Melisa Smith, PT, DPT | PCOM Georgia Faculty
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FACULTY DIRECTORY

MELISA SMITH, PT, DPT, EDD
Assistant Professor
Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Melisa Smith, PT, DPT
Department of Physical Therapy
melisasm@pcom.edu
470-387-7723
PCOM Georgia

Dr. Melisa Smith joined the PCOM Georgia faculty in November 2019, bringing a wealth of experience from her diverse roles in physical therapy and academia. Originally from Puerto Rico, Dr. Smith is deeply committed to diversifying the physical therapy profession to ensure equitable access to care for all communities. Dr. Smith has served as a former Assistant Director of Clinical Education and currently holds the position of Director of Curriculum and Learning. With over 30 years of clinical experience, Dr. Smith has practiced across the full continuum of physical therapy, including inpatient and outpatient pediatrics, acute care, sub-acute rehabilitation, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient neurological rehabilitation, wound care, skilled nursing, aquatic therapy, home health, and outpatient orthopedics. Since 2014, she has also contributed to academic programs in Texas and Georgia, blending her extensive clinical expertise with her commitment to education.

Education

  • Doctor of Education, Teaching and Learning Specialization, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (2024)
  • Doctor of Physical Therapy from Utica College (2012)
  • Post- Baccalaureate Certificate in Advanced Pediatric Physical Therapy from Texas Woman’s University (2012)
  • Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from St. Louis University (1995)

Courses

  • Medical Terminology
  • Physical Therapy Examination I
  • Physical Therapy Examination II
  • Clinical Interventions IV
  • Neuromuscular I Management
  • Neuromuscular II Management
  • Spanish for Physical Therapist 

Research

Dr. Smith's research interests include pediatric and neurology therapy interventions and outcomes, with a focus on improving patient care through evidence-based practices. Her work also explores clinical education models, shared decision-making in physical therapy, and addressing disparities in access to healthcare present in the United States.

Awards

Excellence in Research Award, University of St. Augustine for the Health Sciences, 2024

Memberships

  • American Council of Academic Physical Therapy
  • American Physical Therapy Association
  • Academy of Neurology Physical Therapy
  • Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy
  • Academy of Physical Therapy Education
  • Pediatric Focused Interest Network, APTA-GA
  • Physical Therapy Association of Georgia
  • Georgia Consortium of Clinical Education
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