Who we are.
We are dancers and performers who are Doctors of Physical Therapy. We are dedicated to the pursuit of comprehensive care, health, and support for sustainability for the 21st century movement artist.
Dr. Robert Tsai, PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy | Chapman University
BA Communication Theory / Dance Performance Minor | Chapman University
What’s your one thing for dancers?
“I’m not worried about ‘perfect’”
I want you to know how you can trust yourself to shift, pivot, and adapt so you can do the things that dance will ask of you AND the things you want to do for dance.”
What inspires your work with dancers?
“It inspires me day-to-day to witness young humans explore, change, and grow through dance and movement. Observing these growing minds in our spaces continues to remind me just how malleable they are.
It’s a journey to watch them return to their craft with renewed confidence in their physical abilities and their confidence in advocating for their health for their future selves.”
Tell us about you and dance!
Dance found me via breakin’ and hip-hop culture, so dance has always been a reflection of society and culture.
I studied classical modern dance at Chapman University, performed professionally in the LA commercial industry for 8 years, and had the privilege to teach dance locally and nationally.
As a performing arts physical therapist I’ve worked with performers of all ages in a variety of settings including college programs, theme parks, professional companies, and in our local dance studio community.
Dr. Claire Spivak, PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy | Chapman University
BS Kinesiological Science | CSU Long Beach
What’s your one thing for dancers?
“Part of the process is honoring yourself and your efforts…“
… and recognizing that as an honest reflection of growth. Being challenged in our spaces gives us stepping stones towards greater accomplishments!”
What inspires your work with dancers?
Dance has always served as an anchor of my expression, and one that allows for discovery, both personally and in relation to others.
I’m continuously inspired by the insight and contributions of the dancers I work with in their individual journeys of creative expression, and dedication to their craft.
I love that working with dancers gives me the opportunity to collaborate in their growth and support them through all the small and big wins.
Tell us about you and dance!
I began my dance training at a Vaganova based ballet school where I was trained in classical ballet, also dancing modern, lyrical, and contemporary.
I attended various summer intensives throughout my training including Ballet West and American Ballet Theatre, and later went on to continue dancing at California State University Long Beach Department of Dance.
Throughout my experiences in the clinic, I’ve been fortunate to work with artist-athletes from many different settings, ranging from recreational to professional level dancers.
Dr. Lizzy Rothstein, PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy | University of Southern California
BA Psychology | UC Berkeley
What’s your one thing for dancers?
“How are you doing as a human?”
While I love connecting with those I work with through dance, it is equally important to check in with them outside of their dance identity. I’ve found that helping others step outside their dance bodies can often lead to strengthened relationships within themselves and with dance.
What inspires your work with dancers?
Working with dancers is an incredible gift. To me, dancers of all ages and stages of their careers share an infectious curiosity for movement that makes our time together endlessly creative and innovative.
Their passion and drive propel me forward in my own growth and discovery so that I can in turn best support the dance community. Every day is an honor to collaborate with such extraordinary artist-athletes.
Tell us about you and dance!
“I grew up dancing competitively and continued dancing throughout college as a member of the Cal Dance Team at UC Berkeley.
After graduating, I pursued dancing professionally. I was a 3-time NBA dancer for the Golden State Warriors and am currently the Head Coach of the UCLA Dance Team.
I also continue to teach and choreograph at the high school, collegiate, and professional level.”
DANCE|PREHAB Physical Therapy & Performance 