Physiotherapy Assistant

Physical therapist assistants help physiotherapists implement treatment programs designed to improve or maintain clients’ abilities to function independently. Under the direction of physiotherapists and/or occupational therapists, carry out treatment programs such as thermotherapy, traction, hydrotherapy and electrotherapeutic techniques to rehabilitate patients with various injuries or disabilities to maximize their ability to independently manage daily activities.

They may work in outpatient clinics with clients who have orthopedic issues, in schools and preschools to help children develop physical and social skills, in extended care settings with geriatric clients, or in hospital settings with patients who have a variety of disorders or have undergone surgery. Whatever the setting, they work under the direction and supervision of physiotherapists.

Average Hourly

$22.76

Range Hourly

$15.00 – $30.92

Average Yearly

$44,381

Range Yearly

$29,250 – $60,294

NOC Code

Other Technical Occupations In Therapy And Assessment ( 3237 )

Alias Job Titles

Kinesitherapist

Physical rehabilitation technician

Physical therapist assistant (PTA)

Physical therapy aide

Physical therapy technician

Physiotherapist assistant (PTA)

Physiotherapy aide

Physiotherapy assistant

Physiotherapy technician

Qualifications Required

Physiotherapy assistants require completion of a two- to three-year college program in physical rehabilitation therapy or a two-year physical therapy assistant (PTA) program and supervised practical training.

Salary Range

Average hourly	Range hourly	Average yearly	Range yearly
$22.76	$15.00 - $30.92	$44,381	$29,250 - $60,294

Job Demand

Medium

Employment outlook is good to fair across provinces. More information is available here.

Growth Opportunity

Without further education, advancement opportunities for physical therapist assistants are limited.

Years' Experience Required

0-1 year

Training Options (if available)

Having a diploma in Physiotherapy assistant program from an accredited institution is usually required. Some examples of such programs:

Occupational/Physical Therapist Assistant at Vancouver Community College

Therapist Assistant Program (PTA & OTA Major) at MacEwan University

Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant at Centennial College

Find more programs

Personal Qualities

Excellent communication skills; empathetic; ability to work independently, Physical and mental stamina; Critical thinking skills, Patience, Flexibility, Organizational skills and attention to detail; Manual dexterity; teamwork

Notes/Other Information

No certification is currently required.

Physical therapist assistants work in a variety of settings including private practices, hospitals, continuing or long-term care facilities, rehabilitation facilities, schools, and private homes. They generally work weekdays but may be required to work some evenings and weekends.

The work can be physically demanding and they need to help clients transfer, stand, walk, and exercise. They may be on their feet for long periods of time. They may also be required to move heavy equipment.

Steps towards capacity building to become competitive for this job

Getting admitted into diploma in Physiotherapy Assistant program.
If not possible, one can start having a certificate program/ on-the-job training as a Physiotherapy helper or attendant, then enter into the Physiotherapy Assistant program.

References

i. Alberta Learning Information Service

ii. Job Bank Canada

iii. National Occupation Classification ESDC

iv. Neuvoo

v. Indeed