Arika, PT, DPT, is originally from Jerome, ID, and comes from a large family. She grew up and graduated high school on the North side of the canyon and was excited to return home to the Magic Valley. Her initial interest in the field of Physical Therapy began while she was still in high school. She knew she wanted to pursue a career in the health field because she excelled in biology, anatomy, and physiology. She also volunteered in the long-term care center at the hospital down the road from her home, and earned her Certified Nurse’s Aide (CNA) certification before high school graduation. She also enjoyed playing sports, helping others, physical activity, and learning about nutrition. Physical Therapy was a perfect fit for her!

She moved to Pocatello, ID to attend Idaho State University and was the first in her family to pursue a college degree. She would graduate a total of three times with a Bachelor of Physical Education: Exercise Science, Massage Therapy, and Doctor of Physical Therapy. She worked as a CNA in a home care setting, as a technician in a physical therapy clinic, a landscaper in Sun Valley during summer breaks, as well as a massage therapist all while studying full time at Idaho State University. While working her various jobs, she found that she truly enjoyed learning about her patients and helping to improve their quality of life. She specializes in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy and Outpatient Orthopedics.

Outside of work, Arika enjoys spending time in the great outdoors such as hiking, camping, and snowboarding. She likes to maintain an active lifestyle by lifting weights, running, walking her dogs, working in the yard, and playing disk golf. She also enjoys spending time with her loved ones, her dogs, and traveling to new and exciting places!