404: Dr. Matthew Villegas, PT, DPT: Overcoming Anxiety in PT School

On this episode of the Healthy Wealthy and Smart Podcast, Jenna Kantor, DPT guest hosts and interviews Matthew Villegas on how to deal with anxiety in physical therapy school. Matthew Villegas’ goal, as someone born with a brachial plexus injury (trauma to the bundle of nerves near the shoulder blade and collar bone), is to help others with brachial plexus injuries live life to their fullest and dare to run and compete in crossfit through his skills as a Physical Therapist.

In this episode, we discuss:

-How anxiety manifested itself in Matthew’s DPT experience

-Matthew’s tips on how to tackle the challenges of a DPT program

-What pre-PT students should do before going to PT school

-And so much more!

 

Memorable Quotes from this episode: 

 

“Give everything it’s due time and not necessarily focus too much on one thing.”

 

“Live through the moment and let whatever happens, happen.”

 

“The staff, the faculty are there for you and do want to see you succeed.”

 

For more information on Matthew:

My name is Matthew Villegas. My goal as someone born with a brachial plexus injury (trauma to the bundle of nerves near the shoulder blade and collar bone) is to help others with brachial plexus injuries live life to their fullest and dare to run and compete in crossfit through my skills as a Physical Therapist. I host the Capable Body Podcast (available on iTunes, Google Play, and Stitcher), which aims to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and real people with real stories. Also, the podcast features an active Facebook community that is a safe space where I share more means to connect with my guests as well as some behind-the-scenes extras.

 

For more information on Jenna:

Jenna Kantor (co-founder) is a bubbly and energetic girl who was born and raised in Petaluma, California. Growing up, she trained and performed ballet throughout the United States. After earning a BA in Dance and Drama at the University of California, Irvine, she worked professionally in musical theatre for 15+ years with tours, regional theatres, & overseas (www.jennakantor.com) until she found herself ready to move onto a new chapter in her life – a career in Physical Therapy. Jenna is currently in her 3rd year at Columbia University’s Physical Therapy Program. She is also a co-founder of the podcast, “Physiotherapy Performance Perspectives,” has an evidence-based monthly youtube series titled “Injury Prevention for Dancers,” is a NY SSIG Co-Founder, NYPTA Student Conclave 2017 Development Team, works with the NYPTA Greater New York Legislative Task Force and is the NYPTA Public Policy Committee Student Liaison. Jenna aspires to be a physical therapist for amateur and professional performers to help ensure long, healthy careers. To learn more, please check out her website: www.jennafkantor.wixsite.com/jkpt

Resources discussed on this show:

Matthew Villegas Website

Matthew Villegas Facebook

 

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Have a great week and stay Healthy Wealthy and Smart!

 

Xo Karen