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Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Millennium Therapy

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Ackley, IA · On-site

$24.25 - $32.50/hr

Millennium Therapy is looking to add a Full-Time Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to our staff in Ackley, IA for the Skilled Nursing setting. Millennium Therapy is a patient focused, therapist ...

Millennium Therapy

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Sumner, IA · On-site

$24.50 - $33/hr

Millennium Therapy is looking to add a Full-Time Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to our staff in Sumner, IA for the Skilled Nursing setting. Millennium Therapy is a patient focused, therapist ...

Millennium Therapy

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Ames, IA

$25.50 - $34.25/hr

Millennium Therapy is looking to add a Full-Time, Part-Time, or PRN Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to our staff in Ames, IA for the Skilled Nursing setting. Millennium Therapy is a patient ...

Ampersand Therapy

Physical Therapy Assistant

Portage, MI · On-site

$38 - $50/hr

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant Position * Competitive pay (up to $50/hr) * Flexible scheduling within school hours * Starting August 2026 About the Role Hello, Physical Therapist Assistants!

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Therapy Assistant information

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$12

$21

$30

How much do therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for therapy assistant in the United States is $21.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is becoming a PTA difficult?

Becoming a therapy assistant (PTA) requires completing a state-approved educational program and obtaining licensure or certification, which involves coursework and clinical experience. The process can be challenging due to the need for academic achievement and practical skills development, but it is manageable with dedication and proper training.

What are some common challenges Therapy Assistants face when supporting multiple therapists or clients throughout the day?

Therapy Assistants often work with several therapists and a diverse group of clients, which can make scheduling and prioritizing tasks a challenge. Balancing different therapy plans, adjusting to varied communication styles, and managing documentation for multiple sessions requires strong organizational skills. Additionally, adapting to each client's unique needs while maintaining consistent quality of care can be demanding, but it also provides valuable experience for professional development. Open communication with therapists and proactive time management are key to overcoming these challenges.

What does a Therapy Assistant do?

A Therapy Assistant supports licensed therapists, such as physical, occupational, or speech therapists, in providing care to patients. They help implement treatment plans, assist patients with exercises and activities, document progress, and ensure a safe and supportive environment. Therapy Assistants work under the supervision of therapists and play a key role in helping patients recover, improve mobility, and regain independence. Their duties may vary depending on the type of therapy and the needs of the patients.

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

To thrive as a Therapy Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of therapeutic techniques, human anatomy, and a relevant qualification such as a certificate or associate degree in occupational or physical therapy assisting. Familiarity with rehabilitation equipment, patient management software, and documentation systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to motivate and communicate effectively with patients are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure that Therapy Assistants can support therapists, help patients achieve their goals, and maintain accurate records for effective treatment outcomes.

What are the duties of a therapy assistant?

A therapy assistant supports licensed therapists by helping implement treatment plans, assisting patients with exercises, and monitoring progress. They often prepare therapy areas, maintain equipment, and document patient responses, requiring good communication skills and knowledge of therapy techniques.

What Is a Therapy Assistant?

A therapy assistant is an aide for a physical therapist. You assist the therapist as they help patients with physical injuries or illnesses recover through treatment and occupational therapy. You work under the supervision of physical therapists in an office or hospital setting. Your job duties include setting up equipment, collecting patient data, observing exercises and care plans, and using massage or stretching techniques to treat patients. Interpersonal skills are vital in this career, as are first-aid and CPR experience. Aides must be compassionate, detail oriented, and able to stand on their feet for long periods of time.

Who makes more money, OTA or PTA?

A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) generally earns higher wages than an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA). PTAs typically have a slightly higher median salary due to differences in certification requirements and job responsibilities, though both work under the supervision of licensed therapists and require relevant certifications. Salary can vary based on location, experience, and work setting.

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

AspectTherapy AssistantPhysical Therapist Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationAssociate's degree in physical therapy assisting; licensure or certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, schools, outpatient facilitiesRehabilitation centers, hospitals, outpatient clinics
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various therapy disciplines including physical, occupational, and speech therapySpecifically in physical therapy settings assisting licensed physical therapists

While both roles support therapy services, a Therapy Assistant generally has a broader scope across multiple therapy types, whereas a Physical Therapist Assistant specializes in physical therapy, requiring specific training and licensure.

What is a therapist assistant?

A therapy assistant is a healthcare professional who supports licensed therapists by helping implement treatment plans, assisting patients with exercises, and preparing therapy environments. They typically work under supervision and may require certification or training in specific therapy areas, such as physical, occupational, or speech therapy.
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Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,981 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Occupational Therapy Assistant

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Millennium Therapy

Ackley, IA • On-site

$24.25 - $32.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

ABOUT US:

Millennium Therapy is looking to add a Full-Time Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to our staff in Ackley, IA for the Skilled Nursing setting. Millennium Therapy is a patient focused, therapist owned, and therapist managed company that operates throughout Iowa providing Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy in various settings. The local home office provides quick support to our associates. Our therapy teams succeed through patient tailored treatments, flexible scheduling, and effective communication to meet the individualized goals of each patient.

PAY:

Negotiable based on experience

HOURS:

30-40 Hours/Week Flexible

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (COTA) BENEFITS:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401k
  • Personal Day(s)
  • PTO
  • Continuing Education
  • Flexible Scheduling & More!

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (COTA) QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant from an AOTA accredited program and Professional Licensure in the state of hire or eligible for licensure in states that regulate the Occupational Therapy Assistant.
  • Demonstrates effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Utilizes effective time management skills.
  • Strong organizational and analytical skills.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (COTA) REQUIREMENTS:

  • Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA) assist in the provision of screens, collection of assessment data, and direct treatment of caseload. Conducts resident screens (without interpretation) as directed by the supervising therapist.
  • Participates in the clinical team process.
  • Provides teaching and training to caregiver staff. Participates in clinical program development.
  • Collects assessment data, as part of the evaluation process, as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist.
  • Provides training to patients, residents, caregivers, and families according to the plan of care outlined by the supervising therapist. Prepares treatment materials and assists with other clerical duties as directed.

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