Karen Skolnik
Karen Skolnik PT, MPT, Cert. MDT
Physical Therapist
Pronouns: She/Her
I spent most of my childhood in New Jersey. My college years were divided between Colorado and Maryland, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing. After completing my undergraduate work, I moved to New York City to pursue a career in Public Relations, but quickly realized this was not the path for me. My mom and sister had been in and out of physical therapy for various injuries. I saw the impact physical therapists could have and decided to make a huge change. I returned to school and began my graduate work at Hunter College’s Physical Therapy Program. After graduating Cum Laude, I practiced in a multidisciplinary outpatient/sports medicine setting for nearly 15 years in NYC. In 2020, my family moved to Westchester where I connected with Myriah, a fellow Hunter College alumni.
I am passionate about the process of helping each of my patients recover as well as prevent future injuries. My treatments are designed to relieve pain as well as educate on how to maintain the gains we make in each session. Each treatment session begins with time for patients to explain their symptoms and concerns. I believe it is extremely important for patients and practitioners to truly understand each other and discuss goals and concerns. From there, I am able to use various manual techniques, exercises, and a touch of humor to keep sessions therapeutic and enjoyable.
I am certified in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy, also known as the McKenzie Method for diagnosis and treatment. MDT is beneficial for lumbar, cervical, and thoracic spine pain. The McKenzie Method has some of the strongest research to support its effectiveness when treating both acute and chronic back and neck pain. I have also taken the Power Pilates Mat certification course as well as continuing education courses in Graston Technique, Kinesio Taping, and many different manual therapy courses including Maitland, ART and Mulligan.
Core Values: Compassion, Love, Adventure, and Growth.
My 99-year-old grandma has always said, “Today is the best day of my life, because this is now and we are here.” I think this is the best way to live life!
My role as a Physical Therapist at Good Life Physical Therapy is to help patients recover and feel their best. It brings me happiness and purpose to be able to work with patients to recover from their injuries as well as help them prevent new ones. I enjoy treating all parts of the body, but the conditions that I love treating most are back and neck pain. I think a lot of therapists are intimidated by these cases, but I find them to be the most rewarding.
I love working at Good Life Physical Therapy, and I feel very fortunate to be part of a team that cares about their patients and colleagues so deeply. Having a one on one therapist-to-patient ratio for an hour is amazing for both the provider as well as the patient.
Tell me more about Karen!
Favorite Concerts: Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Phish, Coldplay
Current TV Shows: Yellowstone
Current Book: Daisy Jones & The Six
When I’m not working I have a husband and 3 young kids who I love spending time with. I am passionate about running, playing tennis, skiing, and cycling. I also love to travel, spend time with friends, see live music and eat delicious food. My need for daily movement and an active lifestyle help me emphatically understand the importance of full recovery and remaining pain free.
To contact Karen Skolnik, please email Karen@Good-Life-PT.com.
Patient Testimonials
Karen is amazing! She helped me so much with my back pain in NYC and I am thrilled to have her closer to home!
Karen is excellent! My husband is a client of hers and after only a few sessions has helped him eliminate his neck pain! I highly recommend!