About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Our Story
Different Backgrounds. One Community. One Goal.
Since 2013, Stellar Physical & Occupational Therapy has been dedicated to providing compassionate, quality care to the communities we serve.
Our team comes from different parts of the world, bringing together diverse cultures, languages, and experiences.
The patients and families we serve are just as diverse as our team. Over the years, we have had the privilege of caring for people from many different cultures, backgrounds, and walks of life. This diversity has shaped who we are and strengthened our commitment to providing compassionate, respectful, and individualized care to every person who walks through our doors.
At Stellar, we believe our differences make us stronger. By bringing together diverse experiences, perspectives, and cultures, we are better able to understand, connect with, and serve the communities we call home.
Together We Move. Together We’re Stellar.
Our Team.
Andrew Woolward, OTR/L
Co-Founder
Occupational Therapist
Andrew is a graduate of Long Island University and has more than 20 years of experience as an occupational therapist. His clinical background includes neurological rehabilitation, orthopedic and hand conditions, home care, geriatrics, pediatrics, and more than 10 years of school-based occupational therapy.
A former collegiate volleyball player and triathlete, Andrew has a lifelong appreciation for movement and independence. He is passionate about helping patients return to the everyday activities that are most meaningful to them.
Languages: English
Steve Ko, PT, DPT
Co-Founder
Senior Physical Therapist
Dr. Steve Ko earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from New York Medical College. He brings more than 20 years of experience working with adults and children with orthopedic, neurological, and complex medical conditions.
Steve is passionate about helping patients maintain mobility, independence, and an active lifestyle. An avid triathlete and competitive snowboarder, he brings his own appreciation for movement, fitness, and perseverance into the care of his patients.
Languages: English and Korean
Kimberly Zhu, DPT, MS
Co-Founder
Director of Operations
Physical Therapist
Dr. Kimberly Zhu earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Tufts University School of Medicine and her master’s degree in Physical Education and Sports Management from Brooklyn College.
She brings more than 15 years of healthcare operations and management experience, combining healthcare leadership with patient-centered rehabilitation. Her clinical interests include pelvic health, neurological rehabilitation, and helping patients remain active and independent.
A former collegiate volleyball player, Kimberly continues to compete in volleyball tournaments and enjoys snowboarding, biking, and staying active with her family. She believes great care begins with listening, understanding each patient’s goals, and helping them feel confident throughout their recovery.
Languages: English, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Taishanese
Siddharth Ghosh, PT, MS
Senior Physical Therapist
Siddharth Ghosh earned his bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences in India and later earned his master’s degree in Athletic Training from Long Island University. He has continued to advance his clinical education through specialized training in manual therapy, kinesio taping, dry needling, lymphedema management, dementia care, and fall prevention.
With more than a decade of experience as a physical therapist, Siddharth has worked with patients across a wide range of orthopedic, neurological, and age-related conditions. His clinical approach combines hands-on treatment, therapeutic exercise, movement training, and patient education to improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore function.
Languages: English, Hindi, and Gujarati
Chieh "James" Teng, PT, DPT, CSCS
Clinical Director
Physical Therapist
Dr. James Teng earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from New York University and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS).
His clinical experience includes orthopedic and sports rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, and working with individuals with Parkinson’s disease as a certified Rock Steady Boxing Clinician.
A former volleyball and soccer player, James is passionate about helping people build strength, improve movement, and regain confidence so they can return to the activities they enjoy.
Languages: English, Mandarin, and Taiwanese
Hsiao-Yu "Neal" Chen, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Dr. Neal Chen earned his physical therapy degree in Taiwan and his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Loma Linda University.
He has experience in both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, helping patients improve strength, balance, mobility, and confidence with everyday movement.
A former Tai Chi competitor, Neal has a strong appreciation for movement and wellness that carries into his approach to patient care. Outside of the clinic, he enjoys badminton, hiking, and staying active.
Languages: English, Mandarin, and Taiwanese
Ke-Chun "Kate" Hu, PT, DPT
Senior Physical Therapist
Dr. Kate Hu earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Arcadia University.
With more than 15 years of clinical experience, she has worked in hospitals, outpatient clinics, home care, and assisted-living settings, with a focus on musculoskeletal, neurological, and geriatric rehabilitation.
Kate is passionate about treating the person, not simply the diagnosis, and approaches each patient with compassion, patience, and respect. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys arts and crafts, reading, and spending time with her two children.
Languages: English and Mandarin
Pamela Payton, PTA
Physical Therapist Assistant
Aquatic Therapy
Pamela Payton is a graduate of LaGuardia Community College and a Physical Therapist Assistant specializing in aquatic therapy.
She brings more than 30 years of aquatic therapy experience to our Plainview community. With an extensive background in swimming and water-based rehabilitation, Pamela has worked with patients of all ages, including pediatric, neurological, and post-surgical populations.
Pamela is passionate about creating an encouraging and motivating environment in the pool, helping patients build strength, confidence, and independence while enjoying their journey toward recovery.
Languages: English
Jinee Tse, OTR/L
Senior Occupational Therapist
Jinee Tse earned her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from New York Institute of Technology and has advanced training in orthopedic, neurological, stroke, and pediatric rehabilitation.
With more than 10 years of experience as an occupational therapist, she has developed a special focus on hand therapy and pediatric care.
Known for her energetic and encouraging approach, Jinee is passionate about helping adults and children improve function, independence, and confidence in the activities that are most important to them.
Languages: English and Korean
Nayarith Encalada, OTR/L, CHT
Occupational Therapist
Certified Hand Therapist
Nayarith Encalada earned her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Hofstra University and became a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT).
She specializes in rehabilitation of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand and has experience treating injuries, post-surgical conditions, and other conditions that interfere with everyday activities. She is also experienced in custom splinting.
Nayarith is passionate about providing individualized, compassionate care and helping patients regain function and independence throughout their recovery.
Languages: English and Spanish