Spencer Blackman PT, DPT
Spencer is a co-founder of Spruce Occupational and Physical Therapy and has been practicing outpatient physical therapy for over ten years. After recognizing a critical gap in care when his former employer withdrew from the Rochester region, Spencer saw an opportunity, and a responsibility, to ensure that residents of Rochester’s assisted living communities would continue to have access to high-quality rehabilitation services. That conviction became the foundation of Spruce.
Spencer earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from SUNY Upstate Medical University in 2016 and his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science Summa Cum Laude from Slippery Rock University. A lifelong athlete, he brings a background in performance training, sport-specific rehabilitation, and cardiac rehabilitation to his clinical work.
At the heart of Spencer’s practice is a deep commitment to patients living with chronic pain and complex conditions. He is trained in Autonomic Awareness Training (AAT) and Blomberg Rhythmic Movement Training (BRMT), and has spent the last ten years exploring how the nervous system shapes pain, recovery, and chronic mobility — and how to meaningfully influence it. His interests in chronic neurological conditions and the neuroscience of pain interpretation continue to drive his approach to pioneering more effective, lasting solutions for the patients who need them most.
Spencer’s vision for Spruce extends beyond the clinic. He is committed to building cohesive community connections that improve accessibility and bring the highest quality of care to those who need it most — starting right here in Rochester.
Russell Heerkens OTR/L
Breanna Payne PT, DPT
Breanna earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Ithaca College in 2025 and her Bachelor of Science in Clinical Health Studies from Ithaca College in 2023. She is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their mobility and functional goals through compassionate care that promotes independence, confidence, and quality of life so they can safely enjoy their daily routines and the activities they love. Building meaningful connections and guiding people through progress — both big and small — is what makes her work feel rewarding. Outside of the clinic, Breanna enjoys working out at the gym, finding a new craft to do, and spending time with friends and family. Fun fact: Bre loves her morning coffee and considers it essential to a good day.
Casey Clemons PT, DPT
Casey earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Daemen College in 2016. In her ten years of experience, she has treated adults in a variety of settings including short term rehab, long term care, acute care, home health, and outpatient therapy. Casey most enjoys seeing the therapy she provides instill greater confidence in mobility and improve her patients’ quality of life. She believes that building a personal connection with her patients is essential to delivering high-quality, holistic care. When she’s not working, Casey enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, working out, or baking (and eating) a sweet treat.
Kate Grosche, OTR/L
Kate earned her Bachelors and Masters in Occupational Therapy from SUNY Buffalo in 2021. She began working with older adults shortly after graduation and was fortunate to be able to stay in the same communities when Spruce formed in 2025. Her passion lies in helping people improve their ability to do the meaningful activities that bring them joy, increase their independence, and helping them adapt to the changes that life tends to throws our way. When she finds spare time, Kate can be found at the gym, enjoying the outdoors, or spending time with family or friends (or with a cat)!