Welcome to Caring Hands.
Everything you need to know before your first visit — from scheduling to what to bring to what your first appointment looks like.
No referral required.
Colorado is a direct-access state, which means you don't need a referral from a doctor to start physical therapy. Just call us at (719) 345-4097 or use our contact form to schedule.
That said, if your insurance requires a referral for coverage (some plans do), or if your situation calls for coordination with your physician, we'll help you navigate that step.
Schedule your evaluation.
Call (719) 345-4097 or fill out our contact form to request your first appointment. We aim to schedule new patients within a week — often within 1–2 days.
When you call, we'll ask a few basic questions to make sure we're a good fit for what you need, verify your insurance, and find a time that works.
What to bring.
- Photo ID
- Insurance card
- Any referral paperwork (if your doctor sent you)
- Any imaging or medical records related to your condition (helpful but not required)
- A list of your current medications
- Comfortable clothes you can move in (athletic wear is great)
We'll have you arrive 15 minutes early to complete intake paperwork — or you can fill it out at home if we email it in advance.
Your first visit.
Your evaluation is a 60-minute one-on-one session with your therapist — no group rooms, no rotating staff. Here's what it looks like:
- Listening. Your therapist will hear your story — what's going on, how it started, what makes it better or worse, what you want to get back to.
- Hands-on assessment. Movement testing, strength testing, joint mobility, and specific tests for your particular condition.
- Treatment. Most patients receive some hands-on therapy during the first visit, plus a few exercises to begin at home.
- A plan. Together you'll set goals, agree on a treatment frequency, and understand what to expect from your recovery.
Ongoing treatment.
Most patients are seen 1–2 times per week for an initial course of 4–8 weeks. Some conditions need shorter courses; some need longer. You'll see the same therapist every visit, and your plan adjusts as you progress.
Sessions are typically 45–60 minutes and combine hands-on therapy, supervised exercise, and education. You'll leave each visit with a home exercise program to keep building between sessions.