Technicians & Therapy
Physical Therapist Assistant jobs
Physical therapist assistants help patients recover movement after injury or surgery, working under physical therapists in outpatient clinics, hospitals and home health.
- Typical US pay
- $55k–$75k /yr
- ≈ $26–$36/hr
- Open jobs
- 0
- on MEDroles right now
- Also called
- PTA, Physical Therapy Assistant, Outpatient PTA, Rehab Assistant
Open physical therapist assistant jobs
No physical therapist assistant jobs are posted right now. Apply once and a recruiter will call you when one opens.
What does a physical therapist assistant do?
- Guide patients through exercises and therapy plans
- Use modalities such as heat, ice and electrical stimulation
- Track and document patient progress
- Teach patients and families home exercise programs
Key skills
- Therapeutic exercise
- Gait training
- Documentation
- Patient motivation
- Body mechanics
How to become a physical therapist assistant
An associate degree from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapist assistant program.
Licensing & certifications
Nearly all states require PTAs to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs and hold a state license or certification.
Frequently asked questions
How much do physical therapist assistants make?
Physical Therapist Assistants in the US typically earn about $55k to $75k a year, depending on experience, certification, location, specialty and setting. Bilingual candidates sometimes earn a pay differential.
How do I become a physical therapist assistant?
An associate degree from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapist assistant program.
Do physical therapist assistants need a license or certification?
Nearly all states require PTAs to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs and hold a state license or certification.
What other job titles are there for physical therapist assistants?
Common titles include PTA, Physical Therapy Assistant, Outpatient PTA, Rehab Assistant.
Pay ranges are approximate US figures for entry-level through experienced workers and vary by state, setting and specialty. Licensing rules vary by state; check with your state board.