About Us
At Strong Start, therapy is more than drills and exercises, it’s a collaborative journey. We partner with you to understand your goals, integrate therapy into daily routines, and celebrate meaningful progress together. Our team’s thoughtful, play-based approach helps children feel supported and confident every step of the way.
Meet the Team
Melissa Rusch, PT, DPT, PCS
Founder
Melissa is a board-certified Pediatric Clinical Specialist with advanced training and years of experience working with children of all ages and abilities. She is the founder of Strong Start Pediatric Therapy and is passionate about helping children build the strength, confidence, and skills they need to thrive. Her approach is rooted in the belief that early support and strong relationships can make a meaningful difference for families navigating developmental challenges.
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Melissa works closely with parents, caregivers, and other healthcare providers to create a collaborative, team-based approach that supports each child’s growth and independence. She specializes in treating a wide range of conditions, including developmental delays, motor skill challenges, and neurological and orthopedic conditions. Her treatment approach blends evidence-based techniques such as Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI), Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT), Task-Specific Electrical Stimulation (TASES), Theratogs Orthotic Systems, and the Developmental, Individual-differences, Relationship-based (DIR) Floortime approach.
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Melissa earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Binghamton University before continuing her education at Touro College, where she received a second Bachelor’s degree in Biology and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy. She later completed a pediatric residency and passed the national specialty examination to become a Board-Certified Pediatric Clinical Specialist.
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When she’s not working with families, Melissa enjoys spending time outdoors with her own family and exploring nature.
Angelee is a licensed physical therapist specializing in pediatric care, with a strong focus on children with neurologic disorders and developmental delays. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Kean University in 2020 and continued her education at Kean, completing her Doctorate in Physical Therapy in May 2023. Angelee has years of professional experience across a variety of clinical settings, including pediatric outpatient intensive therapy, school-based physical therapy, outpatient orthopedics, and sub-acute care.
She has extensive experience treating a wide range of pediatric conditions, including cerebral palsy, unique genetic disorders, torticollis, toe walking, and general developmental delays. Angelee utilizes advanced treatment approaches such as Dynamic Movement Interventions (DMI), Kinesiotaping, TheraSuit Method, and other evidence-based techniques. Known for her strong rapport-building skills, Angelee collaborates closely with children and their families to deliver creative, individualized therapy sessions that keep kids engaged while supporting meaningful functional progress.
Outside of the clinic, Angelee enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, traveling, and exploring great food.
Angelee Delfin, PT, DPT
What Sets Us Apart
Therapist-led, individualized care designed around your child’s needs. In-home therapy for comfort and real-life relevance. Collaborative family support that extends beyond the session. Evidence-based techniques delivered with warmth and intention
We’re Here for You
We look forward to meeting you and your child, learning your goals, and helping you write your next chapter of growth and confidence together.
Call or Text to Book: 516-521-5331