Doug received his physical therapy degree in 1985 from Northern Arizona University Flagstaff, Arizona. He introduced his services to The Marsh and the surrounding communities in 1994 as owner of Merz Physical Therapy. Developing a reputation as a therapist committed to helping each of his patients reach their wellness goals with his unique Wholistic, Doug uses this Wholistic to incorporate a variety of treatments and modalities including; osteopathic principles and techniques, mind-body techniques (such as Hannah's Somatics), Feldenkrais and Iyengar based yoga movement principles, to provide for a highly effective form of neuromuscular reeducation that works for a multitude injuries and movement problems. 

Besides a high degree of expertise in treating spinal disorders, Doug has special expertise and interest in treating the ankle/foot complex, and is an expert-level knowledge and expertise in aquatic therapy and functional strength training which he consistently utilizes in his treatment plans. Doug and his team of therapists have cultivated a wide network of physicians within their various specialties and complementary medical practitioners to augment the return to health when needed.

Pre-physical therapy experience includes a two year tour in rural Honduras with the Peace Corp five years working with The Menninger Foundation in a program for helping emotionally disturbed and neglected adolescents.