Heart of Gold Physical Therapy was founded with the goal of providing specialized care for those on the cancer continuum and those experiencing lymphedema. The practice is dedicated to my father, Mike, who ultimately lost his battle with prostate cancer. Mike was a lifelong fan of Neil Young, which inspired the naming of the practice.
In Heart of Gold, 1972, Neil Young sang about finding a heart of gold. In a partner, and even more, in himself. I believe the enriching part of life comes from looking inward and searching for our own heart of gold.
“Life is about the people in it, not the material things or experiences.”
-Michael Dazey, 5/20/1951 - 5/10/2022
Michelle Folsom, PT, DPT, CLT-LANA (she/her)
Michelle Folsom is the owner and physical therapist at Heart of Gold Physical Therapy. She has been practicing physical therapy in Santa Barbara since 2008. She has worked in various settings with very bright clinicians, starting her oncology and lymphedema specialization in 2017.
She feels fulfilled when helping others and believes one cannot truly take care of others until they take care of themselves. Thus her emphasis in a wellness practice grew. She values an efficient, evidence based approach to therapy, while maintaining the personal warmth that we all benefit from.
She is a lover of jokes, coffee, walking, and ashtanga yoga. She thrives when surrounded by her husband, Doug, son, Pat, and daughter, Jane, as well as her many beloved friends and family members.
Education/Professional Development
Bachelors of Science, Biopsychology and Exercise Science - University of California, Santa Barbara
Doctor of Physical Therapy - University of the Pacific
Oncology Training - Physiologic Oncology Rehabilitation Institute
Certified Lymphedema Therapist - Norton School of Lymphatics
Lymphology Association of North America Certified
Certified Neurologic Specialist - American Physical Therapy Association, 2012-2022