Therapy Aide

Career Guide

A Therapy Aide supports licensed physical, occupational, or speech therapists by preparing treatment areas, assisting with basic patient needs, and keeping equipment and supplies organized. The role is hands-on, people-focused, and often used as an entry point into healthcare and rehabilitation careers.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare treatment rooms and therapy equipment before sessions
Clean and sanitize equipment and therapy areas between patients
Set up exercise tools and assist with moving equipment safely
Help patients with non-clinical tasks such as escorting and positioning as directed
Observe patient comfort and report concerns to the therapist
Track supplies and restock linens, gels, and basic therapy materials
Schedule appointments and confirm patient visits when needed
Document basic administrative information in clinic systems as assigned
Follow safety rules, infection control practices, and patient privacy requirements
Support a smooth patient flow by coordinating with front desk and clinical staff

Top Skills for Success

Patient Communication

Empathy

Attention to Detail

Time Management

Teamwork

Professionalism

Basic Computer Skills

Infection Control

Patient Privacy Compliance

Safe Patient Handling

Equipment Setup

Clinic Organization

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Rehabilitation Technician

Therapy Assistant

Patient Care Technician

Medical Assistant

Transition Opportunities

Physical Therapist Assistant

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Licensed Practical Nurse

Registered Nurse

Physical Therapist

Occupational Therapist

Speech Language Pathologist

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Medical TerminologySafe Patient TransfersDe escalation SkillsClinical Documentation BasicsCustomer ServiceScheduling Coordination

Development SuggestionsAsk for training on safe lifting and transfers, shadow a therapist to learn common therapy routines, practice clear patient communication, and learn the clinic’s documentation and scheduling tools. Consider CPR training if it is valued in your setting.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUSD 26,000 to 34,000 per year

Mid LevelUSD 34,000 to 42,000 per year

Senior LevelUSD 42,000 to 52,000 per year

Growth Trend

Steady demand. Hiring is supported by an aging population, post-surgery rehabilitation needs, and growth in outpatient therapy clinics. Pay and availability vary by region, setting, and shift type.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

HCA HealthcareEncompass HealthSelect MedicalATI Physical TherapyAthletico Physical TherapyPT SolutionsGenesis HealthCareAmedisysBrookdale Senior LivingKaiser Permanente

Industry Sectors

HospitalsOutpatient rehabilitation clinicsSkilled nursing facilitiesInpatient rehabilitation facilitiesHome health servicesSenior living communitiesSports medicine clinics

Recommended Next Steps

Update your resume to highlight patient support, cleaning protocols, and teamwork

Request a skills checklist from your supervisor and track progress weekly

Complete a CPR course if common in your area

Practice safe lifting techniques and ask for formal training

Volunteer or pick up extra shifts in different therapy areas to broaden exposure

If you want to advance, research local Physical Therapist Assistant or Occupational Therapy Assistant programs and their entry requirements