Doctor of Physical Therapy/Owner
Traci L. McCloskey earned her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Texas Medical Branch in 1992. In 1998, she relocated to Corpus Christi and later completed her Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi in 2003. Concurrently pursuing further academic achievements, Traci was enrolled in a doctorate program at the University of St. Augustine during her MBA studies. She successfully obtained her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine on April 11, 2008.
Under Traci's leadership, New Stride Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation will commemorate its 20th year in business in March of 2024, reflecting her dedication and successful stewardship of the practice. Her professional focus lies in spinal mobilization and orthopedic rehabilitation, driven by a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
In addition to her clinical expertise, Traci is an advocate for fitness, holding certifications as a Comprehensive Peak Pilates® Trainer and actively participating in the Pilates Method Alliance. She is also certified as a KAATSU® and Dry Needling Practitioner, reflecting her comprehensive approach to wellness and rehabilitation practices.
Traci finds fulfillment in her role as a fitness coach, particularly enjoying working with clients on the Pilates reformer to help them achieve their fitness objectives. Beyond her professional achievements, Traci shares a fulfilling personal life with her husband Eric McCloskey, who is not only her life partner but also her business partner.
Chief Operating Officer
Eric McCloskey serves as Chief Operating Officer of New Stride Physical Therapy & Pilates, where he oversees the operational and administrative functions that keep the organization running smoothly. Working closely with his wife, founder and owner Dr. Traci McCloskey, Eric plays a key role in managing the business side of the practice and supporting its continued growth and expansion.
Eric earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Texas at Austin in 2000. Over the course of his career, he has developed a diverse professional background that includes executive recruitment, banking, and hospitality leadership. Prior to joining New Stride full- time, Eric served as an Operating Partner and General Manager for P.F. Chang’s, where he gained extensive experience in leadership, operations, and team management.
Eric and Traci first met while collaborating on a Junior League of Corpus Christi charity event, where Eric was serving as General Manager of P.F. Chang’s. Soon after, Eric began helping Traci streamline and modernize the business operations of New Stride, bringing many of the company’s systems and processes into the digital era. His leadership helped position the company for its next phase of growth.
Today, Eric manages many of the critical behind-the-scenes operations that support patient care, including administration, accounting, payroll, insurance authorizations, coding, and billing. His dedication and operational expertise help ensure that the clinical team can focus on delivering exceptional patient care.
Growing up in Plano, Texas, Eric developed a lifelong love of cars from an early age working in the garage with his father. He remains an avid automotive enthusiast and enjoys spending time restoring and racing his Corvette at Circuit of The Americas in Austin.
Eric and Traci were married in 2012 and continue to work side-by-side building New Stride Physical Therapy & Pilates into a thriving, patient-centered practice.
Office Manager
Keeping care organized so our patients can focus on healing.
Cynthia Uriegas has been an integral part of the New Stride team since 2013 and serves as the clinic’s Office Manager. Known for her organization, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of healthcare administration, Cynthia oversees the day-to-day operations of the clinic while helping ensure patients have a smooth and supportive experience from scheduling to billing.
A native of Uvalde, Texas, Cynthia grew up enjoying the outdoors and spending time floating the beautiful Frio River. She graduated from Uvalde High School in 1991 and continued her education at Southwest Texas Junior College and St. Edward’s University. In 2000, she moved to Corpus Christi, where she and her family built a strong connection to the community.
With decades of experience in medical billing and office administration, Cynthia is highly skilled in insurance verification, authorization, billing, and coding. Her expertise helps patients navigate the complexities of healthcare while ensuring the clinic operates efficiently behind the scenes.
Outside of the clinic, Cynthia is an active member of the Corpus Christi community. She serves as Treasurer for the Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas and is a proud Aggie Mom. She also volunteers with organizations such as CASA and Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Cynthia and her husband of 35 years are now enjoying life as empty nesters and are proud parents of two wonderful daughters. In her free time, she enjoys crafting, photography, scrapbooking, gardening, listening to audiobooks, and attending Texas A&M Aggie games with her family.
Primary Doctor of Physical Therapy
Hope Castaneda, a South Texas native, brings both excellence and passion to her role as the Primary Doctor of Physical Therapy at New Stride PT. Raised in Kingsville, she graduated in the top 10 of her H.M. King High School class, where she also stood out as a multi-sport athlete and MVP on the tennis team. Her early exposure to sports medicine as a student aide for the athletic training department sparked the career path she continues to pursue with dedication today.
Hope earned her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2014. She went on to complete her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at The University of Texas at El Paso in 2018, achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA—an accomplishment reached by only two members of her class.
Since returning to the Coastal Bend, Hope has gained broad experience in outpatient physical therapy, working with diverse patient populations. She continues to maintain her national certification in Athletic Training and has expanded her skills with advanced education, including Corrective Exercise Specialist certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and Level 1 and 2 FMT Kinesio taping certifications with Rock Tape.
At New Stride PT, Hope leads with a focus on sports and orthopedic rehabilitation, helping patients recover from injuries, surgeries, and musculoskeletal conditions with individualized, evidence-based care. Her goal is simple: to restore function, reduce pain, and empower every patient to return to the activities they love.
Masters of Science Physical Therapist
Although born in Pennsylvania, Brooke Thorpe was raised in Corpus Christi, Texas, where she graduated from W.B. Ray High School. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Texas A&M University in College Station, followed by her Master of Science in Physical Therapy from Texas Woman’s University in Houston in 1997.
Brooke began her career in hospital-based rehabilitation before discovering her passion for outpatient care in 2000. In 2001, she achieved the prestigious Herdman Certification in Vestibular Rehabilitation, establishing a strong clinical focus in the treatment of dizziness, balance disorders, and vestibular dysfunction. She also brings extensive experience in treating both orthopedic and neurological conditions.
A cornerstone of New Stride Physical Therapy since 2004, Brooke has played an integral role in the clinic’s growth and success. Her depth of knowledge, clinical expertise, and unwavering commitment to patient care have helped shape the high standard of excellence that defines the practice today.
Known for her empathy, compassion, and individualized approach, Brooke builds meaningful connections with her patients while guiding them through their recovery with confidence and care.
Outside of the clinic, Brooke is an active Sustainer of the Junior League of Corpus Christi. She and her husband are proud parents of two daughters, both of whom attend The University of Texas at Austin.
Occupational Therapist
A native of Galveston, Texas, Gary Fairchild brings nearly three decades of clinical excellence and specialized expertise to the field of occupational therapy. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in 1993, launching his career in the inpatient rehabilitation setting at UTMB, where he built a strong foundation treating complex orthopedic and neurological conditions.
In 1997, Gary relocated to Corpus Christi to join Christus Spohn Memorial Hospital, where he spent seven years refining his skills in trauma rehabilitation. His passion and advanced clinical insight led him to a leadership role in 2006 as Director of Hand Therapy Services at a local rehabilitation clinic. Over the next 12 years, he became a trusted expert in the community, specializing in the treatment of orthopedic and neurological hand injuries.
Gary is highly skilled in the fabrication of custom orthoses (splints) and has extensive experience managing tendon repairs, ligament injuries, repetitive strain conditions, and post-stroke rehabilitation. His meticulous, patient-centered approach and depth of knowledge set him apart as a leader in hand therapy.
With 29 years of experience—and the added perspective of a private practice owner—Gary continues to deliver exceptional, results-driven care through Fairchild Occupational Therapy, LLC. He remains deeply committed to helping patients regain function, independence, and quality of life.
Outside of his professional work, Gary enjoys life with his wife, Melanie, and their twin children. Together, they embrace family, community, and the many adventures ahead.
Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Aesthetic Nurse/Injector/Functional Medicine Practitioner/Jazzercise Instructor
With over 27 years of nursing experience and a passion for empowering patients to achieve their optimal health and well-being, Jennifer is a dedicated medical professional specializing in medical weight loss, aesthetic treatments, and functional medicine. As a highly skilled Family Nurse Practitioner, she has expanded her expertise to provide comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and aesthetic aspects of her patients' lives.
Jennifer brings a unique perspective to the field of medical weight loss, recognizing that true health goes beyond numbers on a scale. With a firm belief in the transformative power of proper lifestyle behaviors, she is committed to guiding patients on a holistic journey towards their healthiest and most vibrant selves.
Additionally, Jennifer embraces the principles of functional medicine, recognizing that each patient is unique and requires personalized care.
With an unwavering commitment to her patients' success, Jennifer combines evidence-based medical interventions, compassionate guidance, and ongoing support to empower individuals on their weight loss journey. By arming her clients with the necessary information, tools, and strategies, she helps them make sustainable lifestyle changes that lead to long-term success and improved overall health.
Lead Clinician | Physical Therapist Assistant
Norberto “Norbie” Portales III has been a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant in Texas since 2002 and brings more than two decades of rehabilitation experience to New Stride Physical Therapy. A Corpus Christi native, Norbie graduated from Blinn College in Bryan, Texas, where he earned his Associate of Applied Science – Physical Therapist Assistant.
Norbie has extensive experience across inpatient, outpatient, home health, and hospice care settings. He has specialized training in advanced wound care, including sharp debridement, and is also a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) providing manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, and custom compression garment fitting.
At New Stride Physical Therapy, Norbie works with patients to improve balance, gait, strength, and functional mobility, helping individuals recover from post-operative procedures, chronic and acute pain conditions, and movement disorders. Recently promoted to Lead Clinician, he supports the clinical team while ensuring patients receive high-quality, individualized care.
Norbie enjoys being part of a team dedicated to helping patients regain independence and return to the activities they enjoy.
Physical Therapist Assistant
Selma is a dedicated Physical Therapist Assistant who is passionate about helping people move better, feel stronger, and return to the activities they love. After graduating from Del Mar College’s Physical Therapist Assistant program in 2023, she began her career with the team at New Stride Physical Therapy & Pilates, where she enjoys working closely with patients to help them reach their personal recovery and movement goals.
An exercise enthusiast herself, Selma believes that rehabilitation should be both purposeful and motivating. She enjoys finding creative ways to challenge and encourage her patients, helping them regain strength, confidence, and independence throughout their recovery journey.
Selma and her husband live locally on North Padre Island, and she feels honored to serve and support the community she calls home. She is a proud mom of a teenager attending Flour Bluff High School and a son currently serving in the United States Army.
Helping people get back to the things they love—whether that’s walking the beach, staying active, playing sports, or simply moving without pain—is what motivates Selma every day.
Physical Therapist Assistant
Specializing in Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Manual Therapy, and Functional Mobility
Abigail Garza is a dedicated Physical Therapist Assistant with a strong background in orthopedic rehabilitation and functional movement. Born and raised in Edinburg, Texas, Abigail has been a student-athlete since elementary school—an experience that helped shape her discipline, work ethic, and passion for human movement. She earned a full scholarship in Track & Field and completed her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at The University of Texas–Pan American. She later expanded her clinical training by earning her Associate Degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant from South Texas College.
Abigail has clinical experience in outpatient, inpatient, and home health settings, working with patients across a wide range of diagnoses and rehabilitation needs. Her clinical interests include orthopedic rehabilitation, restoring functional mobility, reducing pain, and helping patients return to the activities that matter most in their daily lives.
To further advance her skills, Abigail completed the Orthopedic Manual Therapist Specialist certification through the OPTIM Fellowship, strengthening her ability to evaluate and treat complex orthopedic conditions using evidence-based manual therapy techniques.
Abigail is committed to ongoing professional growth and is currently completing Dry Needling Level 1 training, with expected completion in April 2026. This advanced training will allow her to assist in providing dry needling treatments under the direction of the physical therapist for conditions involving the cervical spine, cervicothoracic region, and upper extremities. These treatments may be used to help address conditions such as cervicogenic neck pain, thoracic pain, shoulder dysfunction, tendonitis of the arm and wrist, hand conditions, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, as well as migraines and cervicogenic headaches. Through this additional training, Abigail will continue expanding the treatment options available to patients at New Stride Physical Therapy while supporting effective, evidence-based care.
Physical Therapist Assistant
With more than 20 years of experience as a Physical Therapist Assistant, Lauren brings extensive clinical knowledge and compassion to her work with patients recovering from injury, surgery, and complex medical conditions. Throughout her career, she has worked in a wide range of healthcare settings, including orthopedic outpatient clinics, home health, skilled nursing facilities, independent and assisted living communities, and memory care environments.
Lauren has developed expertise in post-surgical orthopedic rehabilitation, including recovery from total shoulder replacements, reverse total shoulders, rotator cuff repairs, and other joint surgeries. She is highly skilled in guiding patients safely through the rehabilitation process, especially those with multiple medical conditions or who may be medically fragile or significantly deconditioned.
Her approach focuses on helping patients regain strength, restore mobility, and rebuild confidence through positive and progressive movement experiences. Lauren is especially passionate about helping individuals improve their balance, reduce fall risk, and return to the activities that bring meaning and independence to their lives.
She finds the greatest reward in supporting patients throughout their recovery journey and helping them achieve meaningful improvements in their quality of life.
Outside of the clinic, Lauren is a proud mother to a young son who keeps her busy and active. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis, working out, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Certified Method Pilates Instructor
Christy Sadler Gorman is a Certified Instructor of The Method Pilates, comprehensively trained through the PhysicalMind Institute. Her training includes PilateSystem instruction at Studio 107 in Tyler, Texas, as well as advanced work with PilatesWorks in Austin. She began teaching Pilates at Stephen F. Austin State University in 2002 and later served as a Senior Pilates Trainer at BodyBusiness Health Club in Austin. Christy has also worked extensively alongside Peak Pilates® Certified Trainer and Educator, Julie Williams.
Christy holds both a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Master of Arts in Dance, bringing over 40 years of experience in movement, performance, choreography, and education to her work. Her teaching background includes faculty positions with the University of Houston, Houston Ballet Academy, Tapestry Dance Company in Austin, and St. Stephen’s Episcopal School.
What truly sets Christy apart is her deeply compassionate and individualized approach to care. She takes the time to understand each person not only as a client, but as an individual, learning their story, their goals, and their challenges. With patience, empathy, and a wealth of knowledge, Christy creates thoughtful, personalized Pilates programs that support each client’s recovery journey and overall well-being.
Rehabilitation Technician & Pilates Apprentice
Keala is a proud native of the scenic Coastal Bend and a graduate of Port Aransas High School. Her educational journey reflects a strong interest in health and human performance, with studies in emergency medical services, personal training, and nutrition.
Working in the physical therapy environment at New Stride Physical Therapy, Keala has developed a growing passion for movement, rehabilitation, and helping others improve their overall wellness. As a Rehabilitation Technician and Pilates apprentice, she enjoys supporting patients and clients as they build strength, mobility, and body awareness through intentional movement and functional exercise.
Keala believes in a balanced approach to health that combines activity, recovery, and sustainable lifestyle habits. She values being part of the dedicated New Stride team and witnessing the positive impact that movement and rehabilitation can have on individuals striving to live healthier, more active lives.
Outside the clinic, Keala enjoys boating, fishing, and spending time on the beautiful Texas coast.
Licensed Massage Therapist
Specializing in Therapeutic Bodywork, Sports Recovery, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Susanna Garner is a Licensed Massage Therapist with over 15 years of experience working within a physical therapy environment. Originally from Mission, Texas, she now calls the coast home, where she enjoys the balance of professional practice and coastal living.
Throughout her career, Susanna has focused on therapeutic techniques that help patients recover, move better, and live with less pain. She specializes in sports therapy, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and other manual techniques designed to support recovery, improve mobility, and relieve chronic tension. Her extensive experience working alongside physical therapists allows her to play an important role in supporting patients who are rehabilitating injuries or seeking long-term pain management.
Susanna is passionate about helping individuals restore function and improve their overall quality of life through personalized therapeutic bodywork that complements physical therapy and movement-based rehabilitation.
She is currently completing advanced training in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), a specialized and gentle manual therapy designed to stimulate the lymphatic system and help the body move lymphatic fluid more efficiently. Upon completion of her certification, Susanna will begin accepting patients who require lymphatic drainage services, including individuals recovering from cancer treatment, patients living with primary or secondary lymphedema, and individuals seeking lymphatic support following elective plastic surgery procedures. This additional training will expand the range of therapeutic services available at New Stride and provide important support for patients who benefit from lymphatic care.
When she is not working with clients, Susanna enjoys spending time outdoors along the coast, practicing photography, and raising her three children in the community she proudly calls home.
Front Desk Receptionist – Staples Clinic
Madelyn McCreery brings warmth, positivity, and organization to the New Stride team as the front desk receptionist at our Staples Clinic location. A graduate of Collegiate High School, Madelyn plays an important role in keeping the clinic running smoothly by managing the daily flow of patients, coordinating schedules, and ensuring that both patients and staff have the support they need throughout the day.
Known for her welcoming smile and kind demeanor, Madelyn helps create a positive first impression for every patient who walks through the door. Whether assisting new patients with scheduling or helping returning patients navigate their appointments, she works hard to ensure everyone feels comfortable, cared for, and supported during their visit.
Outside of the clinic, Madelyn enjoys spending time with her daughter, baking, and prioritizing wellness by staying active at the gym.
Madelyn’s friendly attitude and dedication to helping others make her an important part of the patient experience at New Stride Physical Therapy & Pilates.
Physical Therapist Assistant
Justin Rosas is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant and Certified Dry Needling Practitioner who is dedicated to helping patients reduce pain, restore movement, and regain independence. A graduate of Del Mar College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program (Class of 2022), Justin has developed a strong clinical foundation in evidence-based, patient-centered care.
Justin has a particular clinical focus on dry needling and manual therapy techniques, using these advanced skills to effectively address muscle dysfunction, reduce pain, and accelerate the healing process. His ability to combine hands-on treatment with functional rehabilitation allows him to deliver meaningful results for patients with orthopedic conditions and post-surgical needs.
He approaches every patient interaction with compassion, sincerity, and a deep commitment to serving the Coastal Bend community. Justin is passionate about educating patients and empowering them to better understand their bodies, creating long-term success beyond the clinic.
His treatment philosophy is centered on The Three R’s: Relieve, Retrain, and Rebuild. Through skilled dry needling and manual therapy, Justin prioritizes relieving pain and discomfort as the first step in recovery. Once relief is achieved, he works to retrain movement patterns and restore proper mechanics, allowing patients to rebuild strength, function, and confidence.
Justin’s clinical interests include orthopedic rehabilitation, post-surgical recovery, and helping patients return to the activities that matter most in their daily lives.
Marketing Director, Body Balance RX Coordinator
Megan is a dedicated professional who graduated from TAMUCC with a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology. Currently pursuing her education in Chiropractic school, Megan is passionate about enhancing patient wellness and overall health. Her love for the outdoors reflects her balanced approach to life and dedication to promoting a healthy lifestyle. Megan's commitment to learning and patient care underscores her goal of making a positive impact in the field of healthcare.
14302 Nemo Court
Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Phone: 361-949-9898
Fax: 361-949-9897
741 Water St, Suite 200
Kerrville, TX 78028
Phone: 830-461-1975
Fax: 888-475-8102