Rachel Caro, PTA

Rachel Caro is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with over a decade of clinical experience and a deep passion for helping patients heal holistically. She earned her BS in Exercise Science from Rutgers University and completed her PTA degree at Essex County College. Rachel has a strong clinical background in neurological care and is currently expanding her expertise into pelvic health at Best Self Wellness. As both a clinician and office manager, she leads with empathy, always ensuring patients feel seen and heard. Outside of work, she enjoys spinning and strength training—and spending time with her two young boys keeps her moving, too.

Rachel Caro, PTA Rachel Caro is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with over a decade of cli... Read More

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Melanie Llanes, PT, DPT

Dr. Melanie Llanes is the founder of Best Self Wellness and a dedicated orthopedic and pelvic floor physical therapist. She holds a BS in Women’s Studies and Applied Kinesiology from Rutgers University, an A.S. in Physical Therapy Assisting from Essex County College, and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Findlay. Practicing since 2014 and specializing in pelvic health for over six years, Melanie is passionate about birth preparation and postpartum recovery. Her whole-person approach combines hands-on care, functional strength training, and individualized mobility-focused programs. A former yoga instructor and current powerlifter, Melanie brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to her care. She’s also a proud mom of one—with another little one on the way—and launched Best Self Wellness while on maternity leave during the pandemic with her husband deployed, fulfilling a lifelong dream.

Melanie Llanes, PT, DPT Dr. Melanie Llanes is the founder of Best Self Wellness and a dedicated o... Read More

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Samantha earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Seton Hall University and her bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland. Prior to becoming an occupational therapist, Samantha worked in public relations before transitioning to healthcare to pursue her passion for helping others feel strong and capable in their bodies.

Samantha specializes in pelvic floor therapy, providing evidence-based, holistic care to support individuals experiencing conditions such as pelvic pain, prenatal and postpartum concerns, C-section recovery, urinary incontinence, and bowel dysfunction. She is passionate about delivering individualized pelvic health care that addresses both the physical and psychosocial contributors to dysfunction. With over five years of experience as a certified yoga instructor, Samantha brings a strong foundation in body awareness, breathwork, and mindfulness to her clinical approach.

Outside of the clinic, you can find Samantha at the gym or teaching a yoga class, hiking or strolling the Hoboken waterfront, reading a novel, or making a (delicious) mess in the kitchen

Samantha earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Seton Hall University and her ... Read More