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Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do physical therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for physical therapy assistant in the United States is $31.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.92 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Physical Therapy Assistant vs Physical Therapist?

AspectPhysical Therapy AssistantPhysical Therapist
CredentialsAssociate's degree in Physical Therapy Assisting, licensure or certificationBachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in Physical Therapy, state licensure
Work EnvironmentAssist in patient care under supervision, clinics, hospitals, rehab centersEvaluate patients, develop treatment plans, oversee assistants
Employer & IndustryHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab facilitiesHospitals, private practices, clinics, research settings

The main difference is that Physical Therapy Assistants support Physical Therapists by providing hands-on care under supervision, while Physical Therapists evaluate patients and create treatment plans. Both roles work closely in similar settings, but the Physical Therapist has a broader scope of practice and advanced credentials.

Does physical therapy help Ehlers Danlos?

Physical therapy assistants help patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome by developing personalized exercise programs to improve joint stability, muscle strength, and flexibility. They work under the supervision of physical therapists to manage symptoms and prevent joint dislocations, often using manual therapy and assistive devices as part of treatment plans.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Physical Therapy Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physical Therapy Assistant, you need a solid understanding of anatomy, therapeutic exercise techniques, and must hold an associate degree from an accredited PTA program along with state licensure. Familiarity with rehabilitation equipment, documentation software, and understanding of HIPAA regulations are typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to motivate patients are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure effective patient care, compliance with regulations, and successful rehabilitation outcomes.

What are some common challenges Physical Therapy Assistants face when working with diverse patient populations?

Physical Therapy Assistants often encounter patients with a wide range of conditions, ages, and backgrounds, which can make communication and treatment planning challenging. Adapting exercises and motivational strategies to fit individual patient needs requires flexibility and creativity. Additionally, PTAs must be attentive to language barriers, cultural differences, and varying levels of patient engagement to ensure effective rehabilitation. Collaboration with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals is essential to deliver personalized care and achieve the best outcomes.

Is becoming a PTA difficult?

Becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) requires completing an accredited associate degree program and passing a licensing exam, which involves coursework in anatomy, physiology, and patient care. The process can be challenging due to the academic requirements and practical clinical training involved.

Where do PTAs get paid the most?

Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) tend to earn the highest salaries in metropolitan areas with a high cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services. States with strong healthcare industries and higher average wages, such as California, New York, and Massachusetts, generally offer higher pay for PTAs. Salary can also vary based on experience, certifications, and work setting, such as outpatient clinics or hospitals.

How much does a PTA make?

A Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in Florida typically earns an average annual salary of around $55,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, location, and work setting. PTAs often work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists and may need to obtain state licensure to practice legally.

What Do Physical Therapy Assistants Do?

Physical Therapy Assistants help patients during rehabilitation from injury, surgery, or a chronic condition. They work under the direction of a Primary Physical Therapist. As a Physical Therapy Assistant, you work with patients on exercises, stretches, and therapies prescribed by their doctor and physical therapist. Before they start workouts, you may set up heat or cold therapy for the patients to enable them to relax their muscles and reduce pain. You then instruct the patients on how to perform the treatments prescribed by their doctor and the physical therapist. Examples of exercises used during physical therapy include arm lifts on a weight machine, pedaling on a stationary bike, or forward lunges. You move with the patient from station to station, ensuring they have proper form, and document their progress.

What does a Physical Therapy Assistant do?

A Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) works under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist to help patients recover from injuries or manage physical conditions. PTAs assist with implementing treatment plans, guiding patients through exercises, and using therapeutic modalities such as massage or ultrasound. They also monitor patient progress, document treatments, and educate patients and their families about exercises and care techniques. Their goal is to help patients improve mobility, reduce pain, and regain function.
What cities are hiring for Physical Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Physical Therapy Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Physical Therapy jobs? The most popular types of Physical Therapy jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Physical Therapy Assistant jobs? The top employers for Physical Therapy Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Physical Therapy Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Physical Therapy Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Physical Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 22% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,449 per year, or $31.9 per hour.
Physical Therapy Assistant

Physical Therapy Assistant

Phoenix Physical Therapy

Washington, DC • On-site

$27 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Physical Therapist Assistant’s primary responsibilities include preparing patients and equipment for treatment and assisting the Physical Therapist with selected procedures.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Maintain a patient treatment schedule consistent with the needs of the facility.
  • Confer with the person(s) most closely associated with the active management of the patient, keeping them informed of additional patient needs, treatment modifications and/or progress.
  • Aid in the care and safety of patients.
  • Prepare equipment for patient treatments as requested by the Physical Therapist.
  • Assist the Physical Therapist in selected procedures, according to the PT’s directions, by checking patient and equipment during treatment for both comfort and safety.
  • Perform housekeeping duties; maintain order and cleanliness throughout the facility.
  • Attend facility meetings as required.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education / Training:

  • Associate degree in physical therapy or graduate from an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant program.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience within a Physical Therapy facility, nursing home or rehabilitation agency preferred.
  • Current CPR Certificate

Specialized Knowledge/Skills:

  • Interpersonal skills; Oral and written communication skills
  • Confidentiality and Discretion
  • Customer/client engagement

Physical Requirements:

  • Dexterous and able to stand for extended periods.
  • This position requires the following abilities: balancing, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, tactile sense, repetitive motions, seeing, hearing, talking, and visual acuity.

Phoenix Physical Therapy is committed to having a workforce that reflects diversity at all levels and is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment, and employees are treated during employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.