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Meet The Optics Group

Trusted Michigan Optometrists

Our team of experienced optometrists combines a passion for clinical excellence with a warm, hometown approach, ensuring every member of your family feels heard, valued, and expertly cared for. From the Upper Peninsula to Central Michigan, we are your local partners in vision health.

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EXPERTISE CLOSE TO HOME

Meet Your Local Optometrists

At the heart of The Optics Group is a team of dedicated optometrists who proudly serve the communities they call home. Each brings a unique set of skills and a shared commitment to delivering thoughtful, personalized care for every patient.

Peter B. Tacia
Dr. Peter Tacia earned his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Michigan State University in 1985, followed by his Doctor of Optometry from the Michigan College of Optometry at Ferris...
Garrett Whitmore
Dr. Garrett Whitmore is a graduate of Alma High School and attended Alma College, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Health Science. He later earned both...
Jacob J. Zainea
Dr. Jacob Zainea grew up in Midland, Michigan. He attended Alma College, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Health Sciences. While at Alma, he played football for...
Kyle D. Lark
Dr. Kyle Lark grew up in Alma, Michigan, and graduated from Alma High School before attending Western Michigan University. While at Western Michigan, he played football and earned a Bachelor...
Megan Lark
Dr. Megan Lark was born and raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and graduated from Hackett Catholic Central High School. She attended Western Michigan University, where she was a member of the...
Laura Keller
Dr. Laura Keller was born and raised in Battle Creek, Michigan. She attended Michigan State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology. She received her...
Stephen Near
Dr. Stephen Near grew up in Shelby, Michigan. He attended Muskegon Community College before earning his Doctor of Optometry degree from Ferris State University in 1989. Dr. Near has practiced...
Shelby Alda
Dr. Shelby Alda grew up in East Tawas, Michigan, where she attended Tawas Area High School. She completed both her undergraduate and graduate studies at Ferris State University, earning a...
Lucia McElwain
Dr. Lucia McElwain grew up in Ontario, Canada. She attended Central Michigan University for her undergraduate education before earning her Doctor of Optometry degree from the Illinois College of Optometry....
Kelly Kesti
Dr. Kelly Kesti grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Copper Country, a region known for its strong communities and beautiful outdoor landscapes. She attended Michigan Technological University for her...
Alexandra Troyer (Couch)
Dr. Alexandra Troyer (formerly Dr. Couch) was born and raised in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. She attended Central Michigan University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in the honors...
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HELPING YOU SEE LIFE CLEARLY

The Advantage of a Network of Eye Care Professionals

Each of our offices is dedicated to maintaining a personal, hometown feel backed by a strong network of experienced optometrists. We work closely with trusted optometrists and ophthalmologists throughout our communities to ensure every patient receives thoughtful, comprehensive care. Through these partnerships, our patients have access to advanced management for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration, while our optometrists also provide specialized services, including myopia management and custom contact lens fittings. It’s a collaborative approach that brings together the depth of experience and expertise of an entire team, all focused on caring for you.

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EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

Whether it’s your child’s first exam or a specialized medical checkup, we are here to help. Join the thousands of Michigan families who trust their sight to The Optics Group. Reach out to the office nearest you to book an appointment with one of our optometrists.