A Smarter Path for Dizziness: When and Why to Refer for Vestibular Therapy

Dizziness is one of the most common yet complex complaints encountered across primary care, neurology, otolaryngology, and cardiology. It can present as vertigo, imbalance, or nonspecific lightheadedness. It can leave both patients and physicians searching for clear answers.

For many physicians, dizziness can also be one of the more frustrating symptoms to work through. The presentation is rarely straightforward, and the underlying cause is not always immediately clear. 

At Atlantic Health CentraState Medical Center, vestibular therapy helps bring structure and clarity to that process. As part of Atlantic Rehabilitation, the program supports referring providers by offering focused assessment and targeted treatment for patients with balance and dizziness disorders. 

A Broader View of Vestibular Dysfunction 

While vestibular therapy is often associated with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the reality is more nuanced. Many patients present with overlapping or multifactorial causes of dizziness. 

“So vestibular therapy is really an umbrella for treating and diagnosing a wide range of dizziness-related conditions,” explained Shawn Soloveychik, physical therapist at Atlantic Health CentraState. “That includes not just vertigo, but also balance deficits and even the anxiety and fear that can come with those symptoms.” 

That broader lens matters. The team routinely evaluates patients with: 

• BPPV and peripheral vestibular disorders 

• Central vestibular dysfunction 

• Post-stroke dizziness 

• Parkinson’s disease–related balance issues 

• Multiple sclerosis–associated symptoms 

• Cardiovascular-related dizziness 

In many cases, the challenge isn’t just treating dizziness. It’s identifying what’s actually driving it. Vestibular therapy can help further assess these patients and contribute to a clearer understanding of their symptoms. 

A Structured, Clinical Evaluation 

One of the strengths of the program is its methodical approach to evaluation. 

“Vestibular therapy is about evaluating and treating patients with a variety of vestibular dysfunctions,” said Olga Steinhauser, physical therapist at Atlantic Health CentraState. “We follow established principles like habituation, adaptation, balance training, and repositioning maneuvers to guide care.” 

Each patient begins with a detailed clinical history, followed by targeted assessments that may include: 

• Vestibulo-ocular reflex testing 

• Ocular motor screening 

• Positional testing 

• Gait and balance evaluation 

• Postural control assessment 

Advanced tools such as infrared goggles allow therapists to closely observe eye movements. 

“That close-up view of the eyes helps us determine where the condition may be coming from,” Soloveychik noted. “It gives us another layer of precision in evaluation.” 

It’s a structured process, but also a practical one. The goal is to translate clinical findings into a clear path forward for both the patient and the referring provider. 

Addressing the Full Patient Experience 

Dizziness is not only a physical symptom. It often changes how patients move through their day. 

“For many patients, dizziness is actually very scary. It makes them feel unsafe,” said Soloveychik. “A big part of what we do is helping reduce that fear, while building confidence and improving balance in different situations.” 

Patients may begin to limit activity to avoid triggering symptoms. Over time, that hesitation can affect overall function and independence. 

Vestibular therapy addresses this directly through targeted exercises and education, helping patients gradually return to normal movement. 

Steinhauser emphasized the importance of tailoring care to the individual. “The goal is to establish the right diagnosis and follow that with a targeted, customized rehabilitation plan,” she said. 

A Differentiated Model of Care 

For referring physicians, both clinical expertise and patient experience play a role in referral decisions. The vestibular therapy program at Atlantic Health CentraState is designed with both in mind. 

One-on-One Treatment 

Each patient receives one-on-one care for the full duration of every session. 

“From evaluation through the entire rehab process, patients are always treated one-on-one,” said Soloveychik. “They’re never passed off during their session, which allows for more focused, consistent care.” 

Advanced Training 

Vestibular therapy requires specialized expertise. 

“Our therapists have advanced training in evaluating and treating vestibular disorders,” Steinhauser said. “That allows us to provide more targeted and effective care.” 

Communication with Referring Providers 

The team shares evaluation findings and progress updates with referring physicians, helping ensure continuity and alignment in care. 

Access and Convenience 

Services are available at Atlantic Health CentraState in Freehold, as well as multiple outpatient rehabilitation locations, making it easier for patients to access care close to home. 

When to Refer 

Referral to vestibular therapy can be helpful when symptoms are persistent or when the underlying cause remains unclear. 

Patients may benefit from referral if they present with: 

• Dizziness or vertigo 

• Imbalance or gait instability 

• Visual disturbances with head movement 

• Unexplained or ongoing symptoms 

“Referral becomes especially important when the cause of symptoms isn’t entirely clear,” Soloveychik explained. “We can help assess, treat, and even guide further referrals if needed.” 

A definitive diagnosis is not required prior to referral. In many cases, a general prescription for dizziness or vertigo is enough to begin the evaluation process. 

A Partner in Patient Care 

For physicians, managing dizziness often involves a degree of uncertainty. Having a reliable next step can make a meaningful difference. 

Vestibular therapy at Atlantic Health CentraState provides an additional resource for evaluating symptoms and guiding treatment. By combining structured assessment with individualized care, the program helps: 

• Further evaluate complex dizziness 

• Deliver targeted rehabilitation 

• Improve patient confidence and function 

• Support coordination with referring providers 

As dizziness continues to be a common and sometimes challenging complaint, access to a specialized vestibular therapy program can help bring more clarity to both diagnosis and management. 

To learn more about Atlantic Rehabilitation services at Atlantic Health CentraState, including care for balance, dizziness, and vertigo, visit our service page. Or, to refer a patient, call us at 732-294-2700.  

Atlantic Health CentraState offers vestibular therapy at the following locations: 

• Atlantic Health CentraState OceanFirst Rehabilitation Center Freehold 

• Atlantic Health CentraState Rehabilitation Center East Windsor 

• Atlantic Health CentraState Rehabilitation Center Manalapan 

• Atlantic Health CentraState Rehabilitation Center Marlboro 

• Atlantic Health CentraState Rehabilitation Center Monroe