About Us
At Axis Physiotherapy Institute, we offer the highest standard of patient care. Over the past decade, our Doctors of Physical Therapy have been treating patients with integrity, devotion, and compassion.
Mission
Who We Are
Our mission is to effectively help the people of the Emerald Coast of Florida regain independence and improve overall quality of life using compassionate, individualized, and evidence-based practice.
Team
Dedicated Professionals
Jordan Brewer, PT, DPT, OCS, Cert. DN
Owner/ Physical Therapist - Fort Walton Beach/ Freeport
Dr. Brewer is originally from central Alabama. He received his Bachelors of Science from the University of Alabama in 2008. He continued his education at the University of South Alabama receiving his Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2012. After graduation he began practicing as an outpatient Physical Therapist in the Florida panhandle. He continued with post graduate studies, becoming an APTA Board Certified Orthopaedic Specialist. Dr. Brewer has extensive experience in treating individuals with a diverse variety of diagnoses.
Matthew Leary, PT, DPT, ATC, Cert. DN
Owner/ Physical Therapist - Freeport
Dr. Leary is a two time graduate from the University of Central Florida. His first degree was a Bachelors of Science in Athletic Training, which he received in 2008. After practicing as an Athletic Trainer, he continued his education, receiving his Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2012. Once graduated he began practicing as an outpatient Physical Therapist. Dr. Leary has extensive education in sports/orthopedic rehabilitation with athletes of all ages, as well as, significant experience with neurological and balance/vestibular rehabilitation. He is Titleist Performance Institute Certified and currently resides in Niceville, FL (his childhood home) with his wife and four children.
Kristin Kaskie, PT, DPT, CCI, Cert. DN
Physical Therapist - Fort Walton Beach
Dr. Kaskie was raised in a military family and as a child lived in Germany, New England, and Florida. She received her BS in Exercise Science at Western Kentucky University (2008), where she was a member of the soccer team. Following her undergraduate education, she pursued her Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy at Regis University (2012) in Denver, Colorado. She practices patient-centered evidence-based approach to treatment utilizing manual therapy techniques and specializes in neurological rehabilitation. She enjoys working with patients of all ages. Outside of the clinic, Dr. Kaskie enjoys being active with her husband and two young boys, golf, and travel.
Curtis Darrah, PT, DPT, ATC, Cert. DN
Physical Therapist - Fort Walton Beach Clinic Director
Dr. Darrah grew up in Malta, Montana on his family’s farm and ranch before completing his Bachelors of Science in Athletic Training followed by his Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota. During his professional career he has had the opportunity to assist with the rehabilitation of injuries throughout a wide variety of individuals. He and his wife love being outdoors, playing sports, golfing, hunting, camping and fishing and are excited to experience everything this beautiful part of the country has to offer!
Tyler Smith, PT, DPT, Cert. DN
Physical Therapist - Fort Walton Beach
Dr. Smith is originally from the Akron, Ohio area; earning his Bachelors of Science from the University of Akron in 2014. While studying to earn his degree, Dr. Smith was also apart of the University of Akron baseball team. Following his undergraduate education, he went on to earn his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of South Florida in 2017. During Dr. Smith’s professional career, he has had the opportunity to travel across the country teaching other physical therapists evidence-based practices, as well as be involved in research surrounding patient outcomes. He has gone on to become certified in Dry Needling, and is Titleist Performance Institute Certified. In Dr. Smith’s free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and son, traveling, playing golf, and playing guitar and piano.
Travis Nelson, PT, DPT, Cert. DN
Physical Therapist - Freeport
Dr. Nelson was born at RAF Lakenheath, England, and grew up in an Air Force family,
experiencing life in various locations. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from
Murray State University in 2017 and his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Brenau University
in 2022. With a background in both pediatrics and outpatient orthopedics, Dr. Nelson effectively treats patients of all ages, helping them reach their functional goals and maximize their quality of life. Outside of his professional life, Dr. Nelson enjoys spending time with his wife, Courtney. Together, they love playing sports, exploring beaches, springs, cities, and mountains, hunting for shark teeth, and solving crosswords.
