Can A Physical Therapy Assistant Become A Physical Therapist?

A physical therapy assistant (PTA) is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist (PT) to provide therapeutic interventions and assist in the rehabilitation of patients. PTAs typically hold an associate degree and complete a PTA program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

To become a physical therapist (PT), you need to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a program accredited by CAPTE. A DPT program typically takes three years to complete after the completion of a bachelor’s degree. However, some programs offer a “3+3” option, which allows students to complete their bachelor’s and DPT degrees in six years.

If a PTA wishes to become a PT, they must first meet the educational requirements by either obtaining a bachelor’s degree or completing the necessary prerequisite courses for a DPT program. Some PT programs may also require clinical experience, so PTAs can use their previous experience to fulfill this requirement.

Once the educational requirements are met, the PTA must apply to a DPT program through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS). Admission to DPT programs is competitive, and applicants must submit their undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and sometimes sit for an interview or complete an observation requirement.

After being accepted into a DPT program, the PTA will undergo extensive coursework and clinical rotations to gain advanced knowledge and skills in various areas of physical therapy. The DPT curriculum includes subjects such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics, therapeutic exercise, neuroscience, and clinical decision-making. Additionally, students will participate in clinical internships to gain hands-on experience in different settings under the supervision of licensed PTs.

Upon graduation with a DPT degree, aspiring PTs must then pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become licensed. The NPTE is a comprehensive exam that tests the individual’s knowledge and skills in various aspects of physical therapy practice.

In summary, while PTAs can transition to become PTs, it requires further education and training. By obtaining a DPT degree and completing the necessary licensure requirements, PTAs can expand their scope of practice and assume higher levels of responsibility in the field of physical therapy. This transition allows them to independently diagnose and treat patients, develop treatment plans, and advance their careers as licensed physical therapists.