Gaela Leatherman, PT, DPT
Clinic Manager-RehabVisions (McAlester, OK)

Clinical Rotation: Dallam Hartley Counties Hospital District in Dalhart, Texas
Clinical Instructor: Stephanie Foust, PT, DPT
Education: Hardin-Simmons University, Abilene, Texas – Undergraduate (2011) and Doctor of Physical Therapy (2013)

What made you choose RehabVisions for your clinical experience?

The Dalhart location really stood out because it offered such a great mix of experiences—outpatient, inpatient, swing bed, SNF, home health and schools—all in one spot.

I knew I’d get to see and do a little bit of everything. Plus, it was close to family and offered student housing, which made things a lot easier.

Why did you decide to come back and work for RehabVisions after graduation?

As graduation got closer, I wasn’t sure which setting I wanted to land in as a new grad. Dalhart gave me the chance to keep learning in a variety of areas without having to pick just one.

I also really liked that RehabVisions is led by therapists who understand what we do—not just businesspeople. That meant a lot to me.

What do you enjoy most about working with RehabVisions?

I feel so lucky to work with the team at our McAlester clinic—they’re wonderful. The support from Talent, HR, Marketing and Operations at the home office is always there when I need it.

I also love having such a big network of RehabVisions therapists. No matter what kind of question comes up, there’s always someone willing to help.

What advice would you give students thinking about a career with RehabVisions?

Reach out and ask questions! If someone in your clinic doesn’t know something, chances are another RehabVisions therapist does.

There’s so much knowledge within the company, and people are always happy to share. It’s such a great environment for new grads to keep growing.

Do you have a favorite memory from your student or early career days?

One thing that really stuck with me early on was how personal and involved leadership was.

I remember when Bill (Mannewitz, PT and COO) and Steve (Kinkead, SLP & Former Director of Operations) came down for a visit—they made me feel seen and appreciated, not just another name on the list. That kind of genuine connection has always stayed with me.

RehabVisions invests in its people and creates opportunities for growth across every stage of a therapist’s career.

If you know a student, recent graduate or experienced clinician who would thrive in our culture, reach out to your Operations Director or our Talent Acquisition Team. We’d love to connect and share what makes RehabVisions such a great place to grow