May assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist.
A Typical Day
- Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities.
- Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress and provide results to physical therapist in person or through progress notes.
- Confer with physical therapy staff or others to discuss and evaluate patient information for planning, modifying, or coordinating treatment.
- Administer active or passive manual therapeutic exercises, therapeutic massage, aquatic physical therapy, or heat, light, sound, or electrical modality treatments, such as ultrasound.
Recommended Credentials
Associate Degree and receive a certification on National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE)
Education & Training
Regional employers often hire graduates of these programs.
Elsewhere in Michigan
Physical Therapy Programs -
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Tour the Northwest Education Services Career Tech Center - Health Sciences Program
The Local Advantage Learning Pathway
Pathway 1
Northwest Education Services (formerly TBAISD) Career Tech Center - Health Sciences Program
Pathway 3
Become a Full Physical Therapist with the
Doctor of Physical Therapy Program -
Sample Employers in Our Region
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TIP
Contact one of these companies and ask for an informational interview, to see if you can job shadow, or to find out if they hire interns.
Sample Job Titles...
- Certified Physical Therapist Assistant (CPTA)
- Home Health Physical Therapist Assistant
- Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (LPTA)
- Outpatient Physical Therapist Assistant
- Physical Therapist Assistant and Nurse Aide
10-Year Job Growth Projections
Employed Regionally
Wage Range & Median 10-County Region
Annual Hires Regionally
Other Regional Career Resources
Learn more about Physical Therapy Assistants at O*NET Online.
Real World Career Pathways
It doesn't have to be a straight shot! Hear from people who have taken unique pathways.