our Team
Our Exercise Specialists are dedicated to assisting individuals with neurological conditions such as Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Spinal Cord Injuries and more. They employ exercise, activity-based therapies, and other cutting-edge techniques to develop tailored rehabilitation programs that focus on the unique needs of each client. With over 30 years of combined experience, our specialists hold college degrees in related fields, are federally insured, and have certifications in the following areas: CPR, First Aid, AED, NSCA, ACSM and advanced FES cycling.
President & Exercise Specialist (ES1)
Chris Hegge ~ Co-Founder
ACSM-CFT
Chris has been in the health & wellness industry for 20+ years. He has worked throughout the Pacific Northwest providing therapy for athletes, general population and special populations. He holds a degree in Health and Wellness and is certified through the ACSM, and is also certified in advanced FES cycling. Chris’ passion is assisting as many people as possible become healthier, more independent and achieve goals that most people deem
impossible. A native to the PNW, he currently lives in Fairwood with his family. Outside of the therapy world, Chris enjoys cycling, golfing, camping and spending time with his wife Lauren, son Emery and daughter Lucy.
Email: Chris@VerticalTherapy.com
Vice President & Exercise Specialist (ES3)
Alvaro Bustillos
CSCS, MS - Exercise Science
Alvaro's passion for strength and conditioning spans over a decade. He is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of individuals with neurological diagnoses. He served as an Infantry Officer in the U.S. Army for five years on active duty. He currently serves in the Army Reserves as a Captain. He holds a master's degree in Exercise Science and maintains an NSCA certification. He is compassionate and approaches his work with humility and a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth to better serve clients. Outside of the therapy world, he resides in Olympia and prioritizes staying active through exercising daily, reading, and spending quality time with his loved ones.
Email: Alvaro@VerticalTherapy.com
Exercise Specialist (ES4)
Daniel Delgado
ACSM-CEP, MS - Exercise & Health Science
Daniel, a Washington native, has always had a passion for exercise. He has worked as an exercise physiologist for the last 3 years and hopes to bring his learned knowledge to help individuals have a higher quality of life. He believes exercise is one of the best medicines for all individuals. Since 2018, Daniel has been in the health industry working with students, athletes, special and general populations. He holds a master’s degree in exercise physiology from Miami University and has a certification from ACSM. Outside of the therapy world, Daniel enjoys hiking with his two dogs, boxing and photography.
Email: Daniel@VerticalTherapy.com
how
it all started
Vertical Therapy (VT) was co-founded by long time Exercise Specialist Chris Hegge and C3/C4 SCI recovering businessman Greg Schoenbachler. VT was initially formed in 2013 to satisfy Greg’s personal rehabilitation goals.
After discovering the growing demand for mobile therapy, Chris and Greg began VT to serve the greater Puget Sound area stretching from Everett to Olympia.
where we are
now
As of July 2022, VT proudly became completely employee owned and US Veteran owned. Chris Hegge teamed up with Exercise Specialist Alvaro Bustillos to create a new partnership.
Chris, VT President, and Alvaro, VT Vice President, believe in maintaining a safe, effective and enjoyable therapy environment for all. The two continue to conduct the majority of the therapy sessions because this is their true passion.
With both owners being husbands and parents to each of their two kids, they take a lot of pride in their families, thus they strive to maintain a family-like feel for staff, clients, peers and partnerships.
The goal for Vertical Therapy in the near future is to expand its range and become available to more people in need.