April's Focus: Leadership
Leadership in private practice takes many forms — from guiding teams through change to mentoring the next generation of physical therapists and shaping the future of our profession. In April’s In Focus, we explore the perspectives, strategies, and experiences that define effective leadership today. Discover insights from practice owners and industry leaders who are navigating challenges, and fostering innovation. Whether you’re an emerging leader or a seasoned executive, build impact by empowering yourself.
Beyond the Treatment Table - Leadership
Beyond the Treatment Table: Leadership
April 23 | 1-2 pm Eastern | 10-11 am Pacific
Host: Stephanie Telibasa, PT, DPT,
Guests: Amy Lafko, MSPT, MBA
During this Beyond the Treatment Table, Amy Lafko will take us all through the transformation of the People First method based on her well-known keynote. This will be an engaging and interactive hour with peer to peer connection, along with time to ask our guest expert specifics related to your practice, your team, and your leadership style. Join us April 23rd at 1pm Eastern, cameras on, ready to participate!
This event is open to everyone so sign up today - and invite a friend!
Have a question? We are eager to address your concerns and make this live event valuable. Use the form below to submit any questions you'd like covered, and we will do our best to address as many as we can.
Virtual Lunch & Learn Mentorship - NEW!
Virtual Lunch & Learn Mentorship
April 14 | 1-3 pm Eastern | 10-12 am Pacific
This interactive event offers members the opportunity to connect one-on-one with experienced private practice leaders through focused 25-minute conversations.
Inspired by the strong response to mentoring at the 2026 APTA Combined Sections Meeting, this virtual format makes it easy to access practical insight, ask questions, and gain real-world perspective—no matter where you are. Participants can select a preferred mentor or be matched based on availability, with each session held in a private Zoom breakout room.
Click here to learn more and register.
On Demand
Unlocking Team Potential: Leveraging the DISC Profile for Stronger Communication and Performance in Your PT Practice
Presented by: Mike Osler, PT, DPT
Many private practices face challenges with team dynamics, engagement, and retention. This webinar on enhancing emotional intelligence will explore how the DISC Profile offers a powerful framework for understanding personality-driven behaviors and communication styles. Attendees will learn to recognize their own natural strengths and blind spots—as well as those of their teams. Leaders who adapt to different DISC styles will foster more effective communication, stronger teamwork, and a culture that attracts and retains top talent. Walk away with practical insights to boost performance, reduce stress, and build a more engaged team—leading to better patient care and business success.
Podcast Recommendations
- HBR Podcast: The Questions Leaders Need to Be Asking Themselves
- Profiles in Leadership by Steve Anderson
- A Bit of Optimism with Simon Sinek
- At the Table with Patrick Lencioni
- Maxwell Leadership Podcast Network
Other Resources
Leadership content is abundant and can be overwhelming. This specially curated list features resources that other PTs in business have found valuable for their leadership development.
Ted Talks
Blogs/Articles
- APTA Blog Post: "I Am Not a Leader: A Case of Mistaken Identity" by Nora "Beth" Collier, PT, DPT (Auburn, GA)
- APTA Magazine: The Benefits of Education Leadership Training
Self-Assessment
- Free Option: Take a quick and insightful DISC assessment at www.123test.com
- Paid Option ($30): For a more in-depth, 30-page report with detailed insights into how you see yourself, how others see you, and how you respond under pressure, you can complete the Maxwell Leadership Team DISC assessment. Access the assessment here and use the coupon code PPS30 to receive a discount.
- Paid Option ($60): The Clifton Strengths assessment is the same one featured in StrengthsFinder 2.0 and our other bestselling books.