Physical Therapy Assistant
A physical therapy assistant (LPTA) works under the direction of a physical therapist to provide therapy treatments to patients. They assist residents with exercises designed by the nursing or rehabilitation staff to help them improve the use of limbs and body functions. Duties can include assisting residents with walking, strength training and range of motion exercises.
Education & Experience:
A PTA must be a graduate of an accredited two-year Physical Therapy Assistant program and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination to become licensed. Prior experience is generally preferred, but not required.
Salary Average
$37.45 per hour
Certifications
Physical Therapy (PT)
Occupational Therapy (OT)
Speech
Respiratory
Music
Next Steps
Physical Therapist
Rehabilitation Therapist
A rehabilitation or physical therapist is a health and wellness specialist trained to assist, diagnose and treat individuals with mobility problems caused by injury, illness or accidents. Rehabilitation therapists are responsible for evaluating and diagnosing mobility impairments resulting from strains, fractures, sprains, diseases, and numerous other conditions. Based on their examinations, they recommend and administer therapeutic exercises and other forms of appropriate treatment.
Education & Experience:
Rehabilitation therapists are required to have an undergraduate degree in biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy or a similar field. They must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
Before working in Maryland, a rehabilitation therapist must be licensed by the Maryland Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.
Salary Average
$47.25 per hour
Certifications
Physical Therapy (PT)
Occupational Therapy (OT)
Speech
Respiratory
Music
Next Steps
Director of Rehabilitation Services
Director of Rehabilitation Services
A Director of Rehabilitation Services directs the programs and staff of the rehabilitation services department for the senior living community. They set and implement guidelines for rehabilitation programs such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy and assigns patients to staff therapists for treatment and reviews residents’ progress. The director of rehabilitation also communicates results of resident care to other services and departments.
Education & Experience:
A Director of Rehabilitation Services must meet all of the same education and certification requirements as a rehabilitation therapist. The role may also require an advanced degree in physical therapy and at least seven years of direct experience in the field.
Salary Average
$108,000
Certifications
Physical Therapy (PT)
Occupational Therapy (OT)
Speech
Respiratory
Music
Next Steps
Regional Director of Rehabilitation
Corporate Director of Rehabilitation
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