Our Therapists

Karen Smith, PT, Cert. M.D.T.

Karen has owned and operated Central Coast Physical Therapy, Inc., since July 1995. Central Coast Physical Therapy is a private practice that provides outpatient orthopedic services to the community of Newport, OR.

Prior to opening this practice, Karen worked in an outpatient orthopedic private practice for six years.

Her previous experience as a registry therapist providing Physical Therapy services to a wide range of facilities in the Seattle metropolitan area and Alaska have made for a broad and diverse background. Her work experiences include hospital settings, skilled nursing facilities, industrial rehabilitation and home health. She was a licensed Physical Therapist assistant for four years before pursuing a degree as a Physical Therapist.

Professional Memberships include the Oregon Physical Therapy Association (OPTA), the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA including orthopedic and private practice sections), Oregon Physical Therapists in Private Practice (OPTIP), and the McKenzie Institute, USA.

Education includes a BS degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Washington in 1985 and an Associate of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Mt. Hood Community College in 1977.

Karen completed education and certification in the McKenzie Method of Diagnosis and Treatment in 2002.

Her continued pursuit of education lead her to New Zealand to attend the 10th International Conference of the McKenzie Institute in the spring {or fall, depending on which continent you are on}, of 2007. She had the pleasure of meeting Robin McKenzie and the privilege of an educational experience observing him treating patients in front of an audience.

Professional Membership Associations

• American Physical Therapy Association (APTA including orthopedic and private practice sections)
• Oregon Physical Therapy Association (OPTA)
• Oregon Physical Therapists in Private Practice (OPTIP)
• McKenzie Institute USA (MDT).