meet the team

The founder of Bend Physical Therapy, Scott Savel will serve as the CEO. Scott brings more than 40 years of experience to the table. Scott has built and managed several successful start up concepts including 8 Pediatric and General Dental offices in Long Island, New York.

Abigail is a board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Providence College in 2018 and her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in Austin, Texas, in 2023. She completed an orthopedic residency program through The Jackson Clinics in 2026 and has experience treating a wide range of orthopedic conditions, post-operative patients, and active individuals returning to sport and exercise.

Outside the clinic, Abigail enjoys running, strength training, tennis, hiking, traveling, skiing, and spending time with family. She is passionate about living an active lifestyle and helping others do the same.

Michael Haines is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) with over 20 years of experience dedicated to helping patients improve their mobility, strength, and overall quality of life. Throughout his career, Michael has developed a strong passion for orthopedics and neurological disorders, including balance impairments and functional movement.

Michael has spent much of his adult life involved in combat sports, particularly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai. Over the years, he has had the opportunity to train and coach professional fighters, experiences that have deepened his understanding of human movement, biomechanics, injury prevention, and recovery. This unique perspective has enhanced his ability to help patients return to optimal function and achieve their rehabilitation goals.

Known for his patient-centered approach, Michael is committed to helping individuals regain independence, build confidence, and improve their overall quality of life. He combines extensive clinical experience with a practical understanding of movement and performance to provide effective, individualized care.

Outside of his professional career, Michael is a dedicated father of two boys and enjoys spending time with his family while remaining active in his local community.

Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, and raised in Florida, he graduated from South University in 2025 and is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant. He is passionate about providing evidence-based care, encouraging movement, and helping patients improve their quality of life. His goal is to empower every patient to stay active, build confidence, and succeed in the things that matter most to them. Outside of the clinic, he enjoys playing piano and bass, playing basketball, making his fiancée happy, and most importantly, cheering on the Miami Heat

Dr. Robert “Rob” Pelaez, PT, DPT is a native of Miami, Florida who earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, PA where he received an academic/athletic scholarship to compete in NCAA Baseball, and later received his Clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Miami (FL), presenting independent research at the American Physical Therapy Association’s Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in Denver, Colorado in February 2020. Prior to joining Bend, Rob spent the last five years as an outpatient PT provider serving the Jupiter, FL community. Preceding this, he worked in both the outpatient and inpatient settings for Thomas Jefferson University Health System, one of greater Philadelphia & Southern New Jersey’s largest hospital systems, routinely treating a number of neurological, post-operative, and orthopedic conditions covering the pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations

Rob has a lengthy background in both competing and coaching competitive baseball at the high school and collegiate levels, and is passionate about assisting young athletes, as well as active adults, in achieving their respective goals while promoting optimal physical function. Rob is an avid sports fan himself, and in his free time also enjoys relaxing at the beach and spending quality time with his wife, infant daughter, and golden retriever.

Christopher Hoff, PTA, LPTA was born and raised in South Florida. His interest in physical therapy developed through years of playing football, where he witnessed firsthand how injuries could impact an athlete's performance and quality of life. These experiences sparked a passion for exercise science, injury prevention, and helping others return to the activities they enjoy.

Chris earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and Health Promotion from Florida Atlantic University in 2016 before completing his Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant from Keiser University in 2018. During his clinical education, he gained experience in pediatric physical therapy, treating children with neurological and developmental impairments.

Since entering the profession, Chris has accumulated more than seven years of clinical experience treating patients with orthopedic, vestibular, and balance-related conditions. He is committed to providing individualized, evidence-based care with the goal of improving function, reducing pain, and helping patients achieve their personal rehabilitation goals.

Outside of the clinic, Chris enjoys spending time with his wife, Kassie, and their dogs, Daisy and Marshall. In his free time, he also enjoys golfing, hunting, and participating in recreational shooting sports.

Ashton Lewis, PT, DPT earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences at the University of Central Florida and her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine. Her educational background includes extensive manual therapy training, and she has completed orthopedic coursework in spinal, myofascial, and upper and lower extremity evaluation, and manipulation. Ashton plans to continue learning and developing expertise throughout her career and enjoys incorporating Pilates-based rehabilitation into her treatments. Her passion for the field of physical therapy is rooted deep in the care she provides as a clinician.Ashton was born and raised in Jupiter, Florida. Outside the clinic, Ashton enjoys playing with and caring for her cat, Simon, whom she spoils and loves beyond measure.

Sean is a board-certified geriatric specialist who earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from The University of Saint Augustine in Saint Augustine, Florida. Before entering Physical Therapy school, Sean attended SUNY Brockport, where he majored in Exercise Science and minored in Biology. Following his graduation from physical therapy school, Sean graduated from the Physical Therapy Residency with the North Florida South Georgia Veterans Health System where he concentrated on Geriatrics and high complexity individuals. He has extensive experience with vestibular, gait, balance, orthopedics, sports, and neurological disorders. When he is not at work, Sean enjoys fishing and watching the Baltimore Ravens.

Sidney Chiou, PT, DPT, is a Florida native who thrives in the sunshine. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida (Go Gators!) and later graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from South College in Knoxville, Tennessee.

A passionate advocate of physical activity, Sidney enjoys a diverse range of exercises, including weightlifting, beach volleyball, basketball, and pickleball. His commitment to fitness extends beyond his personal life into his professional practice.

Dr. Chiou has pursued advanced education with CALU, focusing on knee rehabilitation. He is a movement optimist who believes in the body’s ability to adapt and thrive, and he approaches Physical Therapy with a dedication to personalized care. His philosophy centers on crafting individualized treatment plans that empower patients to achieve their goals and enhance their quality of life. Sidney is dedicated to helping individuals regain their physical capabilities and return to activities they once thought were beyond their reach.

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Keith has over 23 years experience as a PTA. Originally from Brooklyn New York, he earned his degree from New York University’s School of Continuing Professional Studies program with a focus on orthopedic rehabilitation and manual therapy.

During his down time, he loves to spend time with his wife and two daughters watching movies, swimming, and cooking. He has a strong desire to push his patients to reach their maximum functional potential at Bend with optimal results.

Andrew Evans is a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with 12 years of experience in various settings, including Out Patient, Aquatic Rehab, Home Care, and Orthopedic clinics. Andrew has treated a wide variety of patients, ranging from young athletes to older adults in both pre and post-operative cases, as well as general weakness and neurological impairments. He always works to provide a comprehensive treatment plan that helps regain muscle strength, flexibility, and function. Andrew earned his Associate of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from South University in Royal Palm Beach, Florida.

Franchesca O’Leary earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from the University of St. Augustine and has spent the past four years specializing in orthopedic care. With extensive experience treating post-surgical patients—from joint replacements to ligament repairs—She is passionate about helping individuals regain strength, mobility, and confidence after injury or surgery.  

Known for a hands-on, patient-centered approach, Franchesca combines clinical expertise with genuine care to create personalized recovery plans that get results. Whether you're recovering from surgery or managing chronic pain, she is committed to guiding you every step of the way.

When not in the clinic, she enjoys diving into a good book and cheering on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers!

Originally from South Carolina and raised in South Florida, Tony holds a Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from Florida Atlantic University and an Associate of Science degree in Physical Therapist Assistant from South University-West Palm Beach.

He is a licensed PTA and certified Personal Trainer, focused on functional movement, strength training, balance, and mobility to help patients improve their quality of life. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, working out, and spending time with his fiancée and family.

Timothy Rejeev, DPT, earned his undergraduate degree in Behavioral Analysis from the University of Florida and his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Florida International University. He has experience working with patients of all ages and backgrounds, including pediatrics, geriatrics, NFL athletes, and the military community. Timothy believes movement is the best medicine and that simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference in overall health. Outside the clinic, he enjoys learning about religion, being in nature, playing volleyball and pickleball, and spending time with family and friends.

Kayla is a board certified orthopedic specialist who earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Columbia University and her Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience from Vanderbilt University. While at Vanderbilt, Kayla competed on the division I swim team. Her athletic background and passion for exercise and movement influenced her strong interest in the orthopedic and sports populations.

In her free time, Kayla enjoys reading, traveling, baking, and going to the beach.

Lorraine is originally from the Space Coast of Florida and earned her Physical Therapist Assistant degree at Keiser University in West Palm Beach. She is passionate about helping others live their life to its highest quality by regaining mobility and independence in their everyday life. She encourages her patients to adopt healthy lifestyle habits to support their recovery and long term well-being.When not in the clinic, Lorraine enjoys soaking up the sunshine by the ocean, practicing yoga, and spending time with family and friends.

Dr. Jermaine Bell earned his Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from The University of Michigan, his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from the University of St. Augustine, and later completed his Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus in Healthcare Administration. In addition to his clinical expertise, he is also a Certified Personal Trainer, allowing him to integrate fitness principles into patient care and rehabilitation.

His clinical areas of interest include geriatric care, orthopedic rehabilitation, post-operative recovery, and functional movement training. Dr. Bell is passionate about educating patients on their conditions and collaborating with them to develop solution-focused treatment plans that promote recovery, independence, and optimal function.

In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Bell teaches in a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at a local college, where he enjoys mentoring the next generation of rehabilitation professionals.

Outside of his professional life, he enjoys spending time with family, exploring the mountains, and staying active in the gym.

Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, I bring a strong Midwestern work ethic and a genuine passion for patient-centered care to Bend Physical Therapy. I earned my Bachelor of Health Science, graduating summa cum laude, before completing my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Maryville University in St. Louis, MO. My education provided a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning, and individualized treatment.

My clinical experience includes both acute care and outpatient physical therapy. In the hospital setting, I worked with patients recovering from cardiac conditions, traumatic injuries, orthopedic and general surgeries, and neurological disorders, helping them regain mobility and independence during some of the most critical stages of recovery. In outpatient practice, I focus on restoring movement, improving function, managing acute and chronic pain, and helping patients safely return to the activities they enjoy most.

Since relocating to Florida, I have been proud to provide one-on-one care at Bend Physical Therapy, where every treatment session is individualized to each patient's unique goals and needs. My treatment philosophy emphasizes identifying and addressing the underlying causes of pain and dysfunction rather than simply treating symptoms. I specialize in posture and movement analysis, biomechanical correction, functional rehabilitation, and whole-body movement, helping patients improve alignment, mobility, strength, and long-term function.

To further advance my clinical expertise, I completed an intensive year-long postgraduate manual therapy program and earned my Certified Manual Physical Therapist (CMPT) credential. This advanced training has strengthened my ability to perform skilled hands-on techniques that improve joint mobility, decrease pain, restore movement, and optimize functional outcomes. I am also currently pursuing certification in dry needling to further expand my treatment options for myofascial pain, trigger points, muscular dysfunction, and movement impairments.

Outside of the clinic, I enjoy weight training and Pilates, both of which reinforce the principles I incorporate into my clinical practice. Pilates enhances body awareness, postural control, core stability, flexibility, and movement quality, while strength training reinforces the importance of functional strength, resilience, and maintaining mobility throughout every stage of life.

At Bend Physical Therapy, my goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care in an encouraging environment where patients feel heard, educated, and empowered throughout their recovery. Whether you're recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, rehabilitating an injury, or simply striving to move and feel better, I am committed to helping you achieve lasting results and return to the activities that matter most.

Ashley recieved her degree at the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida and her Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in St. Augustine, Florida. Ashley has a strong passion for the profession of physical therapy and enjoys working with the orthopedic and sports medicine populations of all ages. Raised in Palm Coast FL, Ashley enjoys being outdoors with her dog Coco in her free time and going to the beach looking for shark teeth and snorkeling.

Born and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida, I am a former college football player with a lifelong passion for health, fitness, and helping others reach their full potential. I graduated from Keiser University in 2021 and have since dedicated my career to providing high-quality, patient-centered physical therapy care. As a gym enthusiast, I believe in leading by example and empowering patients through movement, education, and motivation to achieve long-term results. When I’m not in the clinic, you can find me cheering on the Seattle Seahawks.

Dr. Tyler Siebert PT, DPT, earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Saint Xavier University in Chicago, IL, in 2019. He then obtained his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Governors State University in 2022. Tyler worked in Illinois in the Advocate Health system for one year before moving to Florida in 2023. Throughout his career, Tyler has worked extensively with patients who have musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. He also has experience treating patients with a variety of vestibular conditions and balance impairments. In his free time, Tyler enjoys spending time with his family, watching football, and travelling.