A Fox Chapel physical therapist is helping others with a distinct approach to well-being.
Kristen Carlin, 38, opened Evoke Physio three years ago inside the yoga studio at Green Heiress Holistic Health in Aspinwall.
Blending physical therapy and training, Evoke offers clients of all ages personalized physical therapy, private and group strength training.
Carlin will be expanding her business in a new location on Center Avenue in Aspinwall.
Evoke’s client list tripled during the pandemic, and Carlin said it was a “no-brainer” decision to buy the building at 115 Center Ave.
“It’s a central location, and I always loved this building,” Carlin said. “There’s nothing like Aspinwall, and I’m grateful for the support from the community.”
She plans to renovate the 1800s-era building that predates Allegheny County tax records.
“The building has seen better days, and it needs to be revived and made into a space that is aesthetically pleasing to the community and also an asset to the community,” Carlin said.
Carlin, a Pittsburgh native, graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in health sciences and biology in 2005 from James Madison University and a doctorate in physical therapy in 2007 from Chatham University.
She’s board certified in orthopedic physical therapy, a certified lymphedema therapist and a Crossfit level 1 trainer.
“I’ve always had an interest in blending my passion for fitness with my passion for helping people navigate orthopedic issues, including pain, mobility deficits and injuries,” Carlin said.
Carlin decided to start her own practice after working for a large orthopedic practice in Pittsburgh.
“I started to work on my own because the insurance system, in my opinion, doesn’t yield the best results,” Carlin said. “I wanted to treat people in a more holistic manner.”
Hourly rates range from $80 to $100. Evoke Physio does not accept insurance, but clients are able to pay through their insurance flex funds or health savings accounts.
Plans for the new location include maintaining its 1800s charm while updating the storefront and making it ADA accessible.
The interior will offer an open floor plan and be customized with workout features that may include climbing ropes and rings hanging from the ceiling.
“I love mixing in Olympic weightlifting, kettle bells, body weight movements and gymnastics,” Carlin said.
Bethanie Stein, 36, of Aspinwall began training sessions at Evoke to improve her personal fitness around the time of her pregnancy.
“Her expertise in prenatal and postpartum therapy and strength is unmatched in our area,” said Stein, a pharmacist. “I’m grateful to have her in our community. Kristen significantly helped me maintain my strength during pregnancy.”
Bob Zinn, an attorney from Fox Chapel and a longtime client, said he’s looking forward to visiting the new location.
An avid tennis player, Zinn, 65, said he originally went to Evoke to work on some soft-tissue issues. His program morphed into physical training.
“I’m in the best physical condition that I’ve been in, and I attribute that in part to this hybrid of training and physical therapy. It’s a combination of kindness, focus and performance that sets her apart,” Zinn said of Carlin.
Carlin said offering an individualized approach is key to the business model.
“People appreciate and value a one-on-one approach instead of a large gym,” Carlin said. “We try to create an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable no matter their age, stage of life, fitness level or pain issue. It’s highly personalized.”
Evoke’s other physical therapist is Morgan Fink, who specializes in shoulder pain. She also works as an assistant coach with Duquesne University’s women’s swim and dive teams.