Tess Dunn Earns Doctorate of Physical Therapy

Physical therapists are licensed healthcare providers and movement specialists that evaluate, diagnose, and treat a variety of health conditions in people of all ages and abilities. Physical therapy can improve your quality of life by helping to manage pain, recover from injury or illness, and restore function.

Since 2000, all physical therapists who graduate in the United States must complete a three-year post-graduate program to earn a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and pass a national exam to become licensed. Physical therapists who graduated before 2000 may have earned a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree.

All of the physical therapists at Physical Therapy Partners have extensive knowledge of evidence-based practices, differential diagnoses, and advances in care, along with clinical training and experience. PTs are expert front-line providers for assessing musculoskeletal impairments and can help streamline care by making appropriate referrals if further collaboration with doctors or other healthcare providers is indicated.

North Carolina is a direct access state which allows patients to see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral. *Certain insurance policies may require a doctor’s referral for continued treatment or have other restrictions. Physical therapy is proven to be effective, safe, and the best first option for many symptoms and conditions. At Physical Therapy Partners, we prioritize partnering with our patients to devise individualized treatment plans that are specific to your condition, lifestyle, and goals.

Congratulations to our very own Tess Dunn who recently earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy!