Meet Our Physical Therapy Providers
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Ben Larner
I’m Dr. Ben Larner, a Physical Therapist, board certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) and level 1 and 2 certified in the Selective Functional Movement Assessment technique (SFMA). I continue to further my skills by completing extensive advanced training in neck and back pain, spinal manipulation, manual therapy and chronic pain management.
I received my bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology from Western Washington University in Bellingham, WA. I began my Physical Therapy doctorate degree at Harvard Medical School, completing gross anatomy education, as part of the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA in 2009. I have been a member of the American Physical Therapy Association since 2007. In 2013, I became an American Physical Therapy Association Credentialed Clinical Instructor. In 2016, I became board certified as an Orthopedic Certified Specialist (OCS) from the American Physical Therapy Association. In 2016, I also became certified in level 1 and 2 of the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA). In 2019, I completed a yearlong intensive training program and certification in manual therapy, for the spine and extremities, to receive my Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) from the Ola Grimsby Institute. In 2020, I received my Spinal Manipulation Endorsement allowing for advanced care of the neck and back in the state of Washington. I joined Lummi Tribal Health Center in 2018.
I work with a wide variety of patients ranging from children to elders who are experiencing orthopedic musculoskeletal, neuromuscular and chronic pain conditions. I like to get to know my patients as people and strongly believe in open communication and listening to patients to develop a strong therapeutic alliance and to assist in developing a personalized treatment plan that focuses on their individual goals. my treatment approach focuses on using skilled, hands on techniques, functional exercise and patient education to help patients meet their personal goals and achieve living a healthy lifestyle.
Outside of the clinic you will find me spending time with my wife and two children, traveling, on the golf course, snowboarding and enjoying all the outdoor activities that are available in the Pacific Northwest.
Dr. Ben Larner
Physical Therapist
Abby Lee
I’m Dr. Abby Lee. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise from Virginia Tech in 2011. I continued my education at University of Lynchburg and earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree in 2014. In 2019, I earned my Certification of Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT) from the Ola Grimsby Institute. This was a rigorous program in educational and practical training specific for manual therapy interventions such as extremity joint and spinal mobilizations and manipulations, soft tissue mobilizations, neural mobilizations, transverse friction, and active release techniques. In 2022, I became a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.
I am a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and have been since 2011. I have been a licensed physical therapist in Washington since 2014, focusing on outpatient orthopedic care. I joined Lummi Tribal Health Center in January of 2020. In addition to my experience in orthopedics, I have experience in outpatient pediatrics, acute care in neurological and multisystem intensive care units, and skilled nursing facilities. I have treated patients ranging in age from 2 weeks to 90 plus. Past experiences include pre- and post- surgery, post-motor vehicle accident, post-stroke, joint replacements, sports injuries, work injuries, vestibular dysfunction, scoliosis, torticollis, and cerebral palsy. In the past I have volunteered with ski/snowboard and bike programs, including adaptive programs.
I live in Bellingham with my husband and cat, Sahale, enjoy outdoor activities, playing soccer, and traveling.
Dr. Abby Lee
Physical Therapist
Karalee Knox
I’m Dr. Karalee Knox, you can call me Kara. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in kinesiology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2009. I continued my education at Northwestern University in Chicago and earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree in 2012. I have been a licensed physical therapist in the state of Washington since 2012 and have primarily been practicing in orthopedics and pelvic health since then.
I have received extensive training and continued my education in pelvic health physical therapy and earned my pelvic health physical therapy board certification (WCS) in 2021 as well as certificates in obstetrics (2019) and general pelvic health physical therapy (2021). Since joining Lummi Tribal Health Clinic in 2021, I have been focusing my continued education on trauma-informed care and sexual wellness.
I live in Bellingham with my husband, two young sons and young-at-heart dog Stella. I enjoy being active and you will frequently see me in the fitness center or in a group fitness class working out with colleagues and patients alike.
Dr. Karalee Knox