Sarah Thompson, MPT - Physical Therapist
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Sarah Thompson is a licensed physical therapist with extensive experience working in rehabilitation centers that specialize in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Throughout her career, she has focused on building customized therapy plans that enhance mobility, improve motor coordination, and strengthen functional independence. Sarah is known for her patient, encouraging therapeutic style and her ability to adapt traditional physical therapy methods to match each patient’s cognitive and sensory needs. Her work reflects a strong commitment to helping individuals achieve meaningful physical progress in safe and supportive environments.
Sarah earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Florida, where she developed a foundational understanding of human movement, adaptive physiology, and motor development. She later completed her Master of Physical Therapy at the University of Southern California, one of the top programs in the country for rehabilitation sciences. During her graduate training, Sarah took part in clinical rotations focused on neurological and developmental therapy, giving her early hands-on experience with IDD populations. Her education shaped her dedication to evidence-based practice and individualized rehabilitation planning.
Sarah specializes in motor rehabilitation and adaptive physical therapy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her work includes designing customized exercise programs, improving balance and coordination, facilitating safe mobility, and reducing risks of injury or functional regression. She frequently incorporates sensory-aware therapeutic strategies to support patients with varying levels of cognitive functioning. Sarah also collaborates with behavioral therapists and occupational therapists to ensure comprehensive treatment plans. Her goal is to promote long-term mobility, enhance physical confidence, and support overall functional independence for every patient she serves.
For Sarah, working with individuals with IDD is grounded in the belief that physical activity is essential not only for health, but for emotional well-being and independence. She views movement as a form of empowerment, especially for patients who may face lifelong physical and cognitive challenges. Her commitment to the IDD field comes from seeing how consistent physical therapy can unlock new skills, reduce frustration, and help patients engage more fully in daily life. Sarah strives to create therapy experiences that are motivating, accessible, and tailored to each person’s unique abilities, reinforcing her philosophy that everyone deserves the opportunity to move with confidence.
Sarah is an active participant in programs at Gateway Counseling Center, where she contributes her expertise in adaptive physical therapy and supports the development of rehabilitation services for individuals with diverse needs. She strongly believes in the organization’s mission and values the center’s commitment to providing services to support persons with intellectual disabilities, which she considers essential for meaningful long-term growth. Sarah works closely with staff and families to integrate physical therapy into broader care plans, ensuring that each patient receives coordinated and accessible support. She has observed how Gateway’s structured programs help individuals enhance mobility, build confidence, and engage more fully in community life. For Sarah, contributing to these efforts is not just professional work—it is a way to help shape a supportive, inclusive environment where individuals with IDD can thrive.