Introducing The Empower
Get to know the Empower team by clicking on their photos below:
Dr. Carlo L. Sayo
Lisa Patel Sayo
Dr. Rosslyn Beard Torres
Dr. Angela Martinez
Michelle Chin
Allison Evans
Julia Huang
Ian Chau
Enrique Abreu
Mikaela Millican
Genesis Echeverria
Dr. Carlo L. Sayo, DPT, OCS graduated from UCLA with his Bachelors of Science in Psychobiology with a Minor in Geriatrics. In 2006, he went on to graduate from the University of Southern California with his Doctorate of Physical Therapy.
Dr. Sayo has over 15 years of experience in orthopedic physical therapy and other rehab settings. He has since become a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy (OCS) by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Dr. Sayo specializes in treating patients with various musculoskeletal disorders such as spine-related injuries, shoulder dysfunctions, knee and ankle sprains/strains, TMJ dysfunction and headaches.
Dr. Sayo believes in combining a personalized, hands-on, and evidenced-based approach to treating his patients. He enjoys time with his wife and 3 children, has a passion for photography, and does various forms of exercise.
Occupational Therapist
Mrs. Lisa P. Sayo, MA OTR/L, graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a Bachelors of Science in both Biology and Psychology. In 2004, she went on to graduate from the University of Southern California with her Master degree in Occupational Therapy. Mrs. Sayo has practiced in multiple settings including inpatient acute, orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation, as well as pediatric clinical and school-based therapy. She is also our woman's Pelvic Floor Incontinence Specialist.
Lisa brings 15 years of extensive experience to the practice. As a mother of three, Lisa incorporates her maternal instincts by being a kind, listening ear to her patients. Her patients find solace in her ability to combine her skilled expertise in occupational therapy along with her empathy. With such personal connection, Lisa is able to tailor a program to fit each individual, with tools for self care to “empower” them outside the clinic.
She enjoys traveling, exercising, and volunteering at her kids’ school.
Physical Therapist
Dr. "Roz" graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology-Exercise Science from Cal Poly Pomona. She received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Azusa Pacific University.
Dr. Roz is originally from northern California and has an athletic background which includes martial arts and playing basketball for the Cal Poly Pomona Women's Basketball team! With her educational and personal athletic experience, she has recognized the power behind having and being an advocate throughout physical therapy treatment. Dr. Roz’s ability to establish a rapport with patients promotes trust and reassurance in developing a plan with attainable goals. With Dr. Roz as a therapist and advocate, patients are given a vision of a future with less pain, better movement, and hope.
She loves bringing joy and positive light to all those around her! When asked what her favorite part of her career is, she says, "Giving people HOPE!"
Physical Therapist
Angela graduated with Bachelor's of Science in Health Science from California State University, Fullerton with a minor in Kinesiology and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine.
She grew up in Chino Hills and is very proud to share her skills in this community. She is experienced with treating patients of all ages from Pediatrics to Geriatrics with an array of Orthopedic and Neurological disorders. She also teaches for the PTA Program at American Career College where she motivates and mentors future professionals. She enjoys building rapport with her patients and is a great advocate for getting everyone back to what they love doing most. She believes in celebrating the "little wins" in physical therapy and in daily life.
In her free time, she loves camping, rock climbing, hiking, and any adventure that involves the outdoors.
Physical Therapist Assistant
Michelle has grown up around the sport of gymnastics, competing 7 years at the junior Olympic level, and an additional 5 years of coaching. She has also had the opportunity to participate in water polo, swim, Crossfit, and now, weightlifting. All of which developed in her, a love for movement in all shapes and forms.
Professionally, Michelle graduated from CSU-Northridge with a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Science. She, then, attended Cerritos College and graduated with her Physical Therapist Assistant certificate. Over the past 8 years of her practice, she has cultivated experience in various rehab settings, and she has developed a passion for working with athletes both in post-operative care and injury prevention to extend the longevity of participation in sport. She desires to help restore joy through movement so people can live life with their community.
Operations Manager
Allison is a friendly voice on the phone and generally the first person seen when entering the clinic. She is knowledgeable in all facets of the clinic. She will answer questions about therapists, insurance, and what to expect at EMPOWER.
Her initial warm greeting, whether by phone or at the front desk, establishes the kindness and family environment found throughout the center.
Allison graduated from Cal State Long Beach with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology-Exercise Science.
She is also a Certified Massage Therapist from Southern California Health Institute. Allison is a huge sports fan, especially the Broncos and Dodgers. She loves spending time with her friends and family, swimming, playing fantasy football, and golfing. Allison is passionate about helping those in need. She always strives to go above and beyond to help a patient meet their goals.
Exercise Specialist
Julia graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics.
Julia is passionate about serving others and loving them well. She is grateful to be a part of an uplifting community that is changing lives one small act of kindness at a time.
Julia is an escape room fanatic and enjoys hiking, photographing people, and taking long walks with friends!
Exercise Specialist
Ian graduated from California State University, San Bernardino with a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, Allied Health.
Ian is passionate about helping and educating others. He strives to become a Physical Therapist who is uplifting and friendly, creating a positive environment that motivates his patients. Ian looks forward to building relationships with his patients and walking alongside them through their recovery.
Ian enjoys traveling, lifting weights, spending time with family and friends, and watching movies.
Exercise Specialist
Enrique graduated from UC Santa Cruz with a Bachelor’s degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.
Enrique loves to connect with his patients and enjoys seeing their growth. He encourages his patients to work towards their goals and to become the best versions of themselves! Enrique hopes to open his own clinic in the future, working alongside other physical therapists, occupational therapists, and athletic trainers.
Enrique enjoys working out, playing basketball, trading stocks, trying new restaurants, and playing video games!
Exercise Specialist
Mikaela will graduate from California State University, San Bernardino with a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science this May.
Mikaela has a passion for giving back to her community and establishing meaningful connections with her patients. She believes that establishing trust with patients is a key role in having a successful recovery. In her future career as a Physical Therapist, she hopes to serve underserved communities and to be an advocate for their rights.
Mikaela enjoys snowboarding, playing soccer, and traveling!
Exercise Specialist
Genesis graduated from Sonoma State University with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology: Exercise Science.
Genesis is passionate, dedicated and loves helping others. She values the relationships she has with our patients and always seeks to motivate and encourage patients with their current and future goals. She seeks to create a friendly, positive and uplifting environment to help patients succeed and return to doing what they love doing.
Genesis enjoys playing soccer, doing CrossFit, traveling, as well as spending time with family and friends!