PTA in Connecticut

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Learn how to become a physical therapist assistant in 7 steps completing all education and licensing requirements.

Step 1. Graduate from an Accredited Physical Therapist Assistant Program

To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Connecticut, the first step is to complete an accredited PTA program. The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) is the accrediting agency responsible for evaluating and ensuring the quality of PT and PTA programs. You can enter your zip code below to see programs near you.

You can also use these resources to research CAPTE Accredited PTA Programs:

• All Accredited PTA Programs in Connecticut
• Local PTA Program Search
• Online PTA Program Search

In Connecticut, there are two approved locations where you can pursue an accredited PTA program – Norwalk Community College and Naugatuck Valley Community College in Waterbury. These programs typically take around two years to complete.

During your time in an accredited PTA program, you will cover various topics related to physical therapy. These include anatomy and physiology, therapeutic exercise, kinesiology, rehabilitation techniques, medical terminology, and more. The curriculum is designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to work effectively as a PTA.

Upon successful completion of the PTA program, you will receive an official transcript and/or a degree certificate. This documentation is crucial when applying for licensure and will need to be sent to the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH).

It is important to note that in addition to graduating from an accredited PTA program, there are further requirements you must fulfill to obtain a PTA license in Connecticut. These include passing the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE), submitting an application fee, and meeting the Connecticut DPH’s licensing requirements.

By completing an accredited PTA program in Connecticut, you are on your way to becoming a licensed PTA and joining the rewarding field of physical therapy.

Step 2. Submit an Application for Examination and Licensure in Connecticut

To apply for examination and licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Connecticut, you need to follow a specific process. Here are the steps to submit your application:

1. Gather the required documents: You will need to provide a completed licensure application, a passport-sized photograph, and an official transcript from your PTA education program.

2. Prepare the fee payment: The application fee for examination and licensure is $375. You can pay this fee using a bank check or money order made out to “Treasurer, State of Connecticut,” or you may also pay online through the Connecticut Department of Public Health website.

3. Submit your application: Send your completed application, photograph, fee payment, and official transcript to the Connecticut Department of Public Health. The address to mail your application is:

Connecticut Department of Public Health

Bureau of Health Professions – PTA

410 Capitol Avenue, MS #12 APP

P.O. Box 340308

Hartford, CT 06134-0308

4. Contact information: For any questions or concerns, you can contact the Connecticut Department of Public Health directly at (860) 509-7603 or via email at DPH.FederationCredentials@ct.gov.

By following these steps and submitting the required documents and fees, you will be one step closer to obtaining your PTA license in Connecticut.

Step 3. Pass the National Licensing Exam

To become a licensed physical therapist assistant (PTA) in Connecticut, you must successfully pass the National Licensing Exam administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). Here is an overview of the process:

1. Authorization to Test: Once you have completed your education requirements from an accredited physical therapy assistant program, you need to apply for authorization to test from the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH). Submit an application along with the required documents, such as official transcripts and proof of graduation.

2. Register for the Exam: Once you receive authorization to test from the DPH, you need to register for the National Licensing Exam with the FSBPT. Visit their website and complete the registration process. You will need to pay the required exam fees at this stage.

3. Schedule the Exam: After registering, you can schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center. Prometric has multiple locations throughout Connecticut, making it convenient for you to choose a testing center close to your preferred location.

4. Study and Preparation: To prepare for the National Licensing Exam, utilize the resources provided by the FSBPT. The NPTE Candidate Handbook is a valuable resource that outlines the exam format, content, and scoring methodology. Additionally, the FSBPT offers an online practice exam and assessment tool called PEAT, which can help you gauge your preparedness and identify areas where more study is needed.

By following these steps and thoroughly preparing for the National Licensing Exam, you can increase your chances of passing and obtaining your PTA license in Connecticut.

Step 4. Start your Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Connecticut

To begin your career as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Connecticut, you must complete the necessary steps for licensure approval from the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH). Here is a guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Education Requirements: Graduation from a physical therapist assistant program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education is mandatory. Ensure that your degree program meets the educational criteria set by the DPH.

2. Successful Completion of the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE): Once you graduate, you must pass the NPTE for PTAs. This exam assesses your knowledge and skills in providing physical therapy services.

3. Application Process: Complete the application form provided by the DPH, including the appropriate fee. Submit official transcripts from your educational institution and any subsequent examination results.

4. Licensure Approval: After reviewing your application, the DPH will determine if you meet the requirements for licensure. Successful applicants will receive their official PTA license document.

5. Online License Verification: The DPH provides an online license verification portal. Employers and the general public can use this portal to verify your licensure status.

In Connecticut, there are numerous physical therapy employers that offer exciting career opportunities for PTAs. Examples include Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Centers and Hartford Hospital. With your newly acquired PTA license, you can embark on a fulfilling career in providing rehabilitation services and assisting physical therapists in delivering patient care.

Step 5. Renew your Physical Therapist Assistant License Annually

In Connecticut, Physical Therapist Assistants (PTA) are required to renew their licenses annually to continue practicing. The license renewal process can be completed online through the Connecticut Department of Public Health website.

Approximately 60 days prior to the license expiration date, licensed PTAs receive a renewal notice from the Department. This notice includes instructions on how to renew the license and a link to the online application form.

To renew their PTA license, applicants are required to complete and submit the online application form along with a $60 fee. The fee can be paid online using a credit card or electronic check.

During the renewal process, licensed PTAs are also required to update their address information. This ensures that the Department has the most current contact information on file.

It is important for PTAs to renew their licenses on time to avoid any lapse in their ability to practice. Failure to renew the license by the expiration date may result in additional fees or penalties.

Overall, the annual license renewal process for Physical Therapist Assistants in Connecticut is a straightforward and efficient process. By following the instructions provided by the Connecticut Department of Public Health, PTAs can easily renew their licenses and continue providing quality physical therapy services.

Why Be a PTA in Connecticut?

Connecticut is a friendly state for PTAs with a few accredited PTA Programs available. There are also many jobs and salaries range from $57,000 to $67,500+ annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapy assistant in Connecticut by clicking the links below.

• Research Connecticut’s PTA Programs
• Compare average PTA salaries in Connecticut’s major cities

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