Adjunct Faculty, HAP
Biography
Dr. DeStefano is an adjunct professor in the Health Administration and Policy Department. She received her Master’s (2001) and Doctorate (2007) degrees in physical therapy from Marymount University and her undergraduate degree (1996) from the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. DeStefano contributes clinical, professional and academic physical therapy experience to the University. In addition to teaching, she administers premium care to a large, diverse population of outpatient orthopedic clients, including men and women’s health. Over the past several years in practice, she has focused on preventing injuries, promoting health and wellness, and creating solutions for complex and persistent pain. Secili is a manual therapist and practices using innovative technologies such as Triggerpoint Dry Needling (TDN) and Real Time Ultrasound Imaging to assist clients in optimizing movement. Secili has authored numerous articles focused on injury prevention. Her heart for patients locally, nationally and internationally leads her to foster research, present, teach and consult on a wide variety of healthcare topics.
Secili has numerous professional accomplishments from her work experience, continuing education pursuits and involvement in her professional associations. She has served on many national and international task forces, work groups and committees including the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Nominating Committee, APTA Section on Women’s Health Board, Virginia Physical Therapy Association Executive Board, Board and Delegate representative to the APTA House of Delegates. Secili is a Certified Direct Access Practitioner, which means that she is able to practice without a referral from another practitioner. She has received the distinction of Certified Orthopedic Specialist and Emerging Leader from the APTA. Secili has served as a Center Coordinator of Clinical Education and is a Certified Clinical Instructor. She has also been honored as a Distinguished Commencement Speaker and she continues to serve other area universities as an adjunct professor in physical therapy.
Visit her on Twitter @secilid to learn more about her interests.
Research
Research Interests
- Preventing injuries
- Promoting health and wellness
- Creating solutions for complex and persistent pain
Degrees
- DPT, Marymount University
- MPT, Marymount University