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Meet the Team
Owner
John Davies received his Master of Science, graduating from Children's Hospital School of Physical Therapy in 1985. He has practiced physical therapy for over 30 years and is one of the few therapists who has a certificate in aquatic therapy through the American Physical Therapy Association. John is also a certified manual therapist, and has developed his own technique in aquatic therapy.
John's extensive experience includes treating patients with neurological conditions, orthopedic injuries, chronic pain, and developmental disabilities. John implemented the aquatic therapy and pediatric programs at a clinic in Huntington Beach, where he worked for over ten years. He also worked with professional athletes and celebrities at the prestigious Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic for seven years.
John has also worked as a physical therapy instructor at American Career College, and he continues to mentor many students during his professional career.
Staff Physical Therapist, Director of Clinical Instruction
Matt Zembal is a dedicated Doctor of Physical Therapy, licensed since August 2022. He earned his DPT from Chapman University and holds a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from Cal State San Marcos, where he developed a strong foundation in human movement and performance.
Matt brings valuable experience from both pediatric and outpatient physical therapy settings, allowing him to effectively connect with patients of all ages and backgrounds. He is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for every patient.
Born and raised near the coast, Matt has spent his whole life in the water—surfing, swimming, and playing water polo in high school. His lifelong connection to movement and sports naturally led him to a career in Physical Therapy. Outside the clinic, you’ll find him jogging, weight lifting, experimenting in the kitchen, or cheering on the Rams.
Staff Physical Therapist
Peggy Zidek received her Bachelor's of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Northern Illinois University in 1987. Since relocating to Southern California, she has specialized in outpatient orthopedics using her wide range of manual skills to treat a variety of conditions. She has extensive experience treating orthopedic injuries, sports related conditions, total joint replacements, and chronic pain conditions. In her spare time, Peggy enjoys hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, and following her beloved Chicago Cubs baseball team. Go Cubs Go!
Staff Physical Therapist
Hannah Cooper earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Long Beach State University in 2024 and holds a bachelor’s degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Tulane University. An active participant in Master's swimming and open water swimming events, and triathlons, Hannah has a deep appreciation for the therapeutic benefits of aquatic exercise. Outside of the pool, Hannah enjoys roasting coffee at home and scoring baseball games. Before transitioning into physical therapy, Hannah worked as a veterinary technician in Las Vegas and served nine years in the U.S. Air Force as a Logistics Planner. During her service, she completed deployments to Qatar and Afghanistan, where she gained invaluable experience, developing strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills that she now applies to patient care.
Staff Physical Therapist
Leslie Dykstra earned her Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Southern California Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy in 1995. During her time at USC, she had the privilege of learning from leading clinicians in the field and observing cutting-edge research at the renowned Pathokinesiology Laboratory at Rancho Los Amigos, under the guidance of Dr. Jacquelin Perry.
With over 30 years of experience in Physical Therapy, Leslie has built a diverse career spanning acute care, neurological rehabilitation, assisted living, and outpatient orthopedics. She specializes in neurologic and orthopedic rehabilitation, pre- and post-surgical care, and pain management. Leslie works with a wide range of patients—from athletes recovering from sports injuries to older adults regaining independence after falls. Her approach is grounded in evidence-based practice and tailored to each individual’s unique goals, ensuring personalized and effective care.
Outside the clinic, Leslie leads an active, adventurous life. Whether snowboarding in the winter, backpacking through the mountains or
trail running with her dog, her passion for movement fuels her commitment to helping others regain mobility and return to the activities they love.
Staff Physical Therapy Assistant
Chad Trahan graduated as a physical therapy assistant from American Career College and has worked at Aquatic Therapy of Los Alamitos for 8 years. Chad is an active practitioner of boxing and Brazilian Ju Jitsu and has a broad martial art background which he applies to his practice by bringing attention and focus to foundational movement and balance training for all patients. He is looking to participate in his first triathlon in 2026.
Staff Physical Therapy Assistant
Theresa Ragland was a gymnastics coach for many years working with children as young as 10 months to adults. She graduated from California State University, Fullerton in 2006 with a degree in Kinesiology and continued coaching for 9 years until she discovered her love for physical therapy. She graduated with honors from CBD college in 2016 where her favorite subject was neurology, and started her first job here at Aquatic Therapy. Theresa has worked both full-time and part-time while also serving as an instructor for future physical therapist assistants. She is passionate about working with people of all ages to help them back to their optimal health and abilities.
Staff Physical Therapy Assistant
Jonai graduated from American Career College in Anaheim, California, in 2017, with a strong interest in working with neuro-challenged adults and pediatrics. She gained valuable experience with a traveling PT company, allowing her to work in diverse clinical settings. Ultimately, her passion led her to aquatic therapy, where she believes physical therapy can significantly enhance a person's quality of life. Jonai is dedicated to making a positive impact through her work.
Staff Physical Therapy Assistant
A Cypress native, Madison Montano has faced Degenerative Disc Disease and undergone three spine surgeries—experiences that shaped a deep understanding of rehabilitation and resilience. As a former patient at Aquatic Therapy of Los Alamitos, she was inspired to pursue a Physical Therapist Assistant license to help others manage chronic pain and restore function. Patient-focused and results-driven, Madison brings a positive spirit to every session, always finding the “fun” in functional recovery.
Staff Physical Therapy Assistant
Liz Moua
In loving memory of our beloved Co-Founder, Raquel Davies. Her vision and dedication touched countless lives shaped our organization profoundly. Raquel's inspiring legacy will forever remain in our hearts, and she will be deeply missed.
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