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Therapy Assistant information

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$11

$20

$30

How much do therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for therapy assistant in Virginia is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.37 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.
More about Therapy Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Therapy jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Therapy jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Therapy Assistant jobs in Virginia? For Therapy Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Therapy Assistant jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Therapy Assistant jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Therapy Assistant job openings:
Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Therapy Assistant job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,604 per year, or $21 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant

PHOENIX PHYSICAL THERAPY

Norfolk, VA

$24.50 - $32.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 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.

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