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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) while working in private practice?

For physical therapists with federal student loan debt, PSLF eligibility is an important consideration. PSLF requires employment with a qualifying nonprofit or government employer—traditionally excluding private practice settings. Our employment model is structured as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that employs physical therapists who provide clinical services at partner private practices. Employment with the Foundation may meet one of the PSLF employer requirements. However, PSLF eligibility is complex and depends on many individual factors including loan type, repayment plan, employment status, and formal certification by the U.S. Department of Education. The Foundation cannot guarantee PSLF eligibility for any individual. We recommend consulting the Federal Student Aid office (StudentAid.gov) and submitting an Employer Certification Form to verify eligibility based on your specific situation.

What is the North State Physical Therapy Foundation?

We are a nonprofit organization—not a recruiting agency. Our mission is to strengthen the physical therapy community in the North State region of California. We connect motivated PTs with independent private practices that prioritize quality care and professional autonomy. We act as your advocate and guide, helping you find a career and community where you can thrive.

Do you charge fees for your services?

No. Our support for physical therapists is completely free. We are funded to support workforce development and community health. Our goal is to bring skilled providers to our region, not to profit from your job search.

What kind of clinics do you partner with?

We partner exclusively with independent private practices. We do not recruit for hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, or home health agencies. Our partner clinics are selected because they offer professional autonomy, mentorship, and a supportive culture that values clinical judgment over productivity quotas.

Do you work with physical therapist assistants (PTAs) as well?

Yes. We support both physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. PTAs play a vital role in patient care, and we connect qualified PTAs with practices that value their expertise and offer strong mentorship and professional development opportunities.

What geographic areas do you serve?

We serve the "North State" region of California, with Chico as our central hub. Currently, our network extends through Butte, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Tehama, and Trinity counties. As we grow, our vision is to serve the entire North State—from Sacramento to Oregon, and from the coast to Nevada. Whether you prefer a university town, the foothills, or the mountains, we can help you find the right community.

I'm a new grad. Is this program right for me?

Absolutely. A major focus of ours is helping early-career PTs transition successfully into practice. We look for clinics that offer genuine mentorship and support, so you're not just thrown a full caseload on day one. We are also developing an Orthopedic Residency program to further support clinical excellence.

Do you offer relocation assistance?

We provide "concierge-level" support for your move. While financial relocation assistance is determined on a case-by-case basis by the hiring clinic, the Foundation provides the local knowledge, connections, and logistical guidance to make your transition smooth. We help you understand neighborhoods, schools, and the local culture before you arrive.

Why should I consider the North State over a major metro area?

It comes down to professional autonomy and quality of life. Here, you can afford to buy a home, your commute is measured in minutes, and you have immediate access to world-class outdoor recreation. Professionally, you are not just a cog in a large health system; you are a valued member of a close-knit medical community where your skills truly make a difference.

What about environmental factors like wildfires or heat?

The North State is a large and diverse region—coastal areas, mountain towns, and valley communities each have different climates and environmental considerations. We encourage you to research the specific area you're interested in so you can make an informed decision. We're honest about what each community offers and help you find the location that fits your lifestyle and preferences.

How can community members support the Foundation?

As a nonprofit, we rely on community support to fulfill our mission of strengthening healthcare access in the North State region. If you know a qualified PT or PTA who might be interested in our region, we'd love an introduction. We're also building partnerships with clinics, educational institutions, and community organizations. If you'd like to learn more about supporting our work, please reach out—we'd be happy to discuss how we can work together.

Still have questions?

We're here to help. Reach out to us directly for a conversation about your specific situation.

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