Pilates & Personal Trainers

Jai Mullis

Jai Mullis joined the Innovative Therapy team in 2017. She began her career as a sales rep for Zimmer Spine working in operating rooms around Washington, D.C., getting an up-close and first-hand look at what happens when individuals don’t practice safe spine care.

This experience allowed Jai to see how weak core muscles can translate to improper use of the spine causing pain when lifting, reaching, bending, and twisting, thus frequently resulting in surgery. All too often insurances only cover rehabilitation up to the point the patient was prior to surgery. Unfortunately, if clients don't continue practicing their rehab exercises when discharged, they will most likely undergo an all-too-common second surgery.

In an effort to avoid this merry go round, Jai has looked to physical fitness for answers. She completed a 600-hour apprenticeship in Classical Pilates, Trained with Balanced Body for Contemporary Pilates practices with a focus on Scoliosis. Melding Yoga, HIIT, Fusion Training, and Myofascial Release Techniques into her Pilates teaching, Jai customizes her programs for each individual client.

Originally from Virginia Beach, Jai moved back to the area with her family in 2015. When she is not teaching, Jai enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, paddle boarding, and having fun at the barn with the family horse.

Jai not only works with the active, healthy population, but also uses her education and expertise teaching Pilates to those with injuries or illnesses. If you’re recovering from joint replacements, have Scoliosis, or a cancer survivor, Jai will ensure your success by working directly with our Physical Therapists to tailor a program specific to your body’s needs.

Karen joined the Innovative Therapy & Wellness team in 2015. A lifelong fitness enthusiast and movement expert, Karen has dedicated the last 20 years to helping others achieve their fitness goals and keeping them doing the activities they love.

She enjoys working with people of all different ages and abilities. Karen has a deep understanding of how people are structured differently and tailors each workout to the individual allowing optimal progression.

Her education and experience enables her to work with a broad range of clients including those with injuries and special needs such as pre- and post-natal, osteoporosis, knee and hip replacements, arthritis, and chronic low back pain.

Karen is a certified personal trainer and has advanced training in Pilates and Yoga. She is currently pursuing her certification in Pilates reformer.

In her free time, Karen enjoys traveling and kayaking with her son and participates in cross fit to keep in shape.

Whether you are looking for post-rehab training or a killer workout, Karen is excited to help you achieve your goals.

Karen Dougherty

DeAnna Morton joined the Innovative Therapy team in 2017. As a Virginia Beach native, she attended Cox High School and graduated with a BS in Biology from Old Dominion University. She is an ACE-certified personal trainer and a Holistic Health Coach through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. Her other certifications include, TPI Golf Fitness Level 1, Schwinn, and TRX Suspension Training.

DeAnna began her journey in fitness at a young age when she was a devoted Gymnast and Cheerleader. Thereafter she developed a love for running and competed in a number of local organized races including the Shamrock ½ marathon. She spends her spare time and love of helping others volunteering for Jim White’s Community Fitness Foundation.

Being active and energetic comes natural to DeAnna and with her love and compassion for helping others it is no question why she has chosen a life of fitness and health as a career. She believes that through fitness, specific dieting, and having healthy relationships, one can truly live an exceptional life.