How to Become a Physical Therapy Aide in Pennsylvania

Those who enjoy helping others may be able to find a great career as a physical therapy aide.

Here’s How to Become One

You wont need a license to become an aid. But for best results in the job market, you should have a high school diploma and get a certification such as the Physical Therapy Technician Certification from the AMCA. You should prepare for certification through a training program like the ones below.

Education and Training

Online program can be the most convenient way to get started.

Trade Schools in PA with Physical Therapy Programs

Educational Requirements

To become a physical therapy aide in Pennsylvania you must have at least a high school diploma or GED to be considered for the position, though you can receive on-the-job training once you begin.

However, some roles require that you obtain additional education before you can start your role as a physical therapy aide.

How Much Does It Cost?

Cost can vary depending on which school or program you take, though you can potentially enroll in a physical therapy aide program for under $1,000. Financial aid may be available for those who qualify.

Physical Therapy Aide Licensing

While you need a license to become a physical therapist assistant, the role of a physical therapist aide in Pennsylvania does not require a license.

How Long Does It Take?

Those interested can typically finish the program in as little as a few weeks or up to two months.

Physical therapy aide/technician certifications are also available for physical therapist aides who want to continue their education.

Salary Range

• $31,287 – ZipRecruiter.com
• $34,070 – Bureau of Labor Statistics
• $36,600 – Salary.com
• $47,889 – Indeed.com

Below are some average salaries and hourly wages for areas of the state according to the Bureau of Labor.

Area	Hourly	Yearly
Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton	$16.28	$33,860.00
Harrisburg-Carlisle	$17.26	$35,900.00
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington	$16.92	$35,200.00
Pittsburgh	$16.37	$34,060.00
Reading	$16.86	$35,080.00
Scranton–Wilkes-Barre–Hazleton	$13.37	$27,810.00

Occupation: Physical Therapist Aides (SOC Code312022)
source: data.bls.gov

Job Description

Physical therapy aides have a variety of tasks they perform under the supervision of a physical therapist.

During their workday, these trained professionals prepare patients for physical therapy treatment by both emotionally comforting them as well as helping the patient into their physical therapy attire.

General Responsibilities

Workers in these entry-level jobs have responsibilities such as preparing the treatment area, equipment, and materials.

They can also perform different procedures while under the guidance and supervision of a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant.

Physical therapy aides help treat patients by applying items like heating packs or paraffin drips and assisting patients onto exercise equipment.

Where Can They Work?

These professionals may end up working at hospitals, doctors offices, physical therapy offices, nursing homes, sports and fitness offices, and even outpatient clinics.

Career Outlook

The job outlook for a physical therapy aide is higher than in many fields. Experts predict that from 2021-2031, there will be a 24-percent growth in the need for physical therapy aides.

This will result in approximately 25,000 job openings for physical therapy aides and physical therapy assistants across the country.

Demand and Job Growth

The demand for physical therapy is like to rise because of the health needs of more Americans entering older age groups. These patients will need help with maintaining mobility and dealing with the effects of issues like obesity and diabetes.

The need for more physical therapy aides will also continue to grow because of employees leaving the work force for other fields or retiring.