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How to Become a Physical Therapist Aide?

Physical therapy aides help people recover from surgery, illnesses, and injuries.

· Education
Become a Physical Therapist Aide

Physical therapy aides may apply for voluntary massage certification upon completion of a training program. This can be especially helpful for those who will be using massage therapy under the direction of a physical therapist. Job duties may include setting up and maintaining a safe and clean environment for physical therapy services, transferring patients and positioning them for physical therapy, and assisting physical therapists by providing props and other tools. They may also assist in reviewing charts for daily notes and treatment plans.

How Does Massage Therapy Relate to Physical Therapy?

Massage therapy is often used in conjunction with traditional medical treatments for a range of conditions. Massage therapy can help with control of blood pressure, anxiety management, and pain relief. It can also benefit patients by stretching tight muscles, improving circulation, and increasing joint flexibility. These are services that can benefit many patients undergoing physical therapy. Southern California Health Institute (SOCHi) trains students in physical therapy techniques, sports therapy, and massage therapy, for an integrated approach to wellness. The treatment of back and limb disorders, in particular, can often benefit from medical massage that physical therapy aide students learn.

What Kind of Career Services Are Offered at SOCHi?
Established physical therapy facilities, medical offices, chiropractic offices, and spas turn to SOCHi for many of their hiring needs. Since SOCHi has formed excellent relationships with many wellness professionals and has a reputation for graduating students with outstanding knowledge and skill, we're able to work with students from the time they start training to prepare them for an exciting career. Our career services professionals take the time to know each student and help students find a career that's a good fit.

We cannot guarantee employment but are committed to the success of every student who wants our assistance in their career search. We provide help with creating resumes and cover letters, finding relevant job openings, developing interview skills, negotiating wages and benefits, and following up with employers after interviews.
 

How Can the Cost of School Be Managed?

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Student eligibility for financial aid is determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligible students may receive a Pell Grant, the amount of which may vary from year to year. Students may also apply for student loans under the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. The amount a student may receive in loans is based on numerous factors, including financial need, and whether the student is financially dependent upon a parent.
What Are the Career Prospects for Physical Therapy Aides?

After finishing the physical therapy aide program, students typically qualify for entry-level clinical positions as physical therapy and sports rehabilitation aide. Career prospects for physical therapy aides are quite positive, due to a population that is aging and requiring more healthcare services.

An increase in the number of people with chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity is also expected to contribute to good job prospects for physical therapy aides. The most favorable job growth for physical therapy aides is expected to be in physician offices, nursing care facilities, and home healthcare services.
What Career Paths Can Physical Therapy Aids Pursue?

How to Become a Physical Therapist Aide? Some physical therapy aides may elect to continue their education and become licensed physical therapy assistants. Becoming a physical therapy assistant generally requires graduating from an accredited physical therapy assistant program and sitting for the National Physical Therapy Exam. Every state except Hawaii requires licensure or certification for physical therapy assistants. While physical therapy aides are not required to be licensed, voluntary certification in massage therapy after completing a training program can help improve job prospects.