Dr. Carla Bulla: From Athlete to Advocate for Healing

Dr. Carla Bulla, PT, DPT, MEd, ATC is more than a physical therapist — she is a passionate leader with a mission to empower individuals to regain strength, confidence, and independence so they can fully engage in the activities they love.

Originally from Brazil, Carla came to the U.S. with a volleyball in hand and a drive to excel. As co-captain of the University of Southern Mississippi Lady Eagles, she balanced athletics with academics, earning her bachelor’s degree in Human Performance with an emphasis in Athletic Training. She went on to complete her Master’s in Education at the University of Houston before earning her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine in 2007.

Dr. Bulla’s career has taken her from orthopedic clinics to a decade of home health care, shaping her expertise and deepening her compassion for patients from all walks of life. In 2019, she founded Pro Vita Physical Therapy with a clear vision: to create a trusted partner in recovery, delivering individualized, results-driven care built on the values of integrity, compassion, commitment, and teamwork.

Under her leadership, Pro Vita has grown to five thriving clinics across Northwest Florida and South Alabama. Each location reflects her commitment to clinical excellence, patient-centered care, and the belief that physical therapy should be both accessible and life-changing.

Today, Dr. Bulla continues to lead Pro Vita with the same determination she once brought to the volleyball court — uniting her team, serving her community, and building a legacy as the most trusted provider of physical therapy in the region.