Meet evolve’s physical therapy Team

Louis Ezrick, PT, MSPT

Louis Ezrick, PT, MSPT

LOUIS EZRICK, PT, MSPT

Founder and CEO

Louis began his career after earning a Masters Degree from SUNY Downstate Medical Center in 2004. He then traveled to Tel Aviv to embrace the humanitarian efforts of an elite rehab center that helps the victims of terror attacks and soldiers wounded on the battlefield.

Louis’s treatment of extreme muscle damage and amputation led to a focus on the root cause of pain and dysfunction, rather than merely the pain itself. Along with physical therapy treatment, Louis also participated in high level medical research centered on the long term effects of psychological trauma as it relates to chronic pain and PTSD.

Bringing his experiences home to New York, Louis continued his work in the field of chronic pain treatment, broadening his skill set by treating a full spectrum of ailments ranging from back pain to chronic stress injuries. A big proponent of continued education, Louis has attended countless classes and seminars, including studying at Michigan State University in the art of osteopathic manipulation.

As a way of giving back to the community, Louis and his staff at Evolve regularly participate in charity events such as fitness evaluations at senior centers, Multiple Sclerosis walks, and benefits at local community centers.

Founder and ceo

nathan kind, PT, dPT

Nathan Kind, PT, DPT

Why did the scarecrow become a physical therapist?

Because he was outstanding in his field at helping people stand up straight!

NATHAN KIND, PT, DPT

Regional Clinical Director

Born and raised in Brooklyn, Nathan attended the College of Staten Island and received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2017. Nathan's extensive background in martial arts has heightened his sensitivity to the significance of physical well-being and underscored the crucial role that diligent care of the human body plays in fostering overall health.

Nathan is extremely passionate about helping people feel their best and perform their best. In addition to being a therapist at Evolve, Nathan is also the regional clinical director and diligently maintains Evolve’s signature treatment style across all of its locations.

Special Interests

  • Orthopedic Rehabilitation
  • Sports Physical Therapy
  • Manual Therapy
  • Biomechanical Analysis
  • Geriatric Physical Therapy
  • Patient Education and Empowerment

Certifications

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
  • Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
  • Manual Therapy Certification (MTC)
  • Functional Movement Screen (FMS) Certification
  • Graston Technique Certification
  • Vestibular Rehabilitation Certification
  • Dry Needling Certification

regional clinical director

GRAVESEND

Dror Betzalel, PT, MS, DPT

DROR BETZALEL, PT, MS, DPT

Lead Practitioner

Location: Gravesend

Born and raised in Israel, Dror received his BPT degree from the Tel Aviv University Sackler School of Medicine in 1996. He then continued his education with an Advanced Masters and a DPT from LIU in Brooklyn. Dror has been practicing for over 25 years, fulfilling a lifelong desire to promote and advance human happiness and well-being. For him, there is no better feeling than the ability to help someone in their hour of need and get them back to their previous fitness level.

Dror is constantly striving to be an even better practitioner for his patients every day. In Dror’s free time, he enjoys cooking and exercising, particularly CrossFit. A fan of superhero movies, Dror comes to work every day in a superhero shirt. It is his belief that if we all try to be superheroes, all of humanity will benefit from it.

DRor Betzalel,

PT, MS, DPT

Charlie Marinello, PT, DPT, CSCS

CHARLIE MARINELLO, PT, DPT, CSCS

Clinical Director

Location: Mid Wood

Charlie Marinello is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with a primary focus in orthopedics, sports, and vestibular therapy. Charlie received his BS in Exercise Science at Hofstra University and his Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the New York Institute of Technology.

Charlie, a former boxer and current Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), often incorporates aspects of both disciplines into his treatment style as a physical therapist to ensure his patients recover to the fullest of their abilities.

Charlie MArinello,

PT, DPT, CSCS

Dorothy Song, PT, DPT

DOROTHY SONG, PT, DPT

Clinical Director

Location: Marine Park

Dorothy (Tian) graduated with a BA in Psychology from Binghamton University, and went on to pursue her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University with special interests in orthopedics, post-surgical, oncologic, and neurological conditions.

Dorothy believes in not just treating the diagnosis, but rather the patient as a whole, with personalized treatment plans including relaxation techniques, strength training, and functional exercise programs for optimal results. In her free time, Dorothy enjoys cooking, trying out new restaurants, catching up with friends, exploring new places, ice skating, and long walks with her pug, Toby.

Dorothy Song,

PT, DPT

Jeanne Seepaul, PT, DPT

JEANNE SEEPAUL, PT, DPT

Clinical Director

Location: Mill Basin

After she saw how a physical therapist poured their efforts into successfully getting her family member to walk following a near tragic accident, Jeanne realized she wanted to heal through the power of physical touch and exercise. Becoming a physical therapist has always been her dream.

Since graduating from SUNY Downstate with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy, Jeanne has integrated her love for helping others and her background in martial arts into carefully curated treatment plans to motivate and heal her patients. She is experienced in treating all ages and ailments including orthopedic, post-surgical, and neurological conditions. She always reminds her patients that medicine can add days to your life, but physical therapy adds life to your days.

Yana Pih

YANA PIH, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist

Location: Marine Park

Yana Pih earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Dominican University New York. She combines her passion for movement and strength with an evidence-based practice approach, integrating regional interdependence and manual therapy to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care.

With a background in boxing, weightlifting, snowboarding, and hiking, Yana understands the physical demands of an active lifestyle. She tailors her treatment plans with functional, sport-specific strategies to help patients not only recover but surpass their previous level of function—empowering them to move better, feel stronger, and perform at their best.

MILL BASIN

Jeanne Seepaul,

PT, DPT

Michael Mecner, PT, DPT, CSCS

MICHAEL MECNER, PT, DPT, CSCS

Clinical Director

Location: Parkslope

Michael graduated from Stony Brook University with a degree in Health Science before joining the Evolve team as an exercise specialist. During his time with Evolve, Michael was mentored by Nathan and Dror, taking interest in sports and orthopedic injuries before returning to Stony Brook, where he received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy.

Raised as a competitive swimmer, Michael is interested in treating athletes of all backgrounds. Having completed his CSCS training during PT school, Michael is ready to get you back to the competitive and recreational activities that you love.

Michael Mecner,

PT, DPT, CSCS

CHRISTOPHER DESIDERIO, PT, DPT

CHRISTOPHER DESIDERIO, PT, DPT

Lead Practitioner

Location: Mill Basin

Christopher has always wanted a career in which he could truly help people and change their lives for the better. This desire turned into reality when he obtained a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from (insert school). Armed with an extensive repertoire of skills and treatment techniques, Christopher stands poised to make an impact on the lives of each of his patients.

With an unwavering belief in the extraordinary complexity of the human body, Christopher employs a treatment methodology of not merely treating ailments, but rather, rehabilitating, facilitating, and enhancing the human body to reach its maximum potential.

GRAZIA RENDA, PT, DPT

GRAZIA RENDA, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist

Location: Mill Basin

Grazia was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. She was introduced to the field of physical therapy at the age of 16 when she received treatment for injuries sustained in a car accident. After seeing how impactful physical therapy was in her healing process, Grazia realized she was meant to pursue this career.

Grazia attended the University of Scranton on a Pre-Physical Therapy track where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. From there, she attended SUNY Downstate Health Sciences Universities and received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy, as well as an additional Bachelors of Science. Grazia has experience working in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospital acute care, outpatient orthopedics, and cardiac/ pulmonary rehabilitation. She has treated patients ranging from pediatric to geriatric populations. When Grazia is not working at Evolve, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, trying new restaurants, exploring New York City, and traveling.

Christopher Desiderio,

Grazia Renda,

PT, DPT

HANSEN LI, PT, DPT

HANSEN LI, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist

Location: Mill Basin

Growing up, Hansen has always wanted to make a difference in his community, by helping those who require assistance. His mission is to provide the highest quality care tailored to each patient's unique needs.

With a deep understanding of various conditions and a holistic approach to therapy, Hansen is committed to helping his patients achieve their physical and functional goals, whether it's recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or enhancing their athletic performance. Outside of work, his hobbies include hiking, pickle-ball, swimming, and handball.

PT, DPT

JESSE SLEVIN, PT, DPT

JESSE SLEVIN, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist

Location: Gravesend

Jesse is a Brooklyn native who graduated from LIU Brooklyn with a degree in Health and Sports Sciences. During his time at LIU, Jesse worked as a personal trainer, a PT aide, and an instructor for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease to incorporate weight training, dancing and boxing into their daily lives.

Jesse then continued his studies at NYU where he received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. While at NYU, Jesse dedicated time to diverse clinics, where he collaborated with both neurologically challenged and typical children, and engaged in high-level sports and athletics clinics. Additionally, he attained certifications, including Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Mat Level 1 Pilates, and became a Certified RockSteady Boxing Clinician.

PARKSLOPE

MICHAEL JOURAVLEV

MICHAEL JOURAVLEV

Physical Therapy Assistant

Location: Parkslope

Coming Soon

Michael Jouravlev

PT, DPT

HAnsen Li,

Jesse slevin,

PT, DPT

ALDO ORANVIL

ALDO ORANVIL

Exercise Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Coming Soon

Aldo Oranvil

ZHEN ZHANG

ZHEN ZHANG

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Zhen completed his undergraduate studies at Hunter College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in human biology. From there, Zhen went on to pursue his Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Marist College. Throughout his graduate studies, Zhen actively participated in volunteer experiences, research projects and clinical rotations, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings. These include, outpatient orthopedics, hospital inpatient rehabilitation and home care.

Zhen is committed to applying his knowledge and skills to help individuals to improve their mobility, function, and quality of life. Not only does he believe in addressing the physical aspect of injury but the psychological and social factors that may impact recovery. In his free time, Zhen enjoys working out, trying new restaurants, spending hours trying to find a new TV show, and hiking.

ZHEN ZHANG,

PT, DPT

SHONELL BENJAMIN

SHONELL BENJAMIN

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Dr. Shonell Benjamin is a skilled and caring physical therapist based in Brooklyn, NY. She currently offers her services at Evolve Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation.

As part of her formal education, Dr. Benjamin earned her doctorate in physical therapy from Long Island University Brooklyn.

Dr. Benjamin is dedicated to improving the well-being of all her patients. She aims to help each patient find relief from painful conditions, regain strength and mobility, and become functionally independent. She also develops treatment plans that fit an individual's lifestyle and preferences.

SHONNEL BENJAMIN

DONNIA HUA

DONNIA HUA

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Dr. Donnia Hua is a dedicated physical therapist who provides her services at Evolve Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation in Brooklyn, NY. She graduated with a doctoral degree in physical therapy from Stony Brook University.

Dr. Hua's specialized expertise assists patients in reaching their physical health objectives. She prioritizes holistic well-being and collaborates with patients to create tailored treatment plans.

Emphasizing personalized care and patient empowerment, Dr. Hua employs compassionate guidance and evidence-based interventions to optimize physical functionality and enhance her patients' quality of life.

DONNIA HUA

VLADA KHANIMOV

VLADA KHANIMOV

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Dr. Vlada Khanimov, PT, DPT is a dedicated physical therapist with a passion for helping patients achieve optimal pain-free movement and wellness. She holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Long Island University and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Brooklyn College, where she also minored in Psychology and Health & Nutrition.

Ms. Vlada Khanimov is a dedicated physical therapist who provides her services at Evolve Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation in Brooklyn, NY. She graduated with a doctoral degree in physical therapy from Long Island University Brooklyn. Ms. Khanimov assists patients in reaching their physical health objectives. She prioritizes holistic well-being and collaborates with patients to create tailored treatment plans.

Emphasizing personalized care and patient empowerment, Ms. Khanimov employs compassionate guidance and evidence-based interventions to optimize physical functionality and enhance her patients' quality of life. She aims to provide care to the wider community.

With experience in pelvic floor therapy, and expertise in Pilates and sport-specific rehabilitation, she blends innovative techniques to help patients recover, strengthen, and achieve lasting results.

VLADA KHANIMOV

ALBERT WU

ALBERT WU

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Albert Wu, PT, DPT, CSCS, is a dedicated physical therapist specializing in sports and orthopedic rehabilitation. He earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from New York University and a bachelor's degree in health science from Stony Brook University. In addition to being a licensed physical therapist, he is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), enabling him to blend cutting-edge rehab techniques with performance-based training. Albert takes a personalized, results-driven approach to help patients recover from injuries, improve mobility, and build long-term resilience. With a deep passion for exercise biomechanics, he not only treats pain but also helps patients move smarter and more efficiently. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, looking to prevent future issues, or aiming to enhance physical performance, Albert is committed to guiding you every step of the way. Outside of work, he enjoys staying active at the gym and continually refining his knowledge to deliver the highest level of care.

ALBERT WU

PT, DPT, CSCS

MARINE PARK

JESSE LOU

JESSE LOU

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Dr. Jesse Lou is a highly skilled physical therapist. He acquired his doctoral degree in physical therapy from Long Island University Brooklyn.

Dr. Lou sees patients with various illnesses and injuries. During consultations, he listens to their concerns, explains their conditions, and develops personalized treatment plans. Depending on their unique needs and preferences, he uses different techniques to relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve posture.

Dr. Lou practices at Evolve Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation in Brooklyn, New York. Patients trust his expertise because he consistently ensures positive and lasting health outcomes through high-quality care.

JESSE LOU

KEVIN CHENG

KEVIN CHENG

Physical Therapist

Location: Gravesend

Kevin Cheng graduated from Stony Brook University with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, where he gained experience working with high school and collegiate athletes. He also earned his personal training certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Kevin went on to pursue a Doctorate at LIU Brooklyn, expanding his expertise by working with orthopedic and post-operative cases.

His true passion lies in helping individuals achieve the activities they love. Having played volleyball, basketball, and badminton in the past, he found joy in coaching badminton to young athletes who later made the national team. Witnessing their success has been as rewarding as seeing his patients reach their goals. Recently, Kevin has developed an interest in dancing and has been working with dancers to help them build strength and move without pain. Outside of physical therapy, Kevin enjoys cooking and music.

KEVIN CHENG

MIDWOOD

RUTVI SHAH

RUTVI SHAH

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Dr. Rutvi Shah is a physical therapist at Evolve Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation in Brooklyn, NY. She welcomes patients with chronic pain, strength issues, balancing difficulties, and other related problems due to an illness, injury, or surgery.

Dr. Shah understands patients’ conditions and prepares individualized rehabilitation plans combining the relevant physical therapy modalities. She also offers lifestyle changes, diet plans, and at-home care strategies to support quicker recovery. She answers questions and coordinates care with other healthcare team members to maximize patient satisfaction.

Shah earned her doctoral degree in physical therapy from the University of Connecticut. She participates in continuing education to stay updated on research and developments in her field.

RUTVI SHAH

JUSTIN LEVINAS

JUSTIN LEVINAS

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Dr. Justin Levinas is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and author of the book The Back Pain Breakthrough. A graduate of New York University, he specializes in orthopedic and musculoskeletal rehabilitation, post-operative recovery, spinal pathologies, and sports rehab.

Known for his thoughtful and well-structured recovery plans, Justin takes an intentional approach to rehabilitation, ensuring that each patient receives a personalized strategy tailored to their needs and goals.

His journey into physical therapy was deeply personal—after spending years as a patient himself, he developed a profound understanding of the physical and emotional challenges of recovery. This experience led him to make a complete career change, driven by a passion for helping others regain strength, confidence, and independence.

Whether guiding an athlete back to peak performance, designing a comprehensive rehab plan, or educating others on spinal health, Justin is committed to providing evidence-based, empathetic care that truly makes a difference.

JUSTIN LEVINAS

LUIS MONTER

LUIS MONTER

Physical Therapy Assistant

Location: Mill Basin

Luis earned his PTA license (Physical Therapy Assistant) after completing his undergraduate program at Kingsborough Community College. He comes to Evolve Physical Therapy with a strong background in exercise science, having earned his CPT (Certified Personal Training) certificate from the World Fitness Association in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

After 10 years of professional training, Luis decided to take his love and knowledge of fitness and pain management to the physical therapy space. Meeting each patient at their current level of need with compassion and enthusiasm is one of the most common feedbacks received by patients. When Luis is not working out or helping others, he is sharing his love of football, cooking, and country music with the team.

Luis Monter

KIANA HAMILTON

KIANA HAMILTON

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Kiana Hamilton was born and raised in Brooklyn. She's a proud graduate of Howard University, where she earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Her goal is to empower her patients to feel confident and comfortable in their bodies, helping them to view their injuries as a manageable, small part of their lives. She strives to make the journey to recovery as uplifting and seamless as possible, so her patients can focus on the activities and moments that bring them joy.

KIANA HAMILTON

LEONARD SCHRAGER

LEONARD SCHRAGER

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Dr. Shonell Benjamin is a skilled and caring physical therapist based in Brooklyn, NY. She currently offers her services at Evolve Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation.

As a student in rabbinical college, Levi's enthusiasm for fitness led to his becoming the unofficial trainer in the campus gym. Originally eyeing a career as a U.S. Army Chaplain because he wanted to help people, he eventually realized that military life was not for him. It was then that a mentor pointed him towards a career that could combine both passions: physical therapy.

Levi received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. Levi has a passion for orthopedic physical therapy and sports rehabilitation. Outside of the clinic, Levi enjoys working out in the gym, and spending time with family.

Leonard Schrager

EVAN SINCLAIR

EVAN SINCLAIR

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Dr. Evan Sinclair is a physical therapist at Evolve Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation in Brooklyn, NY. He earned his doctorate in physical therapy from Saint Joseph's University—Hawk Hill Campus, where he gained comprehensive experience helping individuals recover from injuries and improve their physical health.

Dr. Sinclair works with patients of all ages, from athletes recovering from sports-related injuries to individuals seeking to regain mobility after surgery. His approach combines hands-on therapy with exercise-based interventions to enhance strength, flexibility, and overall function.

Dr. Sinclair's commitment to learning allows him to provide evidence-based care that helps patients return to their daily activities confidently and efficiently.

EVAN SINCLAIR

KASIM IQBAL

KASIM IQBAL

Physical Specialist

Location: Gravesend

Kasim Iqbal is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) who graduated from Mercy University. With a strong background in general orthopedics, Kasim has had the privilege of completing clinical rotations at Professional, Evolve, and NYU, where he gained valuable experience treating a diverse range of patients.

Growing up as an avid sports fan, Kasim developed a deep appreciation for movement, which inspired the pursuit of a career in physical therapy. His passion lies in helping patients recover from injury and improve their overall function. Whether assisting athletes in returning to their sport or helping individuals regain mobility after surgery, Kasim strives to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those he treats.

The core reason Kasim became a physical therapist is to spread the importance of exercise and movement. His goal is always to help patients become stronger and more capable than they were prior to their injury, empowering them to lead healthier, more active lives.

KASIM IQBAL

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN HELPING PEOPLE LEAD HEALTHIER LIVES?

YANA PIH,

PT, DPT