01/27/2026
APTA Montana Member Spotlight
Maddie Leininger, PT, DPT
Why PT? (What drew you to the profession?)
I have wanted to be a physical therapist since I was in middle school. From a young age, my mom brought us to a physical therapist, so I grew up around the profession and saw the positive impact it had on our family, keeping us active, healthy, and involved in sports. I continued to job shadow and explore other healthcare opportunities throughout high school and college, but I always found my way back to PT. It is where my passion has always been!
What keeps you involved?
As a clinician and small business owner, I see firsthand the impact that advocacy has on our profession, our providers, and our community. Change happens one voice and one action at a time. We are fortunate to have strong APTA Montana leaders and opportunities to stay informed, advocate, and remain connected to the issues affecting healthcare and physical therapy in our state.
Favorite Part of the Job:
It is truly amazing to be part of people's movement, health, and wellness journeys and to watch them meet their goals. We are fortunate to spend one-on-one time with our patients, which allows us to really get to know them, their lives, their activities, and what matters most. It is powerful to see how the practice of movement as medicine can change lives. At Range PT, our slogan is "Expand your Range, Enhance your Life," and this captures the best part of the job when those moments unfold.
Words of Wisdom for New Grads or Students:
While you are a student, take every opportunity you can to try new things. Learning what you enjoy and what you do not is just as important and helps shape the kind of provider you will become. For new grads, find a mentor, ask questions, and keep investing in on-the-job learning to strengthen your skills and build a strong foundation for your career.
Fun Fact:
My sisters and I are all named after bodies of water in Montana (Madison, Seeley, and Holland).
Learn More about Maddie:
www.rangeptmontana.com / Social Media: