Catharine Rykowski – Pediatric Physical Therapist in Martha's Vineyard, MA
Helping Kids Thrive with Physical Therapy
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Hi, I’m Catharine Rykowski
I'm a licensed Physical Therapist with over 15 years of experience supporting children and families. I specialize in pediatric physical therapy, helping children build strength, balance, coordination, and confidence through play-based, functional movement. As a Martha’s Vineyard resident and mother, I provide individualized, family-centered care that fits naturally into everyday life.
Why I love what I do:
I love supporting children and families by helping parents advocate for their children, navigate challenges, and feel empowered while celebrating their progress and milestones together.
Why I’m passionate about in-home care:
I’m excited about in-home therapy because it allows me to meet children where they are most comfortable, partner with families, and provide practical strategies that fit naturally into everyday routines.
What does a Physical Therapist Do?
Developmental physical therapists support children in building movement and motor skills—so they can grow, explore, and move with confidence. If your child struggles with things like walking, climbing stairs, balance, or coordinating movements, a pediatric PT can help.
Pediatric PTs focus on:
- Gross motor skills – like crawling, walking, running, jumping, or riding a bike
- Balance and coordination – helping kids feel steady on their feet and move smoothly between activities
- Strength and endurance – building the muscle power kids need for play, sports, and daily activities
- Movement patterns – teaching proper ways to move that prevent injury and support healthy development
- Mobility and independence – helping kids navigate stairs, playgrounds, and their environment safely
Pediatric developmental physical therapy supports kids at home, at school, and during play—so they can feel confident and capable in how they move through their world every day.
My Specialties
I specialize in:
How my practice is special
Experienced Pediatric Specialist
With over 15 years of pediatric PT experience and as a mother of three boys, I bring both clinical expertise and firsthand parenting experience to my work with families.
Family-Centered, Local Expertise
As a year-round Martha’s Vineyard resident, I understand the local healthcare and school systems and help families access resources, advocate for their children, and feel supported.
Personalized In-Home Therapy
I provide individualized care in each child’s natural environment, with hands-on parent coaching and flexible scheduling that fits each family’s needs.
Client testimonials
Areas I Serve
I work with families in Martha's Vineyard, and these surrounding areas: Chilmark, West Tisbury, Aquinnah, Tisbury, Edgartown, and Oak Bluffs.
Chilmark
West Tisbury
Aquinnah
Tisbury
Edgartown
Oak Bluffs
Local Places I love!
Lookout Tavern
Nancy's Restaurant
Bettini Restaurant
Unsure about what your child needs?
Book a quick 10 minute consultation with me! Serving families in Martha's Vineyard near Owen Park. Easily accessible from Steamship Authority Ferry.
Who is Coral Care?
Coral Care supports families with exceptional in-home pediatric therapists in speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.
Every provider in our network is thoroughly vetted through a clinical review process and receives ongoing support through monthly education, community, and access to specialized resources.
We believe the best care happens when disciplines work together. That’s why we actively support cross-specialty collaboration—ensuring kids get care that’s not just high-quality, but truly holistic.
Need more care for a child—or know a family who does?
