Tailwind Physical Therapy Team
Our friendly staff create an environment for healing.
Jeff Royter
FOUNDER, MPT
Jeff Royter
Jeff received his Masters in Physical Therapy from Idaho State in 1993, and an orthopedic certification specialty in 2001, Jeff settled in Spokane with his wife Kimber, where they support a passion for outdoor activities with their two boys, and two Labrador Retrievers. Jeff is an avid road cyclist and mountain biker, telemark and cross-country skier.
M.P.T. (Master in Physical Therapy)- Idaho State
OCS (Orthopedic Certification Specialty)
Alex Pollastro
DPT
Alex Pollastro
Alex earned her BS in Human Physiology at Gonzaga University and graduated from Wheeling Jesuit Doctor of Physical Therapy program in 2017. Her interests are orthopedics and injury prevention by applying a holistic approach and focusing on optimal postural alignment. Alex is excited to be a part of the Tailwind Physical Therapy team and looks forward to applying a broad spectrum of evidence based treatment techniques with a focus in manual therapy and patient education. Alex is Astym certified.
She is from Lake Tapps, WA and enjoys spending time with her husband, Chris and goldendoodle, Stanley. Alex loves to downhill ski and enjoys participating in other outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and jogging.
D.P.T. (Doctorate in Physical Therapy)- Wheeling Jesuit
Charlie Howlett
DPT
Charlie Howlett
Charlie studied and received a B.S. in Zoology at the University of Washington then continued his education at Eastern Washington University, where he earned a doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2007. He earned his Orthopedic Certification Specialty in 2017. Charlie was raised in Spokane and returned to the area in 2012 after working as a traveling physical therapist across the country for 5 years. Charlie has particular interest in post-surgical rehabilitation, orthopedic trauma injuries, sports injuries, and general orthopedics involving the shoulder, hip, and knee. In his free time, Charlie enjoys mountain biking, downhill skiing, trail running, paddle boarding, and a good road trip with his wife Leanne.
D.P.T. (Doctorate in Physical Therapy)- University of Washington
OCS (Orthopedic Certification Specialty)
Danielle O’Donovan
DPT
Danielle O'Donovan
Danielle has a doctorate in physical therapy that she earned in 2017 from Samuel Merritt University. She moved to Spokane from California in 2020 with her husband, daughter, two dogs, and an irresponsible amount of house plants. Her approach to physical therapy is highly collaborative and prioritizes the movement goals most meaningful to her patients. Danielle is a L-1 Rigo Concept trained Physical Therapist. This method focuses on teaching three-dimensional spine stabilization exercises specific for different curve types of scoliosis and kyphosis to patients and their families. When she isn’t at work she enjoys reading, gardening, sharing her love of camping and hiking with her daughter, and exploring the local restaurant scene.
Madeline Reich
DPT
Madeline Reich
Madeline started her PT career in Spokane after earning her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Curiosity brought Madeline from coast to coast. A warm welcome from neighbors, and a deeply rewarding platform to practice in her field has kept her here, in Eastern Washington.
Madeline is an enthusiast of espresso and ice cream – a firm believer in the healing properties found in both physical therapy and frozen desserts!
She can be found cruising around on her bike, writing to her pen pals, getting caffeinated, or baking biscotti.
Madeline has a Bachelors of Science from Kent State University in Ohio. Her special interest include Orthopedic, Sport and Neurologic conditions. Madeline has a heart of compassion and is committed to seeking out growth opportunities in order to best serve her friends and community.
Chiayo Gilbert
DPT
Chiayo Gilbert
Chai obtained her BS in Biology at Eastern Washington University and returned to EWU for her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Chai treats a variety of populations affected by orthopedic, neurological and vestibular conditions. Special interests include Parkinson Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke and Vestibular Rehabilitation. Chai has been certified to administer the LSVT BIG program for treatment of individuals with movement disorders related to Parkinson disease. Outside of the clinic she enjoys being outdoors, crafting, gaming, spending quality time with her partner and playing with their three cats.
PT, DPT, LSVT BIG Certified
Megan Johnson
DPT
Megan Johnson
Megan is originally from Tulsa, OK, moving to the west coast when she was 13. She acquired her BA in Theatre at the University of Southern California. Following her own stint as a physical therapy patient after her own ACL reconstruction, she decided to go back to school, ultimately earning her Doctor of Physical Therapy at Eastern Washington University. Her interests span across all age groups with a special interest in hypermobility, scoliosis and pelvic floor pathologies. She enjoys hiking, weightlifting and crocheting to keep her hands busy. She loves a nice evening in with her partner and 3 cats.
Megan Johnson, PT, DPT (She/Her)
Candace Callaway-Pringle
PTA
Candace Callaway-Pringle
Candace received her Physical Therapist Assistant A.A.S degree from Spokane Falls Community College in 2010. She works closely with our Physical Therapists to ensure optimal care to each of her patients. When Candace isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children. You might find her skiing or snowmobiling the local mountains or running with the Flying Irish club through the streets of Spokane.
P.T.A (Physical Therapy Assistant) – Spokane Falls Community College
Katelyn Smith
PTA
Katelyn Smith
Katelyn grew up just south of Spokane in Rosalia, Wa. Raised on a Wheat Farm, she then pursued her Bachelors degree in Kinesiology from WSU, graduating in 2014. While at WSU she was also a 4 year member of the varsity Rowing team. Following Wazzu, Katelyn received her Physical Therapist Assistant A.A.S degree from Spokane Falls Community College in 2017.
Outside of work, Katelyn enjoys baking, hiking, kayaking and raising her Silver Lab, Ranger, with her husband Jake.
B.S. (Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology) – WSU
P.T.A. (Physical Therapist Assistant) – Spokane Falls Community College
Sam Waples
PTA,
BIKE FIT SPECIALIST
Sam Waples
Sam grew up in Spokane before attending Western Washington University to graduate with a B.S. in Kinesiology. He used his schooling to develop his passion of cycling with coaching and bike fitting. Since moving back from Bellingham, Sam and his wife Mackenzie enjoy a balance of outdoors, travel and family
B.S. (Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology) – Western WA University
Bike Fit Specialist
P.T.A. (Physical Therapist Assistant) – Spokane Falls Community College
Travis Birrell
DPT
Travis Birrell
Throughout his ten-year career, Travis has developed a strong clinical emphasis in orthopedics and manual therapy. He is passionate about working with patients of all ages, utilizing evidence-based techniques to help them regain mobility and reach their physical goals.
When he isn’t in the clinic, Travis is an avid outdoorsman. He enjoys hunting, fishing, climbing, and camping with his wife and three children.
B.S. in Exercise Science – Pacific University
D.P.T. – Eastern Washington University
Jennifer Swain
PTA
Jennifer Swain
Jenn hails from rural South Dakota and came to Spokane via service in the USAF. She is thrilled to be a part of Tailwind because of the people and the dogs! Jenn loves spending time with her two daughters and husband, and enjoys being outdoors as much as possible.
B.S. Aeronautical Engineering, USAF Academy
P.T.A (Physical Therapist Assistant), Spokane Falls Community College, 2025
Alexi Hedlund
MT
Alexi Hedlund
Alexi received her Massage Therapy License in 2008 from East West College of the Healing Arts in Portland, Oregon.
She is a skilled massage and manual therapist specializing in therapeutic modality techniques such as Myofascial Release, Craniosacral, Strain Counterstrain, and Muscle energy.
She approaches the body first by looking at how an individual’s structure is presenting, followed by the soft tissue work needed to bring the body back into balance.
Her passion for helping people, blended with an extended education in scientific and energetic modalities, along with a strong intuitive approach provides for a well rounded bodywork experience.
Outside of working, Alexi loves to garden, explore natural areas, and practice flamenco dancing.
MTL – East West College of the Healing Arts
Tailwind Fitness Team
Avery VanderVeen
CERTIFIED Strength and conditioning specialist
Avery Vander Veen
BS in Kinesiology – Washington State University
CSCS – Nationally Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (Personal, group, and athlete training for nutrition and physical fitness)
USAW-1 Coach Certified (Olympic Weightlifting)
Megan Fox
SMALL GROUP & PERSOAL TRAINER
Megan Fox
Megan, who is originally from Southern California, grew up playing soccer and surrounded by fitness and exercise. She currently has her BA in Exercise Science, BS in Psychology, and her MS in Sport Exercise Performance Psychology, and will be pursuing her Doctorate in Sport Psychology. Megan has always enjoyed helping others with their athletic, fitness, and overall health goals.
BA in Exercise Science
BS in Psychology
MS in Sport Exercise Performance Psychology
Carrie Arnett
CERTIFIED TRAINER & GROUP INSTRUCTOR
Carrie Arnett
Carrie is a former marathon runner and elementary school teacher. Originally from Kansas, she graduated from Kansas State University. She is a certified trainer through the American Council of Exercise, and is very enthusiastic about helping individuals discover the healthiest they can be. She uses creativity to design workouts the motivate and encourage clients to become better than they were yesterday.
Certified Trainer & Group Instructor
Natalia Perrotta
CERTIFIED YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Natalia Perrotta
As a 200 RYT yoga instructor my intention is to create a space where every person feels seen, supported, and welcomed exactly as they are. My approach is rooted in inclusivity, honoring the uniqueness of each body and experience. Whether you’re stepping onto the mat for the first time or deepening an established practice, I offer thoughtful guidance, accessible modifications, and intentional breath work to help you move in a way that feels safe, empowering, and true to you.
Holding space is at the heart of my teaching. I strive to cultivate an environment of compassion, curiosity, and non-judgment—where you can slow down, listen inward, and reconnect with yourself. My classes invite you to explore both strength and softness, challenge and ease, always with the reminder that your practice is your own.
Yoga, to me, is not about achieving a perfect shape, but about building a meaningful relationship with your body, mind, spirit and breath fostering inner awareness. It’s an honor to walk alongside my students on that journey!
Chopra Yoga 200-Hour Teacher Certification
Dayna Dawson
Group instructor
Dayna Dawson
Jill C.
CERTIFIED YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Jill C.
Jill is a certified YogaFit instructor with more than 20 years of yoga experience. With a background in biomedical research, Jill has dedicated herself to discovering yoga’s true restorative power. She witnessed the benefits of yoga firsthand when her sister was diagnosed with cancer, and ever since her mission has been to bring peace of mind and balance to all her students. She has built a safe, effective and empowering yoga program tailored to meet individual needs.
Jill hopes all her students will feel welcome, safe, supported and honored. Jill’s classes are open to all Tailwind Fitness members and FREE for eligible* CCNW patients. Classes are not affiliated with any religious practice.
*Patients must have a signed waiver from their Cancer Care Northwest physician to participate. cancercarenorthwest.com
BA
Certified YogaFit Instructor
Erin Wert
CERTIFIED YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Erin Wert
Honored to be teaching Tailwind Physical Therapy, Erin has taught at Harmony Yoga Spokane, Yarrow Hot Yoga, The Spokane Club, the Spokane Valley and Coeur d’ Alene Fire Departments, corporate and private events, and Northwest YogaFeast.
“Yoga has given me faith in myself and my place in the Universe as a spiritual being. That, along with the amazing physical benefits keep me motivated on this path. Getting outside of myself, sharing what I love, and seeing students transform internally and externally are a few reasons I love sharing Yoga.” – Erin
E-RYT 200
Baptiste Power Vinyasa Training
Mark Stephens’ Advanced Teacher Training
Yoga for First Responders
Yoga Behind Bars Trauma- Sensitive Yoga
Kundalini Yoga
Tucker’s Canine Therapy Team
Jeff Royter
FOUNDER, PHYSICAL THERAPIST
Jeff Royter
Jeff received his Masters in Physical Therapy from Idaho State in 1993, and an orthopedic certification specialty in 2001, Jeff settled in Spokane with his wife Kimber, where they support a passion for outdoor activities with their two boys, and two Labrador Retrievers. Jeff is an avid road cyclist and mountain biker, telemark and cross-country skier.
M.P.T. (Master in Physical Therapy)- Idaho State
OCS (Orthopedic Certification Specialty)
Tailwind Office Team
Justine Quimby
Erin Wert
Thomas Vlasak
Angel Gutierrez
Summer Corbett
