Dr. Marlisa Overton, PT, DPT, OCS
I'm a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist passionate about helping athletes and active individuals return to peak performance.
DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
OCS
Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
Army Veteran
U.S. Army Physical Therapist
Residency
Military Musculoskeletal Residency
Personalized Care for Active Lives
When I founded Afterglow Physio, I wanted to create something different from traditional physical therapy. Too often, patients feel like a number: rushed through treatments, passed between aides, and treated based on their diagnosis rather than their individual needs.
My approach prioritizes the whole person. I take the time to understand not just your injury, but your goals, your lifestyle, and what getting better truly means to you. Whether that's summiting Mount Rainier, completing your first marathon, or simply playing with your kids without pain, your goals become my goals.
"I don't just want to get you back to baseline. I want to help you become stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to pursue the active life you love."
Every session is one-on-one, giving you my full attention and expertise. I combine manual therapy techniques like dry needling and joint mobilization with corrective exercise and performance training, all tailored specifically to you.
Specialized Training & Certifications
Experience & Education
Afterglow Physio
Founded cash-based practice in Tacoma to provide elite, personalized care
U.S. Army Physical Therapist
Led performance initiatives, managed military Performance Center, PT for All-Army Soccer
Military Musculoskeletal Residency
Advanced orthopedic training and Board Certification (OCS)
Army-Baylor DPT Program
Doctor of Physical Therapy degree (2018: year-long clinical internship)
Medical Service Corps Officer
U.S. Army Medical Service Corps officer prior to physical therapy training
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering on Army ROTC Scholarship
Forged in Service
My career began with military service as a U.S. Army physical therapist. This experience shaped my approach to patient care, demanding excellence, precision, and a commitment to getting people back to full duty and peak performance.
During my Army career, I had the privilege of collaborating with multidisciplinary teams including orthopedic surgeons, athletic trainers, and strength coaches. I led performance initiatives and managed a military Performance Center.
One of my proudest achievements was serving as Physical Therapist and Athletic Trainer for the U.S. Men's All-Army and All-Armed Forces Soccer Teams, working with elite athletes competing at the highest levels.
Let's Work Together
Ready to experience physical therapy that's truly designed around you? Let's discuss your goals and create a plan to get you there.