ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Therapy Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Care Career

Travel Physical Therapy Assistant

Pomona, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $37.75/hr

Care Career is seeking a travel Physical Therapy Assistant for a travel job in Pomona, California. & Requirements * Specialty: Physical Therapy Assistant * Discipline: Therapy * Start Date: 07/13 ...

Meraki Rehab

Physical Therapy Assistant (PRN)

Riverside, CA · On-site

$33 - $43.75/hr

We are seeking a per-diem PTA (Physical Therapy Assistant). * Provides Therapy services established by the Physical Therapist (PT) in the patient Plan of Care. * Provides therapy services under the ...

Meraki Rehab

Physical Therapy Assistant (PRN)

Fontana, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $37.75/hr

We are seeking a per-diem PTA (Physical Therapy Assistant). * Provides Therapy services established by the Physical Therapist (PT) in the patient Plan of Care. * Provides therapy services under the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTherapy Assistant JobsTherapy Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Therapy Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$22

$31

How much do therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for therapy assistant in Riverside, CA is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $24.57 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 Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Therapy jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Therapy Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA? For Therapy Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Therapy Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Therapy Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Therapy Assistant job openings:
Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Therapy Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,884 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Occupational Therapy Assistant

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Encompass Health

Murrieta, CA

$26.50 - $35.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Encompass Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 411 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

444th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Occupational Therapist Assistant Career Opportunity

Your Calling, Close to Home and Heart
Are you in search of a rewarding career that extends beyond just a job, bringing fulfillment close to your heart and home? At our organization, we believe in making a positive impact right in your community through exceptional Occupational Therapy services. As an Occupational Therapist Assistant, join a team that values small victories and aims for profound outcomes in rehabilitation. Deliver high-quality, compassionate care using the latest equipment and technology. Embrace a supportive and joy-filled work environment while enjoying a comprehensive benefits package from day one. Make a meaningful impact on patients' lives by being an integral part of their journey to independence and improved quality of life.


A Glimpse into Our World
At Encompass Health, you'll experience the difference the moment you become a part of our team. Working with us means aligning with a rapidly growing national inpatient rehabilitation leader. We take pride in the growth opportunities we offer and how our team unites for the greater good of our patients. Our achievements include being named one of the "World's Most Admired Companies" and receiving the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For Award, among other accolades, which is nothing short of amazing.


Starting Perks and Benefits
At Encompass Health, we are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and caring environment where you can thrive. From day one, you will have access to:

  • Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans for both full-time and part-time employees and their families.
  • Generous paid time off that accrues over time.
  • Opportunities for tuition reimbursement and continuous education.
  • Company-matching 401(k) and employee stock purchase plans.
  • Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
  • A vibrant community of individuals passionate about the work they do!


Qualifications

  • Current state licensure or certification (in states where required).
  • CPR certification preferred (unless required by hospital policy).
  • Successful completion of an associate's degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program is preferred.
  • Effective communication skills for interactions with patients, families, and caregivers.
  • Demonstrated competency in occupational therapy treatment.
The Encompass Health Way 

We proudly set the standard in care by leading with empathy, doing what's right, focusing on the positive, and standing stronger together. Encompass Health is a trusted leader in post-acute care with over 150 nationwide locations and a team of 36,000 exceptional individuals and growing! 
 
At Encompass Health, we celebrate and welcome diversity in our inclusive culture. We provide equal employment opportunities regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, color, creed, age, mental or physical disability, or any other protected classification. 

What Encompass Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Encompass Health logo

About Encompass Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Helping patients regain hope and independence, Encompass Health is a national leader in post-acute care. We operate rehabilitation hospitals in 36 states as well as Puerto Rico. Following the Encompass Way, we are driven by our core values: We proudly set the standard, lead with empathy, do what's right, focus on the positive, and remain stronger together.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US

Year founded

1984

View All Encompass Health Jobs

Apply