Our Team
Dr. Kristin Sykes, PT, DPT, CIDN
Owner, Sports PT Lab, LLC
Dr. Kristin Sykes has been helping clients move, heal, and perform at their best for over 15 years. A 2009 graduate of George Washington University, she specializes in running and movement analysis, movement re-training, dry needling, manual therapy, and performance optimization. She holds advanced certifications in Dry Needling, USA Weightlifting, Running Analysis, and Blood Flow Restriction Training.
Kristin believes true transformation goes beyond treating injuries—it’s about equipping clients with the tools to achieve their goals. Whether it’s running again after an injury, returning to sport, or overcoming setbacks, she’s passionate about guiding clients through the recovery process.
An athlete herself, Kristin has a lifelong sports background, including swimming, basketball, soccer, triathlons, half Ironman races, and Spartan events. She currently focuses on strength training, running, and recovery through self-care practices like sauna therapy. Kristin is committed to continuous learning and pushing boundaries—both for herself and her clients.
Move better. Feel stronger. Get back to what you love.
Dr. James Cousler, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC, CSCS
Physical Therapist, Sports PT Lab, LLC
Dr. James Cousler brings a deep passion for sports, fitness, and rehabilitation to Sports PT Lab. With over a decade in strength training and sports performance, he is dedicated to helping athletes reach their peak potential. He earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy and a Master’s in Athletic Training from Shenandoah University in 2023. His certifications include Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Dry Needling, and Graston Technique, enabling him to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care.
James’s journey into physical therapy is personal—after a career-ending college football injury, he experienced firsthand the challenges of rehabilitation. This perspective drives his empathetic, results-focused approach to recovery, whether helping athletes return to the field, court, or track.
An outdoor enthusiast, James enjoys hiking, running, biking, and weekend games of basketball and soccer. He also provides athletic training coverage for local sports events and universities. Currently training for a triathlon, he emphasizes a holistic approach to health, incorporating movement, recovery, and overall well-being.
Empowering athletes. Maximizing performance. Supporting recovery.
Dr. Micaela Thompson, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist, Sports PT Lab, LLC
Driven by a deep understanding of both the physical and emotional journey of recovery, Micaela brings a compassionate, patient-centered approach to physical therapy. With a strong belief that healing is most effective when clinical expertise is paired with empathy and encouragement, she builds strong therapeutic relationships and focuses on reaching meaningful goals for each individual.
Micaela earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Duquesne University in 2022 and holds certification as a dry needling specialist. She has a special passion for working with individuals recovering from ACL injuries, dancers, and active populations of all kinds. Her approach emphasizes not only recovery but also injury prevention, believing that prehab is just as critical as rehab in supporting long-term wellness and performance.
Micaela grew up dancing competitively throughout the DMV area. Firsthand experience with sports injuries inspired her passion to help others, especially active individuals, return to the activities they love safely and confidently.
Outside the clinic, Micaela lives what she teaches. She maintains an active lifestyle through weightlifting, running, cycling, and pickleball, and shares her love of movement by teaching indoor cycling classes in the Northern Virginia area. Whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior, or someone simply looking to move better and feel stronger, Micaela is dedicated to helping you thrive.