Apr 20 2017
Zabel, William (Ted)
Professional Goal Statement
It is my goal as a doctor of physical therapy to raise the standard of concussion management in military and athletic populations. I plan to establish myself as a well-respected civilian therapist in the military while developing programs for concussion management. I will continue my education and skill development in the areas of mild traumatic brain injury and functional movements. My long-term goal is to open a sport based clinic and consult for the military and athletic programs.
Career Plan
Years 1-5
- Sat for and Earned CSCS (December 28, 2016)
- Sit for Physical Therapy Board Exam (October 5, 2017)
- Work in a military outpatient position as a contracted civilian therapist specializing in concussion rehab and functional movement systems.
- Develop population specific concussion rehab protocols for military and athletic populations.
- Gain FMS Certification
- Gain Vestibular Certification
Years 5-10
- Transition to a sport specific position.
- Sport Medicine/Orthopedic Residency
- Gain SCS/OCS Certification
Years 10-20
After establishing myself in the professional community I would like to open a private practice and consult for the military and athletic programs.
Develop continuing education program focused on concussion rehab
Planned Continuing Education
- FMS Level 1 Certification (2018)
- FMS Level 2 Certification (2018)
- Vestibular Certification (2019)
- Sports/Ortho Residency (2022)
- SCS/OCS Certification (2022)
Self-Assessment
Strengths
- Extensive clinical education in the military setting
- Experience with concussion management and vestibular rehabilitation
- Proficiency in specific athletic/sport training program development
- Interpersonal communication and educational interventions
- Undergraduate education in business management/finance
Areas for Professional Development
- Experience with billing and reimbursement
- Expand knowledge of treatment methods in concussion management
- Manual Therapy Techniques
- Time management
Areas of Interest
- Sports Orthopedics
- Concussion Management
- Vestibular Rehabilitation
- Functional Movement Systems
Elective Coursework
PHYT 875 – Advanced Orthopedic Assessment and Intervention
PHYT 754 – Independent Research Experience (Prepared, sat for and earned CSCS)
PHYT 870 – Integrated Clinical Experience
Product Examples
- Advanced Orthopedic Assessment Final Paper: Shoulder Pathology In Overhead Athletes
- Clinically Appraised Topic: Primary Exertional Headache
- Assisting with PT Concussion/mTBI Clinical Practice Guidelines
Reflective Statement
The course work, clinical experiences and research experiences have afforded me the opportunity to pursue my passions while becoming a well rounded clinical practitioner. The core set of course work has prepared me to confidently step into any clinical setting with the knowledge and skill set to succeed. The elective course work allowed me to dive deep in my exploration of clinical topics that peak my interest. The clinical and research experience have given me the chance to apply the knowledge I have gained in settings similar to those I plan to practice in. As I begin my professional career I plan to use the skills I have acquired to continue my growth while seeking continuing education that will further expand my skill set and knowledge base. With all that being said, as I reflect, I am most grateful to have been on this journey with exceptional individuals who have inspired me to continuously work towards becoming the best clinician I can be.