How To Become A Physical Therapist Assistant - 5 Easy Steps

The answer to how to become a physical therapist assistant is not as simple as many might think. This job is not only demanding but also very exigent. They work under the supervision of a professional PT practitioner and treat patients who are suffering from mobility issues due to illness, injury or any other chronic condition. They also train patients on how to perform certain exercises themselves, how to use medical devices such as wheelchairs and crutches. They perform various therapeutic techniques and procedures to help improve their patient's mobility and also monitor their developmental progress. Hence moving into this field of work involves professional education and state license.

How to become a physical therapist assistant can be laid down in five easy steps:

Step I

Look for a school / community college / online school offering physical therapist assistant program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). If it's not accredited than you won't be allowed to sit for the state license exam and hence would not be allowed to practice legally in any medical setting.

Step II

You are required to complete the two year associate's degree program. The program has been structured in a way to provide students both academic coursework as well as laboratory and clinical experience. Students are taught courses such as anatomy, physiology, algebra, medical vocabulary etc. Clinical experience is the vital part of this program, where students get hands-on experience of working with a professional physical therapist in a clinic or a hospital or any other medical setting.

Step III

Once you have acquired the degree, you are required to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam or state administered exam to obtain license. Most states require license, however criteria and eligibility vary from state to state. You may also be required to regularly earn extra education credits to maintain their certificate.

Step IV

After having the license you may seek employment. As a beginner you may have better chances of getting hired in nursing units, orthopedic clinics or hospitals due to the increasing senior population.

Step V

You may also choose to specialize in their area of interest such as pediatrics, geriatrics, cardiovascular etc. After fulfilling certain eligibility criteria laid down by APTA, you can apply to acquire the Advanced Proficiency Certificate.

The above was the gist for how to become a physical therapist assistant. You should thoroughly research and gather all necessary information and state specific requirements to step into this rich and rewarding career.