Physical Therapy Assistant Careers
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy serves society as a dynamic profession with an established theoretical and scientific base and widespread clinical applications in the restoration, maintenance, and promotion of optimal physical function. Physical therapy is a profession that is scientifically based, while at the same time highly interpersonal. Optimal physical therapy intervention requires health care providers who demonstrate sensitivity, flexibility, and adaptability. Physical therapist assistants who provide physical therapy interventions must be skilled in technical applications, verbal and non-verbal communication, problem solving, and collaboration. Physical therapy providers are lifelong learners capable of adapting to changes in technology, delivery systems and society.
Physical Therapist Assistant
The physical therapist assistant is an educated and licensed person who, under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist, assists in the provision of physical therapy interventions. The KSU faculty understands physical therapy services as a combination of art, applied science, and caring interaction.
The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) currently defines the Physical Therapist Assistant as follows: "The physical therapist assistant is a technically educated health care provider who assists the physical therapist in the provision of physical therapy. The physical therapist assistant is a graduate of a physical therapist assistant associate degree program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)." APTA HOD 06-00-27
