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Therapy Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ensign Therapy

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Downey, CA · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT - PRN - BROOKFIELD HEALTHCARE - DOWNEY, CA Brookfield Healthcare in Downey, CA, is seeking a dedicated PRN Occupational Therapy Assistant ready to make a meaningful ...

Ensign Therapy

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Upland, CA · On-site

$26.50 - $35.75/hr

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT - PRN UPLAND REHABILITATION - UPLAND, CA Join our team and start making a difference! Upland Rehabilitation in Upland, CA, is a post-acute care facility with long-term ...

Ensign Therapy

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Lodi, CA · On-site

$52 - $55/hr

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT - PRN ARBOR REHAB & NURSING - LODI, CA Join our IN-HOUSE Therapy Team in Lodi as a dedicated COTA! Arbor Rehab & Nursing in Lodi, CA, is a post-acute care facility with ...

Ensign Therapy

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Turlock, CA · On-site

$45 - $48/hr

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT - FULL TIME TURLOCK NURSING & REHAB - TURLOCK, CA $10,000 SIGN ON BONUS UP TO $5,000 RELOCATION ALLOWANCE Join our IN-HOUSE Therapy Team and start making a difference!

Ensign Therapy

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $38.25/hr

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT - FULL TIME - SANTA ROSA, CA Our expanding network of in-house therapy Ensign-affiliate operated healthcare facilities is growing, and we are scouting for excellent ...

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Therapy Assistant information

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How much do therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for therapy assistant in California is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

Do you need a degree to be a therapy assistant?

A therapy assistant typically does not need a college degree but must complete specific training or certification programs depending on the state or employer. Many roles require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or certification in areas like CPR or basic healthcare skills.
More about Therapy Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Therapy jobs in California?

The most popular types of Therapy jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Therapy Assistant jobs in California?

For Therapy Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Therapy Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Therapy Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Therapy Assistant job openings:

Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Therapy Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $43,405 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant

PRN Physical Therapy

Escondido, CA

$30 - $42/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Description

Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) – Outpatient Orthopedics

New graduates are encouraged to apply!
 
Clinic Address:
PRN Physical Therapy – Escondido 
488 E. Valley Pkwy.
Escondido, CA 92025
 
Physical Rehabilitation Network (PRN) and its Family of Brands is seeking to recruit & hire a Physical Therapist Assistant for our outpatient orthopedic clinics in the San Diego area. Join a collaborative, therapist-focused team under our respected PRN Physical Therapy and Spine & Sport Physical Therapy brands, where exceptional patient care, professional growth, and clinical excellence are our top priorities. This role offers a great opportunity to join a team that’s truly passionate about patient care and committed to supporting our therapists’ success.
 
Competitive pay + monthly incentives, supportive clinic environment, and career growth opportunities.
 
Salary & Incentives:

  • Base Salary: $30 - $42/hr
  • Monthly incentive bonus up to $2,500 each month
  • Student Loan Repayment up to $25,000

Featured Benefits:

  • Ambient Listening technology (ALT) — an AI documentation tool fully integrated with our EMR that reduces documentation time
  • Transition to Practice Program - 12-month structured onboarding & mentorship program
  • Student Loan Repayment — up to $25,000, tax free, hassle-free
  • New Graduate Support — NPTE Study Prep resources through Final Frontier
  • Accredited Residency Programs in Orthopedic or Sports specialties, offered at no cost to our colleagues

Physical Rehabilitation Network (PRN) and its Family of Brands is seeking to recruit & hire a Physical Therapist Assistant.

About Us

PRN brings together some of the most trusted PT brands across the West and Central U.S. Whether in the clinic or behind the scenes, we’re all about personalized care, smart clinical insight, and making every patient feel supported from start to finish.

About the Role

As a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) at PRN, you will work closely with our team of physical therapists to provide high-quality care and assistance to patients. Your role will involve implementing therapeutic exercises, assisting with treatments, and ensuring patients receive the best possible care to aid in their recovery and rehabilitation.

Duties & Responsibilities

Patient Care:

  • Assist in implementing treatment plans designed by the Physical Therapist (PT).
  • Communicate with PTs on a regular basis regarding patient progress.
  • Guide and instruct patients in therapeutic exercises and activities.
  • Monitor and record patient progress and responses to treatments.
  • Ensure and monitor caseload to ensure patients are staying compliant with attendance.

Treatment Assistance:

  • Aid in administering therapeutic interventions such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and therapeutic exercises.
  • Set up and maintain equipment for use during therapy sessions.
  • Provide support during patient evaluations and assessments.

Documentation and Reporting:

  • Maintain accurate and detailed patient records, including treatment plans, progress notes, and other relevant documentation in a timely manner.
  • Communicate effectively with the PT regarding patient progress and any changes in status.

Patient Education and Support:

  • Educate patients and their families about exercises, treatments, and home care routines.
  • Offer guidance on proper techniques and strategies for daily activities to promote recovery and prevent further injury.

Team Collaboration:

  • Collaborate effectively with PTs and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
  • Participate in team meetings and contribute insights on patient progress and treatment effectiveness.
  • Participate in creating a positive environment/culture for the clinic, displaying positive attitude.

Skills & Qualifications

  • Completion of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program
  • State licensure or certification as a Physical Therapist Assistant
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with patients and healthcare professionals
  • Proficient in assisting with therapeutic exercises and treatment modalities
  • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks efficiently
  • Detail-oriented with good documentation and reporting skills
  • Prior experience working as a Physical Therapist Assistant in a clinical setting
  • Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems

Benefits & Perks

We offer a comprehensive and competitive compensation package designed to support both personal and professional well being. Team members enjoy full scale benefits—including robust Medical, Vision, and Dental plans—along with paid time off, clinical incentive opportunities, and student loan repayment options. We are committed to your continued growth and success, providing professional development resources and ongoing clinical education support.

At PRN, you’ll be part of a supportive, mission driven environment dedicated to excellence in patient care and the success of every member of our team.

Note: This job description is a general outline of responsibilities and requirements. Specific duties may vary based on the needs of management.

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