If you’re looking for a career that combines your passion for healthcare with the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives, becoming a physical rehabilitation therapist might be the perfect path for you. Physical therapists are essential in helping individuals recover from injuries, manage pain, and regain their independence, allowing them to lead healthier, more active lifestyles. As the demand for skilled therapists continues to grow, so does the potential for career advancement and job stability.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to become a physical rehabilitation therapist, from education and licensure to physical therapist programs, specialized training, and career prospects. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to take the next step, this guide will provide you with the roadmap you need to succeed in this fulfilling and impactful career.
A physical rehabilitation therapist works with patients who have injuries, disabilities, or health conditions that affect their ability to move or function. Through hands-on therapy, exercise programs, and treatment plans, physical therapists help patients improve their movement, manage pain, and restore function. A treatment plan is a personalized, evolving strategy that is adjusted throughout the course of therapy to meet the patient’s changing needs. Physical therapists also assist patients in developing fitness routines to support long-term health and wellness. Many physical therapists specialize in specific areas like sports medicine, geriatrics, or pediatrics, allowing them to focus their expertise on specific patient groups.
Physical therapists are trained healthcare providers who play a crucial role in the rehabilitation process. They work with patients to facilitate recovery and help them live more active, pain-free lives, without the need for surgery and prescription drugs.
The demand for physical therapists is strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for physical therapists is projected to grow by 14% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. As the population ages and most physical therapists find that more people seek non-invasive pain management options, the need for physical therapy will continue to rise.
However, the demand for physical therapists varies depending on geographic location, population needs, and healthcare trends.
As of 2025, the median annual salary for physical therapists in New York, NY is $122,601. Salaries typically range from $110,801 at the 25th percentile to $134,401 at the 75th percentile, with an hourly rate of $59. Compensation varies based on factors such as location, experience, specialization, and the size of the employer. Physical therapists in specialized fields or those in management roles generally earn higher salaries.
A career as a physical therapist offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Physical therapists develop a personalized recovery plan for each patient to guide their rehabilitation and maximize functional improvement. Whether it’s helping someone recover from an injury, improving mobility after surgery, managing chronic pain, or promoting fitness and wellness programs, physical therapists have the ability to make a real difference in patient outcomes.
To become a physical therapist, you need to start by earning a bachelor’s degree. While many students pursue degrees in biology, kinesiology, or exercise science, a specific undergraduate degree is not always required. Degrees in health sciences are also highly relevant for preparing for a career in physical therapy. What matters is completing the specific undergraduate courses required for your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program admission. These courses typically include anatomy, chemistry, physics, and biology.
It’s also important to gain some experience in physical therapy settings through internships or volunteer work. Many physical therapy students find that hands-on experience is crucial in gaining a deeper understanding of patient care.
Once you’ve earned your bachelor’s degree, the next step is enrolling in a physical therapy program at the doctoral level, such as a Doctor of Physical Therapy program. DPT programs typically take three years to complete, combining classroom instruction with clinical education. In these physical therapy programs, you’ll study subjects such as musculoskeletal systems, patient care, biomechanics, and therapeutic exercises. Most DPT programs also include a final clinical experience, which provides you with hands-on practice in real-world settings.
Choosing the right DPT program is important. Ensure that the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), which is required for licensure. Completing an accredited physical therapy degree is necessary to become a licensed physical therapist. Keep in mind that some programs may offer accelerated or dual-degree options, depending on your background and goals. Additionally, a few programs provide unique pathways such as freshman entry or guaranteed admission for select students.
When evaluating DPT programs, be sure to research financial aid opportunities, including scholarships and funding options, to help manage tuition and other educational costs.
After completing your DPT program, you will need to pass the national physical therapy exam (NPTE), which is required for licensure in all states. The NPTE is a comprehensive exam that tests your knowledge and ability to apply physical therapy principles. You will need to achieve a passing score to practice as a licensed physical therapist.
In addition to passing the NPTE, all physical therapists must obtain state licensure. While the requirements for licensure vary by state, most states require a criminal background check and may have additional exams, such as a law exam. Some states also require passing a state licensure exam as part of the licensing process. Be sure to contact your state’s licensing board to understand the specific requirements in your area.
After obtaining your license, you may choose to pursue additional education and training through a residency program or clinical fellowship. A residency program provides advanced, specialized clinical experience and can lead to certification in specific areas of physical therapy, such as orthopedics, sports rehabilitation, or neurology. After completing a residency, a clinical fellowship offers further subspecialty training and advanced clinical experience in a focused area. Completing a residency or fellowship is not required to practice as a physical therapist, but it can enhance your skills and improve your job prospects.
Physical therapists typically work in a variety of settings, including:
Clinical practice settings allow therapists to apply their skills and knowledge to real-world patient care.
To be successful as a physical rehabilitation therapist, you will need a variety of skills:
The job outlook for physical therapists is strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment is expected to grow 14% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for other occupations. This growth is largely driven by the aging population and the increasing need for physical therapy services.
The median annual wage for physical therapists was $101,020 in 2024. However, salaries can vary based on location, specialization, and experience. For example, physical therapists in specialized fields or management positions typically earn higher salaries.
Once you’ve completed the necessary education and licensure requirements, it’s time to start your career. Here are a few tips to get started:
Becoming a physical rehabilitation therapist is not just a career; it’s an opportunity to change lives. With the right education, training, and dedication, you can help individuals regain their independence, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life. This rewarding field offers not only professional growth but also the satisfaction of knowing your work directly impacts your patients’ ability to live healthier, more active lives. If you’re ready to take the first step in your journey toward becoming a physical rehabilitation therapist, Flagstar Rehab is here to guide you, offering you access to the best career opportunities in the field. Let’s start this life-changing path together.
Ready to take the next step in your physical rehabilitation therapy career? Flagstar Rehab connects talented professionals with top-tier opportunities across the country. Explore our current job listings and start your journey today. Let us help you find the perfect role that matches your skills and passion for making a difference. Get in touch with us now and take the first step towards a fulfilling career!
Physical rehabilitation therapists work with patients to improve movement, ease pain, and restore function through therapeutic exercises, hands-on therapy, and teaching proper body mechanics. They treat a wide range of conditions and help patients manage pain and recover from injuries.
Becoming a physical therapist typically takes around 7 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree and 3 years for a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
The NPTE is a licensing exam that all physical therapists must pass in order to practice. It tests your knowledge and ability to apply physical therapy principles in clinical settings.
Physical therapists can work in a variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, private practices, and sports and fitness facilities.
Physical therapists need strong physical stamina, attention to detail, emotional intelligence, time management skills, and the ability to educate patients effectively about their expected outcomes