Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) are workers who operate in clinics under the supervision and direction of physical therapists. There are about 145,000 physical therapist assistants in the U.S., and that number is sure to grow. They help patients before, during and after sessions with a physical therapist. PTAs use exercises and special techniques to assist physical therapists in their treatment of each patient. During a session, they may work in conjunction with a physical therapist. They help patients perform movements and educate them throughout the treatment process.
How can someone become a physical therapist assistant?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the job outlook for physical therapists is projected to grow around 15% by the year 2032. This increase in the job outlook for therapists is bound to translate into a significant increase in jobs for physical therapist assistants. Are you one of the many who will be looking for a career as a physical therapist assistant? The steps it takes to become a physical therapist assistant include:
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent certificate — The first qualification that physical therapist assistants are required to have is a high school diploma or equivalent certificate.
- Earn an associate’s degree from an accredited school — The next step in the process of becoming a physical therapist assistant is earning an associate’s degree. Most physical therapy clinics require an associate’s degree to be earned from an accredited education program. Accredited programs vary from state to state, so it’s a good idea to research the programs available within your state. Most programs will take an average of two years to complete. They typically require 70 to 80 credit hours in courses related to exercise therapy, human anatomy, kinesiology and more. An additional requisite during a degree program to become a PTA is to complete clinical rotations. Prospective physical therapist assistants should have around 600 hours of experience in clinical settings, like hospitals and clinics.
- Obtain the necessary licenses and certifications — After you’ve obtained your associate’s degree, you must take an exam to get your license and certification. Before you can take the exam, you have to submit an application, which the licensing board must approve. Once your application has been approved, you can take the licensure exam. Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll receive your license to practice as a physical therapist assistant. From there, you can interview for PTA positions with potential employers.
- Complete continuing education and renew your license — The last step of becoming a physical therapist assistant is to continue your education and renew your license every two years.
Join the Alliance PTP team and start your career as a PTA
Have you recently completed school to become a physical therapist assistant? You may be looking for opportunities to get your career started. Perhaps you’re looking to find a location and team environment that works best for you. You don’t have to look any further. At Alliance Physical Therapy Partners, we’ve created a nationwide partnership in care. Our partnerships are constantly evolving to help our PT practice partners and their team members. We're confident that we have the competitive salary and benefits package you need.
We know that our partners can’t provide exceptional PT without amazing PT team members and admin staff. That’s why we aim to hire well-educated and determined individuals who want:
- A less hectic daily schedule than most PT providers require.
- Exceptional health, retirement and wellness benefits.
- Readily available mentorship and professional development opportunities.
- To be part of a team that’s dedicated to caring for its patients and the local community.
Taking advantage of all the career opportunities Alliance PTP offers starts with one click. Look over our Careers page to see all the current career opportunities Alliance PTP offers.