Austin – West Lake

Dr. Whittemore is the Westlake Clinic Director.

J.D. Whittemore graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) and completed his undergraduate work at Louisiana Tech University, receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology and Health Promotion. While at the University of Central Arkansas, Dr. Whittemore worked as a research assistant. Through his work as a research assistant he was able to co-author research regarding the test-retest reliability of graded exercise testing, which was published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. Dr. Whittemore is a national member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), as well as the orthopedic and sports sections of the APTA. He completed his sports physical therapy residency through Evidence In Motion.

Utilizing his skill and knowledge as a Board Certified Sports Specialist (SCS), Dr. Whittemore enjoys working with athletes of all levels. As a sports specialist he is equipped with the skill and knowledge to help athletes on the field and in the clinic, a process that continues throughout their injury and recovery until they can return to what they love.

In his spare time, J.D. enjoys playing a variety of sports and other outdoor activities. He has completed multiple half-ironman distance races among other triathlons and obstacle course races. Dr. Whittemore is also an active member of LifeAustin Church, volunteering with the church’s youth and young adult groups. Additionally, he enjoys time out on his SUP and taking his Weimaraner, Dutch, to Zilker Park.

Elise Bjork graduated from Texas Woman’s University in Houston with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) and did her undergraduate work at The University of Texas at Austin where she received a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. After PT school, Dr. Bjork completed a Residency program through Evidence in Motion (EIM) and is now a Board Certified Sports Clinical Specialist. During her time at TWU, Elise conducted research on muscle activation patterns when using TRX suspension training exercises. Along with her colleagues, she presented the study at the national meeting for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the final manuscript was published in the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy in February 2017. Dr. Bjork n is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and a member of the Orthopedics and Sports sections of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). In addition to her clinic work, Dr. Bjork is a faculty member in The University of St. Augustine’s Physical Therapy program and is the team physical therapist for the Austin Sol, Austin’s men’s professional Ultimate Frisbee team.

Dr. Bjork has a passion for working with athletes of any age, level, and sport. From weightlifting to field sports, she loves the heart they have for what they do and enjoys helping them through the rehabilitation process and beyond.

In her free time, Elise is an avid Ultimate Frisbee player, playing for the state women’s team Texas Showdown. Sand volleyball and ping pong have a special place in her heart as well. Dr. Bjork is also an active member at her church, Vox Veniae, and hopes to expand her endeavors there into medical mission trips and outreach to the LGBTQ community. When at home, Elise can be found playing with her adorable Jack Russell Terrier/Chihuahua mix, Lucy, who loves walks and squeaky toys.

Carlos Reyes graduated from UT Health San Antonio with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) and completed his Master’s Degree in Exercise Science from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Carlos also received his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from The University of Texas at Austin. Carlos is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) where he completed an internship with the University of Texas at San Antonio Strength and Conditioning Athletic program and is a member of Orthopedic and Sports sections of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). While at UTSA, he researched and presented on the importance of the Mirror Neuron System on stroke rehabilitation; the influence of strength training, neuromuscular training, and sport-specific drills on valgus collapse and ACL injury prevention; and the use of Trigger Point Dry Needling for pain and muscle tone reduction. While at UT Health SA, Carlos presented his research on the influence and physiological change utilizing Cupping Therapy for the reduction of pain. Carlos is currently completing a Sports Physical Therapy Residency program through the accredited Evidence in Motion.

Dr. Reyes is extremely passionate and highly motivated to seek new challenges and is interested in human performance, rehabilitation, and research. Dr. Reyes loves working with athletes of all ages, level, and sport and continues to enhance his knowledge in various training methodologies and environments. Dr. Reyes takes pride in helping athletes and individuals with differing conditions and helping them through the process of rehabilitation and performance enhancement.

Dr. Reyes loves fishing, participating in recreational sports, weightlifting, speed/agility training, and spending time with family and friends. Dr. Reyes can be spotted on the shores of the Gulf Coast adoring fishing or in your local gym enjoying a good workout. Dr. Reyes continues to enhance his knowledge in Physical Therapy and Exercise, strengthening his faith, and relishing in his relationships with his family and friends.

Dr. Emily Skipper graduated from South College in Knoxville, Tennessee with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy, and she received her Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology with Athletic Training Concentration from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. Skipper is currently working on becoming a Sports Certified Specialist through Evidence in Motion (EIM) Sports Residency Program.

Dr. Skipper enjoys working with athletes of all kinds regardless of sport, age, or competitive level. Her passion for PT began as a young athlete herself who saw fellow teammates and/or competitors undergo injuries taking them away from the game they loved. From a young age, she knew she wanted to be a part of a field that involved the world of sports and could provide the means to rehabilitate and return individuals to pursuing their dreams. Dr. Skipper takes pride in being part of a profession that can make a huge impact on other’s lives.

In her spare time, Emily enjoys spending time with her four dogs (Ziggy, Colbie, Jackson, and Bazil) who enjoy days at the park, hiking new trails, or relaxing at home. Emily also enjoys playing pickup sports with her favorite being basketball. She enjoys following the Duke Blue Devils and the San Antonio Spurs. When she is able, Emily enjoys spending time with her family back home in Victoria, TX where she was born and raised.