The Complete Guide
How To Become A Physical Therapy Aide and save time and money on your certification
Grant Aldrich
January 14, 2022
Why We Love PTA
$29,000-$34,000
Estimated Salary
Certification Online
Education Needed
No Prior Experience
Experience
3-6 Months
Length
What if you could have a career helping people recover from illness or injury and regain their physical strength? And what if, instead of going to medical school for 4+ years, you could begin this new career in as little as 6 months?
Physical therapy aides support physical therapists by providing indirect patient care. From preparing patients for therapy to transporting them to where they need to be to scheduling and ordering supplies, these professionals are a critical part of the healthcare team. It’s no surprise that these professionals are in such high demand.
If you think you have what it takes to become a physical therapy aide, then keep reading to discover what this rewarding career offers.
Contents
- Chapter 1What Do Physical Therapy Aides Do?
- Chapter 2Top 5 Reasons to Become a PTA
- Chapter 3How to Get a PTA Certification
- Chapter 4Physical Therapy Aide Salary Data
- Chapter 6How to Find a Job
- Chapter 7FAQs
- Chapter 8How to Get Started
Chapter 1:
What Do Physical Therapy Aides Do?
Physical therapy aides work under the direct supervision of physical therapists in providing indirect patient care for those that need rehabilitation or therapy.
A Physical therapy aide’s daily tasks could include preparing treatment areas for patient therapy, cleaning and setting up equipment, assisting patients moving to and from treatment areas, ordering supplies, scheduling therapy sessions and completing insurance forms.
So let’s say you are working in a hospital setting and it’s time for Mr Jackson’s therapy session. You may be dispatched up to Mr Jackson’s room to help him transfer from his bed to the wheelchair and then transfer him down to the physical therapy room. Once you’ve dropped him off, you return to what you had been doing, which is wiping down some of the equipment. Later in the day, you take inventory and order any necessary supplies.
Physical therapy is an incredibly important discipline within the healthcare industry, and physical therapy aides are invaluable members of the team. For the services they provide both to physical therapists as well as the patients, the demand for these specialists is booming!
Chapter 2:
5 Reasons to Become a Physical Therapy Aide
While there are many reasons to consider a career as a Physical Therapy Aide, here are the Top 5 Reasons:
1. No Prior Experience is Needed
The great thing is you don’t need any prior experience or degree to begin your certification program – you could start towards a career as a physical therapy aide in just 6 months.
2. Enjoy Job Security
Are you looking for a fulfilling career that also offers job security? With an aging baby boomer population, there will be more demand for physical therapy aides in the coming years. Moreover, the recent COVID crisis has given rise to medical conditions and emergencies hence the demand for therapy aides is not going away anytime soon. We’ll share some more specific data with you in just a bit.
3. Feel Good About the Work You Do
Some people have day jobs while others like to be working in a job that betters other people’s lives each day. As a physical therapy aide professional, you’ll feel great about helping people and will end each day with a smile on your face.
4. Work in a Variety of Settings
You’ll have a ton of choices of workplaces such as in a hospital setting, a private practice, nursing home, outpatient clinic and more. Plus, the other advantage is since these professionals are needed all over the country, you can live and work where you wish as well.
5. A Great Stepping-Stone
A physical therapy aide is an entry-level position and one that lets you have a firsthand look at the world of physical therapy. You may eventually decide you’d like to go back to school to move up and become an assistant, and then eventually a licensed physical therapist with their own practice. Then again, you may decide to become a nurse or a clinical administrator. You’ll interact with so many different healthcare professionals and you’ll get access to a variety of potential future career advancements. You don’t want to miss out on such an opportunity, with little investment, you can learn about many advancing career options.
Chapter 3:
How to Get a Physical Therapy Aide Certification
Whether you work in a hospital, nursing home or private practice, employers typically like to see candidates hold certification and demonstrate their abilities to land a job in the field. So a certification may be the best way to get started in this exciting new career.
We recommend you take our certification savings quiz to get started.
Take the Quiz! >
Our quiz could help you save time and money on a certification program from an authorized school – and it takes less than a couple minutes to complete.
5 Things to Look for In A Physical Therapy Aide Certification Program
1. Find an online PTA program from an authorized school or accredited university
To get your career started on the right foot you’ll want to obtain certification from an authorized school or accredited college. That’s the first. In addition to gaining important skills and information, you get a certification of completion to show off and hang on your wall!
2. Look for a discount and a low monthly payment plan
These are often hard to come by…but, we can help! 🙂 We understand the need for discounts and savings especially for adult learners, who also have families to look out for. That’s why OnlineDegree.com has made it its mission to help adult learners get huge discounts toward their certification!
3. Make sure an externship placement is included
Certification is a great first step, but to really set yourself apart from other candidates and to take your skills one level ahead of others, you’ll want to look for a training program that offers hands-on experience.
4. Look for an online, mentor supported course you can take at your own pace
Online and at your own pace is key! Adult learners should look for online certification programs as these allow them to study at their own pace and on their own schedule…this is huge for maintaining your family time. It’s not easy juggling study with work and family and learning should be as accessible as possible.
5. Find out if textbooks are included in the cost of the program
Textbooks can cost a fortune! Make sure to find a program that doesn’t charge extra for books.
6. (Bonus!) Use our free quiz to find a certification program that meets all of these criteria
We’ve done the research for you! Save time by using our healthcare quiz to get matched with the best certification programs. All programs meet these criteria and are chosen for you based on your career goals and life situation.
Take the Quiz! >
Chapter 4:
Physical Therapy Aide Salary Data
How much do Physical Therapy Aides make? Here is the salary and growth data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
The median annual wage for physical therapist aides was $28,450 in 2020. This figure is determined by a few things such as education, certifications, time spent in your career and location. Your salary can also be enhanced by the facility you work in. for instance, physical therapy aides working in hospitals had an annual average salary of $29,570 while an aide working in a nursing home earned $34,490.
Most physical therapy aides work full time, although part-time work is available. Some aides work nights and weekends because many physical therapists’ offices have extended hours to accommodate patients’ schedules.
Chapter 5:
Physical Therapy Aide Job Growth Projections and Forecast
How fast is the Physical Therapy Aide field growing?
According to the BLS, employment of physical therapy aides and assistants is expected to grow 27% from 2018 to 2028, which is far faster than the average for all occupations.
As we mentioned earlier, as the baby boomer generation ages, they will require more medical services and attention, and physical therapy will rank high on the list of services needed.
While job prospects are good across the board, those candidates who have obtained certification stand the best chance of landing a job. Luckily we can connect you with licensed schools or accredited universities that offer these training opportunities!
Chapter 6:
How to Find a Job as a Physical Therapy Aide
Your first step toward your career as a physical therapy aide is to complete the certification training program through an accredited university. This will give you a solid educational foundation, the skills needed and get you ready to enter the job market.
Next, you’ll want to determine what setting you’d like to work in. We also mentioned that you’ll have plenty of work environments to choose from. While it is true that a majority of aides work in hospitals and private practices, there are other facilities such as nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and occupational therapists’ offices as well that hire therapy aides. So you’ll want to spend some time thinking about where your skills and personality might fit best.
Once you are decided on your preferred work setting, the next step is to gain some critical hands-on experience before hitting the proverbial pavement. The good news is a quality certification program will include an externship so you can gain some hands-on experience!
Chapter 7:
Frequently Asked Questions
Additional questions and answers you may have about becoming a Physical Therapy Aide and getting your certification:
Q: What Does a Physical Therapy Aide Do Every Day?
A: These professionals work with physical therapists and offer indirect patient support. They essentially keep the office running smoothly so the therapist can focus on treating the patients. Daily tasks include setting up equipment and maintaining a clean and functional therapy area, handling clerical duties such as patient intake, coordinating with referring doctors’ offices and documenting patients’ responses during exercises.
Q: What is a Physical Therapy Aide Certification?
A: This certification is a valuable asset to have as it shows prospective employers that you have taken the time to learn the fundamentals. This certification will help you stand apart from the crowd and hopefully get your resume to the top of the pile!
Q: What Skills Will I Learn in Physical Therapy Aide Training?
A: You will learn and master important skills in your training. Education will focus on a working knowledge of anatomy and medical terminology as well as information regarding patient care skills, infection control, and the legal and ethical regulations that affect healthcare providers.
Q: What Are the Prerequisites for Enrollment in a Certificate Program?
A: The only requirement for enrollment in these programs is a high school diploma or equivalent.
Chapter 8:
How to Start Towards a Physical Therapy Aide Career In 3-6 Months
Even if you don’t have any prior experience or degree – you could start towards a career as a physical therapy aide in just 3-6 months! That’s one of the greatest advantages of this profession.
So here’s what we recommend you do to get started: Take this quiz to see if you qualify for an online certification program from an authorized school or accredited university.
Take the Quiz! >
A physical therapy aide certification is often required or preferred by most employers. Plus, taking a certification program could be the best way to get your foot in the door, build your network, get training, and work experience.
Take this quiz to see if you qualify for:
- 10% Off A Certification Program
- An Externship For Real Work Experience
- Affordable Cost and Low Monthly Payments
- A FREE Laptop To Take The Course If You Don’t Have One
- No Extra Cost For Textbooks – All Included and Shipped To Your Door
- Online, Mentor Supported Courses You Can Take 24/7 At Your Own Pace
If you are ready to get started on an exciting and rewarding career in healthcare, then take this short quiz to get started toward your dream!
FAQs
What is the difference between a PT aide and a PT assistant? ›
Physical therapist assistants are involved in the direct care of patients. Physical therapist aides often have tasks that are indirectly related to patient care, such as cleaning and setting up the treatment area, moving patients, and doing clerical duties.
Is being a physical therapy aide hard? ›It is a physically demanding career.
A job as a physical therapist assistant is one of the most physically demanding careers on average. Having such a physically demanding career can put you at risk for injury. Once you are injured, it will cause you to be unable to work and also require medical attention.
Becoming a physical therapist assistant is not a steppingstone to becoming a physical therapist. However, approximately 10% of PTAs pursue careers at PTs. Traditionally, PTAs remain with their first career choice within physical therapy.
How much do physical therapy aides make in Texas? ›| State | Employment (1) | Annual mean wage (2) |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | 4,500 | $ 27,150 |
| New Jersey | 4,170 | $ 31,460 |
| New York | 2,780 | $ 34,020 |
| Georgia | 1,580 | $ 27,650 |
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for physical therapist assistants is $60,740 per year ($29.20 per hour). Salaries can vary based on location, education, and experience.
What makes a good PT aide? ›Stamina: Moving and preparing equipment and helping to move patients can be physically demanding some days. Compassion: Patients often are recovering from injuries or dealing with other serious health issues. A genuine concern for their recovery or well-being is vital to being a good P.T. aide.
What is the highest paid PT aide? ›How Much Does a Physical Therapist Aide Make? Physical Therapist Aides made a median salary of $29,200 in 2021. The best-paid 25% made $35,320 that year, while the lowest-paid 25% made $24,240.
Is there a lot of math in physical therapy assistant? ›No science-based career would be complete without a solid foundation in mathematics. Most physical therapy programs require completion of geometry, algebra and pre-calculus. Therefore, you will need to take these courses in high school to prepare for college requirements.
What are the disadvantages of being a physical therapist assistant? ›- Physically demanding. Physical therapy assistants may spend many hours throughout the day on their feet. ...
- Constant supervision. ...
- Career advancement requires additional training. ...
- Emotional demands. ...
- License requirements. ...
- Relocation challenges.
No, they are in the same pay range, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median salary for established OTAs is more than $60,000. The median wage for established PTAs is $58,040.
Is PT easier than nursing? ›
Physical therapy is typically regarded as the more challenging option for the education level required to begin a career in these two fields. Generally, to become a physical therapist, you must complete various degrees, including a doctoral one.
Is a PTA career worth it? ›What makes a PTA career so attractive is not only the expected job growth but also the rewarding pay. The median salary for a PTA is currently $58,000. And you only need a two-year degree to become a PTA!
What can a physical therapy aide legally do in Texas? ›What can a physical therapy aide legally do in Texas?
What is the highest PTA salary in Texas? ›What is the highest PTA salary in Texas?
How much do physical therapist assistants make an hour in Texas? ›How much do physical therapist assistants make an hour in Texas?
Is PTA a low stress job? ›Is PTA a low stress job?
Are PTAs being phased out? ›Are PTAs being phased out?
What pays more PT or PA? ›What pays more PT or PA?
How long does it take to be a physical therapist aide? ›The length of a PTA program is typically two years (five semesters). Primary content areas in the curriculum may include, but are not limited to, anatomy, physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, neuroscience, clinical pathology, behavioral sciences, communication, and ethics/values.
What do PT aides wear? ›Depending on the requirements of the position, physical therapy aides wear some basic office attire such as slacks and shirts or blouses while others wear traditional medical scrubs. In some facilities, casual attire on fridays is allowed where clinicians and office workers can wear well-kept jeans.
How should I dress for a PT aide interview? ›
Dress slacks and a blouse or suit jacket is appropriate for women. While conservative attire is most common for an interview, you can still show your unique personality with a bit of color and style. Avoid jewelry and items that may distract during the interview.
Which state pays PT the most? ›| State | Employment (1) | Hourly mean wage |
|---|---|---|
| California | 23,840 | $ 49.77 |
| New York | 16,130 | $ 44.18 |
| Texas | 14,040 | $ 47.28 |
| Florida | 13,220 | $ 43.57 |
Yes, you can make $100,000 per year as a physical therapist.
The chances of earning over $100k for a physical therapist are actually pretty good because the highest-paid physical therapist positions typically pay at least $91,000 per year.
Those incentives typically come in the form of higher hourly rates, bonuses, housing subsidies, or living fees. In general, you can expect to make a bit more money in a traveling position versus a traditional physical therapy job.
What type of math is needed for physical therapy? ›What type of math is needed for physical therapy?
Can you make 6 figures as a PTA? ›Can you make 6 figures as a PTA?
How many PT schools are there in the US? ›How many PT schools are there in the US?
Is physical therapy becoming saturated? ›Employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 17 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 15,400 openings for physical therapists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
What are some bad things about being a physical therapist? ›- Extensive educational requirements. ...
- Obtaining and maintaining licensure. ...
- Demanding work. ...
- Working with challenging patients. ...
- Insurance rules and regulations. ...
- Potential for burnout.
You can easily earn six figures as an OT or a COTA by yourself running your own kids gym – Guiselle Miranda is an OTR/L and an amazing example of this and you can see her story here https://www.alternativehealthcarecareers.com/blog/how-guiselle-miranda-otr-launched-kids-gym-in-one-year.
Is an OTA a good career? ›
A report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics says demand for OTAs is nearly three times the average for all occupations: 36% growth from 2021-2030. In addition, OTAs are again a top-15 healthcare support job for 2021, according to the annual U.S. News & World Report survey.
What does OTA PTA mean? ›Two options for people who love to be hands-on include occupational therapy assistant (OTA) and physical therapist assistant (PTA).
What is higher than a physical therapist? ›A doctor of physical therapy is a licensed physical therapist who has completed an accredited doctoral program. They perform the same tasks as physical therapists. Doctors of physical therapy are also often involved in research and teaching.
Who makes more PT or RN? ›Physical therapists may earn higher salaries, but they spend more time in school than registered nurses. Registered nurses can also go back to school at any time to pursue an advanced practice role that yields higher pay. Nurse practitioners, for example, are among the highest-paid professionals in nursing.
Do PT go to medical school? ›No, physical therapists do not need to go to med school.
However, to become a physical therapist, you must complete a doctorate of physical therapy degree from a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education-accredited physical therapist education program and pass a state licensure exam.
Yes, PTA can be a stressful job.
Many of these patients are in pain and facing uncertainty about their health. Some patients may express their pain by being short-tempered and mean. For these reasons, working as a physical therapist assistant can be emotionally demanding, especially for new PTAs.
A Career with Opportunities
Becoming a Physiotherapy Assistant is a great career path to follow as there are many career opportunities and a good employment outlook. The demand for workers in this field is expected to rise in order to meet the health care needs of a growing and aging population.
How much does a PTA make in Michigan? The average PTA salary in Michigan is $63,802 as of February 27, 2023, but the range typically falls between $58,102 and $69,902.
What does a physical therapy aide do on a resume? ›What does a physical therapy aide do on a resume?
How much do PT assistants make in California? ›How much do PT assistants make in California?
What can a physical therapist with an associate degree not do in PA? ›
What can a physical therapist with an associate degree not do in PA?