Physiotherapist

Do the neuro physio work you got into this profession for

Too often, people living with neurological conditions are discharged from hospital with limited follow-up and told their recovery has plateaued. At Synaptic, we see what's possible when clients get timely, intensive, long-term rehabilitation instead. We're looking for a physiotherapist who wants the time, tools and team to make that kind of difference, and who believes in the potential of every client who comes through our doors.

Who we are

Synaptic Health is a Calgary-based registered charity, founded in 2012 to close a real gap in care: long-term rehabilitation for people living with neurological conditions. We provide comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation for people living with spinal cord injuries and other severe motor and neurological disorders, at every stage of recovery.

Our approach is grounded in the principles of neuroprotection, neurorecovery and neuroplasticity: the science of the brain's ability to form new connections with the body and relearn functional movement through intensive, exercise-based rehabilitation.

Under one roof, our clients can access physical, occupational, massage and respiratory therapy, speech-language pathology, acupuncture, mental health support and neuro-supportive nutrition, alongside some of the most advanced rehabilitation technology in the country, including the XoMotion™ robotic exoskeleton. We keep wait times short and costs low, and we're powered by a community of donors who believe everyone deserves the chance to maximize their abilities and quality of life.

We're client-focused, action-driven and deeply rooted in community. And we're growing.

The role

As a Physiotherapist at Synaptic, you'll assess, treat and guide clients living with conditions such as spinal cord injury, stroke, acquired and traumatic brain injury, MS, Parkinson's, cerebral palsy and Long COVID. You'll plan the clinical direction of each client's physical rehabilitation, work alongside kinesiologists and other specialists who deliver intensive exercise-based programs, and help shape how our interdisciplinary model grows. You'll have access to technology most clinics can only read about, and a team that wants to learn alongside you.

What you'll do

Assess and diagnose

• Complete comprehensive neurological and musculoskeletal assessments, including motor function, tone, sensation, balance, gait and mobility
• Use standardized outcome measures to set baselines and track progress
• Identify each client's goals, values and priorities, and build them into their plan

Plan and treat

• Develop individualized, evidence-based treatment plans and adjust them as clients progress
• Deliver hands-on treatment, including neuromuscular re-education, gait and balance training, spasticity management, manual therapy and functional retraining
• Integrate our rehabilitation technology into treatment, including the XoMotion™ exoskeleton, Therastride, Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES), Hunova, E-Pacer and standing frames
• Assess for and recommend mobility aids, orthotics, seating and equipment, and liaise with vendors and funders as needed

Deliver clinical care

• Provide clinical direction to kinesiologists and rehabilitation specialists delivering client exercise programs
• Collaborate with occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, respiratory therapists, mental health professionals and others to coordinate holistic care
• Mentor students and newer team members, and contribute to in-house education and training

Educate and empower

• Teach clients, families and caregivers about their condition, safe movement and transfers, home programs and preventing secondary complications
• Support clients as they transition from hospital to community and set goals for life beyond the clinic

Document and report

• Maintain accurate, timely clinical records in line with Physiotherapy Alberta standards
• Prepare reports for referring physicians, insurers, funders and other health professionals
• Contribute to program evaluation, quality improvement and research opportunities

What you bring

What we look for in everyone at Synaptic

We can teach you our systems. What we can't teach is who you are. Here's what the people who thrive here have in common:

• You're a problem-solver at heart. When the path isn't clear, you find another one. You spot what needs doing, jump in, and keep things moving even on the toughest days.
• You make the room better. People are glad you're on the team. You bring warmth and optimism that make Synaptic a place people love to work.
• You're curious and you share it. You're quick to say "let's try it," hungry to learn, and generous with what you know.
• You see change as a chance to grow. New ideas, new tools, new ways of working: you meet them with excitement, not fear, because that's how we evolve and get better for our clients.
• You lead with the why. You care about why we do what we do, not just what or how. Our mission and values guide your choices, and you bring your best every day because the people we serve deserve nothing less.

Your qualifications

• Hold a degree in Physical Therapy
• Are registered with Physiotherapy Alberta College + Association
• Have 2–5 years of experience in a clinical role
• Hold current professional liability insurance and First Aid and CPR certification
• Are able to motivate others and lead by example
• Care deeply about the well-being of your clients and your team
• Think systematically, connecting the details of each client's program to the bigger picture
• Work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team
• Communicate clearly and warmly with clients, families and colleagues

Bonus points for:

• Clinical experience with neurological populations, such as spinal cord injury, stroke or brain injury, ideally 2+ years
• Post-graduate training in neuro rehabilitation, such as Bobath/NDT, vestibular rehabilitation or spinal cord injury courses
• Experience with FES, body-weight supported training or robotic rehabilitation technology
• Authorization for acupuncture or dry needling
• Experience supervising support staff or students

Why Synaptic

• Work that matters. Help clients reach goals they were told might be out of reach, from standing and walking to returning to work and the activities they love.
• A learning organization. We invest in staff development programs, team training and grants for continuing post-secondary education.
• A team that cares. Join a close-knit, interdisciplinary team dedicated to achieving the best possible results for every client.
• Room to grow. You're encouraged to explore your ideas and passions, reach your full potential and gain valuable experience in a pioneering rehabilitation facility.
• Flexibility and support. Enjoy flexible working hours and a positive, supportive environment.
• Be part of what's next. Work hands-on with rehabilitation technology few Canadians have access to.

Synaptic Health is committed to an inclusive, accessible workplace. If you need an accommodation at any stage of the hiring process, just let us know.

We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.