Kimnesha Polard

Kimnesha Polard, PT, D.P.T., NCS, has been with Shepherd Center since 2011 and currently serves as the Residency Coordinator for the Mercer University-Shepherd Center Residency in Neurologic Physical Therapy.

Education and training

Western University
Doctor of Physical Therapy, 2012

Mayo School of Health-Related Sciences
Master’s in Physical Therapy, 2001

Morningside College
Bachelor of Science, 1999

Certifications

American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS)
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurology

About

Dr. Kimnesha Polard, physical therapist, is the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Post-Acute Physical Therapy Manager for Shepherd Pathways and brings more than 24 years of experience in orthopedics and neurologic physical therapy. For the past 14 years, she has specialized in treating acquired brain injury at Shepherd Pathways while also serving as a mentor in the Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency program.

As the residency coordinator, Kimnesha is instrumental in continually refining and organizing the residency program to maintain its position at the forefront of innovation and excellence in the field. She is passionate about education and mentorship, having taught courses, guest lectured at Georgia State University, and mentored clinicians in the subspecialty of vestibular rehabilitation.

She also contributes to national research and education initiatives, including work with the Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems (TBIMS) and staff training on sexuality and intimacy after brain injury. She is active in the American Physical Therapy Association and has served as an item writer for the Neurologic Clinical Specialist board exam.

Her goal as a mentor and leader is to help residents grow into skilled, confident clinicians while continuing to advance care in the field of physical therapy.