Meet Our Team
Every single one of us at Physio has walked (or limped) in your shoes. We know exactly what it's like to be limited by an injury, weakness, or pain. Our team of highly trained professionals are experts in getting you better fast. Click on the photos below to get to know us and how we can help you!
Chris Taylor, MPT, CSCS, MFMS
Physical Therapist / Founder
Gracie Garrett, PT, DPT
Clinical Director (North)
Ed Cardinal, MSPT
Physical Therapist
Jules Norris, OTR/L, OTD
Occupational Therapist
Kyle Chapman, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Chelsea Archbold, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Ashley Newman, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Amy Spivey, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Courtney Victor, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Remi Pimm, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Michael Tabasko, PT, MSPT, OCS
Physical Therapist
Kat Candler
Patient Coordinator
Laura Griffin
Patient Coordinator
Chris Taylor MPT, CSCS
Physical Therapist
I grew up in West Virginia. It has a similar topography to this area which was part of the initial allure that attracted me to WNC. Growing up I worked at McDonald's and Walmart. I attended a community college in my hometown for my first two years of college. I then went to school at WVU where I received my Master's Degree in Physical Therapy. From there I worked in Maryland for about five years before beginning travel therapy. That led me around the country until we settled down in Hawaii for a year and a half. My wife and I then discovered Asheville on Good Morning America Top 10 Beautiful Places. We moved to Asheville in May of 2012 and have made it home here. I have been a physical therapist for over two decades. I spent over seven years traveling the country as a traveling physical therapist living and working in 11 states. This diverse experience has allowed me to take when I have learned throughout the country and to create a great clinic for both patients and staff.
As someone who has been through physical therapy before, the main thing I am trying to fix is the experience. I want to streamline the necessary items such as paperwork so that we can focus on what's important to the client, getting better. We make the experience as good as possible by answering the clients' questions before they have to ask them. We share what to expect for the journey and focus on making it a great experience as we recognize that people may be apprehensive when they first come through our doors.
I love our team, we have the best group of therapists in the area. Everyone gets along well and works as a team.
What’s Chris Enjoying Outside of Work?
- TV Shows- Ted Lasso, Bluey, Game of Thrones
I love spending time with my family. My kids love being outdoors, so that is where we spend a lot of time. I also enjoy traveling when the opportunity comes up.
Gracie Garrett PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
I grew up in Florence, Alabama- small town with a bit of charm and a whole lot of hidden talent. After spending my youth devoted to soccer, I attended The University of Alabama where I graduated with a degree in Human Performance and Exercise Science. I received my DPT at The University of Alabama at Birmingham and then spent my first two and a half years of my career working in Murfreesboro, TN - an accidental long-term stay. While working in Tennessee for a company focused on manual therapy, I worked my way up to clinic director before being called to the mountains and starting with Physio!
My values are honesty, trust, loyalty, and a desire to help people in need. I want to help the patients who are missing out on the fullness of life - whether that’s missing hiking, dancing, playing guitar, or playing with their kids. I’m a physical therapist-a movement specialist. I don’t specialize in anything particular but have some extra training in pelvic floor therapy and dry needling. I enjoy working at Physio because of the focus on patients. We get to be 1-on-1 and really get to know our patients well here.
What’s Gracie Enjoying Outside of Work?
- TV Shows- Ted Lasso, Only Murders in the Building, Night Agent
- Books- Lessons in Chemistry, Atomic Habits
I enjoy anything outdoors! I love hiking, camping, kayaking, climbing, and reffing soccer. I love adventuring, road tripping, listening to good music, reading a good book, playing with my two pups, and spending time with my wife, Jen.
Ed Cardinal, MSPT
Physical Therapist
My wife Jude and I recently traded the ocean of Rhode Island for the mountains of Western North Carolina. I’ve been a Physical Therapist for over 25 years graduating from the University of Rhode Island, as well as a Personal Trainer, Thai Therapeutic Stretching Practitioner and Yoga Instructor for 20 years. Before that I spent 12 years as a Mental Health Counselor. My over two decades of Physical Therapy experience has been working with orthopedic disorders focusing on attentive, one-on-one, manual therapy to maximize recovery. I harmoniously blend osteopathic techniques, Trigger Point Therapy, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization, Thai Therapeutic Stretches, and Yoga Therapeutics, in addition to incorporating individualized therapeutic exercise. I especially enjoy treating the shoulder complex and working with runners.
What’s Ed Enjoying Outside of Work?
- Podcast- Dr. Joe Dispenza
- Movies- It’s a Wonderful Life, Schindler's Lis
- Books- Ask and It is Given by Esther & Jerry Hicks, Zero Limits by Joe Vitale
I love spending time with my wife Jude and our dog Angel exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, enjoying good food, and listening to live music. I am an avid trail runner and downhill skier.
Kyle Chapman, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
I grew up in Peru, Indiana. After high school I spent nine years in the United States Air Force. While serving, I got the chance to travel the world and lived in Germany for three years. After separating I pursued a bachelor's degree in Exercise and Sports Science from Indiana University Kokomo, and I got my DPT from the University of Indianapolis.
I want to help patients with whatever is preventing them from doing the activities that are meaningful to them and bring them joy. I choose to work at Physio because we focus on the patient by providing one-on-one care to help our patients achieve their goals. I enjoy treating any musculoskeletal injury/condition and a variety of neurologic conditions. I love treating balance, vestibular, and cervicogenic dizziness.
What’s Kyle Enjoying Outside of Work?
- Movies- Lord of the Rings, Hot Rod, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy
When I'm not working I enjoy hiking, disc golf, golf, really anything that can get me outdoors.
Kat Candler
Patient Coordinator
I was born and raised in West Asheville and attended Clyde A Erwin and AB Tech for my Associate in Biology. I've worked in a few places around town, the most notable being Brother Wolf and Meritor.
I am the Front Desk Coordinator and provide a positive experience during the check-in and check-out process. I want them to know we are all here for them. I may not be able to treat their conditions but I am here to listen to their problems and offer support in any way I can. So often it's just "Sign this and sit down" at the front desk. I want to be able to build a relationship and let the patients know I am here for them. This facility is a very positive and healing environment. I enjoy the feeling of peace when I enter the building.
What’s Kat Enjoying Outside of Work?
- Movies- Star Wars 1-6, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter
- TV Shows- The Office, Friends, Game of Thrones
- Books- ACOTAR Series, Harry Potter series, The Peach Keeper
When not working, I love to sit with a hot cup of tea and a book. I love to hike, go off roading and camping up in the mountains and I enjoy watching whatever anime my son is into that week and teaching him how to cook.
Chelsea Archbold, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
I grew up in West Virginia where I attended West Virginia University and graduated with a degree in Chinese Linguistics. This experience led me to spend four years studying and working in China. It was in China that I fell in love with yoga and decided to change the trajectory of my career path to become a physical therapist. I graduated from the University of St. Augustine in California with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Much of my experience as a physical therapist has been spent helping individuals with chronic pain. I have been fortunate to study and work in clinics that prioritize manual therapy and am a strong advocate for including this in my treatments. I want patients to feel confident in their plan for recovery! I believe that patients are in charge of their journey and it is my job as a physical therapist to assist each person I see by creating an individualized approach and offering accountability to reach their goals. I am excited to work for Physio because it is a clinic truly rooted in community!
What’s Chelsea Enjoying Outside of Work?
- Movie- Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
- Books- Discovery of Witches and anything by Adrienne Young
Being new to Asheville, I am excited to immerse myself in the vibrant local culture. I look forward to exploring nearby hiking trails, enjoying live music at some of the area's many music venues, and indulging in the diverse culinary scene.
Ashley Newman, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
I was born in the foothills of the Ridge Mountains, in a one-stoplight town called Marshall, Virginia. I attended the University of Virginia and Virginia Commonweath University, obtained my B.S. in kinesiology and doctorate of physical therapy degrees. Since graduating from PT school, I've lived in Charlottesville, Virginia, practicing in an outpatient orthopedics setting. I am committed to helping my patients reach all of their goals, big and small. I am passionate about promoting lifelong physical activity across all demographics. I am excited for the opportunity to form lasting relationships with my patients and community. At Physio, I get to focus on the goals that matter most to you!
What’s Ashley Enjoying Outside of Work?
- Movie- The Sandlot
- Books- Harry Potter series
Being new to Asheville, I am excited to immerse myself in the vibrant local culture. I look forward to exploring nearby hiking trails, enjoying live music at some of the area's many music venues, and indulging in the diverse culinary scene.
Julianna "Jules" Norris, OTR/L, OTD
Occupational Therapist
I was born and raised in New Jersey and then attended Misericordia University where I received my BS/MS/Doctorate in occupational therapy. In early 2021 I moved to Asheville and have worked as an occupational therapist and clinical manager in different capacities since then. I spent several years working in pediatrics and on the leadership side as a clinical manager before making the switch to adult/geriatrics. In my time in adult rehab, I have worked in interdisciplinary teams consisting of PT's, SLP's, dietitian's, and social workers and have treated a variety of upper extremity, psychiatric, and neurological diagnoses. As an OT I specialize in any upper extremity disorder but am passionate about working with hands/hand patients! I also love working with fibromyalgia/chronic conditions on energy conservation/home modifications.
I am passionate about treating individuals holistically focusing on their needs. In OT our goal is solely to improve your quality of life whether that's improving your shoulder range of motion so you can wash your hair or strengthening your hands to get back to rock climbing. Working at Physio, I have found a collaborative approach to care. I love being able to collaborate with the physical therapy team on patients and being able to treat patients in a unique and holistic way. Coming to someone for knee pain AND you're experiencing difficulties with your hand? We have the tools to treat both conditions and make sure patients receive the best care!
What’s Jules Enjoying Outside of Work?
- Movies- Moonrise Kingdom, Everything Everywhere All at Once
- TV Shows- Adventure Time, Regular Show, Grey's Anatomy
- Book- Same as It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo
Since moving to Asheville, I have been lucky to meet a great group of friends who are often by my side for long hikes in the woods, long runs by the river, and for a cold beer. In my free time you can find me hiking or weight lifting or can see my running around the streets of West Asheville with friends. I love to take my dogs out walking with my husband and grabbing local food or beer.
Amy Spivey, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
I am originally from Huntsville, AL and received my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Alabama, and my Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. I first fell in love with movement and the human body through dance, cheerleading, and gymnastics. Through continuing education and clinical mentorships, orthopedics, manual therapy, and pelvic health became my passions, as well as holistic nutrition and the concept of using food to facilitate healing, decrease pain, and optimize performance. In addition to practicing physical therapy for the past 16 years, I also spent many years teaching group fitness classes, including strength training, yoga, and barre, and incorporated these methods into treatment with my clients. I also am a certified dry needling therapist and have experience in manual therapy techniques. I believe in going deeper than just symptom relief with patients and instead try to focus on finding the root cause to create long term change. I love being able to treat patients one one-on-one and give them my full attention and the top-notch quality care they deserve.
When I am not at work, I enjoy being in the beautiful WNC outdoors with my family, whether it is hiking, biking, playing ball with my boys, or doing cartwheels in the grass with my daughter.
I grew up in Morgantown, West Virginia. I attended WVU for undergrad and received my bachelors in exercise physiology with a minor in strength and conditioning, and I received my DPT from Shenandoah University. I have spent a lot of time in outpatient clinics while I was finishing up my graduate degree and have worked in general orthopedics as well as sports medicine clinics. A stand out moment in my career so far is when I had the opportunity to create adaptive kayaking solutions to allow individuals of all functional levels be independent on the water. was drawn to the Asheville area by the mountains and beautiful views. I am excited to be part of this community and the ability to provide one-on-one care. This allows me to give you my full attention and make necessary adjustments to our program based on how you are progressing.
What’s Courtney Enjoying Outside of Work?
- I am a sucker for reality TV!
When I am not working with my patients, I enjoy spending time outdoors, whether that is hiking, paddle boarding, or just lounging by the pool. I love staying active and doing CrossFit workouts. However, my favorite thing to do outside of work is spend time with my boyfriend and our dog!
I grew up in Tampa, Florida. I went to the University of Central Florida for my bachelor's degree and the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences for PT school. I grew up playing soccer that resulted in an ankle injury which lead to my first introduction to PT. I've run two marathons since my ankle injury and plan to run more. Every patient has different goals, I enjoy creating individualized care plans for each patient rather than a "one size fits all" approach. Solving my patient’s problems and resolving long lasting symptoms is my favorite part of my job. I have a special place in my heart for people suffering from back pain. I moved from Key West to Asheville to be closer to family and live in the mountains. Working at Physio is a positive environment for both patients and staff, and I love being part of the Asheville community.
What’s Remi Enjoying Outside of Work?
- Movies- Free Solo, Breath, and Into the Wild
- TV Shows- Peaky Blinders, Ozark, and Game of Thrones
- Books- Non-fiction and autobiographies
When I am not working with my patients, I enjoy trail running, playing guitar, rock climbing, and trying new breweries.
Being a physical therapist has taken me to some extraordinary places. One of my favorites is the tiny Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan where I taught physiotherapy students in the country's capital, helped a buddhist monk with his back pain, and went mountain biking with the prime minister. I love to travel, and that assignment was one of several teaching and learning from PT colleagues in developing nations from Vietnam to Peru. Those experiences drove home the universality of human movement: We all share the same desire to live a life free of pain and pursue the things that matter most.
I’ve been practicing physical therapy for over 20 years and am a board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS). After graduating from Ithaca College I set out west and began my career in orthopedic and sports medicine settings from Los Angeles to Boulder, Colorado. My family and I came to Asheville in 2020 from Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C., drawn by the mountains, outdoor opportunities, and vibrant community spirit. While in D.C., I directed an orthopedic clinic for seven years. There, I treated a diverse set of patients from athletes to busy professionals and older adults, helping them recover from an array of musculoskeletal conditions and surgeries.
Over the years I've developed an eclectic treatment approach that combines manual therapy certifications, including dry needling and other tissue mobilization techniques, with careful biomechanical analysis and targeted exercise programs tailored to each client's goals. Do you have a perplexing multi-joint problem, such as trunk and shoulder issue, or injury involving the interplay of the hip, knee, and foot? I especially enjoy solving those types of challenges. I'm also a science communicator, and served at the National Institutes of Health as a science writer-editor reporting on breakthrough biomedical discoveries.
What’s Mike Enjoying Outside of Work?
- Movies- A River Runs Through It; Old School
- Books- The Snow Leopard; Mountains Beyond Mountains; Dharma Bums; The Bernal Díaz Chronicles
Physio offers a welcoming, collaborative environment with strong community ties. Here, we have the freedom to work one-on-one with clients to really hear their concerns and explore solutions. And as a life-long bike racer, skier, and outdoor athlete, I wholly understand and appreciate working with anyone who is motivated to move past their injury, and get back out there.
I was born and raised in Buncombe County and am proud to call Asheville my lifelong home. With over 20 years of experience helping patients in Western North Carolina, I’ve focused on patient care and billing in orthopedics. I’m a firm believer in taking the scenic route—whether it’s through problem-solving at work or exploring the roads less traveled in life. My natural curiosity helps me connect with people and discover new perspectives along the way.
Family, community, authenticity, and integrity are values I hold close. I believe in meeting each patient with kindness, efficiency, and a problem-solving mindset to help them feel seen, heard, and supported. One of my favorite parts of working at Physio is building relationships with the people in my hometown and supporting their care journey in a place we all love.
What’s Laura Enjoying Outside of Work?
- Movies– Office Space, Clue, Mixed Nuts
- Shows- Futurama
- Books – Blackberry Wine by Joanne Harris
- Authors- Preston & Childs, Paul Doiron, and any Icelandic crime fiction I can find
When I’m not at work, I’m an avid reader and proud plant enthusiast—thanks to generations of green thumbs in my Appalachian roots. I love exploring the woods for native plants, browsing local art and jewelry, and spending quality time with my twin teenagers, Sienna and Maximus, my partner Alex, and our cat Shadow.
