Florence Therapy
& Wellness
Mara Arlington, PT, DPT - Owner
Mara earned her Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Montana in Missoula in 2001. After graduation, she ventured to Alaska, where she worked at a rural hospital, embracing all the unique challenges 'the final frontier' had to offer. In 2002, Mara and her husband returned to the Bitterroot Valley, where they now live in the Florence area with their two sons and daughter. With experience in several outpatient therapy clinics and hospitals throughout the region, Mara has developed a strong orthopedic background and is skilled in a variety of manual therapy techniques, including trigger point dry needling. She is also a specialist in hippotherapy, incorporating horses into therapy sessions for a unique and effective approach to treatment. Outside of work, Mara loves spending time with her family at the lake, hunting, running, and horseback riding.
Rachel Willard, PT, DPT
Rachel received her bachelor degree in both Biology and Spanish from Hastings College in Nebraska and graduated from the University of Colorado Denver with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2017. Rachel grew up in northern Colorado and has been passionate about physical therapy as a profession since her time as a student-athlete in high school. Rachel has gained experience in many treatment techniques, including trigger point dry needling, therapeutic neuroscience education, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. Rachel believes that attentive listening and developing a strong connection with patients are essential qualities to being a good therapist. When not working, Rachel and her husband enjoy spending time in the outdoors with their two dogs, Sage and Basil, hunting, hiking, and participating in hunting dog competitions.
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Tara Pfeifer, PT, DPT
Tara earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Montana School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences in 2017. She has since specialized in pelvic health, completing a wide range of advanced pelvic floor training. Tara is passionate about treating all areas of pelvic floor dysfunction, including pelvic pain, urinary and fecal incontinence, as well as prenatal and postpartum conditions. Her professional development includes:
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Advanced training in Pelvic Health through the Herman and Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute (1, 2A, 2B, Bowel Pathology and Function)
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Member of the APTA and MAPTA Pelvic Health Section since 2014
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Currently pursuing Pelvic Rehab Practitioner Certification (PRPC) and Women’s Health Specialist Certification (WCS)
Tara is deeply committed to expanding her expertise in pelvic health to provide her patients with the best care and outcomes possible.
Nicole Sisson, PTA
Nicole is a dedicated Physical Therapist Assistant who graduated from Flathead Valley Community College in 2016. Shortly after earning her degree, she moved to the Bitterroot Valley, where she has been serving the local community for the past 8 years. With a strong background in orthopedics, neurological conditions, and chronic pain management, Nicole is committed to helping her patients regain their mobility and return to the activities they love. Her passion for physical therapy is matched by her enthusiasm for the outdoors. When she's not working, you can find Nicole traveling, climbing, rafting, running mountain trails, mountain biking, or skiing—activities that fuel her adventurous spirit and appreciation for the natural world.