Physical Therapist - New Graduate

Starting as a new graduate physical therapist in Garland, TX means entering a market with growing demand for rehabilitation services. This location offers diverse clinical settings and access to mentorship programs, which can accelerate your skill development and help you build a solid foundation for your physical therapy career.

Texas requires a valid state physical therapy license, but additional certifications like CPR and specialty training in inpatient or outpatient rehab can enhance your profile. Local employers often favor candidates who understand Texas healthcare regulations and can navigate patient care effectively within state guidelines.

New grads at Select Medical might initially struggle with clinical decision-making autonomy and managing complex caseloads. However, the structured clinical development program and mentorship help bridge this gap, enabling smoother adaptation to real-world patient care and regulatory compliance in a supportive environment.

Select Medical emphasizes a progressive clinical ladder and specialty exposure, which allows new graduates to pursue advanced certifications and leadership roles. Their focus on continuing education and debt repayment programs sets them apart, making it easier to grow professionally and financially in the competitive DFW market.

An $80,080 starting salary for new graduate physical therapists in Garland is competitive within the Dallas-Fort Worth metro. It typically exceeds the regional average entry-level pay, reflecting Select Medical’s commitment to attracting emerging talent with benefits and professional growth opportunities.

A new graduate PT at Select Medical manages patient evaluations, develops treatment plans, and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams. Daily duties also include maintaining compliance with state laws and participating in ongoing training, all within a patient-centered culture focused on rehabilitation excellence.

Select Medical’s position stands out due to its structured mentorship and clinical development program, which is designed to support new grads’ growth. Additionally, the integration of specialty programs and student debt repayment initiatives create a uniquely supportive environment for career advancement in Garland.

The DFW area shows steady demand for entry-level physical therapists, but competition can be intense due to many new grads entering the market. Employers like Select Medical offer mentorship and development programs that appeal to candidates seeking structured support during their career launch.

One frequent misconception is that new graduates immediately handle complex cases independently. In reality, roles at places like Select Medical provide close supervision and mentorship, ensuring gradual skill-building while fostering confidence in clinical judgment and patient care.

Select Medical typically expects candidates to have either full licensure or eligibility to obtain licensure in Texas at hire. They support new graduates through their transition, but holding or actively pursuing licensure is essential to comply with state regulations and practice standards.