Carissa Benjamin, DPT

Staff Physical Therapist and Clinical Instructor

Carissa’s physical therapy approach focuses on pain reduction, restoration of normal movement and improving overall function.  Central to her approach is an underlying respect for pain. She is adept at demystifying the pain process and creating effective strategies for the management and resolution of pain symptoms. She tailors her physical therapy treatment to the client’s personal needs, goals and physical presentation. Treatment typically consists of movement re-education and therapeutic exercise with an emphasis on self-care and client empowerment. She is particularly effective in the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions affecting the neck, shoulder, low back and hip.

Carissa pursued her undergraduate studies at the University of Florida, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Sport Science. In 2006, Carissa completed the Doctorate of Physical Therapy at the University of Montana. Her ongoing clinical interests and research include chronic pain and the movement system.

Carissa enjoys mountain biking, hiking and gardening in the warm season. In the winter, you can find her downhill skiing at Snowbowl and playing ice hockey at the local rink. 

Education

University of Montana Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program

University of Florida, Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Science

Graduate research with a focus on testing, function and exercise for the hip

Clinical research with a focus on chronic pain conditions (low back, CRPS)

Memberships

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)