walking, working out, paddling and snowshoeing.
FUN TIME: Kris has been married for 36 years to her Lakeside Lutheran high school sweetheart. Spending time with their 3 married daughters, 3 grandsons, 9-month-old English cream golden retriever "Callie".
Favorite Service at Optimal? Coming soon
Emily is a lifelong resident of Lake Mills, currently living with her mother and father. She is our Superstar Sports Team Member, working part-time. Emily’s employment is facilitated through the DVR (department of vocational rehabilitation) program, which utilizes a job coach to increase her independence in her employment setting.
What can a patient expect to appreciate from you? A friendly smile, and is someone who takes pride in her work. Provides assistance in maintaining a clean, sterilized environment for all patients. Actively involved in cleaning, disinfecting, vacuuming, mopping, and laundry.
FAVORITE SAYING: "I got this"
STAYING FIT: Enjoys hikes in Korth park, sunsets, gardening, and snowshoeing.
COMMUNITY: Emily volunteers her time at Zachariah’s Acres and enjoys social events/classes through the Down Syndrome Association in Madison, and Gigi’s Playhouse-Down Syndrome Achievement Center.
FUN TIME: She enjoys anything involving family, especially with her 2 older sisters. Emily loves fishing, and s’mores over the firepit, at her grandma/pa’s cottage up north.
“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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