Dedicated to helping you live your Best Life.

Meet Our Team

The physical therapy we provide stands above that of our competitors. Our expertise in manual therapy can help you beat your pain more quickly and get you back to your active lifestyle. We would love to work with you!

Nichole King, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Nichole King is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and currently resides in Virginia Beach, VA where she has devoted over 10 years of practice to Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. She has a specialty certification in Myofascial Trigger Point Dry Needling (MFTrPDN) and is a Certified Integrated Manual Therapist (CIMT), which support her treatment style of one-on-one expert care to help each client recover more quickly in order to return to a fulfilling and inspired lifestyle.

After 10 years of directing outpatient clinics in the corporate world, Nichole has begun a new journey as an owner with Best Life Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, where she is truly able to live out her passion of providing patient specific programs and addressing individual needs. Nichole’s mission speaks for itself….to provide community education and comprehensive whole-body treatment to meet and advance wellness/fitness goals so that she can take patients to the next level, helping them to “Live Their Best Life.” Nichole is Direct Access certified, which allows patients immediate access to physical therapy, saving time and money, and ultimately resulting in quicker recovery.

She provides in-services and educational seminars throughout Hampton Roads for various organizations to reach her community, especially those who are restricted to their access to health care.

While serving as an ambassador with GIELD INC, the Global Institute of Empowerment and Leadership Development, whose mission is to enrich educate and empower quality leaders within the church and society for today and tomorrow, she recently lead the health component to a children’s summer camp in Norfolk, VA.

Nichole practices what she preaches by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and is currently a natural bodybuilding competitor, holding a professional title with the American Natural Bodybuilding Federation, as well as representing various organizations as a sponsored athlete.

When Nichole is not working toward establishing her legacy in the health field, she is active in her local church and enjoys traveling, listening to live music, being outdoors and spending time with her family and friends.

Gina Meyer, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Gina has been a leader in the field of outpatient physical therapy and sports medicine, providing the highest quality, patient-focused care since 2003. In her early career, Dr. Meyer practiced across many states, becoming an experienced manual therapist with multiple orthopedic specializations. She is a published researcher in outpatient rehabilitation. She founded Best Life Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine on the East Coast in 2012 and Rise Pacific Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine on the West Coast in 2016.

Dr. Meyer has a true passion for helping her patients get back to doing the things they love. This pursuit led to her role as founder and host of the Rise Resolute Podcast, a podcast designed to connect women through female athletes’ stories of grit and perseverance. Dr. Meyer believes that being active is a privilege that enhances our lives in so many ways. She is an avid runner and advocate for movement and running, which has countless physical and mental benefits, including improved stress management and decreased anxiety/depression, which is more important than ever at this time.

Gina founded the non-profit ARC (Active Resolute Connected) based on her passion for breaking barriers and empowering women by improving their mental/physical health and overall well-being through movement/running.

Outside of the clinic Gina loves music, hiking, golfing, skiing, being outdoors at the beach and in the mountains, cooking, and spending time with her four children, her husband, and her dog.

Jasmine Angeles, PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Jasmine was born and raised in the Hampton Roads area. She received a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from George Mason University where she grew her passion for physical therapy. After gaining experience in the field while working as a physical therapy technician, she further went on to earn her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Old Dominion University in 2024. During her time at ODU, she enjoyed volunteering with Aid Another Adaptive Program as well as becoming a member of the Alpha Eta National Honor Society for Allied Health. Jasmine spent her second clinical experience at Best Life and is thrilled to be returning to the Best Life family. She enjoys connecting with patients and being a part of their journey to return to the activities they enjoy and to improve their overall quality of life. She looks forward to expanding her clinical skills throughout her time here. Outside of the clinic, Jasmine enjoys spending time with her family and friends, working out, and trying different coffee shops and bakeries.

Katie Kirkman, PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Katie Kirkman is the Clinic Director at our Potter's Road location. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from Penn State University in 2017. She went on to earn her Master in Anatomy and Clinical Health Science from University of Delaware in 2018 and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from University of Delaware in 2019. She has previously worked at outpatient orthopedic clinics in the surrounding area and the DC region. She has worked with a variety of patients with orthopedic and neurological conditions (including low back pain, neck pain, rotator cuff repairs, stress and urge incontinence, dyspareunia, and more). She has completed several different continuing education courses including pain neuroscience education, PNF, pelvic floor, and pregnancy and postpartum corrective exercise specialist program to continue to expand her knowledge. Outside of the clinic, Katie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, spending time with her two dogs, working out on the Peloton, and going to the beach.

Geri Hall, PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Geri was born and raised in Nashville, TN. She received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Tennessee Tech University in the small town of Cookeville, TN. She married her high school sweetheart and embarked on a new journey as a military spouse as her husband serves in the US Coast Guard. This led her to earn her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in St. Augustine, Florida. Geri enjoyed her time at USAHS and joined the Student Veterans Association, where she helped coordinate events that served both student Veterans at her school and Veterans in her community. Geri spent her final clinical experience at Best Life and is excited to return to the Best Life team. She found her passion to become a Physical Therapist after a series of sports-related injuries led to her learning how to walk again in PT. Geri is dedicated to providing patient-centered care, helping patients achieve their goals, and teaching them how to maintain an improved quality of life after physical therapy. She looks forward to expanding her clinical skillset throughout her time here. Outside of the clinic, Geri enjoys reading books, going to the movies, doing DIY crafts, hanging out at the beach, and going on adventures with her husband and their rescue dog Blue.

David Mendoza, PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

David earned his Doctor of Physical of Therapy in 2021 at Virginia Commonwealth University. Prior to this, David earned his Bachelors in Interdisciplinary Science with minors in Psychology, Biology, and Chemistry in 2016 at VCU. As a dedicated physical therapist with a passion for sports medicine, David has spent years helping athletes of all levels recover from injuries, improve their performance, and return to the activities they love.

Throughout his career, David has worked in multiple outpatient and sports medicine physical therapy clinics specializing in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement. By combining hands-on treatment techniques, evidence-based practice, and personalized care plans, David focuses on treating the root causes of injuries while improving movement patterns to prevent future issues. By focusing on patient education, David strives to empower clients with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their recovery. David is dedicated to helping individuals get back to doing what they love—safely and effectively.

David is committed to optimizing patient function and improving their overall quality of life while continuing to learn and expand his skills as a clinician. David has enjoyed working with athletes from various sports but has a special passion for soccer and basketball due to his history in providing specialized care with these athletes.

Outside of his professional life, David loves spending time with his family and dog, playing video games, and exploring local restaurants. David enjoys playing and watching sports, especially soccer, basketball, and football.

Madeline Connahan, PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Madeline Connahan was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where her journey in physical
therapy began with a Bachelor of Science from Georgia College. She went on to pursue her
Doctor of Physical Therapy at Shenandoah University and later returned to Georgia to start
her career at Emory Sports Medicine Complex. There, she developed skills in treating sports-
related injuries and post-operative rehabilitation, working with patients ranging from
weekend warriors to professional athletes.
Madeline has a particular passion for helping patients recover from shoulder, hip, knee, and
ankle injuries, guiding them back to active lifestyles. She believes in a
holistic approach that integrates strength training, flexibility, and functional movement to
help patients regain both strength and confidence. She is dedicated to empowering
patients to return to their goals stronger than before, ensuring they have the tools and
knowledge to stay injury-free in the future.
As a military wife, Madeline is excited to have relocated to Virginia Beach with her husband,
eager to engage with the community and support patients in reaching their wellness goals.
Outside of work, she enjoys working out, playing pickleball, going to Church, exploring local
coffee shops and restaurants, and spending time with her husband and their two dogs.
Madeline looks forward to supporting you on your journey to recovery and well-being!

Katelyn Lochner PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Dr. Katelyn Lochner earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from

Baylor University in 2022. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
and Kinesiology from the University of South Alabama, where she was also a
collegiate volleyball athlete.
Katelyn completed her Orthopedic Residency through Evidence in Motion
(EIM) in 2023 and has since become a board-certified Orthopedic Clinical
Specialist (OCS) - a distinction held by only 6% of physical therapists
nationwide. A firm believer in lifelong learning, she has pursued advanced
training in trigger point dry needling, therapeutic pain science for chronic
pain management, return-to-sport rehabilitation, and pelvic floor therapy.
Katelyn is passionate about helping patients of all ages and activity levels
achieve their highest potential through evidence-based, individualized care.
Her dedication to education extends beyond her patients: she has experience
presenting at regional seminars, mentoring residents, and hosting doctoral
interns.
Originally from Austin, Texas, Katelyn is excited to bring her expertise to the
Hampton Roads community. Outside the clinic, she enjoys working out,
playing sports, traveling, and exploring new local spots with her two pugs,
Mochi and Nori.

Leslie Dahuya PT, DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Leslie was born and raised in Chesapeake Virginia and graduated from Old Dominion University with her Bachelor’s in Exercise Science in 2019. She then took a gap year to work as a physical therapy technician to further expose herself to the field. She attended and graduated from Old Dominion University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program in 2023.

She loves promoting functional strength and movement to help people realize how it carries over into everyday life activities. Leslie believes in activity modification and meeting patients where they are to make therapy a positive and empowering experience. Her favorite part of being a physical therapist is the consistent role she plays in her patients’ rehab journey and the opportunity to witness their confidence grow as they progress.

Leslie is married to her high school sweetheart and lives in Virginia Beach with their one-year-old daughter. She’s always up for a good conversation, enjoys exploring local coffee shops, loves anything pink, collects any and everything for her junk journal, and spends her free time lifting weights.

Madison Archer, PT,DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Madison “Madi” is a Michigan Native, where she received her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Grand Valley State University. She then went on to A.T. Still University in Arizona, from which she earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Madi has a background as a personal trainer in which she has worked in multiple athletic performance and community fitness settings. She is passionate about building genuine connections with her patients and believes the best outcomes come from collaboration. She takes pride in creating individualized rehabilitation plans tailored to each patient’s goals, lifestyle, and long-term health—empowering them to move with confidence and independence. Outside of the clinic, Madi enjoys spending time with her husband, exploring local coffee shops, participating in water sports, and seeking out new travel adventures whenever possible.

Stefanie Bean, PT,DPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Stefanie Bean is a dedicated physical therapist with extensive experience in the outpatient orthopedic setting, having been in practice since 2016. With a strong passion for working with athletes of all levels—from high-performance athletes to weekend warriors—Stefanie focuses on helping patients recover from injury, improve mobility, and return to the activities they love.

In addition to her orthopedic background, Stefanie has developed a growing interest in pelvic floor therapy, particularly for women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. After the birth of her daughter in 2024, she became deeply committed to supporting women through the unique physical challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, and recovery.

Originally from Yorktown, VA, Stefanie and her family recently relocated to Virginia Beach after her husband was stationed in Kittery, Maine. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys camping, hiking, spending time at the beach, and enjoying life with family and friends.

Brittany Hall, LPTA

Physical Therapy Assistant

Brittany received her Bachelor of Science in Sports and Health Science from American Military University in 2013, while living in Guam. She has always had a passion for health, physical fitness, and helping other achieve their personal goals. Prior to starting the PTA program she worked in Florida managing a health and wellness center. This position inspired her to transition towards physical fitness and rehab, there she furthered her education by earning her Associate's degree from Gulf Coast State College where she became a Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant. She previously worked in San Diego at an outpatient clinic. In her spare time Brittany enjoys volunteering out in the community with Habitat for Humanity and volunteering at local shelters. She likes to keep active by going to the gym, hiking, taking her dogs to the beach, and really anything outdoors.

Krickett (Kristen) Kopas, LPTA

Physical Therapy Assistant

Krickett (Kristen) Kopas received her Bachelor of Science from Colorado State University in Forestry and after 13 years of wildland firefighting, she returned to school to acquire her Associates in Applied Science at Arapahoe Community College in Littleton CO; shortly after she received her license for Physical Therapist Assistant.

Krickett has been a Physical Therapist Assistant for 15 years and has worked in orthopedic outpatient clinics her entire career. Krickett's strengths are with educating each patient body/postural awareness during functional activities, and empowering patients to manage their own pain. In addition Krickett uses the whole body wellness approach versus just treating the body part in question.

Outside of work Krickett enjoys gardening, surfing, searching for shells and backpacking/camping. Krickett is also an avid premiere league spectator; you will have to guess what team she follows.

Specialties and Areas of Interest:

PRI

Myofascial Release/Energy Work

Taping techniques to inhibit/activate muscles, decrease pain, and promote stability within the joint

Contact

Best Life Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine

Don't let pain keep you from living your Best Life.

Call us today to schedule an appointment:

office: 757-961-5888

fax: 757-340-6210

Or use our contact form.

Direct Access

You can receive physical therapy at Best Life Physical Therapy without a doctor's prescription (and we can still bill through insurance). This saves both time and money. Schedule an appointment today.

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Main Office: 757-961-5888 Fax: 757-340-6210 LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE.

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