Our Team
Dr. Jenn Gelfand PT, DPT, E-RYT, Cert.DN
Physical Therapist, Pelvic Health Specialist, Yoga Instructor, Owner and Founder
Dr. Jenn (she/her/hers) has over 16 years of experience as a Physical Therapist with a passion for treating pelvic health conditions. She created Root to Rise Physical Therapy & Pelvic Health to provide you with the highest quality, fully customized care.
Her years of clinical experience and personal journey with PCOS, postpartum healing, and navigating the early stages of perimenopause informs her practice and fuels her passion to help you optimize your quality of life and achieve your goals. Her treatments include a blend of manual therapy techniques, dry needling, functional movement retraining, physical yoga postures, breathwork and mindfulness activities.
Dr. Jenn believes education is key to ensure that you fully understand your condition and treatment plan. She is committed to seeing the whole you and meeting you where you are, so she can help guide you back to health.
She is passionate about making pelvic health topics accessible to everyone and educating her patients and the community about the importance of pelvic health and how it relates to our quality of life.
Continuing Education Offerings for Yoga and Barre Instructors
In addition to working with her patients individually, she teaches Functional Anatomy to movement instructors and instructors in training. She also offers a wide range of yoga classes in the community including All Levels Vinyasa, Prenatal, Baby & Me, & Yoga for Healthy Aging. She aims to educate and empower movement teachers and students alike to instruct and achieve sustainable lifelong practices through promoting functionally sound movement patterns.
Functional Applied Anatomy sections for 200hr Yoga Teacher Training at The Portland Yoga Project
Dynamic Anatomy Weekend Module at Arcana 200hr Yoga Teacher Training
Co-Teach Barre for Healthy Aging Modules for Elizabeth April’s 100hr Barre Teacher Training
Academics & Teachings
Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Simmons College
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at The University of Massachusetts Amherst
200-hour Certified Yoga Teacher at Well Heart Yoga School
Advanced specialized training in pelvic floor rehab and visceral mobilization from the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute
Certified in Dry Needling with American Academy of Manipulative Therapy (AAOMT)
Advanced training The Holistic Treatment of The Pregnant Body with Lynn Schulte, PT
Certification in SFMA (Selective Functional Movement Assessment) Levels 1 and 2
Additional orthopedic manual therapy training with the Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy (IOMT) and North American Institute of Manual Therapy (NAIOMT) Assessment)
Clinical Instructor for enrolled Doctorate of Physical Therapy students
Dr. Daisy Doherty PT, DPT
Lead Physical Therapist, Pelvic Health Specialist, Clinical Education Coordinator
Dr. Daisy (she/her/hers) joins Root to Rise Physical Therapy with a strong passion for treating women’s health conditions! She obtained her doctorate of PT from Daemen College in Buffalo, NY, and started her career in an orthopedic clinic. She soon became aware of the need for pelvic health physical therapists and moved forward to complete specialized training in order to focus on this patient population.
She knew that with pelvic floor training combined with a strong orthopedic background, she would be able to focus on patients as a whole, to address the root cause of their symptoms. Her goal is to make a difference for the better for all of her patients.
Daisy is originally from England and grew up in Upstate NY. She comes to Root to Rise PT after living in Buffalo, NY for nearly 10 years, and is ready to empower women of all ages to start their journey of improving themselves in conditions related to: pain with sex, urinary incontinence, urinary urgency and frequency, pre-natal and postpartum moms, and more.
“I had pelvic floor pt for tension and pain prior to Root to Rise but still felt like I was only at 90%. Dr. Daisy helped me get back to 100%. I’m very grateful to be back to my very active lifestyle and can’t recommend Root to Rise enough.” - RTR Patient
Her personal experiences in life led her to seek pelvic floor physical therapy, when she fell on her tailbone while rollerblading. This pain was causing muscle spasms which were keeping her awake at night, and made it difficult to sit or stand for long periods of time. She knew her pelvic floor muscles were contributing to her pain, and with physical therapy she found immediate and lasting relief.
In her free time Daisy enjoys traveling, snowboarding, a good cup of coffee, and trying any and all restaurants around.
Academics & Teachings
Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Daemen College
Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences at Daemen College
Advanced specialized training in pelvic floor rehabilitation and visceral mobilization from the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute
Dry Needling for Lumbopelvic & Lower Extremity Conditions with American Academy of Manipulative Therapy
Advanced training in The Holistic Treatment of The Pregnant Body with Lynn Schulte, PT
McKenzie Institute: Lumbar Spine Certification
Carole Wyche, Lic. Ac., MAOM
Lead Acupuncturist, Chinese Herbalist, Administrative & Marketing Coordinator
Carole (she/her/hers) is a nationally certified and licensed acupuncturist and herbalist who began practicing in 2012. Her passion for pelvic health has inspired additional training in fertility support, regulation of cycles, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery. She gave birth to her first child in August 2020, an experience that has increased her empathy for all parents, amazement at the capability of the human body, and advocacy for postpartum care and support.
Her interest in acupuncture began after receiving treatment herself to address acid reflux. She found treatments left her feeling less stressed and more balanced in addition to having improved digestion, and that was an experience she wanted to pass on to others. She is continually fascinated by the theories of traditional Chinese medicine that beautifully articulate the interconnection of our internal systems–each part affecting the whole.
She has experience treating a wide variety of conditions, including pain, digestive disorders, anxiety, and sleep trouble. She has worked in many settings in Massachusetts and Maine, including Boston Medical Center, an outpatient neurosurgical practice, an addiction and behavioral health home, and a private practice. Each setting has offered unique opportunities for growth and human connection.
Carole was the first to join the Root to Rise team in 2020 and truly believes that achieving good health means having the right support team.
Academics & Teachings
Masters of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine at New England School of Acupuncture
Bachelor of Arts in Communication at Wake Forest University
National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) Diplomate
Licensed Acupuncturist in Maine
License in Custom-Made Chinese Herbal Formulation in Maine
Specialized Continued Education training in Treatment of Fertility with coursework by Jane Lyttleton
Specialized Continued Education training in Acupuncture in Pregnancy with coursework by Debra Betts
Power of Awareness Mindfulness Training with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach
Using Mind Body Techniques in Clinical Practice – 8 week MBSR curriculum, Massachusetts General Hospital Psychiatry Academy
Dr. Mackenzie Foley, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist, Pelvic Health Specialist
Dr. Mackenzie (she/her/hers) joins Root to Rise Physical Therapy following a fulfilling two-year stint as a traveling physical therapist throughout the United States. During her travels in diverse settings, Mackenzie recognized a pressing need for pelvic health physical therapists. This realization inspired her to pursue additional training and certification from Herman and Wallace, focusing on this underserved patient demographic.
Passionate about empowering individuals to attain optimal pelvic health and functionality, Mackenzie offers personalized, evidence-based treatment plans. She is prepared to guide and empower people of all ages on their journey towards self-improvement, particularly in areas such as sexual pain, urinary incontinence, urgency and frequency, pre-natal and postpartum care, and more.
Mackenzie is devoted to educating both patients and fellow healthcare professionals on pelvic floor health and rehabilitation. Embracing a holistic approach to pelvic floor care, she addresses not only the physical aspects but also the emotional and psychological factors affecting pelvic health. Through her empathetic and personalized approach, Mackenzie strives to help individuals regain confidence and improve their quality of life.
Beyond her professional commitments, she finds joy in traveling, skiing, hiking, reading, and exploring various cuisine.
“Dr. Mackenzie’s mix of compassion, expertise, and humor made every session something I looked forward to. She helped my pre and postpartum journey and also felt like a friend. Highly recommend!”
- Julianne
Academics & Teachings
Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Sacred Heart University
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Sacred Heart University
Advanced specialized pelvic floor rehabilitation and visceral mobilization training through Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute
Danielle Bragg, MOT, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist, Pelvic Health Specialist
Danielle joins Root to Rise with a passion for guiding patients towards wellbeing with an emphasis on holistic care. With a Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy, she looks at patients through an investigative lens of what wellbeing means for each individual and the daily activities which are meaningful for them to be able to participate in after disability, injury, or a life change such as childbirth.
Through her personal journey toward wellness, Danielle became passionate about providing care that addresses all areas of wellbeing, rather than strictly physical health. She is passionate about addressing both physical and psychological contributions to pelvic floor dysfunction.
Danielle provides goal setting, treatment, and education that is individualized to each patient. She believes each patient is the expert on their own body, and views her role as one of guidance through the path to wellbeing. She is passionate about addressing symptoms that may be impeding wellbeing such as pelvic pain, incontinence, urgency, and frequency.
Outside of work, Danielle enjoys exploring Southern Maine with her fiance and mini bernedoodle, reading, and finding new places to hike.
“Danielle is so incredibly caring, professional and extremely knowledgeable. She has a wonderful way of connecting such that I was very comfortable with the pelvic floor therapy. Her techniques and patient education greatly improved my symptoms. I look forward to continuing my care with her. I can not recommend this facility and staff enough! Empowering and helping women to heal makes the world a healthier place and happier place.” - Jan
Academics & Teachings
Master's of Occupational Therapy from University of Southern Maine
Bachelor's of Health, Wellness, and Occupational Studies from University of New England
Advanced specialized pelvic floor rehabilitation and visceral mobilization training through the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute
Sarah Ellison, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist, Pelvic Health Specialist
Dr. Sarah (she/her/hers) joins Root to Rise with a diverse clinical background and deep enthusiasm for collaboration—both between providers and patients for a strong therapeutic relationship and among other healthcare providers and movement professionals for growing the accessibility of pelvic health related care. She approaches pelvic health from different angles, recognizing that life is dynamic and bodies are always changing. Personal passion for yoga and gyrotonics blends with her clinical interests in functional movement and understanding stress to guide her comprehensive and individualized approach to care.
Sarah was first drawn to pelvic health for its ability to be proactive—an idea sparked in graduate school when a lab instructor shared how physical therapy had supported her during pregnancy and for labor and delivery. The core of pelvic health therapy is using movement to help the body to feel prepared and to improve foundational functions of the body. Sarah guides her patients to tap into their innate body awareness to facilitate healing while laughing, learning, and feeling empowered along the way.
Sarah received her pelvic health training through the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute. She has pursued advanced education in visceral mobilization as well as pregnancy and postpartum corrective exercise. Before fully transitioning into pelvic health, Sarah spent several years working in complex orthopedics and chronic pain management. Seeing the connection between true pelvic health rehabilitation and living well, Sarah has trained as a health coach, explored the role of functional nutrition in women’s health, and delved into the value of lifestyle to better understand and support her patients. Considering this bigger picture is particularly valuable for improving the pelvic pain, urinary and bowel, and sexual dysfunction symptoms that she frequently encounters in discussion with her patients.
Having recently moved to Southern Maine, Sarah looks forward to building connections, enjoying time outdoors, discovering great local food with family and friends, and embracing a “life well lived”—a guiding principle that lies at the base of her clinical philosophy.
“Dr. Sarah is fabulous! Warm, heart-centered, cheerful, great listener, talented, experienced and wise. I was her client in Boston from Aug 2024 through May 2025 with great results.”
~Previous client of Dr. Sarah
Academics & Teachings
Doctor of Physical Therapy from MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston, MA
Bachelor's of Arts in History, Hispanic Studies Minor from University of Pennsylvania
Advanced specialized pelvic floor rehabilitation and visceral mobilization training through Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute
Women’s Health Functional Nutrition Program Certification with Integrative Women’s Health Institute
Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist with Sarah Ellis Duvall, PT, DPT, CPT, CNC
Matwork Pilates Level 1, Australian Physiotherapy & Pilates Institute
Certification in SFMA (Selective Functional Movement Assessment) Levels 1 and 2
Kristen DiReda, L.Ac
Acupuncturist
Kristen (sher/her/hers) is a board-certified and Licensed Acupuncturist with a Master of Science in Acupuncture from Pacific College of Health and Science. She joins the team after a recent move from Brooklyn, NY, where she worked as an acupuncturist specializing in hormonal health, fertility and pregnancy support, emotional wellness, and pain management at a busy clinic.
As a self-proclaimed lifelong learner, Kristen continues to broaden her knowledge of the diverse medical needs of patients and the tools to support them. Her participation in the PUSH Professionals Perinatal Mentorship provided additional education for treating patients during the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. Specialized education through Memorial Sloan Kettering equipped her with acupuncture skills to support those undergoing cancer treatment and its associated side effects. In addition to Chinese Medicine, she is also a certified Usui Reiki Master Practitioner and loves incorporating aspects of reiki into acupuncture treatments when it aligns.
Kristen believes compassion and empathy are the cornerstones of healing. She is excited to support patient growth, well-being, and health through honest communication, authentic connection, and complementary medicine and modalities.
“Kristen is great! She is fairly new to the RTR team and lives up to their high standard of excellence. Kristen is professional, likable, approachable and skilled in her field. She was well prepared for our session, is a very good listener, intuitive and has a way about her that put me totally at ease. She is highly knowledgeable and worked her acupuncture magic on me. I left feeling relaxed, pain free and well cared for. I highly recommend Kristen!” - Janet
Academics & Teachings
Master's of Science in Acupuncture from Pacific College of Health and Science, New York, NY
Bachelor's of Arts in International Studies from University of South Carolina
PUSH Professionals Perinatal Mentorship Program, Dr. Deb Davies, DACM, L.Ac.
Fundamentals of Oncology Acupuncture, Memorial Sloan Kettering
Dhayanne Gellis
Patient Care Coordinator and Administrative Assistant
Dhayanne (she/her/hers) joins Root to Rise with a passion for creating meaningful connections through communication. With a background in public relations, marketing, team management and customer service, her experiences led her to become a creative, adaptive and communicative person. She also shares a passion for yoga and wellness, since she learned all the benefits it brings for a healthier and better lifestyle. She was born and raised in Brazil, but spent many years living in Boston and Los Angeles before moving to Scarborough with her husband. Beyond work, she loves hiking, painting, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Academics & Teachings
Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Brazil
Marketing with Concentration in Digital Marketing Certificate from UCLA Extension, Los Angeles, CA
Kelsey Vacca
Patient Care Coordinator and Administrative Assistant
Kelsey (she/her/hers) joins Root to Rise with a diverse background in both administration and the Wellness Industry. Her life long passion for Wellness started from a young age growing up in her Father’s health food store. She graduated from Esthetics school 10 years ago and has since worked in Wellness Spa’s as both an Esthetician and Manager. Most recently she worked as a Chiropractic Assistant prior to having her daughters and moving to Maine.
Kelsey worked with Root to Rise, navigating her own pelvic health struggles after the birth of her first daughter and has had lasting results.
When she is not at Root to Rise, Kelsey is exploring the outdoors with her husband 2 little girls and 2 dogs, or checking out new restaurants and coffee shops in the area!
Academics & Teachings
Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Southern New Hampshire University
Breath Coach Certification from Yoga Alliance
Esthetics from The Elizabeth Grady School
Katherine Englishman, 500-RYT
Prenatal Yoga Instructor
Katherine (she/her/hers) is a certified 500-RYT, 105 Hour Pre and Postnatal yoga teacher, and mama to one, who is passionate about staying active and in tune with your body's needs in every phase of life. She has been a dedicated yoga student for a decade, and teaching yoga for 7+ years with nearly 1,000 hours of training in hatha, vinyasa, kids yoga, and perinatal yoga.
Ginny Churchill, RYT
Yoga Instructor
Ginny (she/her/hers) is a RYT-200 yoga teacher trained at Laughing River Yoga in Burlington, Vermont. She has been practicing yoga for over ten years and is excited to share with others what she has learned (and continues to learn!) along her path. Ginny loves running, hiking and skiing in addition to her yoga practice.
In Ginny’s classes you will find a fun-filled exploration of both the body and mind designed to guide and support you along your path of healing and self-discovery. This exploration involves a combination of meditation, pranayama and asana to lead students in cultivating a greater sense of compassion for themselves and the world around you.
Sara Crosby, RYT
Prenatal Yoga Instructor
Sara (she/her/hers) is a certified yoga teacher with additional certifications in prenatal, postpartum, and children’s yoga. She is also a trained doula. Sara has a background in family services and early childhood education and loves supporting other women in their motherhood journey. Yoga has been a supportive part of her own motherhood journey, and has helped her show up as the healthy, gentle, and present mother she wants to be. Sara is a full-time stay at home mom and lives in Gorham with her husband and son and their two cats. She loves spending time in nature, reading, embroidery, ballet class, and the occasional spa day with friends.