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Pt Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Pt Assistant information

See Tennessee salary details

$9

$19

$41

How much do pt assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for pt assistant in Tennessee is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.62 and $27.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PT assistant?

PT Assistants, or Physical Therapist Assistants, are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve mobility. They assist with exercises, therapeutic activities, and education, as well as documenting patient progress. PT Assistants play a crucial role in implementing care plans and ensuring patients follow prescribed therapy routines.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a PT assistant?

To thrive as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), you need a solid understanding of therapeutic exercise, patient care techniques, and anatomy, usually supported by an associate degree from an accredited PTA program and state licensure. Familiarity with rehabilitation equipment, electronic medical records (EMR) systems, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and effective communication help PTAs motivate patients and collaborate with physical therapists and healthcare teams. These competencies ensure safe, effective patient rehabilitation and contribute to positive patient outcomes in various clinical settings.

What challenges do PT assistants face when working with diverse patient populations?

Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) often work with patients from various backgrounds, age groups, and with a wide range of conditions. One common challenge is adapting communication and treatment techniques to meet each patient's individual needs and abilities. PTAs must also be sensitive to cultural differences and language barriers, which may require extra patience and creativity. Building rapport and trust is essential for encouraging patient participation and progress. Teamwork with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals is crucial to address these challenges effectively and ensure the best outcomes for patients.

What is the difference between Pt Assistant vs Physical Therapist?

AspectPt AssistantPhysical Therapist
CredentialsCertified or licensed as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)Licensed Physical Therapist (PT) with a doctoral degree
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, outpatient facilities, rehab centersSimilar settings, often overseeing PTAs
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist PTs in implementing treatment plans, patient exercises, and documenting progressDevelops treatment plans, evaluates patients, and supervises PTAs

The main difference between a Pt Assistant and a Physical Therapist is that PTAs assist in implementing treatment plans under supervision, while Physical Therapists develop those plans and oversee patient care. Both roles work closely in similar environments, but PTs hold advanced credentials and responsibilities.

Is it hard to become a physical therapy assistant?

Becoming a physical therapy assistant typically requires completing an accredited associate degree program and obtaining licensure or certification, which involves passing a national exam. The process demands dedication to coursework, clinical training, and maintaining continuing education to stay licensed.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pt jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Pt jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Pt Assistant jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Pt Assistant job openings:

Pt Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pt Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,645 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant- Therapy Services

Cookeville Regional Medical Center

Cookeville, TN

$24 - $31.50/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 14 days ago

Cookeville Regional Medical Center rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

507th of 1,061 rated hospitals

Job description

The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) works under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist to carry out physical therapy programs in the hospital for inpatients or outpatients, to facilitate the rehabilitation of the mentally or physically handicapped. The staff PTA provides direct patient focused care to include the implementation of treatment plans designed by the PT and quality treatment to meet short and long term goals determined by the PT according to the patient’s needs.  All PT’s are required to have competency for adolescent, adult, and geriatric age groups. Staff who will work with children or infants less than 13 years will require specific training and competencies demonstrated prior to working with pediatrics. The staff PTA also assists the director of the department in quality assurance and improvement activities and the overall operation of the physical therapy department. The PTA is required to perform the professional duties and standards of care as specified by the American Physical Therapy Association, state and federal laws and regulations, and TJC standards.  Other duties as assigned.

Education:  Associates degree from accredited PT assistant program required. Tennessee Physical Therapy Assistant License required.

Experience:  Experience preferred but not required.

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