Meet The UpCurrentPT Team
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Dr. Andrew Phillips, PT, DPT, VM-1, VM-2, VM-4, CS-1
UpCurrentPT Physical Therapist
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Marci Porter, LMBT
UpCurrentPT Massage Therapist
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Hannah Gibson
UpCurrentPT Lead Care Coordinator
Dr. Andrew Phillips, PT, DPT, VM-1, VM-2, VM-4, CS-1
His Journey:
After a high school sports injury, Andrew (Drew) became enthralled with the healing process during his own Physical Therapy (PT) journey. This led him to pursue various PT positions before opening his own practice. Drew started as a PT Technician in New York, engaged as a PT Clinical/Administrative Manager in Maryland, and served as a PT Marketing Manager in Virginia. Later, Drew attended Neumann University where he received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy. As a licensed PT, he worked in outpatient settings in Pennsylvania followed by North Carolina. While serving in all of these roles, Drew observed limited patient results due to the assembly line practices of traditional PT. His hunger to advance his patient outcomes led him to pioneer a holistic approach to PT which focuses on the interconnectedness of the body, discovering the WHY behind the symptoms, and the implementation of cutting-edge practices. Drew’s specialized approach to PT, which includes Visceral Manipulation and Craniosacral Therapy, has equipped him to resolve patient issues systemically missed by traditional PT practices. Drew’s passion for Physical Therapy and holistic healing through additional therapy modalities has led to outstanding outcomes for his patients who often drive extremely long distances (> 100 miles) for treatment. Drew believes that Physical Therapy should be FUN and is known for bringing about laughter in his patient visits!
Education:
Drew received his:
Bachelor's of Science in Exercise Science: Pre-Professional at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA
Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Neumann University in Aston, PA
Drew continued his learning by completing:
Visceral Manipulation (VM) courses through the Barral Institute. He has completed both VM-1, VM-2, and VM-4 and is actively pursuing certification in Visceral Manipulation. This therapy best serves patients who struggle with reflux, abdominal pain/cramping/bloating, constipation, diarrhea, anxiety, depression, scar tissue restrictions, and more. Drew is passionate about digestion because he believes that disease begins in the gut.
Craniosacral Therapy (CS) course through the Upledger Institute. This therapy best serves patients who struggle with headaches and migraines, swallowing difficulties, post-stroke limitations, sinusitis, sleeping disorders, memory deficits due to early-onset Dementia/post-stroke/concussion, vagus nerve limitations/dysautonomia, and more. Drew finds that this hands-on approach is effective in addressing chronic symptoms to significantly improve one’s quality of life.
Credentials:
PT: Licensed Physical Therapist
DPT: Doctor of Physical Therapy
VM-1: Visceral Manipulation 1
VM-2: Visceral Manipulation 2
VM-4: Visceral Manipulation 4
CS-1: Craniosacral Therapy 1
Publications:
Drew’s research project entitled “An Evidenced-Based Prescriptive Model for Orthoses or FES for Children with Cerebral Palsy” was published in the Pediatric Physical Therapy Journal and subsequently presented at the Combined Sections Meetings (CSM) for PT.
Get to Know Him:
Drew grew up in Southampton, NY but found his final home here in North Carolina. In his free time, Drew enjoys spending time with his wife, Zoie, as well as his family and friends. He loves being an active member of his faith community, relaxing on the beach, listening to reggae or informational podcasts, playing pickleball, traveling, fishing, and cooking.
Marci Porter, LMBT
Marci is a skilled and dedicated massage therapist with a passion for enhancing her clients' health and well-being. She began her career in 2004 after graduating from a highly regarded massage program in Michigan. Upon relocating to North Carolina, Marci pursued the rigorous steps required to meet state licensing requirements, reigniting her career with renewed purpose and commitment.
Her expertise spans Swedish, Prenatal, and Thai massage, cultivated through diverse professional experiences in physical therapy and chiropractic offices, private practice, and even with a professional hockey team. Marci is committed to ongoing education and professional growth, ensuring her clients receive the most effective, tailored care possible.
Outside of her practice, Marci enjoys spending time with her family and immersing herself in a good book. She takes pride in being a trusted partner in her clients' wellness journeys, striving to help them achieve optimal health and balance.
Hannah Gibson
Hannah Gibson grew up in Southport, North Carolina, and now resides in Leland, North Carolina. As the Lead Care Coordinator at UpCurrentPT, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring a seamless experience for every patient. From being the welcoming face you see upon arrival to providing support during your visit, Hannah is committed to making each interaction positive and efficient.
In her role, Hannah assists with patient care by scribing for Dr. Drew, addressing questions or concerns, managing the schedule, and coordinating events. She takes pride in contributing to the success of UpCurrentPT’s patients and is passionate about the impact their services have on improving lives.
Outside of work, Hannah enjoys spending time with her boyfriend and family and engaging in activities by the water. She is excited to be part of the UpCurrent community and looks forward to assisting you at your next visit.