Are you interested in physical therapy, but not sure you want to put in the time or money to become a physical therapist?
Consider becoming a physical therapist assistant.
In this article, we'll discuss what physical therapist assistants do and the education requirements to become one.
What Does a Physical Therapist Assistant Do?
Physical therapist assistants, or PTAs, work with physical therapists to provide care for patients. Their primary job is to assist patients with exercises and other treatments the therapist prescribes.
PTAs work directly under the supervision of a physical therapist, or PT.
Some of their job duties may include:
- assisting with hot and cold treatments, electrical stimulation, and other interventions
- teaching patients how to use canes, walkers, and other mobility equipment
- collecting patient data
- motivating and encouraging patients
- helping patients perform exercises
Physical therapist assistants work with patients of all ages and walks of life, from infants to the elderly. They commonly work with those who are disabled or recovering from an injury, disease, or surgery.
Physical therapist assistants usually work in hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation centers. They also commonly work for home healthcare services and schools.
PTAs may work a variety of hours depending on the needs of their employers. Those working for hospitals may work irregular shifts, while those in schools may enjoy standard business hours.
What Qualities Are Necessary To Become a Physical Therapist Assistant?
Physical therapist assistants must have a strong understanding of various subjects relating to the human body. These may include anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, and biomechanics.
They should be strong and physically fit, as they spend a lot of time on their feet or performing various exercises with patients. They may also have to help lift and move some patients.
PTAs need to be patient, empathetic, and compassionate since they often work with patients who are discouraged, in pain, or lacking motivation.
Physical therapist assistants need to have solid decision-making and critical-thinking skills to determine which interventions pose a health risk to the patient and to help lead them in their treatment plan.
They must know how to operate various types of equipment and instruments, as well as computer programs, which they use on a regular basis.
Finally, they should have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, as they spend much of their time interacting with patients and providing encouragement.
So, are you ready to become a physical therapist assistant? Follow these steps.
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED
The first thing you need to do is finish high school or obtain your GED. Becoming a physical therapist assistant requires advanced education, and having your diploma or GED is a prerequisite.
While in school, consider taking classes in anatomy and physiology, biology, writing, chemistry, and advanced math. These will help prepare you for your future career.
Work hard to keep your grades up if you are still in school. If you plan to obtain your GED, spend some time studying and preparing for the exams so you can score as high as possible.
Step 2: Obtain an Associate Degree
Next, you will need to enroll in an accredited physical therapist assistant training program. These programs are available through community colleges and typically lead to an associate degree.
Make sure the program you choose is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
Students receive extensive training in a variety of subjects such as exercise physiology, neuroscience, behavioral science, biomechanics, and kinesiology.
These physical therapy programs usually take about five semesters to complete. Coursework is divided between classroom and clinical experiences.
Step 3: Get Licensed
After graduating with your associate degree, you'll need to get a state license before you can begin working as a physical therapist assistant.
Each state has different requirements. However, the minimum requirement is to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam.
This exam comprises 200 questions and can take up to four hours to complete. Candidates who don't pass the exam on the first try are allowed to take it up to three times in a year.
Many states require additional tests, known as jurisprudence exams, which test candidates on state-specific laws and regulations.
Step 4: Apply for Jobs
Once you pass your exams and meet all state requirements to obtain your license, you can begin looking for your first job.
Consider attending local hiring events and job fairs, and check out online job boards. You may also find out about job openings from individual hospital or care facility websites.
Make sure your resume highlights your education and any relevant work, volunteer, or personal experience you may have.
Step 5: Consider Additional Training and Certification
After you have gained work experience as a physical therapy assistant, you can pursue additional training and certification opportunities.
Specialty exams in physical therapy are available through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists, but you have to have at least 2,000 hours of clinical experience to be eligible.
You can also participate in the American Physical Therapy Association's PTA Advanced Proficiency Pathways program. This program is available to experienced PTAs only.
All of these advanced opportunities are optional, but they can be a great opportunity for you to advance your career and qualify for better-paying positions as time goes by.
Become a Physical Therapist Assistant Today
Physical therapist assistants work with physical therapists to make a difference in the lives of those in recovery or living with disabilities.
If this sounds like the ideal career path for you, follow the steps outlined in this article to become a physical therapist assistant today.
