Patrick Esmonde, MSE Principal Co-founder
Patrick brings extensive expertise in data analytics, digital workflows, and healthcare technology. He holds degrees from Drexel University and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and has served in various Information Systems leadership roles for over a decade. As the CEO of Vestibular First, Patrick has applied his proficiency in technology and healthcare. As an adjunct assistant professor at Villanova’s School of Business, Patrick taught knowledge of IT strategy and data analytics.
Dr. Helena Esmonde, PT, DPT, NCS Co-founder
Helena is an expert in neurologic, balance, and vestibular conditions. Helena graduated Cum Laude from Marquette University’s Doctoral Physical Therapy program and has been a key figure in developing vestibular programs in healthcare settings. In her role as Chief Clinical Officer of Vestibular First, she further enhances her commitment to advancing care-seeker care. Helena is certified as a Neurologic Clinical Specialist (NCS) and has received Vestibular Competency certification from Emory University. Beyond her clinical work, Helena is dedicated to education and community engagement, often volunteering at local races.
MSc Jos Huijnen MBA Clinical & Technical Advisor
Jos is an expert in audiology and digital health innovation, and with decades of experience in clinical and technical leadership roles. Jos holds degrees in Applied Physics and Business Administration and was in the Netherlands certified as a Medical Physicist – Audiologist. He combines scientific rigor with strategic vision. Jos has played a key role in developing evidence-based, machine learning–driven tools to support clinical decision-making for dizzy patients. He has built quality systems, guided product development, and led collaborative research efforts—always focused on improving diagnostic accuracy and patient care in audiology and balance healthcare.
Dr. Susan Whitney, PT, DPT, PhD, NCS, ATC, FAPTA Clinical Advisor
Dr. Susan L. Whitney is a teacher and researcher at the University of Pittsburgh, where she works in both the Physical Therapy and Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) departments. She studies balance problems and brain injuries and is working with the U.S. Department of Defense to create new tools to help people who feel dizzy or have trouble with balance. Dr. Whitney has written over 200 science articles to help doctors and physical therapists better understand and treat balance and dizziness problems. She has won national and international awards for her work, including special honors from the American Physical Therapy Association and a group of doctors from around the world who study balance and dizziness.
Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT, DPT Clinical Advisor
Danielle Tolman, PT, DPT, is a vestibular and neurologic physical therapist dedicated to patient-centered care, with over a decade of experience treating individuals with dizziness, balance disorders, and headaches. She currently practices full time in the clinic in Statesboro, GA, as well as part-time with patients via telehealth through Balancing Act Rehabilitation. Danielle is also the co-host of the popular podcast Talk Dizzy to Me, where she educates both patients and clinicians on complex vestibular conditions through expert interviews and accessible easy-to-listen-to discussions. Her passion lies within her specialization in the examination and rehabilitation of vestibular dysfunction. Her commitment to making vestibular care more accessible and effective is evidence of her dedication to empowering patients and improving treatment outcomes.