Josh Varner, DPT
EDUCATION: Doctorate of Physical Therapy & Bachelor of Exercise Science from Lebanon Valley College | Minor in Spanish for Healthcare Professionals
CONTACT:
jvarner@hartzpt.com
What Makes Josh Special
Whether he’s lifting weights, tackling a board game strategy, or training in the pool, Josh enjoys challenges that keep him active and engaged. A Manheim native and graduate of Lebanon Valley College’s DPT program, he combines small-town friendliness with a strong passion for health, wellness, and connection.
During his clinical rotations, Josh gained experience in both outpatient and hospital settings, including oncology care and advanced spinal manual therapy work. He especially enjoys hands-on treatment and the ability to help patients find relief early in their recovery.
He will also be using his Spanish skills as a bridge to better serve patients with language barriers. His approachable nature and genuine enthusiasm for patient care make him a great fit for the HARTZ PT team.
Want to know more? Here’s a little Q & A…
Why did you choose to be a PT/PTA for your profession?
I chose physical therapy to be able to help people in a tangible manner through the medical field while building personal relationships at the same time. I was interested in the combination of head knowledge and interactive components that make up a career in PT.
If you weren’t a PT/PTA what you be doing, especially if salary wasn’t a concern?
I would be living on the coast enjoying nature through leading snorkeling and scuba diving excursions. I love snorkeling while on vacation and while I’ve never been scuba diving, I know it’s something I would enjoy!
What energizes you at work?
Engaging conversation on interesting topics and finding shared interests.
Where would you be right now if you had zero obligations and money didn’t matter?
I would love to see and experience life in as many different countries and places as possible. Exploring cities, enjoying nature, and trying local cuisine by following one of those travel books with a title such as: Best of the World, 1000 trips of a lifetime.
Is there any experience you think everyone should be required to have? What is it?
I think that everyone needs the experience of opening and building a new Lego set!
What’s your favorite famous or inspirational quote?
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”-Lao Tzu, ancient Chinese philosopher
Most significant undertakings and achievements in life have humble and slow beginnings which this quote illustrates eloquently and practically. It is important to remember how critical small habits and daily patterns are to lifelong growth and accomplishment.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy outdoor activities such as golfing, skiing, and hiking. I also have indoor hobbies including playing board games, building Lego, and drinking coffee.
What’s your favorite tradition (holiday or otherwise?)
A tradition in general that I love is the act of intentionally gathering with family around the holidays to spend time and have a meal together. It is special to connect with important people in my life who I don’t see on a regular basis. A specific tradition I love at Christmas is a classic gift exchange!
What’s on your bucket list?
I would love to visit all 50 states. Currently, I have been to 18 so there is still a long way to go! Also, on my bucket list is going snow skiing out West and experiencing a heavy powder day.
What’s the farthest you’ve ever been from home?
I studied abroad in Italy during my sophomore year of college for a semester in the city of Perugia. A weekend trip from there to the canal-filled city of Venice took me the farthest distance I have ever been from Manheim, PA.
