Healing Hospitality meets Balanced Excellence.
We believe exceptional care happens when clinical expertise and genuine human connection work together. That’s why we take the time to listen, think deeply, and tailor care that’s both compassionate and precise.
Pivotal Connections
Our Therapy Team
In alphabetical order by last name.
Sheli Benson
Administrative Assistant/Office Manager
Sheli is the behind-the-scenes magic that keeps Pivotal Connections humming. Since joining the team in early 2022, she has become an essential force—streamlining systems, solving problems before anyone even knows they exist, and keeping our day-to-day operations running effortlessly. She’s also been quietly building several exciting projects that will be rolling out over the next six months… so definitely stay tuned.
Outside of work, Sheli loves dancing, running, exploring all that Northern California has to offer, and spending quality time with her family. If you see her around the clinic, make sure to say hi—she’s the friendly face making everything smoother for all of us.
Dr. Sandi Buchheister, DPT, OCS, RT(DXA)
(pronounced Boo-hi-stir)
Doctor of Physical Therapy, Board Certified Orthopaedic Specialist, Radiology Technician for BMD
Dr. Sandi Buchheister has built her career around a simple but powerful mission: helping people move well, heal fully, and remain independent for life. Her approach is holistic and whole-body, focused on identifying the true source of pain and movement dysfunction so patients can recover beyond what they once thought possible.
Originally from Wisconsin, Sandi earned her undergraduate degree in Biology from Lawrence University, where she also competed as a collegiate soccer player. Before pursuing physical therapy, she developed a diverse professional background—working as a personal trainer, microscopy technician, and YMCA membership director—while also challenging herself as an endurance athlete, completing marathons and triathlons.
In 2008, Sandi earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. After years in high-volume clinical settings that prioritized productivity over people, she founded Pivotal Connections Physical Therapy in 2014 to offer a more thoughtful, individualized model of care. She relocated the practice to Arcata in 2016, where it has continued to grow, adapt, and evolve alongside the community it serves.
Sandi became an Orthopedic Certified Specialist (OCS) in 2017 and is currently pursuing certification in Osteopractics to further expand her expertise in advanced manual therapy and dry needling. Her clinical background spans Sports and Orthopedics, Pediatrics, Geriatrics, and Women’s Health, with a strong emphasis on injury prevention, movement efficiency, and long-term resilience.
At the core of her philosophy is a belief that prevention is not only easier—but smarter and more cost-effective—than treatment.
Dr. Buchheister is currently accepting new clients on a very limited basis. To be added to her waitlist, please contact the clinic directly.
Sage Crum
Physical Therapy Assistant
Bio soon to come!
Dr. Nikki Davoodiaria, PT, DPT, Cert. Pilates
Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Pilates Instructor
I’m Nikki Davoodiaria, a licensed Physical Therapist with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. I’m also a certified Pilates instructor through Stott Pilates® and hold a Bachelor of Science degree in clinical psychology. I bring over 18 years of experience in sports and orthopedic rehabilitation to my work.
I joined Pivotal Connections in January 2024 and immediately felt how unique the culture is here. We function as a cohesive, collaborative team that’s deeply committed to serving our community. I genuinely appreciate the positive energy in the clinic and the safe, supportive environment it provides for both clients and staff.
My clinical interests include evaluating and customizing exercise programs for injury recovery and injury prevention. I have extensive experience integrating Pilates principles into rehabilitation for a wide range of conditions. My goal is to help clients develop, restore, and maintain functional movement while improving body awareness and confidence.
I approach my work with compassion and intention, striving to fully engage clients in their therapeutic process. I meet each individual where they are and tailor care to align with their specific needs and goals.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, gardening, and kayaking in Trinidad Bay. I feel grateful to live and work in Humboldt and to contribute to this wonderful community.
Rehab Pilates We offer rehabilitation Pilates, aimed at those who are recovering from injury/pain, surgery, or postural related pain and problems. The Pilates method focuses on building a healthy, balanced, injury-free body by encouraging controlled and concentrated movement. Our licensed physical
therapist, who is trained and certified in the Pilates method, uses her knowledge and skills to properly diagnose and treat areas of muscle and joint dysfunction. The Pilates method approach to rehab centers the body with core strengthening and stabilization while maintaining a dynamic flow. The benefits of Pilates-based rehabilitation from a licensed Physical Therapist and certified Pilates instructor is remarkable.
jamie gillespie
Radiology technician
More info on Jamie coming soon!
Josh Hoopes, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Josh Hoopes is a licensed Physical Therapist with a background in orthopedics, movement analysis, and patient-centered rehabilitation. His approach to care is rooted in understanding the individual as a whole person—not just treating symptoms, but identifying the underlying movement patterns, biomechanical dysfunctions, and lifestyle factors contributing to pain or
limitation.
Josh earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2007 from the University of Montana in Missoula. He has spent years working with a wide variety of orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions in hospitals and outpatient clinics. In addition to his clinical work in traditional settings, he has had the opportunity to work in professional tennis and supported a performing artist on tour. This gives him a unique perspective on both the science of rehabilitation and the importance of personalized, thoughtful patient care. He has a particular interest in orthopedic issues, movement dysfunction and sports-related injuries. Above all else he truly enjoys helping individuals return to the activities they love. Josh values a collaborative approach to therapy and believes patient education is essential for long-term success and resilience.
Josh joined Pivotal Connections in 2026 because of its commitment to individualized care, clinical excellence, and meaningful connection with the community. He appreciates the clinic’s holistic philosophy and the opportunity to spend the time necessary to truly understand each client’s goals and challenges.
Outside of work, Josh enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, fly fishing, cycling, strength training, surfing, and exploring the natural beauty of Humboldt County. His personal experiences with athletics, movement, and recovery continue to shape his passion for helping others move better and feel stronger in everyday life.
Josh is committed to helping clients build confidence in their bodies, improve function, and return to the activities that matter most to them. He is truly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the team at Pivotal Connections!
Certified Massage Therapist
Christopher is a California Certified Massage Therapist (CMTC #76347) specializing in deep, therapeutic bodywork designed to relieve tension, improve mobility, and support long-term wellness. His work blends flowing lomi lomi techniques with deep tissue and focused trigger point work, creating sessions that are both effective and grounding.
He regularly works in conjunction with physical therapists to help tailor each session to a client’s specific needs, goals, and stage of recovery. This collaborative approach allows Christopher to support rehabilitation plans, address chronic issues, and adapt techniques safely and thoughtfully.
Every session is personalized and guided by clear communication and attentive listening. Clients appreciate his ability to provide deep, targeted work while maintaining a calm, relaxed environment. Christopher’s goal is simple: to help you move better, feel more comfortable, and leave each session feeling supported and cared for.
Nathan Vincent "Nate"
Office assistant / metabolic testing
More information on Nate, coming soon!