Meet Our Therapists

Jack Bal PT, DPT, LSVT BIG Certified 

B.S. University of South Carolina

Doctorate in Physical Therapy- George Washington University

Clinical Instructor, Marymount University

Jack has always been a problem-fixer and enjoys the challenges that accompany different diagnoses, including orthopedic issues, neurologic diagnoses and debility. He has worked in multiple fields in the world of physical therapy, including a running clinic, hospital setting, outpatient and inpatient rehab. Jack is enthusiastic for fitness of all levels and has completed 7 marathons along with multiple endurance triathlons, including half and full Ironman.

Polly Story, OTR/L, Bal Therapy Office Manager 

B.S. James Madison University

Masters in Occupational Therapy- James Madison University 

Polly has lived in Alexandria for most of her life and her closest claim to fame is going to the "Remember the Titans" high school. She obtained her B.S. and MOT from James Madison University. She has been working as an Occupational Therapist at Inova Alexandria since 2012, which was where she met Jack, and was recruited to be Bal Therapy's Office Manager. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading and going to Nats games. 

Jaci Green, OTR/L, LSVT BIG Certified, Certified Home Accessibility Therapist

B.A. Penn State University

Masters in Occupational Therapy- Saint Francis University 

Adjunct Professor, Shenandoah University 

Jaci's passion for health has drawn her to help individuals achieve their goals through occupational therapy. Her areas of interest include stroke, Parkinson's, dementia, home modifications and health management. She has worked in many  fields including inpatient rehab, outpatient pediatrics, academia, home health/mobile outpatient, assisted living facilities and skilled nursing facilities. She loves assisting patients to get back to the daily activities that they enjoy--whether thats cooking a meal for their family, remaining at home as they age, playing catch with their grandchildren or being able to put on their best outfit to go dancing with their spouse. 

Elsa Tesafamariam, COTA

OTA- Northern VA Community College

Elsa has worked for Bal Therapy since the beginning of 2024. She has 2 years of experience in working in skilled nursing care. Her areas of interest include individuals w/ dementia as well as helping clients recover from orthopedic diagnoses. She was drawn to the field of Occupational therapy because of her desire to help others. In her free time, Elsa enjoys spending time w/ her husband and 2 children, hiking and gardening. 

Sierra Robertson, OTR/L

B.S. George Mason University 

MOT Shenandoah University

Sierra is a dedicated Occupational Therapist with experience across a variety of settings, including inpatient rehabilitation, skilled nursing, community mental health, and early intervention. She is passionate about helping individuals of all ages reach their full potential. Specializing in assessing both the strengths and challenges of her clients, Sierra works closely with each individual to design personalized strategies that promote functional independence and goal achievement. To maintain a fulfilling and balanced life, she enjoys being surrounded by family, reading, traveling, and experiencing all things outdoors.  

Sarah Gutierrez PT, DPT

B.S. Texas Women’s University

Doctorate in Physical Therapy- Shenandoah University

Sarah is a dedicated physical therapist with 12 years of experience working in skilled nursing facilities, assistive living environments, outpatient clinics and home health/mobile outpatient settings. Prior to becoming a PT, Sarah gained experience in health and fitness as a personal trainer. Her journey in PT has been driven by passion for helping individuals regain their mobility and enhance their quality of life. Throughout her career, she had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients, from those requiring intensive/complex rehab to individuals seeking professionalized health/fitness programs. Her approach is routed in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a commitment to fostering a supportive environment for recovery. Whether you are recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to enhance your physical health Sarah is here to guide and support you every step of the way. 

Matt Farris, PTA, LSVT Big Certified

PTA Allegany College of Maryland 

Matt comes to Bal Therapy with a desire to identify physical impairments and establish a regimen to restore function in his clients. Maintaining an active lifestyle, he dedicates his time to continuing a life full of movement and family. Matt brings clinical experience working in subacute rehab, inpatient rehab, memory care and home health settings. 

Jessica Tran, CCC-SLP, LSVT Loud Certified

B.A. Agnes Scott College

M.S. Arizona State University 

Jessica has a passion for helping others achieve their highest quality of life through speech therapy. She enjoys working with adults with a focus on swallowing difficulties, but very much enjoys the challenges that come with working on memory, cognition and speech. Her main area of interest are stroke and dysphasia. She has worked in skilled nursing facilities, subacute rehab, acute rehab and home health care. Jessica looks for the best way to help each patient get back to enjoying life.