Meet the Team

At Optimum Health & Wellness, we understand that each client is unique and we are committed to providing you with customized plans to meet your needs. Our skilled team of Physical Therapists, Dietitians and Personal Trainers are dedicated to working with you and your loved ones to reach your health and wellness goals.

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Physical Therapy Staff

Kelly Chick Comstock

PT, CST, Owner & CEO

“Equipping, encouraging and empowering Ketchikan into wellness.”

I have lived and worked as a physical therapist in Ketchikan and Southeast Alaska since 1995 and been in private practice since 2004, initially as a sole proprietor. After watching many individual healthcare practitioners come and go from Ketchikan, and take their contributions with them, I knew I wanted to establish something more lasting for this community to help build more stability for our healthcare options here...

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Jenifer Redinger

PT

“Blessed are the flexible for they shall not be bent out of shape” -Dr. Wayne Dyer

I grew up outside of Cleveland, OH, and lived in New England and the Mid-Atlantic coast after college. I was at my last job in Baltimore, Maryland for 18 years, so it was time to see another part of this amazing country. I've been a licensed Physical Therapist since 1999, focusing mostly on orthopedic conditions, and a Certified Lymphedema Therapist since 2008. Most recently I have focused on treating Post-Concussion Syndrome and scoliosis. I also have training as a yoga teacher and a Reiki Master.

Many healthcare workers experience "compassion fatigue" when helping people becomes more draining than fulfilling. It's a reminder that we need to keep growing personally and professionally, and to foster as many healthy habits outside of work as we teach our clients to do while at work. Making a commitment to be a positive part of another person's day starts with committing that same attention to your own body, mind and spirit. I really love to see people getting the most out of their lives, whatever that means to them. I want my clients to know that their and my time is valuable, that their goals are the most important part of our sessions, and that we are more in charge of, and more knowledgeable about, our lives and our bodies than we sometimes think.

One on one care as a Physical Therapist is the ideal, but unfortunately not the standard of practice. I am so happy to be at a clinic that recognizes the value of that kind of care for both the client and the therapist. I am also really excited to explore Ketchikan and as much of SE Alaska as I can!

The values that drive me are honesty and integrity (character is what you are in the dark), respecting your body and taking care of the planet, keeping my attitude positive and my mind open! I love getting outside as much as possible, but I am also addicted to the next best book. I love finding new tea to drink and baked good recipes to try.

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. Sunshine by Robin McKinley (book)
2. Wherever You Go There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn (Book)
3. Anything by Maya Angelou (book)

Kelsey Martin

PTA

“What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?” -Vincent Van Gogh

I grew up outside of Houston, TX on a horse farm! Before working at Optimum, I was near the Dallas, TX area because I wanted to be close to my family during my last assignment. I just became an aunt for the first time, so I am very excited about that!

I worked as an acute care physical therapy aide and restorative technician for 4 years during and after undergrad, graduating with a degree in Health & Sociology from Texas Woman's University. After that, I went back to school to become a PTA, and graduated from Ozarks Technical College in 2022. I spent my first year out of school working at an Orthopedic Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, but knew that I eventually wanted to become a travel therapist. I have been able to travel in Missouri and Texas so far and am excited to explore new places and meet new people here in Alaska!

Physical therapy is often misunderstood in what we do and requires educating the public in not only the benefits of PT post-surgery/injury but also how it plays an important part in preventative care. I would like to educate my patients on how to better take care of their bodies as a whole vs an individual part and emphasizing preventative care so patients can experience better quality of life. I want every one of my patients to feel seen and heard so we can work together towards their goals. Listening is a big part of my job and helps build trust between patient and therapist. I have personally gone through a lot of physical therapy and know the difference it can make to have a great relationship with your therapist.

From the start, I could tell that the staff and administration truly care about fostering a company that not only cares about their patients, but their community as a whole, by empowering them to be their best selves. Everyone is very welcoming, and it seems like an amazing place to work! I love the 1:1 therapist to patient interaction as I feel it gives us the opportunity to get the most out of our sessions and get patients back to living life the way they want to!

The values that drive me are compassion, empathy, and knowledge. I strive to be compassionate towards everyone I meet, and I love learning new ideas and implementing them into my life! I enjoy being outdoors, especially hiking and exploring new places! Reading, cooking, watching sunsets, and hanging out with friends are some of my favorite things to do, as well!

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. Swell by Captain Liz Clark (book)
2. Wild Ideas Worth Living (podcast)

Whitney Barnett

PTA

“What if I fall? Oh but darling what if you fly?” -Erin Hanson

I grew up in a tiny town in southeast Ohio close to Hocking Hills State Park! Before Optimum, I was working as a travel therapist. I've lived and worked in West Virginia, Tennessee, California, Oregon, Ohio, Massachusetts, and now Alaska!

I've been a PTA for 8 years and have been working as a travel PTA for a majority of that time. It has provided me the opportunity to work in almost every setting including acute care, outpatient, home health, rehab facilities, and pediatrics. Included in those are a wide variety of diagnosis’ ranging from neuro and orthopedics to pediatrics.

I’ve found that in healthcare, including physical therapy, burnout and compassion fatigue are so prominent. Providing mental health services/support to clinicians and education on work life balance, as well as opportunities to practice those values would be incredibly beneficial to the well-being of clinicians. This would in turn, provide improved patient care.

The values that drive me are empathy and open-mindedness! The definition of the word sonder is realizing that everyone has a life as complex as one's own. I think remembering that and living a life of understanding and empathy for the unseen thing every person is struggling with makes the world a kinder experience.

The sense of community and collaboration at Optimum makes it a place I'm excited to work! I'm from a very small town and those same values shine through here! The team is great and it’s obvious that the care and success of our patients is everyone’s main priority.

There are so many things I love to do in my off time including traveling, reading, hiking, live music of any kind. But most days when I’m off work, I love spending time with my dog Sully and getting outside!

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller (book)
2. Two Girls One Ghost (podcast)
3. Normal People by Sally Rooney (book)

Justin Thomas

PT

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit.” - Aristotle

I grew up split between two towns which allowed me to enjoy activities such as hiking, snowboarding, and off-roading in the mountains of Utah, as well as the pleasures of swimming, surfing, and lounging as a beach bum on the beaches of Virginia. Having grown up in a small town with no stoplights or large businesses has instilled a proclivity for living in and helping these kinds of communities.

Though I do have a passion for treating orthopedic injuries and promoting a return to sports, as a Locum Tenens (traveling) therapist, I’ve worked in a variety of settings that have given me the skillset and background to treat a variety of patients. This has helped me build a toolbox that allows me to understand the continuum of care for patients, not just when they come in the door, but from any location they may have come from, including hospitals, nursing facilities, or other forms of rehabilitation.

I prefer to take the approach of looking at my patients as people rather than just another diagnosis of knee, shoulder, back, or neck pain walking in the door. As a therapist, I take a functional approach to my treatments. Rather than just treating the result of the problem, I address the underlying issues and implement activities to allow patients to get back to doing what they love and improve their overall quality of life.

The values that drive me are integrity, creativity, and diligence. It's important to me to do right not only by myself but also by others. You've got to have fun with what you do; otherwise, it’s not worth doing. If something doesn't work out the first time, keep pushing towards your goals but get creative with it and find another way to get it done!

Not only in the therapy realm, but for healthcare providers as a whole, clinician burnout is a major issue within our industry. It is important that we, as clinicians, keep a work-life balance and take time to care for ourselves as much as we care for our patients. Utilizing our free time to "recharge our batteries” can be helpful in combating the effects of burnout.

When not at work, I love to be doing just about anything outside, including hiking, camping, snowboarding, off-roading, or even just driving around a new area to explore.

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. National Park After Dark (Podcast)
2. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss (Book)
3. Out Alive (Podcast)

Brooke Merrill-Smith

PT

“Kind words are like honey – sweet to the soul and healthy for the body” - Proverbs 16:24NLT

I grew up mostly in Yorktown, VA, but I was an Air Force brat and ended up in Texas for High school through PT school. I have worked as a travel PT for 1.5 years before Optimum in OK, NC, and TX.

I have worked in a variety of outpatient settings in both urban and rural areas, so I am comfortable in both low-resource and high-resource settings. As a travel physical therapist, I am used to adapting to new environments and engaging new communities, whether short-term or long-term. I graduated with my doctorate in physical therapy from UTMB – Galveston.

Burnout/work-life balance is not only something that people in my industry have to deal with, but I see it in a lot of healthcare workers. I think there are a lot of factors that play into this and not all are within my control/scope of individual influence, but I try to affect what I can. One simple way is to ask coworkers about their interests and encourage time spent outside of work on things/activities/people that bring joy. Another is to find ways to streamline documentation and use macros/quick phrases that are easily editable. I would love to find a good speech-to-text software too.

I like to make sure my clients feel seen and heard, meet them wherever they are in their journey, and empower them to participate in their rehabilitation with the goal of independently managing their health/wellness. I want to be supportive and provide tools to help them build confidence with self-care.

I am attracted to the 1-on-1 care at Optimum with an emphasis on ethical practice principles. I also admire the community outreach and individualized care plans to include the use of community resources/facilities during the course of therapy, and I am excited to discover what this looks like with my clients.

The values that drive me are my Christian faith and striving to serve others with love.

When I’m not working, I enjoy traveling, both to new places and to visit friends and family. I also enjoy watching movies, playing board games, drawing and painting, cooking and baking, and being outside to soak up the sun or watch a pretty sunset. I love paddleboarding, but sadly, I do not yet own one. I like reading novels, short stories, or webcomics, especially if I can find a beautiful or comfortable place to sit and read.

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. Pendergast Series by Preston & Child (book)
2. Murder, Mystery, Makeup Mondays with Bailey Sarian (YouTube)
3. Catch-22 - by Joseph Heller (book)

Jaren Warren

PT

“Whatever situation I find myself in, I have a cheerful attitude at all times. An attitude has a healing effect on the body and it works for everybody.” - Louis Zamperini 2014

I grew up in southeastern Wisconsin, near Milwaukee. I practiced physical therapy near Kohler Wisconsin for 20 years prior to traveling. I have now been a ‘traveling PT’ for 5 years. My wife, Jessica, and I travel together. She is humbly a very special and gifted yoga instructor.

I have been practicing for 25 years. I have been a board-certified orthopedic specialist since 2007. I became certified in manual therapy after a seven-course series followed by a written, oral, and practical examination for each course over a three-day period. I am also a certified strength and conditioning specialist, which was my undergraduate specialty.

I believe in continuing to educate ourselves in improving evaluation and treatment to better care for and rehabilitate our patients. By opening ourselves up to gaining knowledge from our peers, teachers, patients and practice, we will avoid becoming stagnant, grow as people and professionals, and elevate the field of PT.

I strive to listen to my patients, learn about their needs and expectations, then create for them a therapy plan that supports healing and focuses on achieving the goals that we set together.

I want to experience a clinical setting that supports and encourages physical therapists to work together, learn from one another, and embrace the culture of Ketchikan.

I have a personal goal of always being the best therapist that I can be. To achieve that goal, I consistently seek out opportunities that will help me learn, understand and embrace as much knowledge, growth and experience as I can. I enjoy sharing with fellow physical therapists as I have been traveling around the country.

I enjoy disc golf, hiking, camping, reading, and cooking for my wife. I very much enjoy having friends and family visit us around the country and sharing the local gems we have found.

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. Unbroken - by Laura Hillenbrand (book)
2. A Higher Call - by Adam Makos (book)
3. Band of Brothers - Marcus Brotherton (book)

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Administrative Staff

Christopher Comstock

Administrative Executive and Diagnostic Technician

“I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” - Jesus Christ

I grew up in Puyallup, WA. Before joining my wife here at Optimum in January of this year, I previously worked in ship building and repair.

Working in a shipyard for the last 10 years, I have gained a wide variety of skills including; leading an electrical team of 10-15 employees, solving day to day electrical production issues, recruiting, interviewing and hiring new employees and I helped to develop a marine curriculum with NCCER as a subject matter expert. My time at the shipyard gave me the confidence to endeavor into a completely new field as an Administrative Executive where I am now certified as a Technician in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound and Nerve Conduction Studies.

I don’t believe people truly understand the depth and breadth of what is available to them with Physical Therapy and it is a goal of mine to help our local and surrounding Communities realize the amount of support that our Clinic’s amazing Staff has to offer.

At Optimum, I see it as my job to support all of our Staff and Clients in any way possible. Whether helping as a Diagnostic Technician, filling in at the front desk, implementing new strategies or cleaning the bathroom, my job is to serve where I am needed. My hope is that everyone I interact with each day feels that they have support.

I love seeing and hearing the way that our Staff encourages and empowers our Clients. The environment here is truly warm and welcoming.

I value dependability, loyalty & commitment.

When I’m not working, I enjoy hiking and traveling with my family, game nights and Seahawks football games.

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. The Uncommon Man by Tony Dungi (book)
2. Solid Joys Daily Devotional (podcast)
3. The Book of Joby by Mark J. Ferrari (book)

Jaimee Watson

Client Services Manager

“Calm is a superpower.” – Bruce Lee

I was born in Ketchikan, AK and raised in Craig on Prince of Wales Island. I moved to Washington State in 2011 where I attended Clark Community College and began my career in medical office management. During that time, I also owned and operated a cleaning business for 9 years. I moved to Ketchikan in 2020 for my son to attend Kayhi and be closer to our family. I am hoping to feel at home again and enjoy a slower pace in life.

I was the former front office and dispensary manager at the Center for Natural Medicine, a naturopathic primary care clinic in Portland Oregon. There, I learned the importance of searching for the underlying cause of a patient's symptoms as opposed to simply treating the symptoms. I continue to value this philosophy in healthcare to this day.

In a medical setting, we come across many individuals who may feel defeated to a certain degree. I believe that people are capable of so much more than we can imagine. I want to help others realize that injuries, illnesses and mental obstacles do not define them as a person. You can overcome obstacles if you allow yourself to.

I believe in treating others the way I would like to be treated. We all struggle in our own ways and should not be ashamed. If it is within my power to be helpful in any way, I will do my best to help.

Productivity and self-worth drive me. I feel that I thrive when the majority of my time is occupied, whether it be with hobbies, work, or helping others.

I enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and kind staff at Optimum Health & Wellness. The patients are greeted so wonderfully by the front office and treated as if they are family. It's like a full circle of respect.

In my spare time I enjoy fishing, painting, cooking, beach combing and, if I get the chance, I love to travel.

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. Russell Brand (podcast)
2. Anything by Dean Koontz (books)
3. The Shack (book)

Annie Morris

Client Services Specialist

“Without risk there can be no progress.”- George M. Low (NASA)

Born and raised in Spokane, WA, I fell in love with Alaska on a fishing trip at 18y/o and moved to the state permanently in 2012. I moved from Sitka to Ketchikan in 2019 to pursue an education at UAS.

I am currently studying business administration at the University of Alaska Southeast with an emphasis in accounting. Accuracy in data entry and record keeping is a must for the highest quality treatment of our patients! That is what I strive for!

I feel blessed to be one of the first points of contact for our patients. As a Client Services Representative, it is my privilege to provide excellent customer service to all patients as they embark on their health goals here at Optimum.

I value the very personal touch every staff member brings to their work. There is an undeniable inclusiveness they offer everyone who walks in the door. I want to be a part of that.

Values that drive me:
Integrity – uphold your principles always. Do not be swayed.
Authenticity – genuineness and transparency of character.
Determination – never give up! Fight for what you believe in!

When I’m not working, I enjoy laughing with my son, Berkley, community outreach and volunteering, trying new vegan recipes, and taking long drives with my stereo up loud. I absolutely love to be around people that are enjoying themselves – whatever the activity may be. I am open to trying anything!

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. And the Mountains Echoedby Khaled Hosseini (book)
2. The Essential Law of Attraction Collection by Esther and Jerry Hicks (book)
3. Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff, Ph.D. (book)

Makeylee Tollee

Client Services Representative

“We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents” - Bob Ross

I was born in Rock Springs, WY. From the time I was born until about 18 years old, my family moved all over. We moved to Ketchikan when I was 12 and stayed here until my freshman year of high school. After spending that short period of my life in Ketchikan, I knew that this is where I wanted to be. At 18, I moved back and took over my family’s business.

In the past, I have worked in the food service industry where, with a lot of trial and error, I have narrowed down the best way to provide excellent customer service and performance productivity. Working in such a fast-paced industry, I have been able to tackle multiple tasks effectively at once, provide a positive attitude while defusing tough situations, and make sure each customer feels valued during their experience. Taking these skills and many more with me, I feel confident in my new position as a client services representative.

As a client services representative, I make sure everyone who walks through our door feels like they’re at their home away from home. I like to build relationships with our clientele by showing empathy and compassion while they reach their health goals, being their personal cheerleader, and making sure they’re taken care of every step of the way.

I like Optimum Health and Wellness because of the environment and the people. The place feels very homey. Not only that, but I love to get to know my community and make connections with the people that come to visit us for treatment. Going through physical therapy is a vulnerable time for some people and getting to be there for the clients for the short time I see them is something special.

I value compassion and personal growth. I always want to show compassion to people whether it be by going the extra mile for them or just even being there when they need it. I value my personal growth and others' personal growth. There is always room to become a better version of yourself. Seeing people push themselves, for themselves, truly makes my heart full.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy being with my loved ones. We like to cook, binge-watch movies, and play Just Dance. I also enjoy being with my dogs, taking them to the beach, hiking, you name it they’ll be there! A huge part of my life, if you know me, is plants! I love learning about them, going plant shopping, or even repotting them. Just about every day, I’ll have a new plant fact for anyone who is willing to listen.

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. Moments with Lexi Hidalgo (Podcast)
2. The Four Agreements by Migquel Ruiz (Book)

Michelle Fisher

Administrative Executive

“Talk to yourself like you would to someone you love.”

I grew up in Montana and Idaho. I was a Licensed Massage Therapist for 6 years and a Chiropractor for 10 years. In addition, I taught Anatomy & Physiology, as well as other classes, at a local college.

I was a Chiropractor for 10 years, in which I owned and ran a busy practice. Unfortunately, due to injuries I am no longer able to practice. Luckily, I can still use my skills of excellent patient care, administration and insurance handling to ensure OHWPT patients get the best Physical Therapy care in Ketchikan!

At OHWPT we strive to educate the community on health and wellness and empower all to take their health into their own hands.

I work behind the scene, as well as directly with patients, to ensure they are getting the best care possible. I make sure everything runs smoothly; from the front desk, their physical therapy, and through the insurance process.

I love the positive and encouraging atmosphere at OHWPT! We all strive to build up one another and remain positive.

The values that drive me are: always striving to do the best in all I do and uplifting those around me in whatever ways I can.

When I’m not working, I like spending time with family and friends, hiking, dancing, and spending time in nature.

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. The Power of Intention (book)
2. Inspiration: Your Ultimate Calling (book)
3. Zero Limits (book)

Felix Wong

IT & Building Maintenance Manager

“Until you make your unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” – Carl G. Jung

I grew up in Singapore and worked at the shipyard before venturing on my own as an independent photographer and marine electrical contractor. I have tinkered with computers and technology my whole life, putting my experience into setting up my home server with a decommissioned laptop that now works as my personal cloud server, and many more convenient processes.

Joining the Optimum team as the IT Systems Admin and Building Maintenance Manager, I hope to apply my experience while working with people I am close friends, fostering a healthy work-culture with them.

Outside of work, I enjoy photography, designing and planning builds for hi-fi speakers and listening to music on said speakers, hanging out with my dog, tinkering with my home network, exploring internet-of-things possibilities, and ensuring stage productions and concerts sound good.

Favorite Books/Podcasts:
1. The Jordan Harbinger Show (podcast)
2. Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu (podcast)
3. Mastery by Robert Greene (book)

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Support Staff

Christi Rhodes-Mestas

Facilities Technician

[Bio coming soon.]