Meet Our Staff
Occupational Therapists
Cindy Brosig, OT, CHT
I have been with MMH for 35 years (as of September 2020). I graduated from Texas Women’s University and am a Certified Hand Therapist. My husband, Karl and I have three sons, two petroleum engineers and one Mechanical Engineer, beautiful daughters-in-law, and "perfect" grandchildren, ages 8, 3 and 1. I love Jesus, Karl, Joe, Rob, Michael, Kristin, Jenn, Chandler, Kai, Gus and Riley; and in my spare time hunting and fishing.
Erin Carpenter, OT, MOT
I received my Bachelor's in Exercise Sports Science from Abilene Christian University, where I played softball, and obtained my Master's in Occupational Therapy from Texas Tech University. My husband Garrett and I have two little boys, Campbell and Deacon, who keep us on our toes! I am a part of the statistic that grew up in Midland, swore they would never move back, then did due to a husband who works in the oil field. We are so thankful to be here though and love raising our family with family close by. In the little spare time we have, just kidding we have no spare time with two little boys.
Kim Cooper, OT, CHT
I was born and raised in Midland, Texas. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Texas Tech University. I have been an OT for 19 years and I've spent over 14 years treating upper extremity injuries. I'm married to my high school sweetheart and we have 2 awesome kids. I'm all about my FAMILY which is where I spend most of my free time. My hobbies include baking, gardening, reading and Bible study.
Kristie Garnett, OT, CHT
I have worked as an Occupational Therapist for Midland Memorial Hospital since 1989. I'm a West Texas gal, born in Lubbock and raised in Levelland. I graduated from Texas Tech University and came to Midland for the obvious reason: my husband works for an oil company. I have two grown sons who are both gainfully employed and paying their own way! Hallelujah! I love teaching adult Sunday School, singing, reading, walking our Doberman, and hanging out with family, but laughing is my favorite!
Nancy Marks, OT, CHT
I grew up in Pennsylvania, got my Occupational Therapy degree at The Ohio State University, and moved to Texas thanks to my wonderful husband a few years later. I have been an Occupational Therapist at MMH and West Texas Therapy for many years (but who's counting!). I love working with upper extremity injuries, so I also became a Certified Hand Therapist. My husband and I have two wonderful daughters, one is a Speech Pathologist and the other is a Sports Psychologist/Mental Resilience trainer. My husband and I love to travel.
Amy Ports, OT
I graduated from the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio in 1996 with my degree in Occupational Therapy. My husband Dean and I have been married for 25 years and we have lived in Midland for the past 17 years. We are proud to have been a part of the U.S. Navy for 12 years prior to moving to Midland and have lived in many areas of the country including Virginia, Florida, Washington DC and Wisconsin. We have two wonderful girls. Our oldest is studying veterinary medicine at Texas A&M University. Gig ‘Em Aggies!! Whoop!! And our youngest hopes to follow big sister at Texas A&M to study mechanical engineering. I love to spend time with my family, our 2 sweet dogs (a 75 pound lab and a 3 pound yorkie), and relax at the lake. I absolutely love the water and the outdoors! I enjoy listening to all types of music and reading a good book!
Stephanie Velarde, OTR, MOT
I was born and raised in Cleburne, Texas, a small-town South of Fort Worth, where my family enjoys flipping houses and raising miniature cows, truly just any excuse to spend quality time together! From there I moved out West to LBK where I earned my Bachelor’s in Human Development through Texas Tech and my Master of Occupational Therapy at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. In doing so I met my husband Nikko, a Midland native.I fell in love with West Texas and the people, so we decided to make the move here shortly after graduation where we have been ever since, living happily in the desert with our three crazy dogs. In our spare time we escape the heat and hit the slopes, anything to make up for the triple degree summer, fall and winter. My greatest passion and interest has always been specializing in upper extremity, vertigo and neuro disorders, I’m eager to get back into it and already feel so welcomed by the West Texas Therapy Team!
Physical Therapists
Gary Gray, PT
I’ve spent my entire career (over 35 years) as a Physical Therapist in an outpatient orthopedic setting and, in 2012 merged my practice (West Texas Therapy) with Midland Memorial Hospital resulting in the largest outpatient rehabilitation clinic in the area. While I continue to provide treatment to patients on a limited basis, most of my time is now spent performing the various and necessary administrative duties that are required in order to provide our patients with an incredible staff and amazing care. I am a graduate of the University of Texas. In addition to a long and enjoyable career treating patients I served as a Governor appointed member of the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners for 13 years, including 7 years as Chairman. I also serve on the Medical Advisory Committee for the Midland Children’s Rehabilitation Center, the Board of Governors at Green Tree Country Club, as a Board member at Teen Flow (local non-profit ministry), and in various capacities at our church, Stonegate Fellowship. My beautiful wife Donna and I enjoy spending time with our family which includes 6 daughters and the 12 grandchildren we are blessed to have. As a passionate sports fan, I enjoy golfing and hunting, as well as traveling with my wife, family and friends.
Harvey Aikman, PT, DPT, DIPMDT, FAAOMPT
I graduated from The University of Iowa with a post graduate degree in physical therapy in 1985. Shortly after graduation I moved to South Texas and started Ortho Sports Inc. a multi-site outpatient physical therapy company. I received a Diploma in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy from the McKenzie Institute International through Otago University in Dunedin, New Zealand in 2006. I followed this with an Orthopedic Fellowship through Damon College in Buffalo New York culminating in the awarding of Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy in 2010. I most recently completed a doctorate in physical therapy from The College of St. Scholastica in 2017. I have served as the chairman of the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, as well as multiple positions on the Board of Directors for the Texas Physical Therapy Association. I continue to practice on a daily basis with a focus on Orthopedic and spine problems and I'm an active clinical instructor for several universities.
Bronwyn Hill, PT, DPT
I am from Rockwall, Texas, a Dallas girl at heart, transplanted to West Texas for the past several years. I graduated with my doctorate in physical therapy from Hardin-Simmons University in 2012. Although I'm an outpatient orthopedic therapist by trade, I have spent time in acute care and working with high-level neuro patients and in pediatric sports. Most recently, I have completed training in dry needling, and love it! I moved to Midland in 2014 with my husband, Joshua, and our 3 dogs. We love movies, sports (more watching, less playing), and travel. We were married in Costa Rica and haven't stopped adventure seeking since! I have enjoyed getting to know our community through volunteering with a local animal rescue, as a member of the Junior League of Midland and through AWANA at our church.
Susan Strange Green, PT, DPT, Cert MDT
I am a DPT graduate from Hardin-Simmons University. As a local Midlander, I swore that I wouldn't move back after high school, however like the vortex that Midland is, MMH made a lovely job offer that I couldn't refuse and I was sucked back home - a surprising blessing I would never have imagined. I recently completed the McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy certification (a fancy phrase for I know how to treat backs), I like all things classic rock and frequently change the work radio station to please my musical interests. When I am not busy pretending to love running for physical exercise, I work with spine and pediatric patients and teach them the fine art of keeping your balance while playing the air guitar. My greatest goal during this season of life is to continue making 30 something look good and still be the most qualified to kill the occasional bug while simultaneously screaming.
Chris Phillips, PT
I moved to Midland between 7th and 8th grade. My dad was transferred here working for an oil company, Imagine that! I stuck around and graduated with my Masters degree in Physical Therapy from Texas Tech University in 1997. I worked in an outpatient clinic for over 17 years before becoming the Clinical Manager for Rehab services at Midland Memorial Hospital. I worked there for a total of 7 years. I am excited about recently returning to the outpatient world and look forward to making a difference in people's comfort and functional levels. I am married to my wonderful wife Shari and we have 3 wonderful kids between us, that are grown. We enjoy seeing our kids as often as we can and occasionally traveling and playing golf.
Jason Schulz, PT, COMT
I grew up in Midland, Texas and graduated from high school here. I attended Texas Tech Health Sciences Center and graduated with a Master of Physical Therapy Degree in 2000. Since 2012, I have worked with West Texas Therapy. In 2016, I achieved Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist of the Lower Extremities through the International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine. Then, I achieved Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist designation of the Spine in 2018. I enjoy time with my wife, our four children, family, and friends.
Kristen Ueeck, PT, DPT, CLT-LANA
I graduated with my DPT from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. I was born and raised in Houston, TX then moved to Corpus Christi, TX when I was 13 years old. I completed my undergraduate degree of Exercise Sports Science at Texas State University. When I moved to west Texas to complete my DPT, I was not expecting to stay in Midland after I graduated. Yet somehow this wonderful clinic convinced me to stay. I am a certified lymphedema therapist and LANA certified to help those with chronic swelling (lymphedema) that can occur after treatment of breast cancer, from vascular diseases, and other various causes. I have 2 adorable dogs and 1 fluffy cat. I am also a proud aunt of two wild boys. In my free time, I like to compete in triathlons and a few marathons. What I enjoy most about my work is making a genuine connection with my patients while helping them reach their greatest potential.
Andy Watzl, PT, DPT - Clinical Manager
I am a native of West Texas having attended high school in Midland and college in Lubbock. I graduated from Texas Tech University Health Science Center in 2002 with my Masters in Physical Therapy and returned later to obtain my Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2012. I have served my profession on the Permian Basin District Board for the Texas Physical Therapy Association and I currently practice PT with a focus on extremity and sports rehab. I also work with PT students as a clinical instructor for a couple of universities. I am married to my wife Natalie and we have 3 children who keep us very busy. In my spare time I enjoy working out, coaching youth sports and hanging out with friends and family.
Lisa Williams, PT
I feel that I am a helper by nature and years ago traded in my idea of becoming a physician to become a physical therapist. It was one of the best decisions of my life. I am passionate about helping others regain function so as to fully enjoy their lives. When my husband asks me what the best part of my day is, frequently it involves telling him "a patient told me ‘I can now do …’”. I graduated from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and completed my Master’s in Rehabilitation Science at Texas Tech University Health Science Center. In my spare time, I can be found creating scrapbooks full of memories. I also enjoy spending technology-free time with friends and family.
Gabbriella Castaneda, PT, DPT
I grew up in Sterling City and graduated from Sterling City High School in 2013.
I went on to Angelo State University where I graduated with my Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science.
After that, I took off 1 year and taught a classroom of 11 two-year old kiddos!
I attended Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center where I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.
I have always lived in West Texas but moved to the Permian Basin for schooling. I ended up meeting my husband out here who is transplanted from California for the oil business.
We have two dogs together who are very spoiled and like to rule the house!
In my spare time I enjoy going for walks, watching a good TV series and spending time with family and friends.
Diedrick Dutchover, PTA
I was born and raised in Odessa, Texas and graduated from Permian High School. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology with a pre-physical therapy track from UTPB in 2014. I earned my Associates Degree in Applied Science in the Physical Therapist Assistant program from Odessa College in 2018. I have been working at West Texas Therapy since earning my license in 2018. I am also certified in Functional Movement Screening through FMS and am a personal trainer. My goal is to return to school and receive my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and DPT license so that I can continue to progress in my career and life. Outpatient rehab setting has always been my niche and allows me to reap the benefits of seeing patients overcome their struggles and achieve their goals in movement. I enjoy being active in slow pitch softball, flag football, golfing, and spending time with my girlfriend Saige, and our dog Marbles.
Speech Therapists
Beth LaFarelle, MA, CCC-SLP
Midland has been my home since 1995 with a short 5 year stint while pursuing my undergraduate and graduate degrees from The University of Texas at Austin. I have worked as a Speech-Language Pathologist in Midland since 2005 for inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, the school district, a retirement facility, and now at West Texas Therapy where I started working in 2012. I enjoy working with adults and children in all areas of Speech Therapy and I have a particular interest in voice therapy and swallowing therapy with adults. I have certifications in VitalStim and Ampcare ESP and am also trained to perform Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) in the office. When I’m not working as a Speech-Language Pathologist, I enjoy spending time with my twin girls, son, and husband. We love to travel, play sports (especially volleyball, baseball, and swimming) and we enjoy the time we spend together.
Sara Fitzgerald, MS, CCC-SLP
I graduated from Texas Woman’s University with my Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and earned my Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of North Texas. I have experience working in university clinics, schools, and a day neuro outpatient program, and I am certified in Ampcare Effective Swallowing Protocol (ESP). I moved to Midland because I saw something special in West Texas Therapy, and I enjoy working as part of the multidisciplinary team. I got married in May 2020 and enjoy traveling and talking to friends outside of work.
Tandi Poitevint, MS, CCC-SLP
I am a Speech-Language Pathologist at West Texas Therapy. I was born and raised in San Angelo. I moved to Midland when I was a freshman in high school when my dad got transferred with Halliburton. After high school, I moved to Lubbock to pursue a degree in Speech-Language Pathology. I earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Texas Tech. Wreck ‘Em! After graduation, I moved back to Midland and married my high school sweetheart. We now have a son and a daughter. I have worked in outpatient rehab my entire career. I love the outpatient setting because I get the opportunity to treat patients of all ages with various diagnoses.
Support Staff
Misti Gatewood, Office Manager
I grew up in the small town of Kermit, Texas as the youngest of four children. I have wonderful parents who taught me the value of personal integrity, faith, and hard work. After high school I continued my education at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas where I obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in 2007, and Master of Business Administration in 2009. I never thought I would find myself working in healthcare, but West Texas Therapy is not your “normal” healthcare facility. My husband and I have one son and a dog. We enjoy traveling and spending time with family whenever we can.
Amy Wheeler, Office Manager
I was born and raised in beautiful Virginia. It was there that I met my husband and began the crazy life as a military wife. Scott and I moved several times over the years and after retirement we settled here in his hometown of Midland. I am still not sure how he managed to get me here and away from water, but here I am. I have two great kids and two furry friends. In my spare time I enjoy reading, going for walks, and hanging out with my family.
Pamela Dunlap, Therapy Tech
I was born and raised in Midland. I attended Texas Tech University. I have been working in healthcare for 20 years. I enjoy helping people. My three children and their spouses have blessed me with 8 grandchildren that I adore!
Yolanda Lara, Therapy Tech
I was born in San Antonio, Texas, but was raised in Midland. I am married to a wonderful man and we have been married for 24 years. We have 3 kids, 11 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren, but would love to go on vacation more often.
Annette Solis, Front Office
I was born and raised here in Midland TX, and attended high school and college here in the area. I have worked in the clinical/ medical environment for more than 10 yrs. I am a happy mother of a 5yr old boy, who keeps us on our toes. I'm very passionate about traveling, so every time there's an opportunity we love to travel and explore new places.
Jessica Seabra, Front Office
I was born and raised in Dilley, Texas. I attended Sul Ross State University and majored in Biology. I am happy to call Midland Memorial Hospital my home for the past 10 years. It's the nicest place to work! The best part of my job is when I see firsthand the difference we all make in each of our patients, getting to know them and when they stop by the office just to see how we are doing after they have been discharged. My greatest achievement is being married to my soul mate and being the Momma of our three wonderful boys. I am the happiest when spending time with my family and traveling with my husband.
Anita Bracamontes, Front Office
I was born and raised in California. My family and I moved to Texas 11 years ago. I was a homemaker for most of my adult life until my 5 children became young adults. That is when I decided to join the work force. I knew that I wanted to work somewhere that helps people. I feel like I found my place at West Texas Therapy. In my spare time, I like to spend time with my 5 children and 2 grandbabies.