Physical Therapist Assistant

What is it like to be a physical therapist? In this Career Q&A video interview, Amy Spiegel talks about her career path, what she does on the job, and the keys to success in physical therapy. She also offers candid advice on breaking into the profession as well as insight into the industry’s biggest challenges and how the field may change in the next ten years. (17 minutes)

Of all the health care disciplines, physical therapy may require the widest range of talents and interests. This program profiles the jobs of physical therapy assistant and aide, detailing their responsibilities, essential skills, and differences. The video explores the duties the assistant and aide must perform—such as helping patients under the supervision of a physical therapist, performing treatments according to customized programs, observing and reporting patient behavior, and providing physical and emotional encouragement. The skill set outlined in the video includes an in-depth knowledge of human anatomy as well as the ability to work with ill and disabled people, collaborate with and serve under other health professionals, and maintain one’s own physical fitness, motivation, and organization. Educational requirements are also addressed—most importantly, graduating from an APTA-accredited program. A viewable/printable instructor’s guide containing additional material—including student activities, discussion questions, vocabulary terms, and fast facts—is available online. Correlates to national and state board certification standards. (23 minutes)

What is it like to be a physical therapy assistant? In this Career Q&A video interview, Laurie Martin talks about her career path, what she does on the job, and the keys to success assisting physical therapists. She also offers candid advice on breaking into the profession as well as insight into the industry’s biggest challenges and how the field may change in the next ten years.