Team

Dr. Steve Politis, DPT

Physical Therapist

Dr. Steve has always had a fascination with understanding the body, so that... As a life-long learner he keeps striving to figure out how to help you heal better, faster, and naturally. This has led him to earn two post graduate Fellowships, a level only a few therapists have achieved. His approach takes a holistic view of your body with an appreciation for how everything is connected. It all starts with understanding your concerns, desires and goals.

His focus is listening to your story and connecting the dots. You are more than a mere collection of body parts, but a whole person. Providing you explanations, information, and a plan for natural healing is his method. Your experience is being listened to and cared for as you work together to reclaim your comfort and confidence doing what you love.

Enjoying life with his wife Mollie and their tripod-pooch “Coach” Henrietta, Dr. Steve has been an avid outdoorsman and rugby player/coach/fan for many years. The family shares a passion for great quality food, nutrition, fun and sun.

Credentials

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), License: California
  • Doctor of Manual Therapy (DMT), Residency; Ola Grimsby Institute
  • Fellow American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists (FAAOMPT)
  • Fellow of Applied Functional Science* (FAFS), Gray Institute

Education

  • University of California Santa Barbara, BS Biopsychology
  • Arizona School of Health Sciences, DPT
  • Residency and Fellowship, Ola Grimbsy Institute
  • Fellowship Gray Institute

Certifications

  • Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner, (CKTP)
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, (CSCS)
  • MovNat Instructor

Associations / Affiliations

  • American Physical Therapy Association, (APTA)
  • American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists, (AAOMPT)
  • California Physical Therapy Association, (CAPTA)

Dr. Jill Trato, PT, DPT, NCS

Physical Therapist

Dr. Jill has been in practice for over 21 years specializing in the differential diagnosis and treatment of balance, neurological, movement and vestibular disorders. In addition, Dr. Jill has completed residency training in Proprioceptive Neurologic Facilitation, extensive training in manual therapy for orthopedic conditions as well as fellowship coursework in the movement sciences applicable to the orthopedic and chronic pain populations.Dr. Jill's approach is whole person focused and efficient. And, she thoroughly enjoys just getting to know you as an individual. 

Credentials

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, license: California
  • International PNF Association resident
  • Guest Lecturer for DPT programs
  • Publication: Differential diagnosis and management of a patient with peripheral vestibular and central nervous system disorders: a case study. J Man. Manip Ther. 

Education

  • University of California Santa Barbara: BS Biology with a minor in Speech and Hearing Science. 
  • Mount St. Mary's College: Masters in Physical Therapy
  • Loma Linda University: Doctor of Physical Therapy 

Certifications

  • Board certified NCS-neurological clinical specialist
  • Vestibular rehabilitation
  • Advanced vestibular rehabilitation
  • Cervicogenic dizziness
  • Completion of year long manual therapy course
  • Completion of Movement Science Fellowship courses
  • LSVT BIG for those with Parkinson's Disease

Chief Operating Officer/Company Manager

Michelle Phillips-McCaig

I am honored to have been part of Kineci since the start. Dr. Steve and I have worked together for decades and have the same enthusiasm for creating and maintaining a healing atmosphere. I look forward to assisting you through your PT journey and I am always here to help!

Office Assistant

Leila

Hi, my name is Leila! I'm currently studying Sociology at UC Santa Barbara with a minor in Linguistics. I stay active and love watching sports, spending time at the beach, and being with my dog, Nova. I'm new to the Santa Barbara area, so I’m still exploring and getting to know the area!

Office Assistant

Jaiden

Hi, my name is Jaiden, and I am studying Psychological and Brain Sciences at UC Santa Barbara! At UCSB, I am part of the cheerleading team, bringing energy to soccer and basketball games. I am excited to provide the best support to the staff and patients at Kineci.

SUPERVISOR & COACH

Henrietta

She is our supervisor and Coach at Kineci. Henrietta’s passion is bringing joy and happiness everywhere she goes. She inspires people with her ability to relax and be accepting of love. All questions can be directed to Henrietta, and she will respond when she is done napping.

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