Your Team
Emily Farris PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
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Born and raised in Morganton, NC, Emily grew up swimming competitively and staying active through local aquatics and recreation programs. These early experiences sparked a lasting respect for physical health and wellness across all ages.
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Emily earned her Bachelor's degree in Biology and Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Western Carolina University. Throughout undergrad and grad school, she was deeply involved in the CrossFit community, where she developed a passion for Olympic lifting and technical gymnastics skills.
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As a physical therapist, she views fitness as a fluid state - constantly evolving with the demands of life. She believes that everyone is capable of discovering movement, sport, or leisure they enjoy, no matter the season or stage of life they are in.
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When she is not in the clinic, you'll likely find her hiking, lifting, or relaxing by the water.
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Joe Lopez PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
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Joe holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Sports Medicine and Psychology from the
University of Georgia and earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Western Carolina
University.
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He grew up playing competitive soccer before discovering a deep passion for rugby—a sport that ultimately inspired his interest in movement, performance, and rehabilitation. This blend of academic training and athletic experience gives Joe a well-rounded perspective on physical movement, recovery, and longevity.
Joe has spent the majority of his career at Haywood Regional Medical Center, where he treated a diverse patient population across orthopedic rehabilitation, neurological conditions, pediatric therapy, and aquatic therapy.
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At Vitalee PT, Joe is passionate about helping clients return to the activities they love—whether
that means recovering from an injury, improving quality of life through increased strength and
balance, enhancing everyday movement and function, or elevating performance. He is
committed to empowering each individual he works with so they move better, feel stronger, build
confidence, and continue to evolve.
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Annabelle Perry PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
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Annabelle has her Bachelors in Exercise Science with a concentration in strength and conditioning. She received her doctorate of Physical Therapy at Western Carolina University.
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Annabelle grew up playing soccer, running track and field, snowboarding, and swimming. Her passion for physical therapy stemmed from her journey through ACL repair and rehab after sustaining an injury while playing soccer in 2018. She fell more deeply in love with the field as she went through her doctoral program and gained clinical experience with individuals who had neurological disorders, spinal cord injuries, musculoskeletal injuries, and more.
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Annabelle has also spent time in Honduras providing pro bono physical therapy care to the underserved town of Taulabe. There she worked with her team to examine and treat many different diagnoses and give exercise plans to decrease pain and promote healthier behaviors.
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Annabelle has a holistic approach to therapy and believes that one shoe does not fit all. She strives to individualize her care to fit her client’s needs and address the many factors that contribute to pain.
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Outside of the clinic Annabelle enjoys weightlifting, hiking, and finding new places to eat. ​​​
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Elyssa Pattillo RD, LDN, MHS
Registered Dietitian, Certified Personal Trainer
Director of Marketing and Nutrition
Elyssa is a friendly face around Vitalee PT. She is a Registered Dietitian and personal trainer with a strong foundation in nutrition. A former collegiate athlete, she played volleyball at Western Carolina University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, completed her Dietetic Internship to become a Registered Dietitian, and also obtained a Master’s of Health Science with a concentration in Education. Her combined experience as an athlete and nutrition expert fuels her approach to health, emphasizing the importance of balanced nutrition, performance optimization, and sustainable wellness strategies.
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With a strong commitment to empowering individuals through evidence-based nutrition guidance, Elyssa is dedicated to helping clients build healthier lifestyles, whether they are athletes, active adults, or individuals striving for improved well-being. Beyond nutrition, Elyssa is a Certified Personal Trainer with experience leading group fitness classes in multiple settings and helping individuals build strength and confidence. She has also contributed to the volleyball community as a former assistant volleyball coach at AC Reynolds High School in Asheville, NC - Go Rockets! An avid volleyball player, she actively participates in local leagues, staying connected to the sport she loves.
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Outside of work, Elyssa enjoys spending quality time with her husband and son, as well as family and friends. She thrives on outdoor adventures, including snowboarding, hiking, and, of course, playing volleyball. She also has a passion for reading, cooking, thrifting, crafting, and music.
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​With a unique blend of nutrition expertise, athletic experience, and a passion for health and wellness, Elyssa is committed to empowering others to live healthier, stronger, and more fulfilling lives and is so excited to be apart of Vitalee PT.
Lee Pattillo PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Founder, President
Lee is a Western North Carolina local. Originally from Bryson City, North Carolina, he shares a deep passion for the community in the mountains of WNC.
He received his Bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, followed by a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, from Western Carolina University (WCU). Lee has always valued the power that life can provide when it is lived in motion. He has years of experience in movement coaching CrossFit and as a collegiate athlete at NC State and WCU. Lee feels passionately that no matter where you are in life's journey, he will empower you to feel confident in all that your body can do through sound movement.
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Outside of work Lee enjoys playing with a barbell or kettlebell, reading, and spending time with his wife, son, and family.