We’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Dr. Melissa TenKate, one of our dedicated physical therapists here at Precision Physical Therapy and Wellness! Since joining our team in October 2020, Melissa has brought her expertise and passion for helping people back to health. With a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Chapman University and a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Hillsdale College, she’s got the knowledge and experience to back up her hands-on care.

Melissa’s journey began in Michigan, where she grew up and completed her undergraduate studies. During her time at Hillsdale, she was an active member of the cross country and track and field teams, which only deepened her love for physical fitness and movement. After earning her Bachelor’s in 2012, Melissa’s passion for the outdoors led her to sunny California, where she completed her Doctorate in 2015. 

One of the areas where Melissa truly excels is in treating running-related injuries. With additional training in this specialty, she’s the go-to therapist for runners of all levels, whether you’re training for your first 5K or recovering from a marathon. But her skills don’t stop there—Melissa enjoys working with patients of all ages, helping them get back to the activities they love, whether that’s running, gardening, or just playing with the grandkids. She’s also a PWR! Moves Certified Therapist, which means she’s specially trained to work with individuals with Parkinson’s disease, helping them maintain their mobility and quality of life.

When she’s not in the clinic, you’ll likely find Melissa embracing her love for the outdoors. Whether it’s running, hiking, backpacking, or snowboarding, she’s always on the move, exploring new trails and soaking up the natural beauty around her. Her enthusiasm for staying active isn’t just something she preaches—it’s a way of life that she brings into her work every day, inspiring her patients to keep moving and stay healthy. We’re so lucky to have Melissa on our team, and we know our patients are, too!

We are excited to introduce you to the newest member of our team, Dr. Ally Gary! She joined us in January 2024 and has already brought an incredible amount of energy and expertise to our clinic.

Dr. Ally earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Drexel University in 2018, building on her foundation with a B.S. in both Human Physiology and Psychology from the University of Oregon, completed in 2015. With such a strong background, it’s no wonder she’s become such a skilled and knowledgeable physical therapist!

Originally from Livermore, CA, Ally spent the last eight years soaking up the vibrant culture of Philadelphia. Although she misses the city’s fantastic food, she’s absolutely loving life on the Central Coast, especially being closer to her family.

Ally’s professional credentials are equally impressive. She achieved her board certification in Orthopedics in 2023, and she has a wealth of experience working with a variety of populations, including workers compensation cases, geriatrics, and sports injuries. She has a true passion for helping her patients through their rehabilitation journeys, ensuring they return to active, pain-free lifestyles.

Dr. Allison Gary
PT, DPT, OCS
​Doctor of Physical Therapy
​Board Certified Specialist in Orthopedics

In the competitive healthcare industry, Precision Physical Therapy and Wellness stands out under the co-ownership and expert guidance of Dr. Kristen Carless. As a woman business owner, wife, and working mother of two small children, Dr. Carless embodies the essence of multifaceted commitment, blending her roles to offer compassionate care to her patients. She brings that multifaceted perspective to her patients, ensuring that each individual's journey toward wellness is both personalized and deeply understanding.

Strong Educational Foundation For Expert Care
Dr. Carless' educational background is impressive. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and a Doctorate from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Her academic achievements set the stage for a career that combines her passion for active living with a dedication to quality healthcare. As an orthopedic specialist, Dr. Carless' expertise in physical therapy is not just a profession but a reflection of her commitment to staying ahead in her field, constantly updating her knowledge to provide innovative and effective patient care.