Michelle Criss

Michelle Criss is an Associate Professor at Chatham University's School of Health Sciences, with a focus on geriatric physical therapy. She holds a Ph.D. from Nova Southeastern University, DPT from University of Pittsburgh, and M.S. in Physical Therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University.

• Board-Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist
• Credentialed Clinical Instructor

Her research emphasizes:

• Person-centered care for older adults
• Anti-ageism frameworks in clinical practice
• Holistic assessment using evidence-based outcome measures
• Physical activity promotion for aging populations
• Interprofessional collaboration in geriatric care

Recent publications focus on aging barriers, osteoporosis screening, mobility assessment, and dementia care frameworks. She serves on multiple APTA task forces including the Annual Mobility Screen Task Force and chairs the Residency and Fellowship SIG.

Awards include:

• Joan M. Mills Service Award (2023)
• Volunteer Champion Award (2022)
• Excellence in Geriatric Research (2018)
• Chatham Faculty Technology Fellow (2017-2018)

She directs the ABPTRFE-accredited UPMC Geriatric Physical Therapy Residency program and collaborates with institutions nationwide to advance geriatric care standards.