How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant

In 2005, while I was attending a university, I fell in a bike accident and broke my wrist. I underwent surgery to correct the break and my wrist was put in a cast. I had to learn how to function without my left hand. Even though I was right handed, I had no idea how important that other hand was until I couldn't use it anymore. When the cast came off, I was referred to a physical therapist. I feared that I'd never get functioning back in my atrophied wrist. After a few months of therapy, my wrist was back to normal. The only evidence left of the accident is a scar from the surgery and some occasional tightness in the wrist. I was so pleased with the result, and so grateful for what the physical therapist and his assistant had done for me, that I decided to research the profession. I left the university and am now in school to become a physical therapist assistant.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A desire to help people
• An aptitude or willingness to delve into scientific subject matter
• A commitment of 2 years
• Want a career with stability and great pay

1. 
    

   Decide that you want to do it. It is as simple as that. I agonized over whether or not to change my direction. Even though the one I was on wasn't working, I was comfortably uncomfortable. If you know this is what you want to do, DO IT!

2. 
    

   Research the profession. The American Physical Therapy Association website, apta.org, is your first source for all things physical therapy. Use it to choose a school, read about what physical therapy is, and the different career options.

3. Know the differences between the physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, and physical therapist aid.
   
   The physical therapist evaluates the patient and devises a treatment plan. More complex therapies are done by the physical therapist. A masters or doctorate of physical therapy is required.
   
   The physical therapist assistant carries out the treatment plan. A large majority of the therapy is carried out by the assistant, especially routine therapies. The assistant is a patient's cheerleader and reports on patient progress. An associates degree in an accredited program is required.
   
   The physical therapist aid does not participate in most of the therapy. The aid is responsible for the appearance and organization of the clinic and may handle insurance and clerical responsibilities. The aid may assist patients by following unsteady individuals with a wheelchair while they walk. A high school diploma or GED is required. Training is done on the job. Most jobs are volunteer.

4. 
    

   Choose a school. The APTA website lists schools by state for both PTs and PTAs.

5. 
    

   Find out what the requirements for the program are. Apply to the program. Most PTA programs require a student to visit 1-2 physical therapy sites, usually one inpatient and one outpatient. The visitations are discussed during the admissions interview with the school's PTA program director.

6. 
    

   Start taking science classes and other general education credits as soon as possible. Most PTA programs require 1 or 2 English classes, math, 1 or 2 psychology classes, and several science classes. The better you do in science classes, the more likely you will be selected to begin the program.

7. 
    

   Competition for entrance into PTA programs is generally not fierce, but good grades and an aptitude for science or willingness to learn science are essential. As the profession grows in popularity, competition might grow. Generally, students who do will in science and other general education subjects won't have a hard time getting admitted. If you don't have strong high school grades, consider doing your first year by taking the necessary science and GE classes if you aren't ready for acceptance. Most PTA program directors will accept you if you prove you have the drive and ability to do well in school.

8. 
    

   If you can, do more than just 2 visitations to PT clinics. Volunteer as a physical therapist aid. Most hospitals have aids assisting in both inpatient and outpatient clinics. It's great experience, gives you a better understanding of what you are going into, and you make contacts with potential employers. Your supervisor can provide you with a glowing recommendation in your future search for employment after school if you show you are dedicated and have a talent for working with people and listening to directions.

9. 
    

   Commit to finish the degree. You will have days where you will want to give up. Physical therapy school is vigorous and requires a large commitment of time and energy. Remember why you are doing it.
   
   To help others
   To start a great career with stability and great pay
   To recession proof your job (most health care jobs fare well in economic downturns)

Tips & Warnings

• APTA.org is your best resource for all things physical therapy. Also visit salary.com for salary information and the occupational outlook handbook on what the future holds for physical therapy.
• Physical therapy is a physically demanding job. Bending, stooping, standing, and lifting patients is part of the job. Be sure you are healthy enough to fulfill the job requirements. If you need to lose a few pounds, do it now. You don't want extra weight holding you back from being the best PTA you can be.

Resources

• How to Prepare for Graduate School in Physical Therapy
• How to Choose a Career in Healthcare
• American Physical Therapy Association
• How to Choose a Career Path While in College
• How to Go to College When You Have a Disability
• How to Choose a Career Path During an Economic Downturn