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Top Physical Therapist Programs in Santa Rosa CA
Thinking about launching a career in physical therapy?
Finding the best Physical Therapist Programs in Santa Rosa CA can be overwhelming.
We’ve researched and compiled the top education options to kickstart your journey into this rewarding field.
From detailed program overviews to unique features, this guide helps you make an informed decision on your educational path.
Santa Rosa Junior College – Physical Therapy Program
The Physical Therapy program at Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) equips students with vital knowledge and skills needed for a career in physical therapy. This program is structured to prepare you for graduate programs and meets the prerequisites for admission.
Program Highlights
- Flexible Pathways: SRJC offers a traditional bachelor’s degree and a 3+3 curricular format for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree.
- Admission Requirements: High GPA, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, biology, physics, math, psychology, and English courses.
- Experience Value: Emphasizes volunteer experience, community involvement, and leadership skills.
Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) adds credibility. Graduates from SRJC often pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree or other specialized fellowships and clinical residencies.
Santa Rosa Junior College – Physical Therapy Preparation Guide
Santa Rosa Junior College offers a detailed guide to help you navigate the path to becoming a physical therapist. This guide is essential for fulfilling the educational and experiential requirements for entering a DPT program.
Key Components
- Degree Requirements: Typically, a DPT program requires a bachelor’s degree or a 3+3 curricular format.
- Common Prerequisites: Courses in anatomy, psychology, chemistry, and microbiology.
- Experience: Volunteer or paid patient care experience under a licensed physical therapist.
This preparatory guide is useful for meeting lower-division major preparation courses that transfer to CSU or UC systems, ensuring smooth transition and meeting prerequisites.
Santa Rosa Junior College – Kinesiology: Sports Medicine Preparation
The Kinesiology: Sports Medicine Preparation program at Santa Rosa Junior College offers an Associate of Arts degree for those interested in athletic training, physical therapy, and related fields.
Program Features
- Core Curriculum: Includes Introduction to Sports Medicine, specialized courses like Sports Medicine Lab, Lower Body Injuries, and Upper Body Injuries.
- Practical Experience: Observation hours applicable towards CAATE-accredited programs.
- Career Options: Graduates can pursue roles like physical therapy aides or personal trainers and continue education in bachelor’s or advanced degree programs.
The program emphasizes critical skills through early career exposure, applied anatomy knowledge, and professional development.
Mendocino College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Mendocino College offers a robust Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions under licensed Physical Therapists.
Essential Information
- Program Duration: Five semesters, concluding with an Associate in Science degree.
- Learning Format: Hybrid, with online and on-campus components.
- Clinical Practicum: Hands-on training in various healthcare facilities across counties.
Graduates must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam for licensure. With a focus on effective communication and ethical practice, the program ensures a well-rounded educational experience.
Spine & Sport Physical Therapy – General Physical Therapy Services
Spine & Sport Physical Therapy in Santa Rosa offers services for injury recovery and chronic condition management using a research-based approach.
Services Offered
- General Services: Therapeutic exercises, balance training, and specialized sports injury programs.
- Conditions Treated: Spinal stenosis, arthritis, and various injuries using state-of-the-art equipment.
- Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday from 8 AM to 5 PM, and Fridays from 7 AM to 4 PM.
Convenient scheduling and a multidisciplinary approach ensure their clients receive the care they need for efficient recovery.
Feel free to explore detailed program features and start your journey towards becoming a skilled and dedicated physical therapist today.
Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital – Outpatient Therapy Department
The Outpatient Therapy Department at Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital offers specialized treatment options for various injuries and conditions. Collaborating closely with physicians, they provide tailored therapies starting from the hospital or directly as an outpatient service.
Services They Offer
- Sports and Workplace Injuries: Personalized therapy plans for sports injuries and workplace-related injuries.
- Post-Orthopedic Surgeries: Rehabilitation for conditions like lumbar sprains and rotator cuff repairs.
- Neurological Conditions: Comprehensive neurorehabilitation for strokes, Parkinson’s, and other neurological disorders.
Their services include cognitive rehabilitation, joint mobilization, gait training, and vestibular rehabilitation. The department uses advanced equipment like elliptical trainers and LiteGait harnesses to support patients in achieving optimal recovery.
Santa Rosa Junior College – Health Careers Academy II
The Health Careers Academy II at Santa Rosa Junior College delves into advanced healthcare concepts, focusing on in-depth career exploration in medical fields such as nursing, dental, nutrition, public health, therapy, and rehabilitation.
Key Features
- Career Exploration: Deep dive into various health career options, including physical therapy.
- Professional Development: Guidance on building professional profiles and application materials.
- Course Requirements: Completion of introductory academy courses and concurrent enrollment.
- Job Readiness: Covers job descriptions, educational paths, and professional socialization.
The course prepares students for diverse healthcare fields, ensuring they are well-equipped to enter the job market or pursue further education.
Peltz and Associates Physical Therapy – Physical Therapy Program
Peltz and Associates Physical Therapy in Santa Rosa offers expert physical therapy services with a focus on manual therapy and comprehensive rehabilitation. Led by Dr. Aaron Peltz, a Board Certified Orthopaedic Specialist, the clinic provides specialized care in various therapeutic areas.
Main Services
- Manual Therapy: Advanced training in orthopedic manual therapy for the spine and joints.
- Vestibular Rehabilitation: Treatment for balance and dizziness issues.
- Pain Management: Tailored programs for effective pain management.
- Oncology Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation for cancer patients.
Their personalized treatment plans and advanced diagnostic techniques ensure thorough care. The clinic operates Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 6 PM, emphasizing their commitment to accessible and high-quality service.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Physical Therapist Program
Choosing the appropriate physical therapist program can be overwhelming. Here are some crucial factors to evaluate to ensure you make an informed decision:
- Curriculum: Ensure the program covers necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for physical therapy practice.
- Accreditation: Confirm the program is accredited, ensuring it meets high educational standards.
- Hands-On Training: Look for programs that offer clinical practicums or internships to gain real-world experience.
- Faculty Experience: Seasoned educators and practitioners can provide better guidance and mentorship.
- Program Duration: The length of the program should align with your career goals and priorities.
- Career Services: Programs offering support in career placement and readiness can ease your job search post-graduation.
- Location and Cost: Proximity to home and the financial implications of attending the program are practical considerations.
Evaluating these aspects can help you choose the program that best fits your needs and career aspirations.
Conclusion
The journey to becoming a physical therapist starts with choosing the right educational program. Santa Rosa, CA, offers excellent options through institutions like Santa Rosa Junior College and Mendocino College, as well as specialized services from clinics like Spine & Sport Physical Therapy and Peltz and Associates. By carefully considering factors like curriculum, accreditation, and hands-on training, you can find a program tailored to your aspirations in the physical therapy field.
Explore these programs to find your best fit and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in physical therapy.