Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants are trained to restore movement and function in others, yet the profession’s best caregivers are often running on empty themselves. Between productivity pressures, documentation demands, and the emotional toll of patient care, chronic stress and burnout have become defining challenges within the field. As the OPTA celebrates 75 years of progress, it is the perfect moment to consider how we sustain the progress of those doing the work. In this engaging session, Hannah Brandt, PT, DPT, CPT, IFNCP, and Casey Matthews, PT, DPT, NCS, CPT, present a science-driven, actionable approach to improving practitioner resilience, energy, and work-life balance. Drawing from research in neurophysiology, behavioral science, and lifestyle medicine, they explore how clinicians can integrate movement, nutrition, mindset, and recovery strategies to sustain both professional performance and personal well-being. Attendees will understand how lifestyle habits influence cognitive clarity and energy and learn how to build individualized frameworks for realistic self-care. Through humor, storytelling, and interactive reflection, participants will identify opportunities for immediate improvement and leave with implementable tools that strengthen focus, satisfaction, and longevity in practice. This session merges academic rigor with human connection, empowering PTs and PTAs to care for themselves with the same precision and evidence they use to care for others.

Upon completing this course, the learner will –

• Describe the physiological and psychological factors contributing to stress and burnout in physical therapists.
• Apply evidence-based strategies in movement, nutrition, and mindset to enhance energy and resilience.
• Identify practical techniques to improve work-life balance and professional satisfaction.
• Implement an individualized framework for sustainable well-being and performance longevity.