What Is the Difference Between a Physical Therapy Aide and an Assistant?

Physical therapist assistants and physical therapist aides both work under the supervision of physical therapists to help improve the physical functioning of patients. However, their specific responsibilities, qualifications and expected earnings are different, as described by the Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2008-09 edition of the Occupational Outlook Handbook (see "Additional Resources").

Job Description

Physical therapist aides are responsible for preparing the treatment area and transporting patients back and forth to therapy. Physical therapist assistants are more directly involved in the patients' treatment programs and may assist with exercises, massage and evaluation.

Education

Physical therapist aides must be high school graduates while physical therapist assistants are usually required to have an associate's degree or higher.

Licensing

Some states require physical therapist assistants to be licensed. Licensure criteria vary from state to state but usually include educational requirements and passage of an exam.

Earnings

As of May 2006, the median annual income of physical therapist aides was $22,060 while physical therapist assistants earned $41,360.

Job Opportunities

Job opportunities for physical therapist aides and assistants are expected to increase by 29 percent between 2006 and 2016, but competition for physical therapist aide positions will be stiffer than for physical therapist assistant jobs.

Resources

• Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides (Dept. of Labor)