About Dr. Michael Powers
Educator • Physical Therapist • Consultant • Lifelong Learner
My work has spanned clinical practice, higher education, leadership, coaching and consulting. The common thread has always been learning - how we acquire knowledge, how we make sense of it, and how we apply it within the context of our values to make intentional decisions.
My work centers on the continued search for the best available evidence and data, considered through the lens of individual values and lived experience. Across my teaching, clinical practice, coaching, and consulting, my goal is to empower others by making complex concepts clear, practical, and easy to apply.
My Story
If there is one idea that has guided me throughout my life, it is to never stop learning. Growing up in a family with limited financial resources, I came to see education as a means of creating opportunity. Living in Germany during elementary school expanded that perspective, teaching me the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and learning within a new culture.
Those lessons followed me into clinical practice. Early in my career, working on the Navajo Reservation reinforced the importance of listening first, understanding context, and building trust. Over time, my work expanded from individual patient care to education, program development, leadership, and collaboration across organizations.
Becoming a father later in life prompted deeper reflection about intentional living, caregiving, professional responsibility, and personal finance. Today, I bring those experiences together as an educator, clinician, leader, consultant, and lifelong learner. Across those roles, I remain most energized by helping people understand complex problems, recognize possibility, and move forward with intention.
Credentials
Education
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Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
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Doctor of Education (EdD) in Curriculum and Instruction
Board Certifications
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Neurologic Clinical Specialist (NCS)
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Electrophysiologic Clinical Specialist (ECS)
Additional Certifications
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Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®)
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APTA Certified Clinical Instructor
My Approach
I believe meaningful learning and growth occur when evidence, reflection, lived experience, and individual values come together. Across my teaching, consulting, coaching, and clinical work, I aim to bring:
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Curiosity before assumptions
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Evidence-informed decision-making
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Honest conversation and thoughtful reflection
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Practical application
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Clear, attainable goals
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Long-term growth over quick fixes