Justine Ward

Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy

B.S., Clinical Health Studies, Ithaca College
D.P.T., Physical Therapy, Ithaca College
Board Certified Clinical Specialist, Women’s Health Physical Therapy (WCS)
Certified Breathing Behavior Analyst (CBBA)

Dr. Justine Ward graduated with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Ithaca College in 2013, where she achieved the coveted distinction of summa cum laude. She is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Women’s Health (WCS), showcasing her dedication to providing specialized care in this critical area of physical therapy. Additionally, her credentials include certification as a Certified Breathing Behavior Analyst (CBBA). Dr. Ward has been a core faculty member in the Department of Physical Therapy at Dominican University New York since 2019. She teaches the foundational PT classes in semesters 1 and 2 of the program, as well as Physical Agents/Modalities, Special Topics and Health Promotion and Wellness.

Having competed as a gymnast at the collegiate Division III level in the past, Dr. Ward possesses a discerning ability in movement analysis. This expertise enables her to guide students in honing their observation and clinical reasoning abilities within the academic setting. Furthermore, Dr. Ward underscores the significance of delivering empathetic, inclusive, and compassionate care to patients. Her objective is to cultivate a new cohort of clinicians committed to a patient-centered, biopsychosocial approach.

Dr. Ward initiated the Pelvic Health Program at Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, NJ, where she continues to provide compassionate care and innovative solutions to patients seeking specialized treatment. Her dedication to the field of physical therapy extends beyond the classroom and her clinical practice. She has recently been elected as the Director of the Pre-Natal/Postpartum Special Interest Group through the Academy of Pelvic Health, a prestigious position recognized nationally within the American Physical Therapy Association. In this role, she will be at the forefront of advancing knowledge and expertise in prenatal and postpartum care.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr. Ward enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, including teaching her daughter gymnastics skills.