Physical Therapist Programs in Santa Ana CA

Do you want to become a physical therapist but don’t know where to start?

This article highlights the best Physical Therapist Programs in Santa Ana CA.

We’ve done the research to bring you top schools offering degrees and certifications in physical therapy.

Discover programs designed to equip you with the skills needed for a rewarding career in this growing healthcare field.

Santa Ana College – Occupational Therapy Assistant Program

Discover the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at Santa Ana College, an excellent option for those pursuing a career in physical therapy.

Santa Ana College offers an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant Program designed to give you a solid foundation in the necessary skills for entry-level positions. This program combines general education in biological, social, and behavioral sciences with specialized occupational therapy courses.

Key Features of the Program:

• Accreditation: Fully accredited, ensuring that the program meets professional standards.
• Diverse Curriculum: Includes both classroom instruction and online courses.
• Hands-on Training: Offers extensive fieldwork experiences totaling 16 weeks of Level II Fieldwork within 18 months post-didactic coursework.
• Certification Eligibility: Graduates are eligible to take the NBCOT national certification exam.

Please note that a felony conviction might affect your certification or state licensure eligibility. Detailed tuition and cost information is available on the college website.

This program provides a rigorous, well-rounded educational pathway for your career in occupational therapy.

MOTUS Specialists – Physical Therapy Program

Located in Santa Ana, MOTUS Specialists Physical Therapy is well-known for its expertise in sports rehabilitation and strength conditioning, catering to athletes at various performance levels.

The clinic’s standout attribute is the 4P Joint Approach which integrates:

• Cutting-Edge Technology: Uses state-of-the-art technology for effective treatments.
• Specialized Techniques: Employs unique methods tailored to individual needs.
• Comprehensive Services: Includes orthopedic rehabilitation, pain management, movement restoration, and more.
• Initial Evaluation: Conducts a detailed 60-minute movement analysis to customize your care plan.

The professional staff, which includes Board-Certified Clinical Specialists, focus on treating the root cause of injuries while educating patients on maintaining long-term health.

Key Benefits:

• Individualized Care: Each treatment plan is tailored specifically for you.
• Proactive Health Maintenance: Emphasizes sustainability in performance and injury prevention.

The clinic’s specifics on costs and operational hours are best obtained directly through their contact channels.

UP’s Pediatric Therapy – Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT)

For families seeking specialized therapy programs for children, UP’s Pediatric Therapy in Santa Ana offers a robust array of services.

One of their specialties is Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT), a vital technique for children with conditions like autism or developmental delays. This therapy helps the brain “rewire” itself, enabling improved movement and function.

Key Services Provided:

• Comprehensive Therapies: Includes physical, speech, occupational, and feeding therapy.
• Early Intervention: Offers proactive care beginning at an early stage.
• Family Support: Provides respite care and assistance for families.
• Qualified Staff: Runs with a team of experienced therapists and child development specialists.

Unique Advantages:

• Integrated Approach: All services are available under one roof.
• Expert Leadership: Directed by leading experts in child mental health and development.

As a nonprofit organization, UP’s Pediatric Therapy is deeply integrated into the community, relying on donations and offering various ways for you to get involved.

Scheduling and specific program details can be tailored through personalized consultations.

Stanbridge University – Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program

Stanbridge University offers a highly regarded Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

The program spans approximately 20-21 months and emphasizes hands-on training in therapeutic exercises and manual therapy, ensuring thorough preparatory education.

Key Highlights:

• Accredited Curriculum: Fully accredited and meets rigorous professional standards.
• Duration: Program can be completed in around 20-21 months.
• Hands-On Training: Provides extensive practical training opportunities.
• Certification Preparation: Prepares graduates for the National Physical Therapist Exam (NPTE) for PTAs.

This program is well-suited for those with backgrounds in kinesiology or sports medicine seeking an expedited route into the physical therapy field. Financial aid options are available, enhancing accessibility.

Choosing an accredited program like Stanbridge University can significantly boost your career prospects and potential earning.

Remember, as you evaluate various physical therapist programs in Santa Ana, CA, consider the unique aspects and benefits each program offers to determine the best fit for your goals and needs.

West Coast University – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

West Coast University offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program that stands out in Santa Ana, CA. This program is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree and have completed prerequisite courses.

Key Features:

• Extensive Curriculum: The program includes 133 credit hours spread over 9 trimesters, covering foundation sciences, clinical skills, and advanced physical therapy research.
• Elective Options: Students can choose electives in areas such as orthopedics and neuromuscular therapy, allowing for specialization.
• Expert Faculty: Faculty members have expertise in healthcare policy, geriatric rehabilitation, and more, providing comprehensive instruction and mentorship.
• Certification Preparation: The program is structured to prepare graduates for licensure exams and successful careers in physical therapy.

Costs and Commitments:

• Tuition Fees: Total tuition amounts to $117,306, in addition to costs for books and other materials.
• Duration: The entire program spans over 9 trimesters, making it a time-intensive but valuable investment in your career.

The program’s diverse curriculum and expert faculty make it a robust choice for those committed to becoming leaders in the field of physical therapy.

SpineZone Physical Therapy – Santa Ana

SpineZone Physical Therapy in Santa Ana focuses on non-surgical treatments for back and neck pain. The clinic integrates current clinical research with professional expertise to deliver effective spinal care.

Key Services:

• Holistic Treatment: Includes care from nutritionists, mindfulness counselors, and sleep specialists to address all aspects of spinal health.
• High Success Rates: Achieves an average 60% reduction in pain, based on treating over 100,000 patients.
• Convenient Access: No referral needed, simplifying access to their state-of-the-art facility located at 2700 N Main St Suite 150.
• Operational Hours: Open Monday-Thursday from 7am-7pm and Friday from 7am-5:30pm.

Their approach ensures comprehensive care and improved quality of life for those dealing with spinal issues.

What to Consider When Choosing a Physical Therapist Program

Selecting the right physical therapist program involves several important factors. Here’s what you need to consider to ensure you make the best choice:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by reputable bodies such as CAPTE. This ensures the program meets professional and educational standards.
2. Comprehensive Curriculum: Look for programs covering essential topics like anatomy, physiology, therapeutic exercises, and clinical practice.
3. Hands-On Training: Evaluate the opportunities for clinical training and fieldwork, which are crucial for practical experience.
4. Location: Consider the proximity of the program to your home or desired work locations to avoid unnecessary travel.
5. Cost and Financial Aid: Assess the total costs, including tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. Check for available financial aid options.
6. Success Rates: Look into graduation rates, job placement statistics, and licensure exam pass rates to gauge the program’s effectiveness.
7. Career Support: Check if the program offers career services, such as internships or job placement assistance, which are beneficial for kickstarting your career.

Evaluating these factors will help ensure you choose a program that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances.

Conclusion: Start Your Physical Therapy Career in Santa Ana

Santa Ana offers numerous opportunities for aspiring physical therapists. With a variety of programs tailored to different needs and backgrounds, you can find the perfect fit. Whether you choose Santa Ana College, MOTUS Specialists, UP’s Pediatric Therapy, Stanbridge University, West Coast University, or SpineZone Physical Therapy, each program is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your physical therapy career.

Explore these options, evaluate your priorities, and take the next step towards becoming a skilled and successful physical therapist in Santa Ana, CA.