Today we’d like to introduce you to Gilbert Tam.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I had first learned about the physical therapy profession in 2012, when I sat in on a presentation by a PT working with someone with Parkinson’s Disease. They were demonstrating alternate treatment interventions, at the time, for people with Parkinson’s, and one of those was boxing. It was the sound of the focus mitts that intrigued me, because it was a familiar sound. I have been practicing martial arts and kickboxing for many years, and learning that I can incorporate that into healthcare, that solidified my interests and goals to become a physical therapist. I did not begin PT school for several more years as I still had to finish prerequisite coursework, but during those years I had worked as an aide in a PT clinic and formed strong bonds with other aides and my PT mentors. They had learned about my interests in the profession and made sure to have me incorporate boxing drills with their patients with PD or just anyone who wanted to change the pace a little bit in their treatment.
When I had gotten into PT school at University of St. Augustine in 2018, I learned about a clinic that treated predominantly Parkinson’s, and I quickly started being involved with them and helping with their boxing classes. STARS Rehab became my first job out of school and full circle in my career. I loved what they did and they became the model of what I want my own practice to be. When I moved to Columbia in 2023, it felt like I had to become my own mentor, but it felt like I was ready to start practicing on my own. In late 2025, I opened Tao of Physical Therapy, and it is the embodiment of all of my best experiences in the profession. My primary passion is helping people with Parkinson’s, but I also hold certifications and extensive training in orthopedic manual physical therapy and enjoy working with all physical therapy needs.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I feel that the road was smoother for me than it was for others. I credit my business coach for guiding me through the process and helping me form my vision. If weren’t for her, I definitely would not know where to begin and where to go. Business management is not something that is taught in PT school. I am still learning as I go, however I am having a lot of fun with it too. I believe that early coaching helped me manage my anxiety early on, and all that is left now is excitement.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Tao of Physical Therapy LLC?
My solo practice, Tao of Physical Therapy, is an Out-Of-Network physical therapy office. I started this practice because I believe there is a problem with access to care, and I felt like the culture of physical therapy needs to shift. I believe that my relationship with patients and clients should be with them, and not their insurance companies. Removing that barrier allows me to treat a patient holistically to the full extent of my abilities and utilize every tool that is helpful. Although I do not bill insurances, if patients have Out-Of-Network benefits, they can receive at least partial reimbursement, and I streamline that process with a form through my website. I offer hour-long, 1-on-1 sessions, and I keep an open line of communication with all my established clients to track progress and offer any insight in between sessions. I am certified in Dry Needling, strength and conditioning, and trained in Functional Manual Therapy through the Institute of Physical Art. I am also a Board Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist with experience treating a variety of neurological diagnoses and vestibular disorders. I am certified in PWR!Moves and LSVT BIG to help and educate people with Parkinson’s Disease.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success to me is simply being satisfied at the end of the day, or even the end of the hour, especially when applied to physical therapy sessions. Success does not mean perfection. I have learned that perfection is the enemy of success, because you will never achieve it. Good enough is great, as long as you are satisfied.
Pricing:
- Initial Evaluation (1 hour)- $175
- Follow Up (1 hour)- $150
- Dry Needling Only (30 min)- $65
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.taoofpt.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tao_of_pt
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Tao-of-Physical-Therapy-LLC/61583126422109/#
