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What is physical therapy?
Physical therapy (PT) is a movement science that restores, maintains, and promotes health through physical examination, diagnosis, treatment, health promotion, and patient education. Treatment can involve manual therapy or massage, assisted stretching, exercise and strength training, and many more therapeutic interventions, depending on the individual patient's needs. Physical therapy can also include more high-tech treatment modalities, such as ultrasound and Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS).
To learn more about PT, visit the American Physical Therapy Association's Choose PT website.
What conditions do physical therapists treat?
Physical therapists are movement experts who work with mechanical, physiological, and developmental impairments; functional limitations in movement; and limitations due to disability or other health and movement-related conditions. To see a list of conditions (which is certainly not exhaustive), visit the Services page.
Who can benefit from physical therapy?
Every body. We can't make any guarantees, but we believe that every body can benefit in some form from physical therapy and patient education. Doctors of Physical Therapy are trained to diagnose and design treatment plans to meet the needs of each patient, taking into account their past medical history and goals for the future. If we can't help you, we must refer you to someone who can, so we're a great place to start!
Are physical therapists licensed healthcare providers?
Yes, we are. In order to be licensed as a physical therapist, we are required to meet educational requirements from an accredited program, pass a national examination, meet state licensure board requirements, and report ongoing continuing education requirements to renew our licenses.
Washington State requires what is informally called a "license to touch," which limits the right to provide massage or touch therapy of any kind to certain state licensed professions, including but not limited to doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, nurses, and certain personal service providers within their authorized scope of practice (such as cosmetologists and hair stylists).
Many physical therapists earn clinical doctorates through accredited programs, which includes years of coursework, practical experience, and labs.
Isn't physical therapy just for serious injuries?
Many conditions, discomforts, aches, and pains can benefit from physical therapy, but did you know that PT is not just limited to pain and injury? PT can also help improve range of motion, help relieve neural tension and headaches, help you prepare for a surgery (prehab can shorten post-surgical recovery times), push you to a new personal record, and even help you strengthen the right muscles to walk the long, bumpy aisle at your child's farmhouse wedding.
Do I need to get a referral from a physician?
Most states in the U.S. now allow direct access to physical therapy without a physician's referral. That said, some insurance providers and worker's compensation claims may still require you to see your physician. Not sure what your requirements are? No problem! Schedule a free consultation with our office to sit down with a PT, discuss your limitations and goals, and ask any questions you might have about PT and your insurance!
How can physical therapy fit into my wellness team?
PT is an excellent supplement to your existing wellness team. We're not here to replace anyone in your regular routine. We bring our own skills and specializations to the team. If you are already seeing a chiropractor, massage therapist, acupuncturist, or any other licensed healthcare professional, we can collaborate with them to make sure we're not duplicating our efforts, so you can get the best possible care!
How often do I have to come back?
It depends on your custom treatment plan. Your PT may suggest visiting 3 times per week or checking in once every two weeks and anything in between. Ultimately, your treatment plan is created to work for you. If you would rather space your visits out, we're happy to do what we can to accommodate you and keep you informed about any implications for your insurance carrier.
Can I stop at any time?
YES. A resounding YES. If, for any reason, you wish to discontinue treatment, please let us know. Your consent to treatment is 100% revocable. Simply notify your practitioner or our front office. Please note, our Missed/Cancelled Appointment policy may apply to last-minute cancellations.
How do I book an appointment?
To book an appointment, click here. If you are a new patient, you will need to complete a brief registration form before you can see our available times and schedule your first appointment. Ready to jump right into a full treatment session? Choose an Available appointment type. Have a few questions first? That's okay! Book yourself a free 15-Minute Consultation to sit down with a PT and talk it out.
Why do you need to know my sex assigned at birth?
Some insurance companies require that we submit this information alongside your claims to help verify your identity. If we do not submit this information or if it does not match the information on file with your insurance provider, your claim may be denied or delayed. Thank you for understanding!
Why do you want to know my gender identity?
First, this question is 100% optional! If you do not wish to discuss or disclose this information, please feel free to leave the question unanswered. We ask about gender identity because we want to provide an inclusive, validating, and respectful experience for our patients. In designing your treatment plans, our practitioners can benefit from a deeper understanding of you, your experience, and your relationship with your body. This information is part of your private and protected personal health information. To learn more about our privacy practices, please review our Notice of Privacy Practices.
I don't see my insurance in the drop down menu. Do you accept it? If not, what options do I have?
We are currently in the process of becoming credentialed with several insurance providers, and we will be publishing a list of insurance providers that we are in-network with on our Services page as soon as those contracts are finalized. You may still be able to use out-of-network benefits and superbill reimbursement to help cover the costs of your therapy. Please contact your insurance provider to inquire about your out-of-network benefits.
Currently, we accept direct/cash payment at the time of service via cash, check, or card. We are also able to accept HSA/FSA payment.
Please Note: Your contract with your insurance carrier may prohibit you from paying cash for services that are typically covered, even if authorization for those services is denied or if Divergent is not in network with that insurance carrier. Please read your coverage with your insurer if you have any questions.
I need to cancel my appointment. What do I do?
Things happen. If you need to cancel your appointment, please call our office or cancel the appointment in your patient portal. Our Missed/Cancelled Appointment policy may apply.
Can I reschedule my appointment?
Absolutely! Please call our office or cancel and reschedule your appointment in your patient portal.
How do you protect my private information?
Great question. Please review our Notice of Privacy Practices.
What is the Patient Bill of Rights?
Our Patient Bill of Rights outlines our promises to our patients as well as our expectations for our patients while inside the clinic. Clear is kind. Click here to read the Patient Bill of Rights.
How do I get to your office?
Our office is located at 1433 N. State Street in downtown Bellingham. We are nestled between Worn Again Thrift and BBay Running. We just had our shiny, new sign installed above our windows, so keep an eye out for our sign, then look for the ramp on the right, and head straight through the door marked divergent.
Please be advised that the State Street Bridge is currently under construction. If you are approaching from the north on State Street, we would advise turning right on Ohio St., then taking a left onto Cornwall Ave. Follow the signs for the detour, taking a left on York St. and a right back on to State St.
Where should I park?
Metered street parking is available right outside on N. State St. Free parking can be found just one block up on Forest St, and free 2 Hour parking is available on Champion St. between State and Forest.
Is accessible parking available nearby?
There is one accessible parking space located behind our building in the alley; however, there is a slight incline from that location to our front office door. If you require any assistance, please give us a call, and we'll have someone ready to assist you.
What should I do if the front door is locked when I arrive?
We are a small office, and there may be times when no one is available to staff the front desk. As a result, we may lock the front door. If you are more than 10 minutes early for your scheduled appointment time, you may need to wait until 10 minutes prior to our appointment before we can let you inside.
This will not be a common occurrence, and we appreciate your understanding as we navigate opening a new business amidst the disruption of the pandemic.
Do I need to wear a mask to the clinic?
Yes. We ask our patients to please continue to wear masks when inside our clinic. Our staff are all fully vaccinated, and we are bound as healthcare practitioners to take measures to protect all of our patients. If you are unable to wear a mask, please contact our office to change your appointment to a Telehealth session.
Who painted your mural?
We're so glad you asked! Our mural - informally the "infinite flow grow glow" - was designed and painted by local artist Taj Williams (ZAPS). The concept was inspired by the infinite spectrum of neurodiversity, diversity, and endless possibility. We want our patients to grow and reach and strive for the best possible experience. Just like plants, people require tending and accommodation to sprout new growth. A little sun, a little water, a little kindness, a little encouragement, a little motivation, a little patience, a little push...whatever you need, that's what we're about.
I don't have childcare. Can I bring my child to my appointment?
Good question! Our office does not provide childcare services; however, we do offer an unsupervised, gated kid's corner that you are welcome to use during your appointment. The kid's corner features a comfy bean bag, desk, books, toys, and monthly arts & crafts projects. To see pictures of the kid's corner, visit the Our Location page.
Can I bring another adult to my appointment?
Absolutely! If you would feel most comfortable with someone else in the room during your treatment, you are welcome to bring them! If you plan to bring someone, please notify our office so we can have you complete a HIPAA Right of Access form before the appointment.
Please note: If you complete this form in our office, we will ask that the person accompanying you step outside while you complete the document to ensure that you are granting them access of your own free will. Thank you for understanding.
What is The Escape Pod?
The Escape Pod is our private sensory-friendly waiting room to give our patients a space to exist comfortably before their appointment. The space will feature flexible seating options, an interactive art wall, and more - all designed to help our patients take a minute (or fifteen) to get away before jumping into their sessions.
The space is currently closed and under construction as we comply with COVID-19 recommendations to limit patient time in the clinic. In the meantime, you can follow us on social media to participate in polls and questions to help us curate an enjoyable space for all!
What makes your clinic different?
Physical Therapy is all about customizing treatment plans to the unique needs of the patient, and, at Divergent, we are working to provide as many opportunities as possible for patients to curate their clinic environment in the same way! We are cognizant that every person interacts with their environment differently. For sensory-seeking and sensory-avoidant folks, we have several options to up-tune and down-tune your clinical experience to help you find your sweet spot!
Patients may choose an essential oil scent (peppermint, eucalyptus, or lavender), opt for full or dimmed lighting, select conversation preferences, and even choose music/noise preferences for the in-room portion of the treatment. Sensitive to light? Not sure what to do with your eyes during manual treatment? We provide sanitized sunglasses or green-tinted migraine glasses for patients to wear during a session requested. Uncomfortable laying still for massage? The treatment table includes tactile feedback strips on the sides as well as a fidget device located near the headrest.
We're trying here, but we know we can't have possibly thought of everything, so if you have a special request, please let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Do you sell equipment?
At this time, we do not sell equipment. Since we have absolutely zero financial incentive to recommend equipment, we're happy to give suggestions for assistive devices and at-home equipment to help facilitate your care.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive no more than 10 minutes prior to your appointment as we limit patient time in the clinic due to COVID-19. When it is safe to do so, this policy will be modified.
If you have completed your intake paperwork in your patient portal, your check-in process will be quick (just a temperature check and payment of your co-pay or full payment for self-pay patients). If you need to complete your paperwork in person or update your information, please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time.
What should I wear?
You will get the most out of your session if you wear comfortable, stretchy clothing. For manual therapy or massage, for example, your practitioner may need to roll up your pant leg to reach your calf. Some treatment plans may include guided exercises and assisted stretching, so please plan to wear clothing that does not restrict your movement. There is a large private bathroom that you are welcome to use to change.
Will my appointment be private?
All appointments will begin in a private treatment room. Some of our gym equipment can only be used in the gym space, so your physical therapist may suggest moving to the semi-private gym space to perform certain exercises or stretches. If you are uncomfortable using the semi-private gym space, please let your practitioner know.
Do I need sneakers/tennis shoes?
Not necessarily. While we do recommend closed-toe shoes, particularly in our gym space, we can work with your preferred footwear. If we teach you how to do your at-home exercises in sneakers that you will never wear at home, then we're not being realistic with our treatment plan.
Will I get sweaty?
It depends on your treatment plan, which depends on your goals. If you do get sweaty during your session, we offer a large private all-gender restroom with amenities that you can use to freshen up before heading back out into the world. If you have a special request for an amenity, please tell our front desk staff.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We currently accept cash, check, credit card, debit card, and HSA/FSA.
We are also able to accept insurance payments from select payors. To view an up-to-date list of accepted insurances, please visit our Services page.
I need to update my insurance information. What do I do?
Please contact our office as soon as possible to make sure that we have the correct information on file.
What is co-insurance?
Co-insurance may be part of your contract with your insurance carrier and is typically a set percentage of the billed cost of your appointment for which you, the patient, are responsible. Co-insurance is typically collected after your insurance provider has paid their portion of the cost.
Please make sure to review your insurance plan information and understand your co-insurance responsibility before your first appointment with us. If you have questions about how to find that information, or if you have questions about your patient statement, please call our office.
Why do I have to pay a co-pay?
Co-payments may be part of your contract with your insurance provider. If your plan includes a co-payment, we are required to collect it at the time of service. Failure to collect co-payments from patients at time of service could prevent us from being able to accept that insurance plan in the future. Please help us remain compliant by paying your co-pay before each appointment.
I am a cash/direct-payment patient. Can I purchase multiple sessions at once at a discounted rate?
Yes! We offer a 5-pack punch card that saves you $15 on each session. This discount is only available to patients who pre-pay for the punch card. To learn more, call our office.
Will I be required to do homework?
Your practitioner may provide you with suggested home exercises as part of your treatment plan. Patients who complete their home exercises often report seeing faster results, which can be helpful for patients who want to minimize the cost of their treatment or whose insurance only covers a certain number of visits per year.
That said, if you are unable or unwilling to do exercises at home for any reason, we will adapt your treatment plan to meet your needs. No shame. No insistence. Our team will meet you where you are.
Give us a call, send us an email, stop by our office, or DM us on Facebook or Instagram, and we'll be happy to answer your questions!
Please note: To protect the privacy of our patients, we do not discuss personal health information via Facebook or Instagram since we cannot be sure that it's you on the other end. If you have a question about your patient account, we ask that you please call our office. Thanks!
