Article written by Dr. Tony McLean.
Dr. Tony McLean, PT, DPT, is a lifelong learner. Since earning his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, he has vigorously pursued mentoring the next generation of physical therapists. Graduate PT students enjoy learning from his clinical practice as well as his ability to draw on his vast professional experiences.
One time, during his nine years of U.S. Army Service, a fellow physical therapist observed that he was a good health care person and should go to physical therapy school. With that encouragement, Tony started his journey at the Fresno County Hospital. This gave him access to wonderful mentors, many of whom he remains in contact with today. Upon receiving his B.S. in Physical Therapy from California State University – Fresno in 1991, Tony chose a position which encouraged professional growth and the ability to craft his manual therapy skills.
Marriage to a physical therapist, Lori McLean, PT, brought children into their life. Tony was also involved in coaching soccer and baseball for many years. He was a Cub-Master and Scout-Master in the Boy Scouts of America, mentoring his sons and others to become Eagle Scouts. Less than six percent achieve this height, but both sons did. Later, with sons off to college, Lori encouraged him to follow his dream of obtaining his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.
Dr. McLean received his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in February 2019 through the Evidence in Motions Institute of Health Professions. Tony loved the challenge of working towards this advanced degree and his many years of hands-on work in physical therapy were refined with the addition of empathetic listening skills, which have improved client outcomes.
Living in the mountain community, next to Yosemite National Park and Bass Lake, Dr. McLean feels everyone is a neighbor. He wants to offer sound clinical reasoning to each patient of Oakhurst Physical Therapy (established 2000.) Having a multi-model approach for hands on and exercise has helped his clients return to their highest level of function.
Dr. McLean has benefited from mentors throughout his career and believes it is time to return this gift to the next generation of physical therapists. Dr. McLean invites those PT’s new in the field to drop by and discover how working with a mentor boosts confidence and practical skills. Tony is eager to work with graduate students because they bring fresh eyes and knowledge to the profession and together he hopes to share in their discoveries. Helping others prepare in the journey to become skilled and caring physical therapists brings Tony full circle in his very gratifying career.
Tony invites you to please come by and say hello.
Oakhurst Physical Therapy
39930 Sierra Way, Suite A
Oakhurst, CA 93644
