Dr. Nick Peterson, PT

I grew up in Libby and graduated from LHS. In 2011, I accepted a job with Saint John’s Lutheran Hospital for home health. This opportunity allowed me to return to Libby to raise my family. My career in physical therapy began in 2001 when I got my Associate’s degree for Physical Therapist Assistant from North Idaho College in Coeur d’Alene. I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2011 after obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science in 2008. I received both degrees from Eastern Washington University. Go Eagles! From 2011 to 2021, I worked exclusively in the home health setting, providing rehabilitation services to those who were unable to leave their homes for therapy.

I started Empower Physical Therapy as a way to take ownership over my skills as a physical therapist and to provide the community with a model for receiving therapy services without all the constraints that come with the true home health setting. It is my desire to bridge the gap between the time when an individual is confined to the home and when they are ready to participate in a clinic-based rehab. I also want to present an alternative to people who find that the busy clinical setting is not a good fit for them. I bring a wealth of knowledge and over two decades of clinical experience to Empower PT. My extensive background in both outpatient and home health settings will serve me well as I work to meet the needs of all my patients from simple to complex.

When I am not practicing physical therapy, I enjoy spending time with my family, camping, fishing, hiking and trail running.

Christy Rusdal, PT

Growing up on a farm in Iowa and playing sports throughout high school and college sparked my interest in the field of physical therapy and athletic training. I completed my B.A. in biology with a minor in athletic training from Luther College, and then my masters in physical therapy from the University of Iowa in 1998. I held certification in athletic training from 1998-2012, and have been certified as a strength and conditioning specialist through the NSCA since 2000. I have lived and worked in Montana since 1999. Over the course of my career, I have practiced in a variety of settings, including primarily outpatient orthopedics, but also hospital settings, pediatrics, skilled nursing facilities and eventually home health. Working in the home with clients gives us a unique look into their lives and how they move and function in their own environment. This enables us to tailor their programs directly to their needs.
In my “free time”, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Tim and 4 children: Sidney, Casey, Leah and Jake. We are active members of Libby Christian Church, enjoy all things outdoors, and follow the kids to their many school and sporting events.