Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the health and wellness industry, the importance of aquatic physical therapy assistants is increasingly recognized.
As healthcare evolves, the demand for skilled individuals who can assist, enhance, and ensure the safety of patients during water-based therapy continues to grow.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an aquatic physical therapy assistant?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply curious about the intricacies of aquatic physical therapy,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable aquatic physical therapy assistant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant Duties and Responsibilities
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistants work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist to provide water-based therapy to patients with a range of conditions.
They assist in the development and implementation of rehabilitation programs and monitor patient progress in a safe, structured aquatic environment.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Assist physical therapists in implementing aquatic therapy treatment plans
- Conduct pre-treatment patient assessments, observing and documenting patient’s physical conditions and responses to therapy
- Help patients perform exercises and movements in the water, making adjustments as necessary to ensure correct form and technique
- Monitor patient progress during therapy sessions and report observations to the supervising therapist
- Provide patient education on aquatic therapy exercises and safety procedures
- Assist in maintaining a safe and clean therapy environment, ensuring the pool and equipment are sanitized and in good condition
- Help with patient scheduling and documentation, maintaining accurate records of patient treatments and progress
- Communicate effectively with the therapy team and other health care providers to ensure coordinated and comprehensive patient care
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant to join our team.
The candidate will assist with the implementation of individualized aquatic therapy programs under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.
This will involve assisting patients in exercises, monitoring their progress, and maintaining a safe and clean pool environment.
The ideal candidate has experience in aquatic therapy, possesses strong interpersonal skills, and is committed to promoting patient health and wellness.
Responsibilities
- Assist in the implementation of individualized aquatic therapy programs
- Help patients perform exercises in the pool under the guidance of a Physical Therapist
- Monitor patient progress and report feedback to the supervising Physical Therapist
- Maintain a safe, clean, and organized pool environment
- Record patient data in their medical records
- Provide education to patients and their families about the benefits and processes of aquatic therapy
- Adhere to professional standards, hospital policies and procedures, federal, state, and local requirements
Qualifications
- Associate’s degree from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program
- Current Physical Therapist Assistant license
- Experience in aquatic therapy preferred
- Basic life support (BLS) certification
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to handle a diverse patient population
- Physical endurance to assist patients in the pool
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant
- Work Environment: Hospital or outpatient clinic with a therapeutic pool. This position involves physical work and may require lifting, bending, and prolonged standing or walking.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Physical Therapist.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $36,000 minimum to $52,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant Do?
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistants work under the supervision of physical therapists to provide water-based rehabilitation treatments for patients.
They assist in the implementation of individualized aquatic therapy programs designed to improve the patient’s mobility, strength, balance, coordination, and overall physical function.
In a typical day, an Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant might help patients perform specific exercises in a pool, monitor their progress, and adjust treatments as needed.
Their role involves ensuring the safety of patients during therapy sessions by preventing slips or falls around the pool area and monitoring patients’ response to exercise in the water.
They also assist in maintaining patient records, scheduling appointments, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals.
In addition, they may be responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the aquatic therapy area, including the proper treatment and filtration of the pool water.
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistants play a vital role in the recovery process, helping patients regain physical abilities and independence that may have been impacted by injury, surgery, or illness.
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant Qualifications and Skills
An Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant should be equipped with certain skills and qualifications to provide effective and quality service to patients, including:
- Knowledge of human anatomy and physical therapy techniques that are specifically designed for water-based rehabilitation
- Ability to assist patients in performing specific physical therapy exercises in water and monitoring their progress
- Effective communication skills to understand and interact with patients, responding to their concerns and explaining therapy procedures
- Strong interpersonal skills to work with diverse patients, build rapport, and provide a comforting and supportive environment
- Patient safety and care skills, including the ability to respond quickly to any emergencies or complications during therapy sessions
- Physical stamina and strength to assist patients in the water and perform tasks such as lifting or supporting patients
- Basic understanding of hydrodynamics and the therapeutic properties of water
- Awareness and adherence to hygiene standards and procedures specific to aquatic therapy settings
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant Experience Requirements
Entry-level Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistants typically need to have completed an accredited physical therapy assistant program, with a focus on aquatic therapy.
This usually includes hands-on experience in a clinical setting, as part of their educational program.
In addition to their formal education, they may have gained experience through internships, part-time roles, or volunteering in aquatic therapy settings such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or sports medicine clinics.
Candidates with 1 to 3 years of experience as Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistants often have developed their skills in aquatic therapeutic procedures, patient handling, and water safety.
They may have worked alongside physical therapists to plan and implement aquatic therapy programs for a diverse range of patients, from children to the elderly.
Those with more than 3 years of experience are often adept at conducting patient evaluations, setting treatment goals, and tracking progress.
They may have gained experience in managing a variety of patient cases, from orthopedic to neurological conditions, and may be ready to take on more responsibility and leadership roles within a team.
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant Education and Training Requirements
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistants typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.
After high school, the individual must enroll in an accredited physical therapist assistant program, usually a 2-year associate degree program, which includes a combination of classroom, lab, and clinical experience.
Coursework often includes anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and kinesiology.
While the program may not specifically focus on aquatic therapy, it usually offers elective courses in this area.
Those interested should seek such opportunities to specialize their skills.
After graduation, they have to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam to become a licensed Physical Therapy Assistant.
Once licensed, they can pursue additional certification specifically in aquatic therapy.
This usually involves working under the supervision of a certified aquatic therapist and completing a certain number of hours in the field before taking an exam.
Continuing education is important in this field to stay updated with the latest techniques and research.
Therefore, the assistant should consider taking advanced courses, attending workshops, or participating in other professional development activities related to aquatic therapy.
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant Salary Expectations
An Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant can expect to earn an average salary of $52,000 (USD) per year.
The actual earnings may vary based on factors such as the individual’s experience, qualifications, the location of their workplace, and the organization for which they work.
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description FAQs
What skills does an Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant need?
Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistants need to have a strong understanding of basic human anatomy and physiology, especially as it pertains to injuries and the healing process.
They should possess excellent communication skills to clearly explain exercises and treatments to patients.
Being able to swim and having a good understanding of water safety are also essential.
Additionally, these professionals need to be patient, empathetic, and able to motivate and encourage patients throughout their recovery process.
Do Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistants need a degree?
Yes, Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistants typically need to have an associate’s degree from a physical therapist assistant program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
Many programs incorporate aquatic therapy into their curriculum, but additional certification in aquatic therapy can be beneficial.
What should you look for in an Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant resume?
The resume of an Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant should clearly outline their educational qualifications, including their degree and any additional certifications.
They should also have a valid state license to practice as a Physical Therapy Assistant.
The resume should reflect experience in aquatic therapy, and it can also be beneficial if they have experience working with different age groups or patients with various conditions.
What qualities make a good Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant?
A good Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant is patient and has excellent interpersonal skills, as they will be working closely with patients who may be in pain or facing physical challenges.
They need to be physically fit and comfortable in water, as the job involves demonstrating exercises and sometimes supporting patients in the water.
Additionally, they should be detail-oriented and observant in order to monitor and report on a patient’s progress or any changes in their condition.
What are the typical duties of an Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant?
An Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant assists the physical therapist in assessing the patient’s abilities and developing a treatment plan.
They help patients perform specific aquatic exercises, monitor their progress, and adjust the treatment as necessary.
These professionals also educate patients and their families about what to do at home and might have administrative duties such as updating patient records and ordering supplies.
They also ensure that the therapy pool area is clean and safe for use.
Conclusion
So there you have it.
Today, we delved into the waters of what it truly means to be an Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant.
And guess what?
It’s not just about doing exercises in the water.
It’s about cultivating health and healing, one aquatic therapy session at a time.
With our top-notch Aquatic Physical Therapy Assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to dive in.
But why stop there?
Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every therapy session is a part of the bigger journey towards wellness.
Let’s facilitate that journey. Together.
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