Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of healthcare, the demand for Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistants is ever-growing.

As the population ages, the need for skilled individuals who can assist in physical recovery and maintenance only increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of physical therapy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistants play a crucial role in supporting the physical therapists in a rehabilitation center.

They help patients regain or improve their physical abilities, following injuries or surgeries.

The typical duties and responsibilities of a Physical Therapy Assistant include:

• Assisting physical therapists in executing treatment plans
• Helping patients with exercises and physical activities as instructed by the physical therapist
• Using a variety of techniques like exercises, stretches and equipment to help patients improve mobility and manage pain
• Monitoring and documenting patient progress and reporting it to the supervising physical therapist
• Maintaining patient records and protecting the confidentiality of patient information
• Helping patients with mobility aids such as crutches, wheelchairs, and walkers
• Ensuring the treatment area is clean and organized, and equipment is in good working order
• Providing education to patients and their families about what to expect from the recovery process and how best to cope with challenges
• Communicating effectively with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals

 

Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Physical Therapy Assistant to join our rehabilitation center.

As a Physical Therapy Assistant, you will be responsible for assisting Physical Therapists in the provision of patient care, including assessment, treatment, program planning and implementation.

Our ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the human body and the ability to handle physical exertion, along with strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients and medical staff.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist the Physical Therapist in the assessment and treatment of patients
• Help with patient rehabilitation and recovery of movement and functionality
• Implement selected components of care and interventions in a technically competent manner
• Document patient progress and communicate patient status and needs to the physical therapist
• Ensure the comfort and safety of the patient at all times
• Assist with the setup of therapy equipment
• Attend clinical team meetings as required
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with all health and safety regulations

 

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program
• Current Physical Therapy Assistant licensure or certification
• Experience in a physical therapy setting preferred
• Ability to communicate effectively with patients, families and medical staff
• Basic understanding of physical therapy principles, theories, practices, and their application
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Physical stamina to lift and move patients as necessary

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant
• Work Environment: Clinical setting within a rehabilitation center. Requires physical activities including lifting and moving patients.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Supervising Physical Therapist or Therapy Services Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 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 a Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant Do?

Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistants, also known as PTAs, work in rehabilitation centers and work under the supervision of Physical Therapists.

They assist patients who are recovering from injuries, illnesses, or surgeries, helping them regain their movement and manage their pain.

PTAs implement specific therapeutic exercises or interventions as part of the treatment plan devised by the Physical Therapist.

This can include helping patients with movements, applying therapeutic modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation, and educating patients about what to do at home to aid their recovery.

They also monitor patients’ progress, recording their responses to treatment and reporting the outcome to the supervising Physical Therapist.

This information is crucial in helping to adjust the treatment plan if necessary.

In addition to their hands-on work with patients, PTAs often handle administrative tasks, such as ordering supplies and equipment or managing patient scheduling.

They work with people of all ages and must be able to adapt their treatment approaches to meet the unique needs of each patient.

They play a vital role in helping patients return to their normal activities or achieve the highest possible level of function.

 

Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A highly skilled Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Clinical skills to assist patients in performing various therapeutic exercises and activities under the supervision of a physical therapist.
• Understanding of physical therapy practices, principles and procedures to aid in the rehabilitation process.
• Ability to operate and maintain equipment used in physical therapy, ensuring safe and effective use.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with patients, encouraging them during their therapy sessions and providing emotional support when necessary.
• Excellent communication skills to convey instructions clearly to patients and provide detailed updates to physical therapists.
• Physical stamina and strength to help lift or move patients when necessary and to demonstrate physical therapy exercises.
• Observational skills to monitor patient progress, identify any issues or complications and report them promptly to the supervising physical therapist.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt or modify therapy plans based on patient response or progress.
• Knowledge of patient care ethics and privacy laws to maintain confidentiality and provide respectful, compassionate care.

 

Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant Experience Requirements

Entry-level physical therapy assistant candidates typically have a two-year associate degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program.

This education includes both classroom learning and clinical experience, such as internships in various healthcare settings like rehabilitation centers.

This allows them to gain practical experience in the field under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.

Some candidates may have additional experience as a physical therapy aide, which can provide them with a more in-depth understanding of the day-to-day operations and patient care in a rehabilitation center.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience often have had time to develop their technical skills and knowledge and are more adept at conducting therapeutic exercises, providing massages, and implementing treatment plans designed by the physical therapist.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have more complex patient care skills and may have held positions of responsibility, such as supervising newer physical therapy assistants or physical therapy aides.

They may also have experience in specialized areas of physical therapy, such as geriatrics or sports physical therapy.

This level of experience may prepare them for higher roles, such as a physical therapy assistant supervisor or program manager.

 

Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) working in a rehabilitation center typically require an associate degree from an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant program.

The course often includes subjects such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and neuroscience, along with clinical skills necessary for the job.

After graduating, PTAs must be licensed or certified to work in their state.

This usually involves passing the National Physical Therapy Exam, which is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

The eligibility criteria for licensing typically include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and graduating from an accredited PTA program.

In addition, some states may require PTAs to complete continuing education credits to maintain their license.

Although it is not a requirement, many PTAs also choose to specialize in a specific area of physical therapy, such as geriatrics or pediatrics.

This often involves additional training and certification.

Experience with patient care, such as through an internship or volunteer work, is also highly desirable in this role.

It’s essential for PTAs to have strong communication skills, physical stamina, and a compassionate approach to their work.

 

Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant Salary Expectations

A Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant earns an average salary of $57,620 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate based on the individual’s experience, the location of the rehabilitation center, and the specifics of the job role within the center.

 

Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description FAQs

What are the essential skills for a Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant?

Physical Therapy Assistants should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively work with patients, families, and other healthcare providers.

They need a good understanding of anatomy and medical terminology.

Physical stamina and strength are crucial as the job involves lifting patients and heavy equipment.

They also need to be compassionate, patient, and detail-oriented.

 

Do Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistants need a degree?

Yes, Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistants usually need to have an associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapist assistant program.

After completing the program, they must also pass a state licensure exam before they can practice.

 

What should you look for in a Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant resume?

When reviewing a Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant’s resume, check for an accredited associate’s degree and valid state licensure.

Experience in a physical therapy setting, such as an internship or previous employment, is a valuable asset.

Check for skills like patient care, knowledge of therapy exercises, and the ability to assist in patient mobility.

 

What qualities make a good Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant?

A good Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant is compassionate and has a genuine desire to help people improve their physical health.

They are patient, as rehabilitation can be a slow process.

They need to be physically fit to assist patients and handle equipment.

Excellent communication skills are necessary to relay information between patients, families, and other healthcare providers.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant?

The demand for Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistants is high due to the aging population and increased need for rehabilitation services.

However, the role requires specific qualifications and skills, which can make the hiring process challenging.

An attractive job offer would include a supportive work environment, opportunities for professional development, and competitive compensation.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve peeled back the layers to reveal the true essence of being a rehabilitation center physical therapy assistant.

Guess what?

It’s not just about assisting in exercises and treatments.

It’s about facilitating recovery and supporting patients, one therapy session at a time.

With our comprehensive rehabilitation center physical therapy assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to step into this role.

But why end here?

Journey further with our job description generator. It’s your next leap towards crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every therapy session contributes to a patient’s journey towards recovery.

Let’s heal and recover. Together.

How to Become a Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy Assistant (Complete Guide)

Relaxing Rewards: Discovering the Joy of Low-Stress Work

The Daily Delight: Careers That Make Every Day Rewarding

The Lazy Person’s Guide to Wealth: Jobs That Pay Surprisingly Well!

The Career Celebrities: Most Prestigious Jobs in the Limelight