​​The 3 Things We Look for When Hiring a Physical Therapist (and Why They Matter to You as a Patient)

At Arizona Performance Institute, we know that great care starts with a great team. When we hire a new physical therapist, we’re not just scanning resumes and licenses, we’re looking for people who elevate the patient experience from day one.

Here are the three biggest qualities we look for when hiring a PT, and why they directly impact your experience and your results.

1. Communication Skills

Strong communication is non-negotiable. We hire therapists who take the time to listen, explain, and collaborate with their patients. Whether it's walking you through a diagnosis, adjusting your plan, or simply making you feel heard, great communication sets the tone for trust and progress.

Why this matters for you: You’ll always know what to expect and why it matters. No guessing, no confusion, just clear, honest, effective guidance.

2. Critical Thinking

We never take a cookie-cutter approach to care, and we don’t want therapists who do. We look for professionals who can assess, adapt, and think on their feet. Your body, your goals, and your injury history are unique, and the plan to help you move and feel better should be just as customized.

Why this matters for you: You’ll get an approach that’s tailored to your needs and evolves with your progress, not one pulled from a standard playbook.

3. Motivation (for You and Themselves)

We want team members who bring energy, not just for their own work, but for yours too. Great PTs show up ready to push, challenge, and celebrate you through every phase of your journey. And we value therapists who are just as motivated to keep learning, improving, and growing in their own practice.

Why this matters for you: When your therapist is passionate and committed, it helps keep you consistent, confident, and focused on your goals.

Why It All Matters

We’ve built Arizona Performance Institute around results, and that starts with hiring the right people. Communication, critical thinking, and motivation are more than just buzzwords to us. They’re the foundation of how we treat, train, and care for every patient who walks through our doors.

If you’re looking for physical therapy that feels personal, thoughtful, and built around you, we’re ready when you are.

And if you’re a PT who checks these boxes, we’re always looking for the next great addition to our team!