If you’re looking for a rewarding job in healthcare and are committed to helping others reach their maximum potential, consider a physical therapist job. Physical therapy professionals are in high demand and typically earn more than professionals in similar positions, such as occupational therapists, speech audiologists, pathologists, or physical therapy assistants. The perfect physical therapists are excellent communicators who love teaching, treating patients, and working alongside many people. Find out how to become a therapist, including training, education, and a license.
What is a Physical Therapist?
Therapists specialize in physical therapy and are trained professionals who work with sick or injured people of all ages. To be licensed in the United States, physical therapists must get a master’s degree in physical therapy (DPT) and pass a national license exam.
Role and Responsibilities of Physical Therapist Job
After careful analysis, observation, and consultation with patients and healthcare teams, physical therapists design treatment plans that include exercises and hands-on therapy. Their main goal is to help them reduce pain, recover from injuries, and prevent further injuries.
Some physical therapists primarily work with athletes, while others specialize in treating patients suffering from particular medical conditions or problems related to either gender or age. The opportunities for working with physical therapists differ from established healthcare fields to the newest methods.
How Much Time Is Needed to Become a Physical Therapist?
Training to become a physical therapist can take six or seven years. A bachelor’s degree, which takes four years to complete, is necessary. Three more years are needed to get a proper DPT degree. Some accelerated physical therapy programs offer three years of pre-skillful or undergraduate classes before launching into a three-year DPT program.
How to Become a Physical Therapist?
Becoming a physical therapist is a journey that requires not only formal education and licensing but also the embodiment of certain personal qualities that are crucial for success in this field. Aspiring physical therapists must integrate professional skills and innate character traits to impact patients’ lives significantly. Let’s delve into the essential qualities and steps required to start a physical therapist job:
- Responsive
It is vital to be alert and responsive to a patient’s needs and progress. A good physical therapist must promptly adjust treatment plans based on patient feedback and clinical outcomes.
- Ethical
Upholding high ethical standards is paramount in healthcare. A physical therapist must prioritize patient health and confidentiality and follow professional codes of conduct.
- Caring
Physical therapy is fundamentally based on empathy and understanding. Understanding and addressing a patient’s physical and emotional needs can significantly impact rehabilitation.
- Communicative
Practical communication skills are crucial. Physical therapists must clearly explain treatment plans, listen to patient concerns, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide the best care.
Now, here are the following steps that you need to follow:
- Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
- Complete a DPT Program
- Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination
- Obtain a License to Practice
Physical Therapist Job Outlook and Salary
According to the latest insights, the professional landscape for physical therapists is shining brightly with a perfect job outlook. The insights show that the growth rate from 2022 to 2023 is 15%, surpassing the average growth across all occupations.
Conclusion
The physical therapist’s job is highly demanding, directly impacting the quality of life of their patients. Extensive education and training are required to qualify as a physical therapist. Fortunately, physical therapists enjoy a high degree of independence in their work. They can select their preferred range of patients, work settings, and specialists to shape their career path. At Intuitive Health Services, we value this independence and are committed to supporting our team in every way possible. We invite you to join our compassionate and dedicated team, where your skills will be honed, your passion will be nurtured, and your career will be supported. Together, we can transform lives. Apply now for your next physical therapist job and embark on a journey with Intuitive Health Services.