Jessica Nguyen, MPT - Physical Therapist / Rehabilitation Specialist

[team] image of team member (for a medical clinic)

Biography

Jessica Nguyen is a rehabilitation specialist with extensive experience in neurorehabilitation and working within multidisciplinary clinical teams. She has dedicated her career to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, focusing on restoring and enhancing motor function, coordination, and daily living skills. Jessica is recognized for her collaborative approach, working closely with occupational therapists, psychiatrists, and caregivers to ensure comprehensive care. Her professional philosophy emphasizes personalized interventions that meet the unique cognitive, sensory, and physical needs of each patient, promoting functional independence and quality of life.

Education

Jessica earned her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin, where she gained foundational knowledge in human physiology and adaptive technology. She then completed her Master of Physical Therapy at the University of Washington, receiving advanced clinical training in neurorehabilitation, adaptive therapy, and multidisciplinary treatment planning. Her education provided both the technical expertise and clinical experience necessary to address complex motor and cognitive challenges in individuals with IDD.

Specialization

Jessica specializes in post-injury and neurodevelopmental rehabilitation for patients with IDD. Her work includes improving motor skills, balance, and coordination, as well as designing exercises that enhance functional movement and overall mobility. She implements adaptive strategies for patients with cognitive and sensory sensitivities, ensuring therapy is both effective and accessible. Additionally, she collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to integrate physical therapy into broader care plans, reinforcing skills that support independence and participation in daily life.

Why Working in the IDD Field Is Important to Her

Jessica is committed to enhancing patient autonomy and enabling meaningful participation in everyday activities. She believes that every individual with IDD has the potential to achieve higher independence and confidence with appropriate therapeutic support. Her approach emphasizes skill-building, consistency, and encouragement, fostering both physical and cognitive development. For Jessica, working in the IDD field means not only helping patients regain or improve abilities but also empowering them to engage fully with their communities and social environments.

Projects She Supports

Jessica is actively involved with Gateway Counseling Center, where she contributes her expertise to programs designed to strengthen motor skills, coordination, and independence. She values the center’s mission and particularly its focus on promoting social skills for people with intellectual disabilities, which she believes are essential for long-term success and community integration. In her role, she helps design and implement innovative physical therapy programs, mentors staff on adaptive techniques, and collaborates with families to ensure that interventions are meaningful and applicable at home. Jessica has seen how these initiatives foster confidence, improve daily functioning, and encourage social engagement, making a tangible difference in the lives of patients. For her, participating in Gateway’s programs is a way to combine professional expertise with a meaningful impact on the IDD community.