Physical therapist assistants help patients reach their goals as they recover from injuries that impact how they can move and live their everyday lives.
Are you concerned about how to best describe your skills? People in this job interact with patients, keep records, and give exercise instructions.
It can be daunting to translate some of these skills into your resume, but you’re not alone. Luckily, we can show you how you can list your relevant skills and education for the best results.
In addition to completing pre-employment physicals, you’ll want a thorough resume explaining your degrees, professional certifications, and work experience.
These physical therapist resume examples will show you how to format your document and what to include to have the best chance of getting an interview.
Physical Therapist Resume Examples
There are many different roles you can have in the physical therapy field. You might be an entry-level applicant who just finished school or is changing jobs.
You might have a lot of experience and want to move to a different company where you can positively impact patients. You might only want to work with children. These examples will prepare you for it all.
Entry-Level Physical Therapist Assistant Resume Example
An entry-level physical therapist assistant position is ideal for students who just completed their education and want to start working in their field. Anyone changing career paths from another industry to physical therapy must also look for entry-level positions.
Because this job is a foundational position, you can spotlight your previous skills to show how they’ll help you become an excellent physical therapist assistant, even if you don’t have relevant work experience.
Students may find that internships or academic achievements will help hiring managers understand how they can serve as reliable employees.
Why We Suggest this Resume
This resume works because, though the applicant is new to the field, they present themselves as a skilled worker and valuable employee. The introduction explains the position the applicant seeks and how they can benefit the organization.
- Type of Resume: Entry-Level Physical Therapist Assistant Resume Example
- Best For: Those starting their career as physical therapists
Objective
A licensed physical therapist assistant seeks an entry-level position to continue learning and developing expertise in outpatient care, rehabilitation, and orthopedic patient-centered service.
Work Experience 1: Physical Therapist Assistant at City Physical Therapy Facility (2020-Present)
- Deliver patient care to 20 active patients weekly
- Assess patient health and develop an effective treatment plan
- Check in regularly to adjust goals and ensure adequate progress
- Educate patients about the exercises and at-home care they can do to improve recovery
- Work with the in-house interdisciplinary teams to gauge treatment plans and progress concerning facility goals
Work Experience 2: Residency at City Physical Therapy Facility (2017-2020)
- Assisted two physical therapists to get a broad range of patient experience
- Demonstrated proper exercise forms for patients in the facility
- Performed patient evaluations to assist physical therapists
- Periodically checked in with patients to ensure they were meeting benchmarks
- Utilized various physical therapy methods best suited for patients’ skill levels
Project Experience
- Hosted a weekly drop-in aerobics class at City Physical Therapy Facility
- Took a massage therapy class to learn more about how to help patients
Skills
- Empathetic Care
- Patient Communication
- Record Keeping
- Strength Training
- Treatment Planning
Education
- Master of Science in Physical Therapy from City University
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from City University
Licenses & Accreditations
- Member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
- Basic Life Support from the American Heart Association
Why This Resume Works
This resume works because, though the applicant is new to the field, they present themselves as a skilled worker and valuable employee.
They did their residency in one place, and then the same facility hired them, which shows that they did a great job and learned a lot in the residency position. Now they want to move on and learn more, so they look like a great candidate.
The objective explains the position the applicant seeks and how they can benefit the organization. Their education aligns with the field, and they show their dedication by having other medical certifications and membership in a professional organization.
Experienced Physical Therapist Assistant Resume Example
An experienced physical therapist assistant wants to showcase their work history because they have many years to cover, especially compared to an entry-level resume.
While you’ll want to focus more on your job experience, you still need to showcase relevant skills. Education and accreditations also have a significant impact on your chance of getting an interview.
Since you have a lot of experience to share as a more advanced applicant, it’s crucial to use action verbs and detailed information to showcase all you’ve accomplished.
The hiring manager will want to see that you’ve made great progress in your career so they see how you can fit in with their organization.
Objective
A licensed physical therapist with over a decade of experience is looking for a team environment to treat patients suffering from chronic injury and illness. Can provide patient care from intake and assessment to outpatient status to ensure they meet all goals.
Work Experience 1: Physical Therapist at City Physical Therapy Facility (2019-Present)
- Delivered physical therapy assessments and treatments to clients suffering from chronic illness
- Researched each client’s background and medical history to ensure the exercises would be effective for their needs without causing harm
- Regularly note patient progress and adapt goals as necessary, ensuring they can maintain a decent quality of life during treatment
- Coordinate with other facility employees to ensure patients were getting the full scope of service needed to recover
- Adapt treatment according to patient pain levels on weekly, daily, and hourly schedules to ensure they were able to meet their goals
Work Experience 2: Physical Therapist Assistant at City Hospital (2017-2019)
- Assessed patients during intake and created records for physical therapists
- Identified root causes of issues to help formulate effective treatment plans
- Educated patients on the background of their injury to ensure they could properly perform the prescribed exercises
- Followed up with patients periodically to ensure they met medical benchmarks, adapting treatment when necessary
- Met with outpatient clients at various locations to give them multiple ways to reach their physical therapy goals
Skills
- Exercise Science Treatments
- Outpatient Care
- Pain Management and Assessment
- Patient Communication
- Rehabilitation
Education
- Doctor of Physical Therapy from City University
- Master of Science in Physical Therapy from City University
- Bachelor of Exercise Science and Wellness from City University
Licenses & Accreditations
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Specialist from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS)
- Member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
- CPR and Basic Life Support Certificates through the American Heart Association
Why This Resume Works
This resume works because the applicant gives a broad overview of their vast work history. Each bullet point provides detailed information that helps the hiring manager understand what duties they performed in each role, which can help position them as a senior-level physical therapist in a new job.
You can use the objective to your advantage here. Some applicants may want to explain why they’re looking for a new position, especially if they were loyal to one or two facilities throughout their entire career.
You can add a phrase about looking for a new opportunity to a chance to share your expertise so the hiring manager understands the reason you’re leaving your job.
Part-Time Physical Therapist Assistant Resume Example
There are many reasons someone would want to work part-time as a physical therapist assistant. They may want to spend time with their family and can only handle a certain number of hours each week.
They may prefer to limit their patient load to deliver more involved care for each person. They may still be in school to further their education for other job opportunities.
Regardless of the reasoning, it’s important to clarify this aspect in your resume objective. You can also mention it in a cover letter.
You can look for job listings that specify part-time roles to ensure there’s no confusion about how much you’re able to work. Either way, you can still craft a strong resume to highlight your skills and experience.
Objective
Experienced physical therapist assistant seeks part-time work while completing a doctoral degree. Background in creating patient-focused treatment plans with follow-up personal training exercises to ensure optimal strength and endurance.
Work Experience 1: Physical Therapist Assistant at City Rehabilitation Facility (2021-Present)
- Communicated with the physical therapy team to update patient progress
- Completed patient intake and assessment records
- Assisted physical therapists with creating treatment plans
- Collaborated with the outpatient team to deliver services as needed in other locations
- Led annual assistant training on record-keeping strategies
Work Experience 2: Fitness Consultant at Fitness Gym (2019-2021)
- Signed up 50 new members every month
- Provided personal training assessments for 25 clients every quarter
- Facilitated exercise regimens for 12 regular members each month
- Led weekly prenatal aerobics and senior spin classes
- Trained new employees on conducting new member treatment plans
Project Experience
- Served as a physical therapy advisor to the City Community College baseball team
- Volunteered to lead weekly chair yoga classes at City Senior Center
Skills
- Communication
- CPR
- Employee Training and Management
- Physical Therapy Assessments
- Treatment Plans
Education
- Bachelor of Exercise Science from City University
- Associate of Science in Physical Therapy from City Community College
Licenses & Accreditations
- Member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
- Group Fitness Instructor Certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
Why This Resume Works
This resume works because it shows the applicant’s progression. They got an Associate’s degree in physical therapy and worked in a gym, which shows their focus on fitness and exercise.
These experiences also exemplify how the applicant can manage teams in different environments, relating to physical therapy patients and gym members on many levels.
A background in physical fitness can help when they work part-time as a physical therapy assistant because they’re more likely to jump in and help other employees in any way they can. They’ve proven flexibility and dedication to the field, making them a solid physical therapy assistant.
Volunteer Physical Therapist Assistant Resume Example
Volunteering is a great way to spend time and give back to your community. However, different requirements are necessary when volunteering to work directly with people with specific medical needs.
Volunteer physical therapist assistants must apply even for a volunteer role to show that they have professional knowledge and can handle the duties.
Applying for such a serious volunteer position is very similar to applying for a new job. You want to give the volunteer coordinator a resume explaining your experience and education so they see you’re a good fit for the role.
You’ll want to explain in your objective that you’re only seeking a volunteer position, too, which can make the difference in getting a callback.
Why We Suggest this Resume
This resume works because the student is eager to gain hands-on experience in the field. After they take this role, they’ll be able to list the volunteer experience on their resume for an entry-level position in the field.
- Type of Resume: Volunteer Physical Therapist Assistant Resume Example
- Best For: Physical therapists who are still in school
Objective
Physical therapy student seeking experience in the field, hoping to volunteer as an assistant. Enthusiastic team player who loves to learn and is flexible with any role that works around my class schedule.
Work Experience 1: Physical Therapist Assistant at City Senior Center (2022-Present)
- Worked one-on-one with senior clients, assessing their exercise capabilities
- Led weekly stretching classes for residents
- Helped create accessible exercise routines for residents
- Maintained resident physical therapy records
Work Experience 2: Physical Therapist Assistant Intern at City Rehabilitation Facility (2018-2022)
- Shadowed the physical therapy team to learn about patient intake
- Learned how to assess patients and develop a treatment plan
- Observed patients in physical therapy sessions
- Maintained patient records and updated progress
Project Experience
- Led a weekly yoga class for students at City Community College
Skills
- Communication
- Leading Fitness Classes
- Patient Intake
- Treatment Planning
- Teamwork
Education
- Associate of Science in Physical Therapy from City Community College
Why This Resume Works
This resume works because the student is eager to gain hands-on experience in the field. After they take this role, they’ll be able to list the volunteer experience on their resume for an entry-level position in the field.
As of now, they don’t have much education, experience, or certifications, but the resume shows they’re willing to work and learn more about the field.
You could also apply as a volunteer if you have plenty of experience in the physical therapy field. Retirees want to stay active, so they aim to volunteer in the industry.
That objective may say, “Retired physical therapist assistant looking for a volunteer position to put decades of experience to good use. Willing to work with individuals or provide sessions for small groups.”
Pediatric Physical Therapist Assistant Resume Example
Pediatric physical therapists need to follow different guidelines for patients because their clients are minors. They’ll need to communicate with parents and children to ensure everyone understands their approach.
They also need to know how to assess young patients and provide treatment plans that suit their development stage.
You can choose a focus when you work with children, even helping those with delays or rehabilitating them after an injury or accident. You can find work in doctor’s offices, clinics, preschools, hospitals, and rehab facilities.
Ensure your skills are relevant for each position, using keywords from the job description.
Why We Suggest this Resume
This resume works because it positions the applicant as an expert in the field. They have impressive degrees, starting with a foundation in health science and physical therapy before specializing in pediatrics.
- Type of Resume: Pediatric Physical Therapist Assistant Resume Example
- Best For: Physical therapists specializing in children
Objective
Skilled pediatric physical therapist assistant seeks a collaborative environment to work with professionals to help children overcome motor delays and create proactive coping mechanisms for developmental disabilities.
Work Experience 1: Physical Therapist Assistant at Pediatric Development Clinic (2022-Present)
- Completed patient intake interviews to assess each client’s developmental level
- Created individualized physical therapy programs to meet each child’s needs
- Maintained patient records, adhering to HIPAA for minors
- Led group physical therapy sessions to help children socialize and work together
- Developed a training program for incoming physical therapist assistants
Work Experience 2: Physical Therapist Assistant at Special Kids Preschool (2017-2022)
- Assessed children up to age five for motor delays and developmental disabilities
- Created exercise routines and treatment plans to build muscle strength and skills
- Followed up monthly to ensure children were reaching their benchmarks
- Instructed parents in exercises to do at home with children to reach their goals
- Adhered to patient confidentiality for minors
Skills
- Communication
- Outpatient Services
- Patient Intake
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Treatment Planning
Education
- Doctor of Pediatric Physical Therapy from City University
- Master of Science in Physical Therapy from City University
- Bachelor of Health Science from City University
Licenses & Accreditations
- Board-Certified Pediatric Clinical Specialist of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
- Pediatric Certified Specialist from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS)
- Member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
Why This Resume Works
This resume works because it positions the applicant as an expert in the field. They have impressive degrees, starting with a foundation in health science and physical therapy before specializing in pediatrics.
They also have relevant professional accreditations that ensure they know the confidentiality process and will continually learn about new approaches in the field.
The skills list may seem general, but they position the applicant as someone who can work with anyone. This approach is important when you work as part of a team, especially dealing with children.
The assistant will need to effectively communicate the exercises to the children, then pivot to explain the treatment plan to the parents.
Their background in a special needs preschool shows the applicant’s focus on delays and disabilities, as mentioned in the objective. It also helps show they have a background in that field, which further specializes their education for the job.
Common Skills & Action Verbs To Include on a Physical Therapist Assistant Resume
Using empowering words to describe your skills and convey action in your work history makes your resume stand out to the hiring manager. Consider choosing words from these lists to help express your passion for the physical therapy field.
They are also keywords the applicant tracking system looks for, so you’ll fulfill that requirement by using these terms.
Common Skills for Physical Therapist Assistant Resumes
- Aerobics
- Clinical Processes
- Communication
- CPR
- Documentation
- Empathetic Care
- Home Healthcare
- Instructional Processes
- Interdisciplinary Knowledge
- Orthopedics
- Outpatient Assistance
- Pain Management
- Patient Care
- Physical Therapy
- Rehabilitation
- Scheduling
- Sports Injury
- Strength Training
- Time Management
- Treatment Planning
Common Action Verbs for Physical Therapist Assistant Resumes
- Administered
- Analyzed
- Coordinated
- Created
- Delivered
- Designed
- Developed
- Diagnosed
- Enhanced
- Evaluated
- Implemented
- Improved
- Managed
- Performed
Tips for Writing a Better Physical Therapist Assistant Resume
The example resumes above give you a good idea of how to structure your own document. The skills and action verbs also help you understand what you need to include to stand out to hiring managers.
These four tips will also help improve your physical therapist assistant resume so you get an interview for your dream job.
Keep It Simple
It’s tempting to use a bold layout to ensure your resume stands out from the crowd, but design elements and colors can make it hard to see the information about your work history and education.
Keep the layout simple, with a readable font appropriately sized. Leave enough space between the text lines, and have margins to prevent the document from looking cluttered.
You might think the colors will stand out to a hiring manager, but it’s best to assume that all companies use applicant tracking systems.
Colors and strange layouts can confuse the software, so it won’t properly read the information. With that in mind, go for a basic layout that lets your work history and education speak for itself.
Add Keywords
You want to use relevant keywords that show the hiring manager you understand the physical therapy field.
Many companies use applicant tracking systems that scan resumes and eliminate any that don’t seem to fit the job description. With that in mind, use the words above to ensure you make it past that stage.
You can also closely read the job description and use that terminology to influence your resume. If the company says they want someone with a specific experience that you have, make it a bullet point in your work history so you’ll make it through the first round of applicants.
Include Soft Skills
Many people get bogged down in the keyword-centric qualities you need to list on a physical therapist resume. However, you shouldn’t forget the soft skills.
Employers want to know that you can collaborate with coworkers and participate in teamwork. They want to know that you can listen to instructions and communicate effectively.
You can list soft skills in the skills section of your resume or mention them in the bullet points of your work experience.
For example, you can list communication as a skill. You can also describe job duties in a manner that conveys the idea, such as: “Developed strong bonds with patients while providing actionable physical therapy exercises.”
Proofread
You always want to proofread your resume carefully. Look at suggestions in your word processing program and use apps like Grammarly to find other issues. Consider asking a close friend to look at it, too.
Many hiring managers don’t have time to look through every document, so if they see a mistake, they’re glad for a chance to eliminate someone.
Since physical therapists are detail-oriented, you need to show this skill in your resume. Otherwise, you’re not making the best first impression, which could make the difference between getting an interview or not.
Frequently Asked Questions
After learning tips to make your physical therapist assistant resume stand out, you might still need more information. Check out the answers to these frequently asked questions.
What is the most important skill for a physical therapist assistant to have?
Physical therapist assistants need countless skills on the job, but one of the most important is problem-solving.
This skill uses analysis, reasoning, and evaluation to find the best solution.
You also need to have the ability to communicate with the patient to put them at ease.
What is a good example of a physical therapist assistant’s resume objective?
Your objective should give basic information about the job you want.
A good objective could read, “Seeking a physical therapy assistant position to use my expertise to rehabilitate patients as part of a team.”
This statement shows that you want to work with others to help patients reach their goals.
Similar Resume Types to Reference
People interested in physical therapist assistant roles might also want to apply for similar jobs. Check out examples of these related resumes to see how to enhance your document and broaden your job search.
- Physician Resume: Physicians need to put their patients’ care above all else. If you want to take on that role, see how you can create the best resume for the job.
- LVN Resume: Licensed Vocational Nurses practice under a physician. If you want to be part of a team, consider applying for this type of work.
- Home Health Aide Resume: If you love nursing and want to help people at home, you can apply for jobs as a home health aide.
Wrapping Up
These examples will help you craft the best resume for a physical therapist assistant role. Empower your document with action verbs and keywords that show you have the skills necessary for the job.
If you know someone applying for physical therapist assistant jobs, share this article with them. Leave a comment with your application experience so we can learn how this post helped you.
