Vanessa O'Donnell

Education

Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of Hartford

Bachelor of Science in Physical Education/Exercise Science, Central Connecticut State University

Specialties/Certifications

• Selective Hydromechanical Debridement Certification
• APTA Credentialed Clinical Instructor

Teaching Focus

Dr. O'Donnell teaches coursework related to Professional Practice, Pathophysiology, and Physical Therapy Examination and Intervention. She also assists in teaching Kinesiology and Biomechanics for graduate students in both the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program and Master of Science in Orthotics and Prosthetics programs. Additionally, Dr. O'Donnell assists with student placements in local and national clinical sites as part of the Clinical Education team in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. 

Professional Interests

Dr. O’Donnell’s clinical practice expertise is in sub-acute rehabilitation, treating a wide variety of pathologies, including cardiorespiratory, neurological, and musculoskeletal diagnoses, specifically in the geriatric population.

Dr. O’Donnell’s research interest includes translation of didactic course work into clinical practice, as well as the role of learning and cognitive strategies in clinical education in development of clinical reasoning skills.