Excellence in Personalized Therapy

Dr. Owen Legaspi is the sole proprietor, CEO of A Plus Physical Therapy Centers, LLC, and A Plus Rehab, LLC. A former graduate of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ). With over 25 years of experience in private practice. His emphasis is on preventive care, precise diagnoses, and evidence-based treatments for various health conditions. Dr. Legaspi’s clinical model places great importance on actively listening to his patients and conducting comprehensive evaluation for proper diagnosis. 

Dr. Legaspi is certified in osteopathic manipulation, dry needling, and a multitude of manual therapy under the direct training of Janet Travell, Brian Mulligan, Robin McKenzie, etc.

As a clinical researcher, Dr. Legaspi has had many publications, some of which have won national awards due to clinical breakthroughs. 

“Physical therapy treatment of a pediatric patient with symptoms consistent with a spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality”
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34391271/

“Does The Evidence support the existence of lumbar spine coupled motion?” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17469669/.  A critical review of the literature (2007).

 Recipient of the 2007/2008 JOSPT Excellence in Research Award. https://www.jospt.org/doi/epdf/10.2519/jospt.2008.0104

https://spinalmanipulation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/physical-therapy-treatment-of-pediatric-patient-with-spinal-cord-injury-without-radiographic-abnormality-butts-et-al-2021.pdf

David Charneco is a board certified regional occupational therapy director at A Plus. David graduated with honors and was president of his occupational therapy assistant program at Eastwick College in Ramsey New Jersey and pursued further education at Dominican University New York where he obtained his masters degree in occupational therapy. David implements evidence-based practice providing expert manual therapy techniques to address hand, upper extremity, wound care, splinting, and pediatric therapy patients with over 9 years of experience.

Additionally, he is a co-author of “Using Occupational Therapy Assistant Perspectives to Teach Occupational Therapy Supervisory Roles and Expectations” presenting statistical significance. David has appeared on the local news of Livingston “LTV” and provided information regarding osteoarthritis and the difference between OT and PT at SummerFest, a local community day event. 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/16Hg9fEtrhFtlU_1DQ87iXiTmiF3PQDY7/view?usp=drive_link

Around Town: OT v.s PT

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Abigail Brown serves as the Operations Manager for A Plus Physical Therapy’s Livingston location. She earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from Quinnipiac University in 2017. During her final clinical rotation, she completed a specialized placement at Special Strides in Monroe, NJ, focusing on the use of hippotherapy in treating children aged six months to 20 years with complex diagnoses such as cerebral palsy, Trisomy 21, KAT6A syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome.

After graduation, Dr. Brown pursued her passion for pediatric care, working in both school-based and outpatient settings. She joined A Plus Physical Therapy in August 2020 as a clinician and quickly demonstrated exceptional leadership and organizational skills. Just two months later, she was promoted to Operations Manager.

Dr. Brown has completed certification requirements in Dry Needling through APTANJ and continues to advance her manual therapy expertise through in-person continuing education, including courses in American Academy Spinal Manipulation and the Mulligan Concept: Mobilization with Movement. In recognition of her professional involvement and commitment to the field, she has been appointed Secretary of APTANJ for the 2025–2026 term.

Aaron Park is a dedicated Physical Therapist Assistant and Operations Manager at A Plus Rehab Physical Therapy, where he brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and operational leadership to enhance patient care and practice efficiency. With a strong academic foundation—holding a B.S. in Exercise Science from Rutgers University, an M.S. in Exercise Science from Montclair State University, and a Physical Therapist Assistant degree from Essex County College—Aaron is deeply committed to the science and strategy behind effective rehabilitation. His passion for movement science and dedication to continuous improvement drive both patient outcomes and the growth of the practice. Whether he’s in the clinic or managing day-to-day operations, Aaron’s mission is to make high-quality, personalized physical therapy accessible and impactful.

Andrew Levine is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with a strong foundation in orthopedics and sports rehabilitation. With 13 years combined experience as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC), and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Andrew brings a unique, performance-focused approach to patient care.

He earned his Physical Therapist Assistant degree from Essex County College and is passionate about helping individuals return to their highest level of function—whether recovering from injury, surgery, or pursuing peak athletic performance. Andrew specializes in crafting individualized treatment and exercise plans that blend rehabilitation principles with advanced strength and conditioning strategies.

Known for his active lifestyle and hands-on, encouraging approach, Andrew connects with patients through a shared commitment to movement, wellness, and goal-setting. Outside the clinic, he enjoys CrossFit/strength and conditioning, connecting with friends and family, and spending time outdoors.

With 14 years of experience in orthopedic physical therapy, Dr. Michael Feller is a highly skilled clinician dedicated to helping patients restore function and reduce pain. A Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), Dr. Feller brings advanced expertise in musculoskeletal evaluation and treatment. In addition to his extensive clinical background, Dr. Feller is certified in dry needling through Myopain Seminars, enabling him to integrate effective, evidence-based techniques into individualized plans of care. Known for his patient-centered approach and commitment to ongoing professional development, Dr. Feller delivers comprehensive, results-driven therapy to support recovery and long-term wellness.

Dr. Arpita Dharia received her bachelor’s degree from India and has been practicing occupational therapy for more than 19 years. Dr. Arpita Dharia obtained her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professionals and has the distinguished honour of holding the title of a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT).

 She has specialized in hand therapy including Occupational health and workers compensation injuries and a trained functional capacity evaluation specialist (FCE).  She has clinical expertise in treating all upper extremity diagnosis including both conservative and post operative rehabilitation, Arthritis, trauma care, tendon and nerve injuries, wound care and custom orthotic and prosthetic fabrication. She uses evidence-based practice and is also physical agent modalities (PAM) certified. Her treatment strategies include close communication with the referring MD, manual techniques, kinesio-taping, orthotic and prosthetic training, and patient education.

Dr. Arpita Dharia has presented at international conferences and won best scientific paper for her work on cumulative trauma disorders of hand. She is honoured with 2 publications in the Indian Journal of Occupational therapy. She has a passion for teaching and has mentored students, assistants, and therapists during her clinical practice.

 She holds the position of a guest lecturer at Seton Hall University, NJ and has been invited by her colleagues to share her experiences as an advisory board member. Dr. Dharia likes to travel and spend time with her kids and family during her time off work.

Elizabeth Sanatar (nee Mayo), PT, DPT received her Bachleors in Biomedical Engineering from NJIT in 2005 with a concentration in Biomechanical Engineering.  Her capstone project was dedicated to producing a machine that simulates hippotherapy for individuals who suffer from spasticity.  She was the president of the Gamma chapter of Tau Beta Pi, the National Engineering Honors Society in both 2004 and 2005.  She also was a decorated Cross Country runner, obtaining high athletic awards for her achievements both locally and nationwide.  In 2006, she taught Physics and Chemistry in Union City, NJ. Following her passion for mechanics and fitness combined, she attend the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2010; her capstone project was a meta analysis of all joint mobilizations in the spine, compiled into a website with video demonstration with explanation in both English and Spanish.  While in school, she competed in multiple figure competitions, learning more about the human physique in a competition setting.  Between 2010 and 2024, Dr. Sanatar has worked her craft, priding herself on her one on one and manual based techniques, for different companies and has been the Clinical Director for various locations for 13 years, including being the Vice President of Operations for Arrow Physical Therapy.  She has also studied and explored various techniques via continuing education including and not limited to cupping, dry needling, vestibular practices, bell palsy interventions, Mckenzie A – D techniques, newer interventions for the knee and shoulder, and much more.  Always looking for ways to educate others on appropriate interventions and mechanics, she has also provided various lectures over the years including how to manage lumbar and cervical injuries, factors to help individuals age gracefully, proper mechanics for powerlifters, and appropriate postural positioning for tattoo artists.   She is also a certified Expert Reiki Practitioner and master in meditation practices. She speaks Spanish and finds love and comfort in practicing Jiu-jitsu, wrestling, playing guitar, yoga, powerlifting, and nuances in movement with music.

Enthusiastic and compassionate certified hand therapist/adjunct professor committed to the provision of evidence-based upper extremity rehabilitation in a variety of patient populations.

Enthusiastic and compassionate certified hand therapist/adjunct professor committed to the provision of evidence-based upper extremity rehabilitation in a variety of patient populations.

Has 8 years’ experience in acute care and outpatient settings. Selects relevant evaluation tools to assess sensory, motor, occupational and psychosocial factors. Interprets results, develops client-centered treatment plans, and monitors progress/remediates plans and programs as necessary while working in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment. Effectively communicates on multiple levels. Demonstrates active involvement in the community through multiple educational initiatives.

Alisone McDonald is a board-certified Physical Therapist Assistant with a strong focus on manual therapy and personalized care. She earned her Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant from Essex County College in 2016, where she made the Dean’s List (2014–2016), received the ECC Faculty Association Scholarship, and served as President of her graduating class.

Alisone holds a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Production and Design with a concentration in Stage Management. After sustaining an injury while painting a set and undergoing physical therapy herself, she was inspired to shift her career and help others through rehabilitation.

She is proficient in a range of manual therapy techniques including kinesiotaping, cupping, IASTM, and radial pressure wave therapy. Alisone brings both empathy and expertise to her practice, guiding patients toward recovery with care and confidence. In addition to her clinical work, she has served as an administrative assistant with the company for over six years, contributing to the smooth operation and organization of the team.

Victoria Amparo is a board-certified Occupational Therapy Assistant with a strong focus on manual therapy and personalized care. She earned her Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant from Eastwick College in 2018 and holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology.

She is proficient in a range of manual therapy techniques including kinesiotaping, cupping, and IASTM. Victoria brings both empathy and expertise to her practice, guiding patients toward recovery with care and confidence.

From a young age, Reuben was always concerned for others—often the first to check on someone if they were hurt and always curious about how the human body works. This natural empathy and curiosity came full circle after attending a physical therapy session with an injured family member. It was then he knew this was his calling.

 Reuben graduated from Essex County College in 2012 and has been practicing for over a decade. He is dedicated to helping patients regain their independence and return to everyday function. To better serve his patients, he has completed continuing education in cupping, KT taping, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), mobilization with movement, and fall prevention strategies.

 With a passion for healing and hands-on care, Reuben brings experience, compassion, and advanced skills to every session.

Sophie Gonzales holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Human Anatomy from the University of Colorado Denver. Bilingual in English and French, she is dedicated to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and efficient environment for all patients.

In her role as Office Manager at A Plus Occupational Therapy & Physical Therapy, Sophie is responsible for overseeing key administrative operations, including scheduling, patient coordination, insurance verification and authorization processes, and clinical scribing. Her strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to high-quality patient care make her an integral part of the practice, supporting both the clinical team and patients throughout their treatment experience.

Meet Teddy, our dedicated Hospitality Concierge at A Plus Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy. With a warm smile and a passion for service, Teddy ensures every patient feels at home. Beyond her role, she’s an extraordinary singer and talented chef, known for uplifting spirits with both voice and cuisine. Certified in Basic Life Support (BLS), Teddy also plays a vital role on our Emergency Response Team, always ready to assist with care and compassion.