Meet the Team

For over 30 years, people throughout Northeast Ohio have relied on Layton Physical Therapy. Our team of specially trained and equipped physical therapists are among the most experienced in the area. You will appreciate the individualized care and attention that only a local, family owned and operated organization can provide to its patients.


Lori Layton

Licensed Physical Therapist

Lori is a 1983 graduate of Cleveland State University. She has been owner and president of Layton Physical Therapy since 1987. Lori specializes in chronic pain, spinal care and vesibular rehabilitation. She takes a holistic approach in her patient care.

Susan Moss

Licensed Physical Therapist

Susan graduated from Cleveland State Unversity in 1988. She has over 31 years of experience in inpatient and outpatient care at UH Geauga Medical Center. Susan loves orthopedic and general therapy, with an emphasis on exercise, correct movement patterns and body mechanics. Another area of special interest is Aquatic Therapy.

Lisa Polakowski

Physical Therapist

Lisa is a 1991 graduate of Cleveland State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s of Science Degree, licensed by the State of Ohio for Physical Therapy. She has over 25 years of experience in acute care, rehab/SNF, home health, and outpatient settings. Her specialties include:NDT certification, John Barnes Myofascial Release practitioner, and R-phase movement specialist.

Carla Madarena

Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant

Carla has been a licensed professional for over 30 years, spending 28 of those years with Layton Physical Therapy. She follows a more non-traditional approach to physical therapy specializing in pelvic/structural work, along with being a MFR practitioner pursuing the John Barnes method of myofascial release.

Gary Leers

Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant

Gary has been practicing as a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with Layton Physical Therapy since 2001. He has a strong background in strength training and aquatic therapy. Gary has also been trained in myofasical release and the application of Dynamic tape for the treatment of various muscle and joint injuries.

Renee Teal

Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant

Renee is a Physical Therapist Assistant for Layton Physical Therapy, who has been practicing since March of 2012. Renee attended Kent State University, Ashtabula, where she graduated from the PTA program. As director of the Layton Aquatic Program, Renee assembles exercises designed to utilize the properties of water to improve normalized, pain-free function of the body.


Elizabeth Miller

Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant

Elizabeth graduated from Kent State University, Ashtabula in 2007. She started working for Layton Physical therapy in the spring of 2008. In addition to a strengthening program, she is a strong advocate for manual therapy and manual stretching. She also encourages patients to improve their nutritional habits for overall enhanced well-being. She finds it rewarding to see patients as they recover and regain strength and flexibility. Elizabeth also volunteers for Hospice of Western Reserve and Project Hope.

Linda Hammer, LPTA

Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant

Linda first became interested in physical therapy after her own injury was successfully treated with physical therapy. Linda attended Kent State in Ashtabula and has been practicing for over 5 years. She has experience with nursing homes, the V.A. and home health. She now specializes in hands on therapy at Layton PT. Linda is also active in whole foods movement that promotes good health through healthful eating.

Justin Lewis

Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant

Justin has been practicing just over 2 years. He is certified for level 1 Dynamic taping. He is also training with the company’s senior myofascial release specialists.