Frequently Asked Questions

Physical therapy is a healthcare specialty that focuses on improving movement, function, and quality of life through the use of evidence-based techniques. It involves the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions related to musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiovascular health. Whether you're recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or looking to prevent future issues, physical therapy aims to restore function, promote healing, and enhance overall mobility. At WellnessPT, we use customized treatment plans, combining hands-on techniques, therapeutic exercises, and patient education to help you achieve your personal health and wellness goals.

If you’re uncertain about whether you need physical therapy, WellnessPT offers a comprehensive initial evaluation designed to assess your needs. We’ll discuss your goals, review your medical history, and perform an assessment to determine whether physical therapy is appropriate and beneficial for you.

Unfortunately, due to California state licensing requirements set by the PTBC, we can only provide physical therapy and preventative wellness services to clients located in California at the time of service. PTBC guidelines require California-licensed PTs to practice exclusively within the state, including telehealth services. If you’re temporarily in California, please contact us to discuss your eligibility for services during your stay.

For physical therapy services, residency means being physically present in California during each session. PTBC guidelines allow nonresidents to receive care as long as they are within the state at the time of each session. Contact us for guidance specific to your situation.

Yes, consistency is a priority at WellnessPT, and you will be paired with the same therapist throughout your treatment to ensure continuity of care.

Currently, our lead therapist is Matthew Dawson, PT, DPT, MA. We aim to expand our team in the future to meet the preferences of our patients.

In California, you may not need a referral to start physical therapy; however, some insurance plans may require it. Please check with your insurance provider or consult our team to verify any referral requirements.

We provide in-home services throughout San Diego County and telehealth services for California residents. For administrative matters, our business operates from a home office.

WellnessPT is structured for in-home and telehealth visits, bringing care to your doorstep or online. We currently do not have a physical office for in-person visits.

Since we operate primarily through in-home and telehealth visits, no designated parking or wheelchair access is necessary. Our services are provided directly in the comfort of your home or online for maximum accessibility.

At WellnessPT, the health and safety of our patients is our top priority. We follow strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure a safe environment during in-home visits and telehealth sessions. For in-home physical therapy, our COVID-19 safety measures include: Pre-Visit Screening: We screen both our therapists and patients for symptoms of COVID-19 and potential exposure before each visit. Protective Equipment: Our therapists wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks, during all in-home sessions. We kindly request that patients and household members also wear masks when possible. Sanitization: All equipment is thoroughly sanitized before and after each session. We also sanitize our hands frequently, and we encourage patients to do the same. Social Distancing: When possible, we maintain a safe distance during treatment and avoid unnecessary physical contact. Telehealth Option: For those who prefer virtual visits, we offer telehealth physical therapy as a convenient and safe alternative to in-person sessions. These protocols are continually updated to follow the latest public health guidelines. Our goal is to provide the highest level of care while minimizing risk for both patients and staff.

Telehealth physical therapy allows you to receive expert care from a licensed physical therapist remotely, using secure video conferencing technology. It’s a convenient option for those who prefer to stay at home or have busy schedules. During a telehealth session with WellnessPT, your therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation, much like an in-person visit. You’ll discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and goals, and your therapist will guide you through movements and tests to assess your condition. Based on this evaluation, a customized treatment plan will be developed, focusing on exercises, stretches, and education designed to help you manage pain, improve mobility, and regain function. Your therapist will demonstrate exercises and provide real-time feedback to ensure proper form and technique. You’ll also receive instructions for exercises to do between sessions, and your therapist will monitor your progress regularly. Telehealth PT is a highly effective option for many conditions and offers flexibility without sacrificing the quality of care.

You’ll need a stable internet connection, a device with a camera (like a laptop, tablet, or smartphone), and sufficient space for movement. Your therapist may recommend some basic exercise equipment, like resistance bands or weights, if needed.

If we experience a disconnection, we’ll reconnect promptly or reschedule the session as needed to ensure you receive a complete therapy experience. Additionally, at the end of your initial evaluation, we’ll establish an emergency plan that outlines specific steps to take in case of disconnection. This plan usually begins with a phone call to reestablish contact and ensure continuity of care.

Telehealth offers flexibility, convenience, and access to quality care without travel. Our telehealth model allows us to monitor your progress and guide your exercises safely and effectively within your home environment.

Telehealth sessions enable us to assess movement patterns, guide you through therapeutic exercises, and provide education on pain management and injury prevention. Research shows that telehealth physical therapy can be effective for a range of conditions when guided by licensed professionals.

Your telehealth physical therapy initial evaluation will include a detailed discussion of your health goals, a review of your medical history, and a physical assessment. Based on these insights, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan designed to help you achieve optimal wellness.

Each initial evaluation is approximately 45-minutes to allow for a thorough assessment. Follow-up visits are typically offered as 30-minute sessions based on your specific needs and treatment plan.

During an in-home physical therapy visit with WellnessPT, you can expect personalized care in the comfort of your own space. The session will begin with a thorough assessment of your condition, including a discussion of your medical history, symptoms, and specific goals. Based on this evaluation, your therapist will design a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. The session may include a combination of hands-on manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and patient education to help you manage pain, improve WellnessPT mobility, and restore function. Your therapist will also provide guidance on home exercises and strategies to optimize your recovery between visits. We bring all necessary equipment, so you don’t have to worry about preparation—just have a space ready where you feel comfortable moving. Our goal is to make physical therapy convenient and effective, ensuring you receive the same high-quality care you would in a clinic, without the hassle of travel.

Please bring a valid ID, insurance card (if applicable), and any relevant medical records or referral documents. Additionally, we may ask you to complete intake forms before the session to streamline the process.

Wear comfortable, flexible clothing that allows for movement, such as workout attire. For lower-body assessments, shorts are recommended, while tank tops are ideal for shoulder or upper-body evaluations.

Yes, WellnessPT Physical Therapy accepts select insurance plans, including Medicare and Blue Shield of CA. We are also working to expand our network to include additional insurers. To ensure a smooth process, we recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for physical therapy services. If you have specific questions regarding your plan or co-payments, please contact us directly, and we'll be happy to assist with verifying your benefits and explaining your payment options. For those without insurance or with limited coverage, we offer affordable self-pay rates and flexible payment plans.

We are currently in the process of credentialing with several major insurance providers. Please contact us directly for the most up-to-date list of accepted insurance plans.

Yes, patients are welcome to pay cash if they prefer. Our cash rates are listed on our website and provide flexibility for those without insurance or who choose not to use it.

Yes, HSA funds can typically be used to cover physical therapy sessions, whether you’re paying for in-person or telehealth visits.

Your insurance plan may require a co-pay, which is usually stated on your insurance card. We also recommend contacting your insurance provider or speaking with our billing team to verify any co-payment requirements.