Mikayla Stephens

Responsibilities

As a Physical Therapy Technician intern, I assisted licensed physical therapists with patient care by preparing treatment areas, cleaning and organizing equipment, and guiding patients through prescribed therapeutic exercises under supervision. I monitored patients during therapy sessions, documented treatment activities, maintained a safe and sanitary clinic environment, and ensured equipment was properly sanitized between patients. I also assisted with scheduling, patient check-in, and other administrative tasks while observing evaluations and treatment techniques to expand my clinical knowledge. Through this internship, I developed strong communication, teamwork, time management, and patient care skills while working in a fast-paced outpatient rehabilitation setting.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment during my internship was gaining the confidence to independently assist with patient care while supporting the physical therapists in a fast-paced outpatient clinic. As I became more comfortable, I was trusted to prepare treatment areas, guide patients through prescribed exercises under supervision, maintain accurate documentation, and ensure the clinic ran efficiently. Building rapport with patients and seeing their progress throughout therapy was especially rewarding. This experience strengthened my communication, adaptability, and teamwork skills while confirming my passion for helping others improve their mobility and quality of life.

Learning experience

One of the greatest lessons I learned during my internship was the importance of effective communication and teamwork in providing quality patient care. I also learned to be adaptable, as every patient has different needs and treatment goals. The experience taught me to be more confident in my abilities, ask questions when I needed guidance, and pay close attention to detail to ensure patient safety. Most importantly, I learned that building trust and encouraging patients throughout their rehabilitation can have a significant impact on their motivation and recovery. These lessons have strengthened my clinical skills and prepared me for a future career in healthcare.

What advice would you give?

My advice for future students is to take advantage of every opportunity to gain hands-on experience early. Ask questions, be willing to learn from your supervisors, and don't be afraid to make mistakes—they're part of the learning process. Build strong relationships with patients and your coworkers, stay organized, and be open to feedback. The experiences you gain during internships and clinical settings will help you grow professionally and give you a better understanding of your career goals.