About Us - Aries Physical Therapy

Dr. Austin Merrell, PT, DPT, CSCS, CERT. DN

Head Physical Therapist

Dr. Austin Merrell is a native of Boca Raton who received his Bachelor of Sciences degree in Health Sciences from the University of Central Florida prior to obtaining his clinical doctorate in Physical Therapy at Florida International University. He may be a familiar face to some as he completed one of his four clinical internships with Aries in 2020 at the Ft. Lauderdale location. His background lies primarily in managing orthopedic conditions/sports Injuries, priding himself on being able to provide evidence-based interventions to any population with sound clinical reasoning. His treatment approach centers around enhancing human performance through optimizing movement, whether it's to complete daily tasks or keep up with the demands of sport.

While at FIU, he had the chance to volunteer as support personnel for the Wodapalooza Fitness Festival in both 2018 and 2019, treating novice and elite CrossFit athletes pre and post competition. As an athlete himself, who played ice hockey for 20+ years, now turned weekend golfer, he understands both the physical and mental aspects of rehabilitation from injury and/or surgery. When he isn't treating patients he enjoys spending time at the beach or traveling to national parks to get his steps in.

Dr. Merrell is always eager to learn and grow in order to serve his patients towards maximum potential. He is currently continuing education and plans to become TPI certified in the near future.

Dr. Abby Freund, PT, DPT, CSCS, CERT. DN

Head Physical Therapist

Dr. Abby Freund is a South Florida native who received her Bachelors of Science from the University of Florida in 2018 before obtaining her clinical doctorate in Physical Therapy at Emory University in 2022. Abby’s passion for physical therapy stems from her love of movement and viewing exercise as medicine. Abby has been riding horses for 15+ years which allowed her to develop a keen eye for movement. She takes a creative evidence based approach that combines the skills she has learned on horseback, in the clinic, and in the gym to help patients optimize performance. Abby is excited to help all populations feel fulfilled and return to doing what they love whether that be a daily walk or high level sport.

While at Emory, Abby completed her personal training certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine as well as a Dry Needling certification. She also completed an elective course focused on sport specific PT in which she learned sport specific athletic taping and treatment techniques. Abby is passionate about continuing her education in order to better help her patients and is in the process of completing her Strength and Conditioning Certification (CSCS).

When she is not in the clinic, Abby enjoys spending time with her horse, hanging out with friends and family, and doing workout classes around South Florida.

Dr. Joey Mohler, PT, DPT, CSCS

Head Physical Therapist

Dr. Joey Mohler received his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Florida International University in 2018. He then went on to receive his Doctorate of Physical Therapy Degree (DPT) from The University of Florida in 2022. Prior to receiving his doctoral degree, Dr. Mohler pursued his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist certification (CSCS) to expand his skill set while working with athletes. Just two days before his graduation, he and his wife welcomed their first child into the family. He then started working in Gainesville, Florida, where he treated a variety of orthopedic and neurological conditions.

Joey’s passion for physical performance and wellness began and continues with his athletic endeavors. He participated in various sports in high school including football, weightlifting, and baseball. Joey continues to compete in local weightlifting meets, flag football, and various recreational sports. His initial exposure to physical therapy was after an ankle injury while sliding to 3rd base, which required surgery. Following physical therapy, Joey was cleared to return to sport, but clearly was not ready. This experience motivates Joey daily to go above and beyond for patients to help them return to activity better than when they came in. Joey has a strong interest in helping people with return to sport, concussions, and vestibular rehab.

Joey prides himself on patient care and the use of evidence-based treatments, utilizing exercise techniques from various domains to improve function, quality of life, and return to sport. His treatments also include manual therapy, neuromuscular re-education,and blood flow restriction therapy. He truly values getting to know his patients and their specific goals for recovery to optimize their plan of care while promoting an active, healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Liza Buluchevskaya, PT, DPT, CSCS, PPSC

Head Physical Therapist

Dr. Liza Buluchevskaya received her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise and Sports Science with minors in Psychology and Pre-Health from Nova Southeastern University in 2020, where she was also a member of the NCAA Division II swimming team. During her time at NSU, she co-authored a research paper on running biomechanics and received her Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification to continue expanding her knowledge of athletic performance. She then obtained her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from Texas State University in 2023.

Liza has always been passionate about promoting health and wellness, from her time as an athlete and almost 10 years of teaching swim lessons. Liza has experience working with a variety of orthopedic conditions in outpatient settings and is passionate about helping patients get back to doing the things they enjoy. She strives to cater the rehabilitation process to the needs of each individual and to over-prepare them for their goals. She enjoys working with the general population as well as athletes and plans to complete advanced certifications and courses in the field of strength and conditioning to continue expanding her knowledge.

When she is not in the clinic, Liza likes to spend her time weightlifting, swimming, relaxing by the pool or beach, and hanging out with friends.

Dr. Lindsay Merrell, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy, Pelvic Floor Specialist

Dr. Lindsay Merrell received her Bachelors of Science degree in Exercise Science with a minor in Psychology from Grand Valley State University in 2019 and her Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree (DPT) from the University of St. Augustine in 2022. Lindsay has experience working with a variety of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Using her background in psychology, Lindsay strives to make sure her patients understand the impact the mind has on the body and how it moves. Lindsay is excited to help patients understand their impairments and return to the activities they love!

Lindsay enjoys working with individuals to treat orthopedic conditions such as joint replacements, reconstructive surgeries, or addressing daily aches and pains. Lindsay has a passion for educating about pelvic health and treating pelvic disorders. She works with conditions affecting bladder, bowel, and sexual function to restore these basic functions in individuals of all ages and genders.

Growing up in Michigan, Lindsay developed a love (from the sidelines) for the sport of hockey. She has experience in cheerleading from both the athlete and coach’s perspective. On her days off you can find her enjoying a yoga class, playing with her baby, or planning her family’s next trip to Disney World.

Dr. Taylor Hunt, PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Dr. Taylor Hunt received her Bachelor's degree in Health Science from Stonehill College in 2020, and her Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree (DPT) from MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA in 2024.

Taylor has experience working with a variety of musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, and cardiopulmonary conditions in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Some of these cases have included amputees, orthopedic post-op, athletes post injury and return to sport, and several neurologic conditions.

Taylor also has a background in strength and conditioning, which allows her to help patients improve their physical performance, technique, reduce the risk of injury, and better understand the way their body moves. Taylor has a passion to help her patients improve their overall health and quality of life! Taylor plans to complete advanced certifications in this area in the near future.

Growing up in Boston, Taylor developed a love for sporting events. From attending multiple games, to volunteering for the Boston Marathon, she loves the community that comes from it. She grew up cheerleading, and has experience coaching it as well.

Taylor also enjoys practicing meditation, which has helped to better understand how the mind plays a role in enhancing our physical performance.

Dr. Adam Miyer, PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Dr. Adam Miyar earned his bachelor’s degree from Florida International University in 2021, followed by a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in 2024. You might recognize him from his clinical internship with Aries at the Weston location in 2023.

With a diverse background in treating musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions, Adam has worked across various settings in the field. He is dedicated to creating personalized, evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. His expertise in strength, conditioning, and rehabilitation empowers his patients to achieve their therapeutic goals and return to the activities they love.

As a child, Adam was inspired by the progress his grandparents made through physical therapy, often helping them complete their home exercises. This experience instilled in him a vow to treat all his patients with the same compassionate care that helped his grandparents thrive.

Outside of the clinic, Adam enjoys outdoor runs and weightlifting to maintain a healthy lifestyle, setting an example for his patients. He believes that by demonstrating his commitment to fitness and mental well-being, he can inspire them to make positive changes in their own lives.

Dr. Lauron Bagby, PT, DPT, NASM-CPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Dr. Lauron Bagby earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 2019 before obtaining her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of St. Augustine in 2024. Before receiving her doctorate, she pursued her Certified Personal Trainer certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), providing her with a strong foundation in functional strength training and injury prevention.

Experienced in orthopedic and neurological conditions, she focuses on helping patients regain mobility, restore function, and prevent injuries. She is passionate about helping patients enhance their overall quality of life. As a former collegiate basketball player who endured two season-ending injuries and has a background in psychology, she understands the physical and psychological challenges of recovering from an injury or surgery from a patient’s perspective.

Dr. Bagby takes a personalized, evidence-based approach to rehabilitation. Her philosophy is to treat the whole person, addressing underlying conditions to maximize function. Committed to continuous learning, she plans to pursue advanced certifications in dry needling, orthopedic rehabilitation, and sports performance to further enhance her ability to serve her patients and optimize their recovery.

Outside of treating patients, Lauron enjoys staying active through working out, going to the beach, traveling, attending sporting events, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Linda-Marie Acosta

Patient Care Coordinator

Linda currently resides in her native Boca Raton, FL, where she enjoys spending time at the beach and listening to live music with friends. She's a recent graduate from Florida State University where she majored in Psychology. Currently, she's seeking to further her education in the field of physical therapy

Tawny Atwood

Patient Care Coordinator

Tawny was born and raised in California, where she later graduated from the University of California San Diego earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology with an emphasis in Culture and Communication. After many years working in the Entertainment and Events industry all over California, Tawny moved across the country to Florida and started her role as a Patient Care Coordinator here at Aries Physical Therapy. She enjoys being the friendly face greeting patients and ensuring their consistency of care.

When Tawny is not at work, you'd likely find her doing yoga at the beach with her dog or collaborating with her husband on planning weekend events for the active South Florida Community via ‘Lauderdale Run Club’.

Danielle Cockfield

Patient Care Coordinator

Born and raised in South Florida, Danielle graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Health Sciences degree in Health Services Administration from Florida International University in 2020. Recently, she graduated from West Coast University with a Masters in Business Administration with a concentration in Health Administration & Leadership. Danielle’s passion for fitness and wellness commenced in college after her co-worker invited her to a group workout session with a personal trainer. Although she was apprehensive to attend, Danielle accepted the invite and thereafter discovered her love for fitness. She has over 3 years of administrative experience and is dedicated to being an asset through her top-notch customer service skills and enhancing patient satisfaction in each patient's therapy session.

On Danielle’s days off you can find her trying new restaurants, reading Colleen Hoover books, or planning her next trip to Disney World.

Naydene Clark

Patient Care Coordinator

Originally from New Jersey and raised in Florida, Naydene has always had a passion for helping others. A proud graduate of the Aveda Institute, Naydene began her career as an esthetician, where she refined her skills in client care and wellness. Today, she channels that same dedication to serving patients as a Patient Care Coordinator at Aries Physical Therapy, ensuring that every patient feels cared for and supported throughout their treatment process.

When she's not at work, Naydene loves spending time with her kids, enjoying the beach,and trying out new restaurants, Her positive attitude and strong work ethic make her an invaluable part of the team at Aries Physical Therapy

Tiajuana Forbes

Patient Care Coordinator

Originally from the Bahamas, Tiajuana now resides in Florida. In 2022, she earned her Associate’s degree in Tourism and Hospitality. Tiajuana has worked in the medical field as a Nurse Assistant and Medicaid Specialist at Broward General Hospital and is currently pursuing further education in Pharmacy Technology. She has a deep passion for helping others.

Tiajuana enjoys spending her free time brunching with friends or playing with her dog at the beach. An avid traveler, Tiajuana loves exploring new places and cultures.