Meet Alexandra Garza
Confluent Health’s 2026 Student Ambassador and Future Leader in Physical Therapy
Alexandra Garza doesn’t just talk about making an impact in physical therapy. She lives it.
A Doctor of Physical Therapy student at UNT Health, Alexandra’s journey through clinical education has been defined by curiosity, compassion, and a patient-first mindset that has already set her apart. As Confluent Health’s 2026 Student Ambassador to the APTA Combined Sections Meeting (CSM), Alexandra will represent emerging clinicians from across the country while embodying the values of advocacy, collaboration, and excellence that define the profession’s future.
Finding Her “Aha” in the Clinic
During her clinical rotation with Texas Physical Therapy Specialists, Alexandra experienced a moment that not only confirmed her career path but shaped how she believes physical therapists should practice.
When a patient with severe low back pain arrived for her initial evaluation, functional movement was limited and fear of pain was high. Alexandra thoughtfully engaged with the patient, creating a welcoming environment before beginning her assessment. Recognizing the patient’s hesitancy and pain irritability, she offered manual lumbar traction with clear, compassionate education so the patient could consent without fear.
The result was immediate. The patient walked out of the clinic standing upright, relief not just physical, but emotional as well.
“It showed me the importance of listening, truly caring, and using the knowledge I have to help someone move better and feel heard,” Alexandra reflects. “That moment reminded me why I chose this profession.”
It wasn’t a dramatic breakthrough or a textbook outcome. It was the quiet power of being present, attentive, and purposeful. That experience, one of many during her rotation, solidified her conviction to serve patients with both expertise and empathy.
Leadership Beyond the Clinic
In addition to patient care, Alexandra is deeply invested in advocacy. She currently serves as Secretary for the Texas Student Physical Therapy Association, a role she embraced while still in school.
“Leading others has always been a passion of mine,” she said. “I am grateful to be the voice of all PT and PTA students in the state of Texas.”
For Alexandra, advocacy is inseparable from patient care.
“Being a good clinician is beyond just showing up for patients in the clinic,” she explained. “Showing up for your patients outside the clinic and advocating for them is equally important.”
A Clinician Who Builds Trust
Her SCCE nominator, Christopher Maldonado, PT, DPT, praises Alexandra’s leadership and commitment to learning. He notes her enthusiasm for challenging cases, her strong clinical reasoning, and her ability to build rapport with patients and colleagues alike.
“Alexandra steps outside her comfort zone with genuine hunger to grow,” Maldonado says. “Her bedside manner fosters trust and makes patients feel supported. She adds valuable energy and professionalism to every team she joins.”
This blend of confidence, humility, and curiosity makes Alexandra a natural fit to represent Confluent Health on the national stage.
What She’s Looking Forward to at CSM 2026
As Confluent Health’s Student Ambassador, Alexandra will represent the organization at CSM 2026 in Anaheim, connecting with students, clinicians, and leaders from across the profession.
“Representing a company that I am so fortunate to have been involved in since I was in college is a dream,” she shared. “Confluent Health has helped me pave my PT journey and has brought me the best people and experiences.”
She hopes her presence at CSM reflects the values she lives every day.
“I hope my interactions bring joy to be a part of such an amazing community and maybe spark some motivation to be a healthcare worker that is committed to learning, leading with kindness, and advocating for their patients outside the clinic walls.”
The Future of Physical Therapy
As she approaches graduation in May 2026, Alexandra is focused on continuing to grow as a clinician and leader.
“I am committed to continuing to expand my network of clinicians and students so that I can learn from others’ experiences,” she said. “I want to continue working on being comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
When motivation runs low, she grounds herself in purpose.
“My patients count on me to show up for them,” she reflected. “It is a privilege to be a therapist and to be the person that helps someone through a difficult time in their life.”
That mindset is exactly what she will carry with her to CSM and into her future career.
Connect with Alexandra
Follow Alexandra’s journey at CSM 2026 and beyond as she represents Confluent Health’s spirit of collaboration, care, and commitment to excellence in physical therapy.