Any Aspies in physical therapy?
Hi, I'm a recent graduate of a physical therapy program and during the tail end of my time in PT school I was diagnosed as having Aspergers. I'm pretty nervous to say the least; I'm still coming to grips with the diagnosis and figuring out what it all means for me, my family, my future, etc. I was hoping if anyone out there has some experience and would be willing to give some advice of stuff to look out for, or anything really related to being an Aspie and the PT working world. Any help would be really appreciated.
After four years of working as a physiotherapist, I was diagnosed with Aspergers. I love the movement analysis and problem solving of being a PT. There have been many aspects of this job that have been challenging. My first job was in orthopedics and I was unable to handle the multi-tasking needed and high volume demands. The noise & being around people all day really got to me. I would come home exhausted & over stimulated. Eventually, I have ended up in home health. It still comes with challenges such as phone calls, multi-tasking and some need of flexibility. I really enjoy working with the patients in this setting and the ability to make my own schedule really helps. I have been doing it a year and it keeps getting easier. I agree that it is nice working in geriatrics. Many of them have hearing issues & don't mind as much if I talk too loud at times. I especially enjoy working with neurological conditions and taking on the more challenging cases. It is my hope one day to be fully independent and out from under the insurance mess. I do have issues having the same productivity as others. Movement & helping others is my passion so I often lose track of time & spend too long with patients. I also get too detailed on my notes which takes longer. I found that it has been best to take a 32 hr. position so then with the notes that no one wants to pay us for, I am working @40. That has been my experience so far working in this profession as an Aspie.
