Launch’s History
Introducing a New Era of Wellness
In the vibrant nexus of health and wellness, Launch Physical Therapy and Fitness Coaching emerges as a transformative force, where innovation and passion converge. Spearheaded by Dr. Elizabeth Wheeler, affectionately known as Dr. Liz, Launch's story transcends the typical narrative of business creation, embodying a journey fueled by dedication, expert knowledge, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Dr. Liz's pioneering efforts since 2007, breaking barriers in the male-dominated fields of professional sports and sports medicine, set the stage for a revolutionary approach to physical therapy and fitness coaching.
Her exceptional skills and dedication catapulted her from the baseball fields to the NFL, fostering collaborations with icons like Lindsey Vonn, Tom Brady, and Julio Jones, under the banner of leading brands such as Under Armour. It was through these dynamic interactions that the concept of Launch was conceived, with encouragement from luminaries including Billy Crystal. In March 2010, Dr. Liz harnessed her extensive expertise to create a venture aimed at making specialized care accessible to a broader audience.
Launch began in a modest 12 x 12 office within an Olympic bobsled training gym, a modest but significant foundation for what was to become a paradigm shift in orthopedic and fitness care. Discontent with the conventional model's limitations, including brief, impersonal sessions, Dr. Liz was driven to prioritize meaningful patient relationships and quality outcomes, leading to the development of a practice model that emphasized personalized care over traditional billing metrics.
By 2013, Launch had experienced considerable growth, reflecting Dr. Liz's deep-seated values and adaptability. The opening of its current location during the 2020 pandemic underscored the resilience and commitment to providing exceptional, individualized care amidst adversity. Launch distinguished itself with a cash-based model, debunking myths about costliness by demonstrating how such a framework can enhance therapeutic relationships and overall client savings, thereby redefining efficiency and effectiveness in healthcare delivery.
Committed to serving a wide demographic, Launch extends its services to all individuals, starting from age 4, irrespective of background or ability level. This inclusivity is a testament to Launch's mission to cultivate a healthier, more vibrant community through unparalleled physical therapy and fitness coaching.
Integral to its ethos, Launch has also initiated LaunchCARES, a non-profit branch dedicated to enriching lives across the greater Washington DC area by partnering with local non-profits. This initiative embodies the principles of community, wellness, self-confidence, and social skills enhancement, marking a significant stride toward making quality care accessible to underserved populations.
The foundation of Dr. Liz's success and the ethos of Launch is profoundly influenced by her education at an all-women's university, an experience celebrated by the art displayed in her office, honoring her as Alumni of the Year in 2023. This background has not only shaped her personal journey but also her leadership style, emphasizing the recruitment of a team that mirrors her vision and values. By assembling a group of highly seasoned professionals, Dr. Liz champions a leadership model that relies on the collective wisdom and empowerment of her team, significantly amplifying the impact of Launch.
Dr. Liz and her team's journey from Launch's modest inception to its stature as a leader in health and wellness encapsulates a narrative of vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Through innovative care models, a dedication to inclusivity, and a community-focused mission, Launch Physical Therapy and Fitness Coaching redefines the essence of care, proving that a personalized path to wellness is not only possible but profoundly impactful.
Empowering Wellness
Join us in a transformative journey to enhance lives. We're committed to fostering wellness, elevating performance, and nurturing generations of vibrant, active individuals - both in sports and everyday life.
Vision for Vibrant Health
We aspire to be a shining example of health and well-being, empowering people from all walks of life to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and enable everyone to realize their health and fitness aspirations, creating a world where well-being is boundless and everyone can flourish.
Our Team
Team Members
Dr. Elizabeth Wheeler
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Skilled, natural leader in the male-dominated field of Sports Medicine. Entrepreneur and owner/CEO of Launch Physical Therapy and Fitness Coaching. ... Read More
Dr. John Jowers
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Dr. Jowers is a board-certified sports medicine specialist. He is a specialist in a variety of musculoskeletal, neurologic, dermatologic, systemic, ... Read More
Dr. Aaron Rilling
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Dr. Rilling is a graduate from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. He employs the most current evidence and knowledge to ... Read More
David Hughes
Coach David is a result producing, experienced, and driven fitness coach with a proven ability to help his clients progress ... Read More
Giving Back
LaunchCARES Program
The Launch team isn’t just passionate about fitness and physical therapy; we're passionate about changing lives. LaunchCARES is a heartfelt initiative where we partner with local non-profits who share our passion for health and wellness. Together, we bring our services to underserved communities, building a stronger sense of community, nourishing total wellness, boosting self-confidence, and improving socialization skills rooted in wellness principles.
Testimonials
My kids absolutely LOVE heading to Launch. All three have gained confidence as well as skills they can use at home and in sports to augment their fitness. Each and every staff member ... Read More
Christine V.
Over 12 years in the NFL, I learned that my body was my business and you pay for a successful career with a long list of physical issues when you retire. Liz taught me how ... Read More
Ryan Kuekl, NFL 49ers, Redskins, Browns, NY Giants (1995-2007)
I strongly recommend Launch SP, led by Dr. Liz Wheeler Julich, known for her work with athletes and now focusing on seniors. Her team, including Dr. John Jowers, effectively treated my shoulder injury, ... Read More
Pat K.
Launch offers tailored physical therapy and strength training, not a typical gym. My coach Marc works with my disabilities, significantly improving my strength and overall mindset. The caring staff and uplifting atmosphere make ... Read More
Carol W.
Liz and her exceptional staff have been absolutely phenomenal. Their passion for success and relentless pursuit of helping athletes achieve their goals is what not only sets them apart but simply makes them ... Read More
Jean-Pierre van der Merwe, Goalie
Launch Physical Therapy
& Fitness Coaching Awards
Best of Rockville 2019
Best of Rockville 2020
Best of Rockville 2021
Best of Rockville 2022
Partner with Us
Interested in offering your patients and clients a broader range of effective treatment options? Launch is ready to help with our effective, personalized programs. Our approach means patients spend less time in treatment, and get healthier faster.
You have questions.
We have answers.
At Launch, we provide one-on-one sessions for a full hour. Our Physical Therapy team are some of the most sought-after and credentialed providers in the DC metro area and often achieve full pain resolution in only a handful of visits. You rarely need to be seen more than once per week. When you take into account the time saving of significantly fewer visits to our facility combined with much faster resolution of your pain, the out-of-pocket expense to our facility can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
- Neck pain/headaches
- Rotator cuff tears/tendinitis
- Post-operative rehab
- Pre-operative care
- Tennis and golfer’s elbow
- Tommy John surgery
- Low back/sacroiliac pain
- Sciatic pain
- “Runners knee” and ACL tears
- Whiplash
- Hip bursitis
- Labral tears of the shoulder and/or hip
- Foot/ankle pain
- Muscle strains and joint sprains
- Myofascial/chronic pain
- Fractures
- Chronic neurologic conditions such as Parkinsons and MS
- Nerve injuries
- Balance disorders and general deconditioning
We do not accept insurance. Launch has been a cash-based practice since it opened in 2010. We plan to remain true to our business model and ethical billing practices by not participating with insurance companies. What we do instead is provide you with an invoice to submit to your insurance company, so you can get the coverage you need while getting the care you need. We believe in private, one-on-one care and 1-hour treatment sessions.
Yes. If you have a PPO insurance plan, a large percentage of the cost of our services is typically reimbursed if you choose to submit the claims yourself. And if you have Medicare, your secondary insurance should pick up a good portion of the cost. The process is easy: we provide you with an invoice which you submit to your insurance company with a claim form, that is usually available from their website. While every insurance company is different, reimbursement typically takes 1-4 weeks after you submit your claims. We recommend contacting your insurance company before your initial visit and asking them about your out-of-network physical therapy benefits.
Please bring any medical imaging and reports (Xrays, MRIs, etc.). Wear loose fitting (preferably athletic) clothing that will allow us to easily access your injured body part. Each visit lasts for one hour. We have bathrooms with changing space if you need to change before/after work.
During this first visit, we will provide a comprehensive evaluation and initial treatment for your pain. We will explain why you are in pain and how long we think it will take for you to become pain-free.
No, you do not need a referral. In the state of Maryland, physical therapists have direct access, which means we can see you without a referral. Please note that your insurance company may still require a referral from a physician; so please check this if you plan to submit your receipts for reimbursement.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations within 24 hours will be charged for the session unless the appointment can be rescheduled within 7 days.
REFUNDS: All sales are final. No refunds given. Sessions expire 90 days after the activation date. Sessions are transferrable.
Like you, the staff at LaunchSP is a community of high performers. We understand the need to participate in your sport and remain active through an injury. We work with you to create a plan that will allow you to continue to train/play with an injury as long as we can ensure that you will not exacerbate your injury or do any structural damage.