What Does a Physical Therapy Assistant Do?
A physical therapy assistant helps patients recover mobility, strength, and function by carrying out treatment plans designed by licensed physical therapists. They guide patients through therapeutic exercises, assist with stretching and mobility activities, and use techniques such as massage or heat/cold therapy to support recovery. PTAs work with patients of all ages and backgrounds, including those recovering from surgery, managing chronic conditions, or rehabilitating from injuries.
In addition to direct patient care, a physical therapy assistant monitors patient progress and reports outcomes to the supervising physical therapist. They also educate patients and caregivers on at-home exercises, safe mobility practices, and lifestyle adjustments that support long-term recovery. PTAs play an essential role in healthcare teams, ensuring that patients receive consistent, hands-on support to reach their rehabilitation goals.
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Physical Therapy Assistant Core Responsibilities
- Carry out treatment plans created by physical therapists
- Guide patients through prescribed exercises and therapeutic activities
- Apply modalities such as ultrasound, heat, cold, and electrical stimulation
- Monitor patient progress and report findings to the supervising PT
- Educate patients and caregivers on proper techniques for home exercises and daily activities
- Maintain patient records and ensure documentation accuracy
- Prepare therapy areas and maintain equipment cleanliness and safety
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology
- Proficiency in therapeutic exercises and rehabilitation techniques
- Ability to use rehabilitation equipment and modalities
- Documentation and record-keeping skills
Soft skills
- Compassion and empathy in patient care
- Strong communication and listening skills
- Patience and encouragement when guiding patients
- Teamwork and collaboration with therapists and healthcare staff
Education
- Associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program required
Certifications
- State licensure or certification as a physical therapy assistant required
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in outpatient, hospital, or rehabilitation settings
- Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems
- Bilingual communication skills for working with diverse patient populations
National Average Salary
Physical therapy assistant salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Position is:
$123,456
Sample Job Description Templates for Physical Therapy Assistants
Entry-Level Physical Therapy Assistant
Position Overview
We are seeking an entry-level physical therapy assistant to support patient care under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. This role is designed for recent graduates beginning their career in rehabilitation and provides hands-on experience working directly with patients in clinical settings.
Responsibilities
- Assist patients with exercises, stretches, and mobility activities prescribed by a physical therapist
- Prepare treatment areas and equipment for therapy sessions
- Monitor patients during therapy to ensure safety and comfort
- Record patient progress and share updates with the supervising therapist
- Provide encouragement and guidance to patients during rehabilitation activities
Requirements
Hard skills
- Foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology
- Familiarity with therapeutic modalities such as heat, cold, or ultrasound therapy
- Basic documentation and record-keeping skills
Soft skills
- Strong willingness to learn and take direction from supervising therapists
- Compassionate approach to patient care
- Good communication and listening skills
Education
- Associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program required
Certifications
- State licensure or certification as a physical therapy assistant required
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Completion of clinical rotations or internships in rehabilitation settings
- Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems
Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant
Position Overview
We are hiring a licensed physical therapy assistant to implement patient treatment plans and provide direct rehabilitation support. This role requires state licensure and hands-on ability to guide patients through therapy while collaborating closely with supervising physical therapists.
Responsibilities
- Carry out treatment plans created by licensed physical therapists
- Lead patients through prescribed exercises and therapeutic activities
- Apply therapeutic modalities such as electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and traction
- Track and report patient progress to the supervising PT
- Educate patients and caregivers on proper at-home exercises and safe mobility practices
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in therapeutic exercise and rehabilitation techniques
- Knowledge of rehabilitation equipment and treatment modalities
- Ability to accurately document patient activity and progress
Soft skills
- Strong interpersonal and motivational abilities
- Empathy and patience when working with patients in recovery
- Teamwork and collaboration within healthcare teams
Education
- Associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program required
Certifications
- State licensure or certification as a physical therapy assistant required
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–2 years of experience in a clinical or outpatient therapy setting
- Exposure to specialized areas such as orthopedics or sports rehabilitation
Senior Physical Therapy Assistant
Position Overview
We are seeking a senior physical therapy assistant with advanced clinical experience to provide rehabilitation support for complex patient cases. This role includes mentoring less experienced PTAs and assisting with specialized therapy techniques.
Responsibilities
- Implement therapy programs for patients with advanced or chronic conditions
- Monitor outcomes and suggest adjustments to the supervising PT
- Mentor entry-level PTAs and assist with training new hires
- Document and review patient progress for accuracy and compliance
- Serve as a point of contact for patients and caregivers with therapy-related questions
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced skills in therapeutic exercises and rehabilitation modalities
- Strong knowledge of patient care techniques for complex cases
- Proficiency with EHR systems and patient documentation standards
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring abilities
- Excellent clinical judgment and problem-solving skills
- Strong communication and motivational skills
Education
- Associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program required
Certifications
- State licensure or certification as a physical therapy assistant required
- Specialty certifications in orthopedics, geriatrics, or other areas recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of clinical experience as a licensed PTA
- Previous mentorship or training experience with junior staff
Lead Physical Therapy Assistant
Position Overview
We are hiring a lead physical therapy assistant to provide guidance and oversight to a team of PTAs while continuing to deliver patient care. This role combines clinical expertise with leadership responsibilities to ensure therapy programs run smoothly and effectively.
Responsibilities
- Supervise daily workflow of PTAs and coordinate therapy schedules
- Provide hands-on therapy for patients with advanced rehabilitation needs
- Support staff with training, mentoring, and troubleshooting challenges
- Ensure compliance with healthcare standards and safety protocols
- Collaborate with supervising physical therapists to align patient care plans
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in rehabilitation techniques and advanced therapeutic modalities
- Ability to manage workflow and oversee multiple patient cases
- Strong skills in documentation and compliance monitoring
Soft skills
- Leadership and team coordination abilities
- Clear communication with staff, therapists, and patients
- Strong organizational and time management skills
Education
- Associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program required
Certifications
- State licensure or certification as a physical therapy assistant required
- Specialty certifications recommended for leadership positions
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience as a practicing PTA
- Previous supervisory or lead experience in a therapy department
Physical Therapy Assistant Supervisor
Position Overview
We are seeking a physical therapy assistant supervisor to oversee the daily operations of a team of PTAs across a clinical or rehabilitation facility. This leadership role focuses on staff management, quality assurance, and ensuring consistent, patient-centered care.
Responsibilities
- Manage and supervise a team of PTAs in daily therapy operations
- Ensure therapy sessions align with treatment plans created by physical therapists
- Conduct performance evaluations and provide staff feedback
- Maintain compliance with state regulations, safety standards, and organizational policies
- Assist with training and onboarding new PTAs
- Support therapists in coordinating therapy programs and scheduling resources
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of physical therapy procedures and treatment plans
- Ability to manage staff schedules and departmental workflow
- Strong understanding of compliance, safety, and documentation requirements
Soft skills
- Leadership and conflict resolution skills
- Excellent organizational and decision-making abilities
- Strong interpersonal and team management skills
Education
- Associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program required
Certifications
- State licensure or certification as a physical therapy assistant required
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of PTA experience with at least 2 years in a leadership role
- Experience managing teams in outpatient, hospital, or rehabilitation settings