STOP Googling "Physical Therapist Near Me" - Here's what to do instead.
- Jordan Schmidt
- Mar 29
- 4 min read
If you’re in pain or recovering from an injury, your first instinct might be to pull out your phone and search “physical therapist near me.” While this might give you a list of nearby clinics, it won’t necessarily help you find the best care or the best fit for you. Instead of picking a random name from Google, it’s important to understand what really matters when choosing a physical therapy provider.
Here’s some things you should consider when selecting a physical therapist—beyond just location.
1. The Patient Experience Matters
Not all physical therapy clinics provide the same level of care. Period. And I would like to clarify that when I say this, I am referring to both the actual treatment (manual therapy, exercises, modalities etc) AND the environment and culture they provide you. Your experience as a patient should be a top priority. A great clinic will not only provide amazing and effective treatments, but they will also make you feel welcomed, listened to, and cared for from the moment you walk in the door.
When researching clinics, look for patient reviews and testimonials. Do patients mention feeling rushed through appointments? Do they talk about positive experiences with their therapists? Do they talk about feeling welcomed or "at home"? Do they mention the environment? These insights can tell you a lot about the quality of care AND the experience you’ll receive.
One of the biggest concerns people have when seeking physical therapy is cost. While the price of treatment varies depending on your insurance and the clinic you choose, it’s important to ask about pricing upfront.
I previously wrote a blog detailing how some clinics, particularly hospital based clinics, typically charge you significantly more than private practices charge you. In many cases you can save at least 50% by seeking care from a private practice. By choosing a private practice you are likely to have a better patient experience, save money, have more flexibility, and have more convenient scheduling. You can read more about that HERE.
Additionally, some clinics offer transparent pricing and will work with you to maximize your insurance benefits. Others may offer cash-based options or payment plans to make treatment more affordable. The key is to avoid hidden fees and unexpected charges by asking questions before committing to a clinic.
3. The Importance of One-on-One Care
One of the biggest differences between physical therapy clinics is whether they offer individualized one-on-one care or if they treat multiple patients at the same time.
At some clinics, a therapist might have 2 or even 3 patients at the same time. Others may start your session but then pass you off to a technician or aide. Techs, aides, and other similar support staff (some companies have different names for them) are likely NOT licensed providers with appropriate training to provide proper treatments. This can lead to a less personalized experience, a higher chance of improper technique, and slower progress.
Choosing a clinic that offers dedicated one-on-one sessions with a licensed provider ensures that you get the most out of each appointment. You’ll have their full attention, allowing them to make real-time adjustments to your treatment plan and address your concerns immediately.
4. Availability: Can You Get an Appointment When You Need One?
Another major factor to consider is how quickly you can get an appointment. Some larger clinics like hospital systems have long wait times, meaning you could be waiting weeks for your first session. Chances are, you've probably put your injury off long enough, and now they want you to wait even longer to start addressing it?
When searching for a physical therapy provider, look for a clinic that offers flexible scheduling, that fit your lifestyle. The sooner you can begin treatment, the sooner you can start feeling better.
Additionally, ask about direct access. In many states, you don’t need a doctor’s referral to start physical therapy. This can save you time and help you get the care you need without unnecessary delays.
How to Choose the Right Physical Therapy Clinic
Instead of just Googling “physical therapist near me,” take the time to research your options. Here’s a simple checklist to guide you:
✔ Read patient reviews and testimonials to learn about real experiences.
✔ Ask about pricing and insurance options and compare to other clinics.
✔ Ensure you’ll receive one-on-one care with a licensed provider.
✔ Check appointment availability and how soon you can be seen.
✔ Look for clinics that offer direct access to therapy without a referral.
By focusing on these key factors, you’ll be able to find a physical therapy clinic that prioritizes your health, your recovery, and your experience—not just one that happens to be the closest to your location.
At Healthspan Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing exceptional care with one-on-one attention, licensed providers, and personalized treatment plans. If you’re ready to experience the difference, contact us today to schedule your first appointment!