Meet the PT Team!

Clarissa Leonard
MPT, C/NDT, Physical Therapy Clinical Excellence Leader
Clarissa is a graduate of the University of Texas Medical Branch’s Imprints Program and is Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) Certified. She is currently pursuing credentials as a PT Instructor through the NDTA. With extensive continuing education and years of clinical experience, Clarissa leads Milestones as our Physical Therapy Director and oversees the clinical mentoring program for all professional staff.
Her clinical expertise and passion lie in treating children with Cerebral Palsy, neuromotor disorders, and infants. Clarissa employs an eclectic and personalized approach to therapy, prioritizing efficient functional gains for her patients.
Most recently, she completed advanced training in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis and Hyperkyphosis, however her post graduate education is extensive especially in the area of neurodevelopmetal disorders.
Outside of work, Clarissa enjoys spending quality time with her four children and coaching Jiu Jitsu for both kids and adults, blending her professional and personal commitment to growth and resilience.

Melanie Watson
MPT, PCS, Clinical Director
Melanie is a Board-Certified Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy and Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) Certified. Since graduating from Texas Tech University, she has been an integral part of the Milestones team. As our Clinical Director for all therapy departments, Melanie ensures the highest standards of care by overseeing compliance, quality of care, patient-team matching, therapy space utilization, and team cohesion.
Melanie’s clinical expertise includes treating children with neurological disorders, delayed gross motor skills, and infants, as well as providing advanced manual therapy. She has received specialized NDT training in Advanced Rib Cage and Upper Extremity Techniques, Advanced Baby Treatment, & Advanced Gait. Further she completed the Kinesiotape Certification. She has additional specialized training in therapy ball techniques, orthotics recommendations and manual therapy & instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization.
Outside of work, Melanie is one of the co-founders of Capable Kids and enjoys traveling, cooking, playing guitar, painting, and hosting game nights with friends.

Sandra Rodriquez
PTA
Sandra is a dedicated and compassionate Physical Therapist Assistant with a passion for helping children reach their fullest potential. With over twenty years of experience in pediatric rehabilitation, she brings both skill and heart to every session. A graduate of South Texas College, she has specialized training in neuro-motor and developmental therapy, including advanced coursework in NDT/Bobath techniques.
Known for her bright smile and playful approach, Sandra makes therapy fun while focusing on real progress. Her background includes outpatient and home health settings, always collaborating closely with physical therapists to create individualized treatment plans. Whether it’s through linking play to function, spasticity management, or hands-on techniques, she tailors each session to meet the unique needs of her patients.
Outside of work, Sandra loves crafting, staying active, traveling, and spending time with her family. She believes that movement is life, and she brings that philosophy into both her work and her everyday adventures

Cynthia Luna
PTA, NDT/T
Cynthia is the quiet force behind so many kids’ progress, bringing dedication, patience, and a keen clinical eye to her work at Milestones as a Physical Therapist Assistant. A graduate of Whatcom Community College, she’s been licensed in Texas since 2005 and has extensive specialized training in Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) and Kinesio Taping.
Her commitment to her patients speaks volumes. Cynthia is all about quality, hands-on therapy that makes a real difference in children’s lives. Whether she’s helping a child take their first independent steps or fine-tuning their motor skills for better mobility, she puts her heart into every session. She carefully integrates therapeutic exercises into functional tasks, making sure parents her feel confident in continuing progress at home.
With nearly 20 years of experience treating children with cerebral palsy, developmental delays, autism, orthopedic injuries, and other challenges, Cynthia works closely with our team of therapists and families to create thoughtful, effective treatment plans. She knows that even small gains can be life-changing, and she’s determined to help every child she works with reach their full potential.
When she’s not in the clinic, Cynthia enjoys running, reading, and spending time with her kids. Whether at work or at home, she believes in movement—because movement is progress, and progress is everything.

Nicole Lyssy
PTA
Nikki is a passionate and experienced PTA who brings energy, creativity, and expertise to every therapy session. A graduate of Blinn College, she has been part of the Milestones Therapeutics team since 2009, where she has honed her skills in Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT).
Known for her ability to build strong, trusting relationships with her patients, Nikki is always developing new and engaging ways to help children reach their full potential. Whether she’s working with a premature infant, a child with cerebral palsy, or a teenager with developmental delays, she tailors her approach to each child’s unique needs. Her experience with specialized equipment like the Therasuit, Spider Cage, and Light Gait Trainer allows her to provide innovative and effective treatment strategies.
When she’s not in the clinic, Nikki enjoys swimming, dancing, and spending time with her kids—activities that reflect the same joy and movement she brings to her patients every day.

Rebecca C. Perez
PT, DPT, PCS
Rebecca is a graduate of the University of North Texas Health Science Center with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, she has earned board certification as a Pediatric Clinical Specialist. Her strong clinical problem-solving skills and creative approach to treatment make her an invaluable asset to her patients and their families.
At Milestones, Rebecca specializes in treating children with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, and other Neurological Disorders, as well as infant treatment and durable medical equipment assessment. She plays a vital role in evaluating developmental progress, implementing engaging and effective therapy sessions, and collaborating with families and medical professionals to create individualized treatment plans. She is skilled in working with a wide range of pediatric conditions, utilizing innovative techniques to foster independence and functional mobility in children.
Her leadership extends beyond direct patient care, as she mentors PTAs, students, and team members, ensuring a high standard of excellence in our therapy services.
When she’s not working, Rebecca enjoys spending time with her family, playing and watching basketball, planning birthday parties, and crafting. She brings that same energy and creativity into her therapy sessions, always striving to make rehabilitation an enjoyable and rewarding experience for her patients.

Amanda Martinez
PT, DPT
Amanda is a skilled and passionate physical therapist who quickly became an asset to Milestones after joining our team in 2023. A graduate of Texas Woman’s University Doctoral program, Amanda has a strong clinical focus in Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Neurological Disorders, Infant Treatment, NDT, Manual Therapy/Myofascial Release, and Kinesiotaping.
Bilingual in both English and Spanish, Amanda is able to connect with and support a diverse patient population. She has gained valuable hands-on experience working in pediatric, orthopedic, and acute-care settings, always under the guidance of expert clinicians to ensure the highest level of care.
Amanda’s passion for physical therapy is evident in her dedication to helping patients achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. She has presented research at the National ACSM Annual Conference and contributed to a manuscript on the growth and maturation of the female pediatric athlete. Her work has also been published on the environmental thermal conditions during summer track meets in South Texas.
Outside of her clinical work, Amanda has volunteered with organizations such as Belong DisAbility Adult Group, leading fitness classes for adults with disabilities, and Brother Bill’s Helping Hand, where she assisted with fitness classes and childcare. She has also supported individuals with neurological disorders through HIIT classes at the NeuroFitness Foundation. When she’s not working, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family and friends and relaxing with her cats.

Grecia Serrato
PTA
Grecia Martinez has been a valued member of the Milestones team since 2014, bringing both expertise and a compassionate approach to her work as a Physical Therapist Assistant. She earned her Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy from South Texas College and has specialized training in a variety of techniques, including NDT for babies, pediatric handling, and postural control. Her clinical skills focus on helping children with postural alignment, functional mobility, and gait, and she uses techniques like manual therapy, Myofascial Release, Kinesiotaping, and Aquatic Therapy to support her patients.
Grecia takes a family-centered approach to therapy, always involving families in the process and often offering home activities to help carry progress into daily life. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she connects with a diverse range of families and makes sure her patients feel supported and understood. Her experience includes working with pediatric patients from infancy, helping kids with conditions like torticollis, autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, and gait abnormalities.
Outside of work, Grecia enjoys staying active, whether she’s working out, running, or participating in triathlons, always applying the same dedication to her personal health that she brings to her professional life.

Todd Acevedo
PTA
Todd is passionate about helping children thrive and brings a warm, personal touch to his work. He joined Milestones in 2018 and has since built a reputation for his ability to connect with kids and support their unique journeys. A graduate of South Texas College, Todd is certified in aquatic therapy and trained in a variety of neuromuscular techniques to improve movement, posture, and coordination. His clinical focus is neuro rehab, where he works with both kids and adults to help them overcome neurological challenges and improve their daily lives.
Todd’s approach to therapy goes beyond just the technical aspects—he believes in making therapy fun and functional, tailoring each session to fit the patient’s personality and needs. By understanding each individual, he ensures therapy is both engaging and meaningful. Todd has worked with a wide range of conditions and always strives to bring out the best in his patients.
When he’s not working, Todd enjoys spending time with his son, playing games, and firing up the grill for a good barbecue.

Victoria Guerra
PT, DPT
Victoria is a physical therapist who truly believes in making therapy fun and engaging for kids. She specializes in working with children, especially those with neuro-motor challenges like Cerebral Palsy. With a playful approach, Victoria creates therapy sessions that encourage children to actively participate while still achieving their therapeutic goals. Her ability to connect with kids and turn therapy into a game helps them stay motivated and excited about their progress.
Her expertise includes Theraball activities and working with children who have neurological disorders and delayed gross motor skills. Victoria has specialized training in Neuro-Developmental Treatment, Manual Therapy, and Kinesiotaping, allowing her to take a well-rounded approach to therapy. She’s been with Milestones since 2017, starting as a student and transitioning to a full-time therapist.
Victoria has set ambitious goals for her career, including earning a pediatric specialty certification through the APTA in the next few years and pursuing a Neuro Developmental Treatment Certification. Outside of work, she loves spending time at the ranch and enjoying the outdoors with her family.

Iris Duran
PTA
Iris, a graduate of South Texas Community College, has been a valued member of the Milestones team since 2013. With her expertise in neuro-developmental treatment, she has made a significant impact on the lives of many children and families. Iris is passionate about making therapy not only effective but also fun and engaging, believing that a positive and playful atmosphere enhances the therapeutic experience. She has a natural ability to build strong, trusting relationships with both her patients and their families, ensuring that therapeutic strategies are successfully carried over into the home environment.
Throughout her career, Iris has worked with a wide range of conditions, including autism, cerebral palsy, neurological disorders, sports injuries, and cardiovascular health. Her clinical expertise spans several treatment techniques such as manual therapy, myofascial release, kinesiotaping, and neuro-developmental treatment. She also helps evaluate the need for durable medical equipment, ensuring her patients have the tools they need to thrive.
Outside of her work, Iris is an avid salsa dancer who enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her husband and friends. Her warm personality and dedication to her patients make her an invaluable part of the Milestones team, and her commitment to improving the lives of the children she works with shines through in every session.

Sayda Ruelas
PT, MPT
Sayda has been with Milestones since 2007, and brings years of experience working with children and adults across a wide range of conditions. With specialized training in Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT), vestibular rehab, and aquatic techniques, Sayda tailors her approach to meet each patient’s individual needs. She has a special interest in working with patients with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, and neurological disorders, and is passionate about helping her patients improve their mobility and independence. Sayda also works with families to recommend helpful seating solutions and assistive devices, so her patients can thrive outside of therapy, too.
Outside of work, Sayda loves watching her children compete in wrestling and basketball, and enjoys reading or catching up on her favorite shows when she needs to unwind. She’s also an instructor for the PTA program at South Texas College, where she enjoys mentoring future physical therapy assistants.
In addition to her expertise in NDT, Sayda is trained in manual therapy, myofascial release, kinesiotaping, and more. She’s always looking for ways to expand her knowledge through continued education and training, such as courses in sensory integration and Hippotherapy. Sayda is fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing her to connect with and support a wide variety of patients and families. She’s an essential part of the Milestones team, bringing both skill and heart to everything she does.

Lizette Cuellar
PTA
Lizette, a graduate of South Texas College, joined Milestones in 2023 and has quickly become an eager and motivated member of our team. She is passionate about learning from her colleagues and growing her skills through continuing education opportunities. Lizette enjoys working with a diverse range of children and is particularly interested in Autism, Cerebral Palsy, neurological disorders, and orthopedic and sports injuries. She’s dedicated to helping her patients achieve their fullest potential through a combination of manual therapy, myofascial release, and kinesiotaping.
In addition to her clinical work, Lizette brings a warm and welcoming approach to her interactions with both patients and families, ensuring the best carry-over into the home environment. Outside of her work at Milestones, she enjoys going to the gym, reading, and spending time with her nieces and nephews, creating a balanced and fulfilling life.
Fluent in both English and Spanish, Lizette is eager to continue expanding her knowledge and expertise in the field, making her a valuable member of the Milestones family. She’s committed to improving the lives of the children she works with, making every session meaningful and engaging.
Xiomara Navarro
DPT
After much anticipation, Xiomara has joined the Milestones team, bringing her valuable insights to the treatment of children with neuromotor challenges. Currently completing her extensive training in neuro-developmental therapy (NDT), she focuses on fostering independence and problem-solving in children with movement disorders. Xiomara’s treatment approach prioritizes positive patient experiences, ensuring each session is tailored to the individual needs of the child. Her clinical interests include Cerebral Palsy, neurological disorders, and orthopedic or sports injuries.
Xiomara’s educational background includes a Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of North Texas Health Science Center and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Texas-Austin. She also holds an Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts from Northeast Lakeview College.
Her clinical experience spans pediatric, orthopedic, neuromuscular, and acute care settings, where she’s worked with a diverse range of patients, including those with conditions such as Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and various orthopedic injuries.
When not helping children regain independence at Milestones, Xiomara enjoys staying active through personal fitness training, and she’s passionate about volunteering her time for community causes, such as tutoring, mentoring youth, and supporting local food banks. Fluent in Spanish, she also offers her skills as a volunteer ESL tutor, working with disadvantaged youth to help them succeed.