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Entry Level Therapy Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

1 Legacy, Inc

**Physical Therapist**

Portland, OR · On-site

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

Experience: Entry-level to Experienced. The Staff Physical Therapist evaluates and treats patients/residents, communicates with families, physicians, and other health team members, and maintains ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Cornelius, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Dayton, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Happy Valley, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Portland, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Lake Oswego, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Tigard, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Durham, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Woodburn, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Hubbard, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Ridgefield, WA

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Damascus, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Dundee, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Canby, OR

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

United States Army

Physical Therapist

Scappoose, OR

$1.7K - $2.3K/wk

The Army also offers an opportunity for advanced education through the Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This is an entry-level, nationally ranked program held at the ...

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Entry Level Therapy information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$17

$23

How much do entry level therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level therapy in Portland, OR is $17.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $19.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level therapy job?

Entry level therapy jobs are positions in the mental health or rehabilitation fields that require minimal prior professional experience and are suitable for recent graduates or those new to the profession. These roles may include positions like mental health technician, behavioral therapist assistant, or rehabilitation aide, and often involve supporting licensed therapists and helping clients with their treatment plans. Most entry level therapy jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, and may provide on-the-job training. These roles can be a stepping stone toward advanced licensure and more independent practice as a therapist.

What are some common challenges entry-level therapists face during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level therapists often encounter challenges such as managing a diverse caseload, balancing administrative duties with client sessions, and building therapeutic rapport with clients from various backgrounds. Navigating professional boundaries and coping with emotional fatigue are also common. New therapists can overcome these obstacles by seeking regular supervision, participating in peer consultation groups, and prioritizing self-care. Many organizations also provide mentorship programs and ongoing training to support early-career therapists as they develop their skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Therapist, you need a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field, along with foundational knowledge in therapeutic techniques and frameworks. Familiarity with client management software, electronic health records, and sometimes basic certifications like CPR or first aid is typically required. Strong communication, active listening, empathy, and ethical judgment are essential soft skills for building trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualifications ensure effective support for clients' mental health needs and contribute to positive therapeutic outcomes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Therapy jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Therapy jobs in Portland, OR are:

Entry Level Therapy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Therapy job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,359 per year, or $18 per hour.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Educational Service District 112 - WA

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$30.18 - $36.72/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) at Educational Service District 112 - WA Share on X Print Application Deadline 8/31/2026 3:10 PM Pacific Date Posted 7/7/2026 Contact Chelsea Jacobson 360-952-3322 Number of Openings 1 Salary Pay Range 30.18 - 36.72 Per Hour Add'l Salary Info Offers are made at the entry level of the range. Length of Work Year 180 days (school year) Employment Type Part Time Job Description / Essential Elements: Print General Responsibilities Reporting directly to the Occupational Therapist, the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is responsible for supporting and assisting students with disabilities in various settings. The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, consistent with the individual education plan (IEP) or the Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP), assists the Physical and/or Occupational Therapist with implementing and documenting treatment programs for students and children

Assignment/Location: We are recruiting for a COTA to serve the Goldendale, Mabton and Bickleton school districts. This position is 37.5 hrs/wk, school year schedule. Regular attendance required: This role relies on regular and reliable attendance to ensure consistency for our students and help support a positive, productive learning environment

Essential Functions/Other Functions Essential Functions: Assist the Physical and/or Occupational Therapist, consistent with the IEP and/or IFSP goals, to implement the therapy program including exercises, activities of daily living skills, and ambulatory techniques. Construct, adapt, and monitor adaptive equipment. Consult with teachers and parents on use.

Maintain records of student progress, attendance, and other required activities. Prepare projects and materials for conducting individual and group motor skills programs. Follow established procedures from referral to discharge with appropriate communication to supervisors.

Monitor instructional assistants in daily motor skills program. Consult with classroom staff/education team members and parents regarding implementing motor skills program. Assist the Physical and/or Occupational Therapist in the assessment of students and the development of IFSP/IEP goals.

Participate as a member of the education team. May attend parent conferences. Maintain regular attendance to carry out the duties and responsibilities of the position.

Other Functions: Other duties as assigned. Minimum/Preferred Qualifications & Skills Minimum Qualifications: Associate's degree in occupational therapy assistant. Have or are eligible to hold a certified occupational therapy assistant license in the state of Washington.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant experience in an educational setting. Early childhood and/or school age experience. Working Conditions/Employment Requirements Working Conditions/Physical Requirements: Family home environment, preschool or K-12 classroom settings, may move from classroom to classroom to provide services.

Ability to move and position children and/or students according to established procedures to provide therapy. Sit, stand, stoop to attend to children and/or student's needs and to provide therapy. Regular attendance during assigned work schedule.

Daily travel required to provide services. Employment Requirements: Successful completion of a criminal history and fingerprint check through the Washington State Patrol and FBI. Travel within ESD 112 region for meetings and trainings.

Requirements / Qualifications For more information on Requirements/Qualifications, please contact the employer. Comments and Other Information For more information on Comments and Other Information, please contact the employer. CalPERS Links Not all postings qualify for CalPERS.

Informational Only. CalPERS Retirement Benefits ADD TO WISHLIST VIEW JOB WISHLIST APPLY (Current Employees ONLY) APPLY QUICK APPLY

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