Contents
Get tips on how to become a PT Tech in just five steps! This blog covers what you need to know to get started in this rewarding career.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
Physical therapy technicians work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist to provide patients with rehabilitative care. If you are interested in becoming a PT tech, there are a few things you need to do.
First, you will need to complete a PT tech program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges and take about two years to complete. Once you have completed a PT tech program, you will need to obtain certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Technicians.
Once you are certified, you will need to apply for a state license. Each state has different requirements, but generally, you will need to submit an application and pass an exam.
Once you are licensed, you can start working as a PT tech. Most PT techs work in hospitals or outpatient clinics, but there are other options as well.
If you are interested in becoming a PT tech, follow these five steps and you will be on your way!
Step One: Research
Individuals interested in becoming PT techs can find programs at many community colleges and trade schools. Some technical institutes also offer relevant programs. These typically last one year and may lead to an Associate of Applied Science degree. Many PT technologist programs are available online, which can be a convenient option for working adults. Prospective PT techs should make sure that their chosen program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Step Two: Get Training
After you’ve decided that becoming a PT tech is the right career move for you, it’s time to get the proper training. While you might be able to find a job without formal PT tech training, most employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed an accredited program.
There are many different types of accredited PT tech programs available, so you’ll need to do some research to find the one that best fits your needs. Once you’ve found a few programs that interest you, take the time to request more information and compare each one.
Some things you might want to consider when choosing a PT tech program include:
-The length of the program
-The cost of tuition
-The type of schedule (full-time or part-time)
-The format of the program (online, hybrid or in-person)
-The curriculum and course offerings
-The clinical experience opportunities available
-The job placement rates for graduates
After you’ve completed your research and chosen a PT tech program, it’s time to apply and get started on your new career!
Step Three: Certification
After you have completed a PT tech training program, the next step is to become certified. In order to be eligible for certification, you must have graduated from an accredited PT tech program and passed the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE). Once you have met these requirements, you can then apply for certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS). Upon receiving your certification, you will be able to use the PT Technician credential (PTT).
Step Four: Find a Job
The fourth and final step to becoming a PT Tech is finding a job. You can look for open positions by searching the internet, visiting your local hospital or medical center, or contacting a staffing agency that specializes in PT Tech positions.
There are many resources available to help you find the perfect PT Tech job. The website Indeed.com offers a search engine specifically for PT Tech jobs, and the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) provides a list of PT Tech jobs available across the country. You can also search for job openings on the websites of individual hospitals and medical centers.
Once you’ve found a few open positions that interest you, it’s time to apply. Be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to each position, highlighting your skills and experience that are most relevant to the job requirements. You should also take care to follow all instructions in the job listing when applying; if a cover letter is required, be sure to include one, and if an online application is requested, be sure to fill it out completely.
After you’ve submitted your application, all that’s left to do is wait for a response from the employer. If you are invited to interview for the position, be sure to prepare in advance by researching the company and reviewing common interview questions. With hard work and preparation, you will be well on your way to beginning an exciting new career as a PT Tech!
Step Five: Continuing Education
While state licensure and certification are not required to become a PT tech, many employers prefer to hire PT techs who have completed a formal training program and/or have earned certification from a professional organization. In addition, most states require PT techs to complete continuing education (CE) credits on a regular basis in order to maintain their license or certification.
There are several ways to complete CE credits, including taking classes in person or online, attending conferences or seminars, or completing self-study courses. Many professional organizations offer members access to CE resources, and some even offer scholarships or grant programs to help offset the cost of continuing education.
Once you have completed the steps above, you will be well on your way to becoming a PT tech. With hard work and dedication, you can find success in this growing field and make a difference in the lives of those you work with.
