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 Watson

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)

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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)

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.]