PHYSICAL THERAPY IN WILMINGTON, DE
Meet Our Team
Licensed physical therapists and physical therapist assistants dedicated to one-on-one, patient-centered care. Every session. Every time.
The Back Clinic is owned and operated by physical therapists — not investors, not a corporation. Clinical decisions are made by clinicians, and every treatment session is delivered by a licensed PT or PTA. Our team holds advanced certifications across orthopedics, manual therapy, dry needling, vestibular rehabilitation, TMJ treatment, pelvic floor therapy, and aquatic therapy.
Mellissa Higgins, PT, DPT
Clinical Director & Co-Owner
Mellissa has been with The Back Clinic since 2012 and became co-owner in 2024. She earned her DPT from Widener University and holds an Advanced Functional Dry Needling Certification. She specializes in manual therapy and takes a hands-on, collaborative approach to every patient.
Mary Kate Monaco, PT, DPT, OCS
Physical Therapist
Mary Kate earned her DPT from the University of Scranton and completed a 13-month orthopedic residency with Luminis Health. She is a board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist with advanced training in cervical and thoracic spine treatment and running injury rehabilitation.
Michael Ward, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Michael earned his DPT from Neumann University, building on degrees in Exercise Physiology and Applied Physiology from the University of Delaware. An avid runner, his areas of focus include orthopedic and sports rehabilitation, manual therapy, and core stability. He brings a patient-centered, compassionate approach to helping patients reach their goals.
Carole Jennings, PTA
Senior Physical Therapist Assistant
Carole has been part of The Back Clinic team since 1989 — over 35 years of dedicated service. She specializes in aquatic exercise therapy, vestibular and balance rehabilitation, and strain/counterstrain techniques. She is also a State of Delaware certified pool operator.
De'Ja Campbell, PTA
Physical Therapist Assistant
De’Ja first joined The Back Clinic in 2017 as a technician before earning her PTA degree from Delaware Technical Community College. After gaining three years of outpatient orthopedic experience elsewhere, she returned in 2024. She is dedicated to improving patients’ mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Shannon Minshall
Office Manager
Shannon has been part of The Back Clinic family since 1993, working her way from technician to Office Manager. She coordinates patient scheduling, insurance verification, and ensures a seamless experience from your first call through discharge.