Physical therapists in the field of inpatient rehabilitation play a vital role in helping patients regain mobility, independence and confidence after a serious illness, injury or surgery. Their role is all-encompassing, providing not only physical support to rebuild strength and movement but also emotional guidance to help patients navigate setbacks and celebrate milestones throughout their recovery. At Encompass Health, our physical therapists are essential in guiding patients toward greater independence, improving their quality of life on the road to recovery.

For Jessica Harrison, a senior physical therapist at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Katy, Texas, this mission has shaped every part of her professional journey. Jessica had a unique experience being able to not only join a team but also help build one. In 2019, she joined the Encompass Health Katy team as one of the hospital’s first therapists and began as an early-career physical therapist, bringing two years of experience with her. 

Since then, her growth has been remarkable. With support from leadership and access to continued learning opportunities, Harrison has earned several advanced certifications in brain injury treatment. She now serves as a senior physical therapist and certified preceptor, helping orient new physical therapists and supporting their transition into the field.

 “I feel like an individual, not just an employee number,” she said. “They truly want to see me grow as a clinician and encourage me to pursue the certifications that interest me the most. The leadership here is in alignment that caring for yourself helps you care better for your patients and that is the most important mindset to have as a leader in healthcare.”

A typical day for Jessica starts just before 8 a.m. with chart reviews and a quick morning huddle alongside the therapy team. From there, her day is filled with patient sessions-both one-on-one and group-based—followed by documentation, family updates and collaboration with her team. It’s a full schedule, but for her, it’s also deeply fulfilling.

As someone who started on her own journey as an entry-level physical therapist, Jessica knows firsthand that students and new graduates can thrive at Encompass Health. She’s already encouraged others to join—two of her former students are now full-time physical therapists at Encompass Health. 

“I encourage them to pursue a career here, especially as a new graduate, because we get the opportunity to work with patients with such a wide variety of diagnoses,” she said. “With every patient we’re able to learn and strengthen our clinical expertise.”

For those considering a career in inpatient rehabilitation, Jessica’s experience is a compelling reason to take a closer look. Explore our physical therapy roles in over 165+ hospitals nationwide and find a career close to home and heart.