Physical therapy technicians are in demand and the need for them continues to grow at a fast pace. It is expected, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, that this growth will continue throughout the year 2012. This is the reason why a lot of individuals are seeking opportunities to grow their career in this field. The duties of a physical therapy technician, or assistant include:
- Providing assistance to the physical therapist while treatment is being administered through exercise and related therapy measures, such as massage therapy
- Convincing the patient’s family to take part in the treatment and to encourage them to support their loved one
- Explaining the details of the treatment to the patient and the family
It is very simple and easy to develop and grow your career as a physical therapy technician or physical therapy assistant. To work in this profession you will have to meet some requirements. Use these tips to learn how to become a physical therapy technician.
- Pursue and complete your associate’s degree. Your studies should last for no more than two years. Ensure that you study at a school that offers this particular program. With the associate’s degree, you will be qualified to take the certification and licensure examination administered by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Once you successfully pass the exam, you will be qualified as a licensed physical therapy assistant and can pursue employment in this field.
- Try to find an internship while you are in school. This will give you some experience in the field after you have acquired your degree as a physical therapy assistant. Working internships will help you prepare for physical therapy jobs and understand what type of work you’ll be responsible for in physical therapy offices. Be sure that you visit the APTA website to receive additional information on the specifics of how to land an internship and how to interview for it.
- Prepare for the licensure and certification exam after graduating with your associate’s degree. To take the examination to become a licensed physical therapy assistant or physical therapy technician, you must be registered with the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). The website will provide additional details that include sample tests for you to review.
- Improve your physical fitness. While academics are an important element to the profession, you have to be a role model to the clients that you will serve. This will help you to handle the physical endurance and capabilities of your clients. In addition, a physical therapy tech or assistant job requires that you do a lot of heavy lifting, so being physically fit is essential.
- Begin to apply for employment right away. Submit your resume to hospitals, clinics and to medical offices and practices where physical therapy is performed. You can look for physical therapy job opportunities in your area, or if you’re up for a bit of traveling, or even relocation, you can try applying for physical therapy jobs online.
For a physical therapy assistant and a technician, the average yearly salary is approximately between $30,000 to $40,000. However, it will depend on the person’s qualifications, education and experience. Continue to take courses related to physical therapy so that you can improve your skill set and knowledge in physical therapy rehabilitation. This should guarantee a fulfilling career in the physical therapy field.
This profession is expected to receive a thirty five percent growth within the next seven years. The aging population indicates that physical therapists will be needed for years to come.
Physical therapy technicians and assistants have a very rewarding position that requires dedication and a love for the craft. It is a job that allows you the opportunity to become a licensed physical therapist. Further education will be necessary, if this is your choice.