Starting Physical Therapy
No. In California you can see a physical therapist directly, without a referral, for up to 12 visits or 45 days, whichever comes first. Some insurance plans still require a referral or authorization to cover your visits.
California law lets you start physical therapy without first seeing a doctor. You can call and book an evaluation directly. After 12 visits or 45 days, whichever comes first, a physician or surgeon (or a podiatrist, for foot and ankle care) needs to sign your therapy plan for treatment to continue.
If your physical therapist finds signs that need a doctor's attention, they will tell you and refer you.
Call us at (661) 282-8584 and we'll help you check what your plan needs.
You can request an evaluation at ARI directly. We'll help you understand your insurance requirements, and we keep your doctor informed when needed.
At ARI Physical Therapy in Bakersfield, every visit is one-on-one and in person with a licensed physical therapist, and our clinic director, Deepa Konnur, PT, MPT, OCS, is a board-certified Orthopedic Certified Specialist. We accept most private insurance plans and Medicare, and we have staff who speak Spanish and Hindi.
Ready to feel better?
Talk to a licensed physical therapist at ARI, one-on-one. Request an evaluation and we'll get back to you, usually within one business day.
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If you have symptoms, a licensed clinician should evaluate you.
Clinically reviewed by Deepa Konnur, PT, MPT, OCS, board-certified Orthopedic Certified Specialist · Reviewed September 2026