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
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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At the core of her philosophy is a belief that prevention is not only easier—but smarter and more cost-effective—than treatment.
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Dr. Buchheister is currently accepting new clients on a very limited basis. To be added to her waitlist, please contact the clinic directly.
Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Pilates Instructor
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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.
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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.
Sheli Benson
Administrative Assistant/Office Manager
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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, hitting the gym, 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.
Bel halet - office assistant
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Bel is currently pursuing her undergraduate degree in kinesiology and has a lifelong passion for movement and wellness. Born in Los Angeles, she made the move to Humboldt in 2023 and quickly found her footing—both in the classroom and on the soccer field. A player since childhood, Bel continues to compete in the Humboldt soccer league and loves staying active outdoors.
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When she’s not studying or playing soccer, you’ll find her at the gym, exploring the outdoors, traveling, spending time with friends, cozying up with her cats, or investing in her mental well-being. Her time in Humboldt has shown her just how powerful a supportive community can be, and she’s proud to be part of one that feels like home.