So, you want to become a physical therapist. Physical therapy is a smart occupation to pursue because it’s one of the fastest-growing occupations in the United States. The road to becoming a physical therapist may be long, but it can be especially rewarding. If you think that the physical therapy route is for you, here’s what you need to know about your next steps.
There are hundreds of career paths that you can explore, but it’s not always easy to determine which job is the right fit for you. The first thing you should consider is what long-term goals you hope to achieve in your career. Many people want to have a job that helps people, which often points them in the direction of the medical field for careers like physical therapy.
Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) are workers who operate in clinics under the supervision and direction of physical therapists. There are about 145,000 physical therapist assistants in the U.S., and that number is sure to grow. They help patients before, during and after sessions with a physical therapist. PTAs use exercises and special techniques to assist physical therapists in their treatment of each patient.
When leaders prioritize their teams, they create a nurturing environment that fosters growth. By placing the needs of team members first, leaders earn trust and respect, which in turn cultivates a culture of collaboration and humility. Effective leadership ignites a sense of inspiration, motivating teams to surpass expectations in pursuit of shared objectives.
Are you a physical therapist looking for work? You’d be joining a group of nearly 229,740 physical therapists in the United States. This number is expected to grow rapidly, with a projected increase of about 15% by the year 2032. Say you’ve completed all your education and licensure requirements to begin working as a physical therapist. Here are some general compensation packages you can expect to see.