Diron Cassidy
PT, MPT (Owner)
Diron Cassidy is a vestibular specialist with more than 20 years of experience treating vestibular, neurological and balance-related diagnoses. He is also a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy.
He has extensive education in his areas of expertise and successfully completed the APTA Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency Courses at Emory University and Duke University, as well as many others. Diron currently spends his clinical time treating patients recovering from complex vestibular issues and concussions.
As the clinical director, he oversees the physical therapy program and consults on cases as needed. He works closely with his staff of physical therapists to develop their vestibular and geriatrics expertise and prioritizes continuing education. This includes staying on top of the latest clinical research and attending advanced courses and professional conferences.
In his free time, Diron enjoys fishing with his kids and watching the San Francisco Giants and San Jose Sharks.
Professional Certifications and Competencies
- ImPACT Trained Physical Therapist, Concussion Care- ITPT (2019)
- APTA Cervicogenic Dizziness Competency Course (2015)
- Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy (2014)
- APTA Advances in Vestibular Rehabilitation: Competency Renewal Course (2014)
- PWR!Moves® certified therapist for individuals with Parkinson’s disease (2014)
- Certified Clinical Instructor (2013)
- APTA Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency Course (2006)
Education
- Master of Physical Therapy, California State University, Long Beach
- BS in Physiology, University of California at Davis
Darlene Macatangay
PT, DPT
Darlene joins the Vortex team with experience in a variety of healthcare settings including acute care, home health, inpatient, and outpatient.
While working towards her physical therapy degree, she was employed as a physical therapy aide at a hospital specializing in neurological rehabilitation. This is where she developed her interest in working with people who have had strokes, Parkinson’s disease, and vestibular issues.
She enjoys working one-on-one with people to help them regain confidence in their balance and adopt a more active lifestyle.
Originally from the East Coast, Darlene enjoys spending her free time exploring the Bay Area food scene, rock climbing, and dancing online Zumba classes.
Professional Certifications and Competencies
- PWR!Moves® certified therapist for individuals with Parkinson’s disease (2022)
Education
- DPT, Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR
- BS in Health, Physical Education, and Exercise Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
Brittany Curry
PT, DPT
Brittany Curry has been a key member of the Vortex team since 2015. She treats a wide-variety of vestibular, neurological and balance issues. In addition to her experience in the clinic, she has completed extensive training and coursework, including successfully passing the APTA Competency Course on Vestibular Rehabilitation at Emory University.
She enjoys educating patients on the latest research and working with people to resolve their symptoms and get back to living an active lifestyle. She continues to take advanced courses in her specialty; most recently attending the International Conference for Vestibular Rehabilitation.
A native of San Jose, Brittany enjoys hiking our national parks, traveling with her husband, snowboarding, and taking spin classes.
Professional Certifications and Competencies
- PWR!Moves® certified therapist for individuals with Parkinson’s disease (2021)
- APTA Cervicogenic Dizziness Competency Course (2019)
- APTA Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency Course (2018)
Education
- DPT, University of Colorado, Denver CO
- BS in Kinesiology, San Diego State University, San Diego CA
Leann Nakamura
PT, DPT
Leann successfully completed the APTA Competency Course on Vestibular Rehabilitation at Emory University. During the past two years at Vortex, she has excelled in treating vestibular, neurological and balance issues. She has particular interest in treating Parkinson’s and BPPV.
In addition to her clinical work, she continues to take courses to further her specialization. Her goal as a physical therapist is to connect with her patients to provide an optimal healing environment.
In her free time, Leann likes to walk her dogs, cook healthy meals, go fishing, garden, and clean around the house.
Professional Certifications and Competencies
- APTA Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency Course (2023)
- PWR!Moves® certified therapist for individuals with Parkinson’s disease (2021)
Education
- DPT, West Coast University, Los Angeles CA
- BS in Health Science, Saint Mary’s College of California, Moraga CA
Cara Cassidy
Office Manager, Co-Owner
Cara is responsible for managing the clinic– from scheduling appointments and answering phones, to completing the insurance verification and billing.
As the primary contact at the clinic, she is the point person for questions about our programs. If she is unable to answer your questions, she will help you find the answer.
Cara leverages her background in communications and customer service to ensure a positive experience for everyone who walks into our clinic.
When she isn’t working, she enjoys volunteering for Second Harvest, fostering kittens, reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.