Become a Physical Therapy Aide

A physical therapy aide is an integral part of the healthcare team that supports physical therapists in administering treatment and rehabilitation programs to patients. It’s a rewarding job that requires the right blend of compassion, communication skills, and physical aptitude.

Typically, physical therapy aides work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist and are responsible for assisting with exercises, helping patients move around the facility, setting up equipment, and keeping track of patient progress.

Although it’s an entry-level position, a physical therapy aide plays a critical role in supporting patients’ recovery journeys, making it a fulfilling career for those passionate about helping others.

Physical therapy aide programs offer many advantages for students seeking to enter the healthcare industry. These programs equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to work alongside licensed physical therapists in clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers.

Among the many benefits of a physical therapy aide program is the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with patients, learn about human anatomy, and develop valuable communication and teamwork skills.

Here are six benefits of enrolling in a physical therapy aide program:

• 1. Gain Relevant Skills
• 2. Learn from Experienced Instructors
• 3. Get Hands-on Experience
• 4. Improve Communication Skills
• 5. Help People
• 6. Pursue Multiple Career Paths

• AH110 – Professional Ethics & Hygiene
• AP110 – Anatomy & Physiology I
• AP102 – Anatomy & Physiology II
• AP103 – Anatomy & Physiology III
• AP103 – Anatomy & Physiology III
• KIN101 – Kinesiology for the Manual Therapist
• MBP100 – M-BLEX Prep
• MT100 Foundations of Therapeutic Massage Therapy
• MT100-CL – Therapeutic Massage Clinic Lab
• MT300 – Russian Medical Massage
• MT102 – Deep Tissue Massage
• MT102-CL – Deep Tissue Massage Clinic Lab
• MT105 – Spa Treatment Modalities
• PT100 – History & Theory of Physical Therapy
• PT101 – Physical Therapy Procedures
• PT103 – Therapeutic Regional Massage
• PT104 – Physical Agents in Rehabilitation
• PT107 – Customer Service in a Rehabilitation Setting
• PHY100 – Pathology
• EXT100 – Externship

Physical therapy is a vital aspect of healthcare, and physical therapy aides play a significant role in ensuring the well-being of patients. Specialized education is required to become a physical therapy aide, and choosing a school that provides excellent education and training is paramount. Here’s why attending SOCHI Physical Therapy Aide School is a life-changing decision.

1. Comprehensive Curriculum: SOCHI PTA School is highly regarded for its comprehensive curriculum covering the theories, principles, and practices essential for physical therapy aides.
2. Experienced Faculty: Learning from a faculty with a wealth of experience in physical therapy is invaluable.
3. Hands-On Training: We provide students with hands-on training that is essential in preparing them for the profession.
4. Career Opportunities: The school provides career support to its graduates with resume writing and interview preparation services.

For those considering a career in physical therapy, it may be confusing to understand the difference between a physical therapy assistant and a physical therapy aide. While both work alongside licensed therapists to help patients recover from injuries or illnesses, the roles and responsibilities of each differ significantly.

Physical therapy assistants receive specialized training, typically through an associate’s degree program, and are licensed to provide hands-on treatment to patients, such as massages or exercises.

Physical therapy aides, on the other hand, typically do not require formal training and primarily provide support tasks, such as preparing treatment areas and helping patients move from one area to another.

The job outlook for physical therapist aides is promising, making it a coveted option for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field. With the baby boomer population aging and the rising number of outpatient facilities, there is an anticipated growth in demand for physical therapist aides. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of physical therapist aides is expected to increase by 26% from 2018 to 2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

To become a physical therapist aide, an individual should attend a physical therapy aide school and acquire the necessary certification. With the projected growth of the occupation, now is the perfect time to pursue a career as a physical therapist aide.