The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
LINKS TO PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT DIRECTORY PAGES
WHAT PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANTS DO
Physical therapist assistants, sometimes called PTAs, work under the direction and supervision of physical therapists. They are directly involved in helping patients who are recovering from injuries and illnesses to regain movement and manage pain.
**Physical therapist aides is a different position. They do tasks that are indirectly related to patient care such as cleaning and setting up the treatment area, moving patients, and doing clerical duties.**
Job Duties
PAY
National Average Annual Pay (2019): $58,520
Top 5 States
1. New Jersey
$69,480
2. Texas
$68,680
3. California
$66,150
4. Connecticut
$65,510
5. Rhode Island
$65,480
Bottom 5 States
50. South Dakota
$43,180
49. Arizona
$43,500
48. North Dakota
$46,830
47. Mississippi
$48,290
46. Nebraska
$49,480
STEPS TO BECOME A PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT
To become a physical therapist assistant, you need an associate’s degree from a physical therapist assistant program. All states require that programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
Next you will take the National Physical Therapy Exam. For some states, this is enough to gain employment as a physical therapist assistant. Other states have further requirements such as:
- Pass an exam on state laws regulating the practice of physical therapist assistants
- Undergo a criminal background check
- Take continuing education courses to keep license
- CPR certification
If you are interested in becoming a physical therapist, you will first need to earn a bachelor’s degree and then earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. The average annual salary is $90,170.
1. Enter a Physical Therapist Assistant Program
You will earn an associate’s degree and the program will take about 2 years.
2. Take the National Physical Therapy Exam
The test is given by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
3. Find a Job as a Physical Therapist Assistant
QUALITIES OF PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANTS
Detail Oriented
Physical therapist assistants should be organized, keep accurate records, and follow written and verbal instructions carefully to ensure quality care.
Compassion
Physical therapist assistants should enjoy helping people. They work with people who are in pain and must have empathy to help their patients.
Dexterity
Physical therapist assistants should be comfortable using their hands to provide manual therapy and therapeutic exercises.
Interpersonal Skills
Physical therapist assistants should be courteous and friendly since they spend much of their time interacting with patients, their families, and other healthcare practitioners.
Physical Stamina
Physical therapist assistants are frequently on their feet and moving as they work with their patients. They must often kneel, stoop, bend, and stand for long periods.