Physical Therapist Programs in Concord CA

Do you aspire to become a physical therapist but are unsure where to start?

Concord, CA, offers some of the top programs to kickstart your career.

Discover the best Physical Therapist Programs in Concord, CA, that will prepare you for success in this rewarding field.

Explore detailed insights into their unique strengths and how they can help you achieve your professional goals.

John Muir Health – Physical Rehabilitation Program

John Muir Health Physical Rehabilitation Center in Concord, CA, offers a rich array of therapy services for both adults and children.

Key Services Include:

• Physical Therapy: Focuses on improving movement and reducing pain.
• Hand Therapy: Specializes in rehabilitating hand and upper limb injuries.
• Speech Therapy: Enhances communication skills and treats speech disorders.
• Neurological Therapy: Aims to improve quality of life for those with neurological conditions.

Practical Details:

• Availability: Outpatient services are available Monday through Friday, with expanded weekend hours beginning May 30, 2024.
• Accessibility: Offers in-person and video appointments.
• Insurance: Accepts various plans, but note some services may require prior authorization.
• Locations: Services are provided in Concord, Pleasant Hill, and Tice Valley, although the Tice Valley and Brentwood clinics will close on May 29, 2024.

Noteworthy Points:

John Muir Health excels through its collaborative approach with referring physicians, ensuring coordinated care for each patient. Their innovative, patient-centered services cater to different needs, making them a standout choice for those seeking physical therapist programs in Concord, CA.

Learn more about the John Muir Health Physical Rehabilitation Program.

Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts – Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program

The Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts in Concord, CA, offers a fast-paced Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program, designed to be completed in just 11 months.

Program Highlights:

• Curriculum: Combines classroom instruction, laboratory training, and hands-on clinical experiences.
• 1+1 Model: Allows students to complete General Education before advancing to technical training, reducing overall time spent.
• Admissions: Requires a minimum of 80 observation hours in a physical therapy facility, along with assessments and interviews.

Accreditation and Outcomes:

• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
• Examinations: Graduates are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy and California Law Exams.

Additional Support:

• Financial Aid: Available for eligible students to help manage the cost of education.
• Job Placement: Assistance provided to help graduates secure employment in the dynamic field of physical therapy.

Gurnick Academy’s program is an excellent choice for those looking to enter the field quickly and competently. With experienced faculty and comprehensive training, graduates are well-prepared to meet the increasing demand for skilled PTAs.

Explore the Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts PTA Program.

Concorde Career College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program

The Concorde Career College Physical Therapist Assistant program in Concord, CA, prepares students for a rewarding career in physical therapy.

Program Details:

• Duration: The program can be completed in as few as 20 months.
• Curriculum: Covers anatomy, therapeutic exercises, musculoskeletal rehabilitation, and pathology.

Hands-On Experience:

• Externships: In-depth training through real-world clinical rotations.
• Practical Application: Students work alongside physical therapists in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals and rehabilitation centers.

Market Demand:

• Job Opportunities: A projected 19% growth in demand for PTAs from 2022 to 2032 suggests strong job prospects.
• Preparation: Graduates are equipped to handle diverse patient needs and adapt to various therapeutic environments.

Financial Considerations:

• Cost and Aid: It’s essential to evaluate tuition costs and explore financial aid options to support your education.

Concorde Career College offers rigorous education and practical experience, ensuring students are career-ready upon graduation.

Discover more about the Concorde Career College PTA Program.

Unitek College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program

Located in Concord, CA, Unitek College provides a dynamic Physical Therapist Assistant Program aimed at equipping students with the skills needed for success in physical therapy.

Curriculum and Training:

• Credit Hours: The program includes 69 credit hours.
• Clinical Practice: Students gain practical experience through 680 clinical practice hours.
• Core Subjects: Courses include Introduction to Physical Therapy, Therapeutic Procedures, and Applied Neurology.

Accreditation:

• CAPTE: Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, ensuring high educational standards.

Career Preparation:

• Certification Exams: Prepares graduates for the PTA certification exams, a crucial step for licensure.
• Experienced Faculty: Learn from seasoned professionals providing mentorship and guidance.

Financial and Career Support:

• Financial Aid: Personalized counseling available to help manage education costs.
• Salary Potential: The average salary for PTAs is around $65,000 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, indicating strong earning potential.

Unitek College’s program is structured to provide thorough education and practical training, setting students on the path to a successful physical therapy career.

Learn more about the Unitek College PTA Program.

CSU East Bay – Physical Therapy Program

CSU East Bay offers a Master’s in Physical Therapy program that provides a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of physical therapy. This program is designed for students committed to making a substantial impact in the healthcare field.

Program Highlights:

• Duration: The program is structured to be completed in two years.
• Curriculum: It emphasizes hands-on experience and clinical practice alongside rigorous academic coursework.
• Accreditation: Recognized by the American Physical Therapy Association, ensuring adherence to high standards.
• Prerequisites: Requires completion of science and communication courses before entering the program.

Faculty and Learning Experience:

• Expert Faculty: You will be guided by experienced professionals dedicated to student success.
• Clinical Training: Mandatory clinical rotations offer practical experience in various healthcare settings.
• Research Opportunities: Engage in research projects to enhance your understanding of physical therapy practices.

Considerations:

• Competitive Admissions: The program’s selective nature means that only highly qualified applicants are admitted.
• Financial Investment: Understanding the financial commitment is crucial, with options for financial aid and scholarships available.

CSU East Bay’s program is meticulously designed to prepare students for a thriving career in physical therapy.

Discover more about the CSU East Bay Physical Therapy Program.

SOL – Concord – Physical Therapist Programs

SOL – Concord stands as a premier provider of physical therapy services in Concord, CA. Their programs are designed to aid patients in regaining mobility and enhancing athletic performance.

Services Offered:

• Athlete Development: Tailored programs to improve athletic performance.
• Balance Training: Techniques to enhance your stability and prevent falls.
• Dry Needling: Modern methods addressing musculoskeletal issues.
• Functional Strengthening: Exercises to improve everyday functional abilities.
• Gait Training: Assistance in improving walking patterns.

Treatment of Various Conditions:

• Ankle Pain: Targeted treatments to alleviate pain and improve function.
• Arthritis: Specialized programs to manage arthritis symptoms.
• Back Pain: Comprehensive approaches to reduce back pain.
• Chronic Pain: Techniques to manage and alleviate long-standing pain.
• Work-Related Injuries: Dedicated therapies for injuries sustained at work.

Unique Therapies:

• Active Release: Manual therapy for soft tissue injuries.
• AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill: Innovative treadmill for low-impact exercise.
• Manual Therapy: Hands-on treatment to improve mobility and reduce pain.
• Sports Medicine: Advanced care for sports-related injuries.

Accessibility:

• Virtual Visits: Options for remote consultations for your convenience.
• Individualized Care: Personalized treatment plans designed to meet specific rehabilitation goals.

SOL – Concord offers a patient-centered approach and comprehensive array of services, making them a top choice for anyone looking for physical therapist programs in Concord, CA.

Learn more about the SOL – Concord Physical Therapist Programs.

Samuel Merritt University – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program

Samuel Merritt University in Concord, CA, provides a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program that focuses on developing well-rounded, competent medical professionals.

Program Structure:

• Holistic Admissions: A comprehensive process that evaluates multiple facets of applicants’ profiles.
• Integrated Curriculum: Courses cover physical therapy practices, basic sciences, pharmacology, and medical management.

Clinical Exposure:

• Clinical Practice: Extensive hands-on clinical experiences across various settings.
• Diverse Populations: Prepare to treat a variety of patient demographics.

Faculty and Mentorship:

• Experienced Faculty: Learn under faculty who are experts in their field.
• Community Partnerships: Benefit from clinical partnerships that support practical learning experiences.

Graduates and Outcomes:

• Employment Rates: High rates of employment post-graduation.
• Licensure: Successful pass rates for certification exams.
• Financial Aid: Availability of resources and scholarships to support your education.

Samuel Merritt University ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the professional world as competent, compassionate physical therapists.

Explore the Samuel Merritt University DPT Program.

How to Choose the Best Physical Therapist Program

Choosing the right physical therapist program is a significant step towards your future career. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Accreditation:
   Ensure the program is accredited by recognized agencies like CAPTE. This guarantees that the program meets national educational standards.
2. Curriculum:
   Evaluate if the curriculum covers essential topics such as anatomy, therapeutic exercises, and clinical practices. A curriculum that integrates practical training will prepare you for real-world scenarios.
3. Clinical Experience:
   Practical experience is crucial in physical therapy training. Ensure that the program offers substantial hands-on clinical opportunities.
4. Faculty Expertise:
   Investigate the background and expertise of the faculty. High-quality instruction from seasoned professionals can significantly enhance your learning experience.
5. Job Placement Rates:
   Review the program’s job placement rates to assess the likelihood of finding employment post-graduation. High placement rates indicate robust industry connections and effective career support.
6. Financial Factors:
   Consider the cost of tuition and available financial aid options. Understanding the financial investment required is vital for managing your education expenditures.
7. Program Length and Prerequisites:
   Ensure the program’s duration and prerequisites align with your career goals and educational background. Some programs may have prerequisites that need to be completed before enrollment.
8. Facilities and Support Services:
   Look into the class sizes, facilities, and student support services available. A smaller class size allows for more personalized attention, while robust support services can enhance your learning experience.

Summary:

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a program that aligns with your career aspirations in physical therapy.

Conclusion

Choosing a physical therapist program in Concord, CA, involves weighing your options and considering factors like accreditation, curriculum, clinical experience, and financial aid. The programs offered by institutions such as John Muir Health, Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts, Concorde Career College, Unitek College, CSU East Bay, SOL – Concord, and Samuel Merritt University each provide unique benefits and opportunities.

Explore more about each program by visiting the provided links. This is your first step towards a fulfilling career in physical therapy.