Name and Title(s):
Rebekah Beaton, MPT
Where do you work?
I work at Mills Memorial Hospital in Terrace, BC as Rehabilitation Services Manager and acute care physiotherapist. I love that I have the ability to continue carrying a clinical caseload.
Currently, I also work part-time for Northern Therapy Services to provide outpatient services to the small coastal community of Gitxaala.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing people make improvements and helping them reach their goals whether that be recovering after severe illness or surgery, returning home or being able to return to everyday activities. I love working with people!
Why does physiotherapy matter?
Physiotherapists can assist with the recovery of movement and function at every stage of life. Physiotherapists can also play an important role in maintaining health and injury prevention.
What is a common misconception with your work?
The misconception is that physiotherapists only assist with sports injuries and you need a doctor’s referral to access services. People are also often surprised to see me in the ICU.
What drew you to physical therapy?
Ironically initially sports therapy. I have always loved being active and sitting at a desk for work has never appealed to me. While in school at UBC I learned to appreciate the full scope of the PT profession. During various placements and then my first job at Surrey Memorial Hospital I gained valuable experience in acute care.
What is unique about what you do?
Born in Hazelton, BC with Tsimshian roots in Gitxaala I consider myself from the North. I am happy to return to and work in Northwestern BC. I love how flexible the physiotherapy profession is, it allows me to live and work in the place that I love.
What is one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
Normally I am a shy, quiet person. If I had known how much I would have to step out of my comfort zone to be a physiotherapist I might not have done it. I am so glad that I did, I have grown so much as a person along with my professional growth.