I went to Select Physical therapy last week. It was my first time ever going to physical therapy of any kind and I was going for a hypermobility assessment; going into it I had decided that I wasn't interested in anything other than that because I was sure my insurance wouldn't cover enough for it to be worth it and I also know it'd be a struggle to find time/energy to do any "homework" assigned to me. Plus it would be difficult to go to an appointment every week or two due to my schedule.
I had been told that I'd be seeing a woman but they made my appointment with a man, Zach, and I was in a panic spiral as I waited (and corrected paperwork - apparently their online paperwork system doesn't always transfer things properly) because I have really bad PTSD with men. My spouse, who comes with me to all medical appointments to help calm me down, said he'd try to figure it out and encouraged me to hang tight.
When Zach called us over, I told him I had been told that I'd be seeing a woman and that I have PTSD regarding men, especially being touched by men, so I was very nervous. He said we could reschedule if I preferred or that he didn't have to touch me if that worked for me. I really didn't want to schedule and he seemed willing to work with my trauma so I decided to give him a chance and I'm so glad that I did.
Zach was super respectful, professional, and thorough. He never touched me, as promised, and even went as far as to tell me if he needed to move around the small, private room and why he was moving. By the middle of the appointment, I felt myself relaxing because he did everything he could to make me comfortable and understand why I was there and he really listened well too.
I was given "homework" and I told Zach that I was unable to come back regularly but that I'd try to do the exercises. I didn't tell him this but I'd be willing to to come back in 6 or so months they help and I feel like they're not challenging anymore.
Genuinely, Zach made an experience that could've been scary and traumatic into an experience that was affirming and healing. I can't say enough good things about him. The high rating I've given my review is entirely because of how Zach handled my appointment and the level of dignity and respect he showed me.
Also, I was never misgendered by anyone in the office, which I really appreciate. So often I'll get misgendered in medical settings so that was nice. read more