Rachel Koehler, PT, DPT
Empower History: 1 Year
Hometown: Hayden, Colorado
What inspired you to be a PT? I’ve always been drawn to the field. I love helping people, laughing with people and I love the challenge of designing unique care plans for my different patients and their unique goals.
Where did you go to PT school? The University of Montana
What is your background and experience in this industry? I have been a PT for 5 years now. My first 2 years on the job were in Roseburg, OR where I worked at an outpatient clinic and helped once a week in the hospital. I spent 2 years with Advanced Physical Therapy in Soldotna before deciding to join the Empower team 1 year ago.
What do you enjoy most about your role? I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them get back to the activities that are important to them.
What brought you to Alaska/ back to Alaska after moving/ kept you here? I came to Alaska for a summer job and couldn’t leave. I lived in Soldotna for 2 years before moving to the valley and don’t see myself leaving anytime soon.
Passions within PT: I love the variety. I enjoy being creative with the interventions I choose to help patients reach their unique goals.
Family overview: I live in Alaska with my fiancé Ben and our dog Ed. My family still lives in Colorado, and I enjoy visiting them often.
What are your passions outside of work? I love the outdoors. I spend my free time hiking, fishing, camping, boating, and cross-country skiing. I travel when I can, and volunteer with the Special Olympics.