Meet Your Therapist

Mita Patel, MSPT

Owner and Founder of Essential Physical Therapy and Wellness Inc.

I have always been interested in the science of health and the human body, but my journey to becoming the physical therapist I am today and my passion for the work has evolved over my 21 years of professional service. I earned my Bachelor of Science in both Physiological Science and Psychology at the University of California at Los Angeles in 1999. I then went on to earn a Master of Science in Physical Therapy at Columbia University and have been licensed to practice physical therapy in California since 2001.

During my last clinical rotation at Columbia, my true passion for physical therapy emerged. As an intern at an inpatient spinal cord injury rehabilitation department, I was surrounded by the most debilitating, heartbreaking, and complicated cases, but also by the most hard-working, motivating, and uplifting team of therapists. Beyond the science and techniques, I learned how even the most difficult conditions could improve with a holistic approach to physical therapy. Seeing beyond the injury and the diagnosis, I saw the human in front of me and connected to their goals for their life. I provided them the tools they needed to maximize their independence. I learned and experienced that with the right approach and guidance, my patient’s would be able to transform their lives from hopelessness, pain and disability to focused efforts and life-improving change. I knew then I had chosen the right career.

Over the last 20 years, I’ve taken these tools with me and have been able to help patients with varying degrees of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, pre- and post-operative rehabilitation, chronic pain, and athletes of all levels. My desire to find the right solution for each person led me to broaden my resources. I now have extensive training in both traditional and non-traditional therapy techniques, including myofascial release and craniosacral therapy, which has produced exceptional results for even patients with seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Having lived and worked in Los Angeles County for over 20 years, I understand the busy lives many of us lead and our inability, or even just lack of desire, to slow down. My goal is simply to help people in our community overcome their pain, injuries, and physical limitations and be empowered to live a life that’s meaningful to them for years to come.

In addition to helping my patients live fulfilling lives, I enjoy photography, hiking, trying new recipes and volunteering in my community. I love anything that will make me laugh and especially value quality time with family and friends.