Physical Therapist Requirements for Irvine California
If you seek a physical therapist in Irvine, California, you want to make sure your therapy is provided by a credentialed and licensed therapist.
To practice as a physical therapist (PT) in California, individuals must meet specific educational, examination, and licensing requirements established by the Physical Therapy Board of California (PTBC). The physical therapists at Balanced Body Depot check all these boxes.
Educational and Licensing Requirements
Physical therapists Harold Manrique and Kristina Levine meet all educational and licensing requirements to operate as physical therapists in Irvine, Orange County, and the State of California.
Education
Prospective physical therapists must graduate from a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). These programs encompass both academic coursework and clinical internships, ensuring comprehensive training in the field.
Examinations
Before practicing, therapists must pass examinations that demonstrate competency in their field.
National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This standardized exam assesses the knowledge and skills essential for entry-level physical therapy practice.
California Law Examination (CLE). This state-specific jurisprudence exam evaluates the applicant's understanding of California's laws and regulations pertaining to physical therapy practice.
Application Process
In addition to passing exams and providing proof of completion of the DPT program, prospective therapists must undergo fingerprinting and pass a criminal background check.
Continuing Education Requirements
Once initially licensed, California physical therapists must complete continuing education to maintain their licensure. These continuing education requirements include:
Total Hours: 30 hours of continuing competency education every two years.
Mandatory Courses:
4 hours in Basic Life Support (BLS).
2 hours in Ethics, Laws, and Regulations.
Additional Coursework: An additional 24 hours is required by approved providers or activities.
Business License Requirements for Irvine Physical Therapists
The City of Irvine mandates that all commercial and residential businesses, including physical therapy practices, obtain and maintain an active business license before opening for business. This requirement applies whether the therapists operate from a commercial space or a home.
Verifying an Irvine Physical Therapist's Credentials
You can use several online tools to make sure the therapist you plan to see is licensed and in good standing in California. Use one of these tools:
PTBC License Verification: The Physical Therapy Board of California's license verification tool allows you to check the status of a PT's license, including any disciplinary actions.
DCA License Search: The California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) License Search provides real-time, primary source information on licensed professionals.
National Verification: For verification across states, the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) offers a license verification tool.
Additional Legal Requirements
In addition to the requirements above, physical therapists must follow other laws pertaining to their medical practice.
Professional Corporation Requirement
In California, licensed physical therapists must form a professional corporation to operate their practice. Forming an LLC is not permitted for physical therapy businesses in the state. This structure ensures compliance with state laws governing professional services.
Fictitious Business Name
If the name of the physical therapy practice does not include the name of the therapist, (as in the case of Balanced Body Physical Therapy), the practice must file a Fictitious Business Name statement with the office of the Orange County Clerk-Recorder.
Workers' Compensation Insurance
California requires all businesses with employees to carry worker’s compensation insurance. The office of a therapist is not exempt.
Meet Two Irvine Physical Therapists
The Irvine physical therapists at Balanced Body Depot meet all requirements to operate in Orange County and the State of California.
In addition, their continuing education work focuses on all aspects of well-being and innovative physical therapy techniques.
Harold Manrique, the founder, is called to help patients return to normal daily activities. His initial focus on working with athletes has expanded to incorporate people facing mobility issues, chronic pain, and a desire to restore lost vitality.
Kristin Levine faces her own chronic pain issues before discovering physical therapy. The relief she experienced inspired her to enter the field herself. Today, she is passionate about helping patients access their body’s ability to heal, get out of pain, and move better for much longer.
Schedule a consultation with either of these therapists today.
