Physical Therapy Assistant Resume Writing Guide & Examples

Are you looking to land your dream job as a Physical Therapy Assistant? Crafting a standout resume is the first step towards achieving your goal. As a Physical Therapy Assistant, you will be responsible for assisting Physical Therapists in providing treatment to patients with injuries or disabilities. This job requires a combination of technical skills and interpersonal abilities, so it’s important to showcase your expertise in both areas on your resume.

In the healthcare industry, competition for jobs can be fierce, and a well-crafted resume can be the difference between landing an interview and getting lost in the shuffle. In this article, we’ll provide you with expert guidance and examples to help you craft a Physical Therapy Assistant resume that stands out from the crowd.

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How to Write a Physical Therapy Assistant Resume That Stands Out?

When it comes to writing a resume for a Physical Therapy Assistant position, there are a few key elements that you should focus on. These include highlighting your relevant skills and experience, showcasing your education and certifications, and tailoring your resume to the specific job you’re applying for.

First and foremost, your resume should highlight your relevant skills and experience. This includes any experience you have working with patients, as well as any technical skills you possess, such as knowledge of therapeutic exercises or experience with electronic medical records. It’s also important to showcase your interpersonal abilities, such as communication and empathy, as these are crucial in building relationships with patients and colleagues.

What Recruiters Consider in Physical Therapy Assistant Resume?

Recruiters looking to hire Physical Therapy Assistants typically have a set of criteria they use to evaluate resumes. These criteria include the following:

Education and Certification: Recruiters will look for candidates who have completed an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant program and hold a valid license or certification to practice.
Relevant Experience: Recruiters will want to see experience working in a healthcare setting, particularly in a physical therapy environment.
Skills and Abilities: Recruiters will look for candidates who possess the necessary skills and abilities to perform the duties of a Physical Therapy Assistant, such as knowledge of anatomy and physiology, exercise therapy techniques, and patient assessment.

Key Elements to Include in Your Physical Therapy Assistant Resume

Having a well-crafted and effective resume is crucial in standing out to recruiters and landing a job as a Physical Therapy Assistant. Here are some key elements to include:

Objective Statement: This should be a brief statement that highlights your career goals and what you hope to achieve in the role of a Physical Therapy Assistant.
Education: List your education and certifications, including the name of the program, the institution, and the date of completion.
Experience: List your work experience in reverse chronological order, highlighting your experience in healthcare and physical therapy settings.
Skills and Abilities: Highlight your skills and abilities, including knowledge of anatomy and physiology, exercise therapy techniques, and patient assessment.
Achievements: Include any achievements or awards you have received in your career, such as recognition for outstanding patient care or contributions to a healthcare team.
References: Include references from previous employers or colleagues who can attest to your skills and abilities as a Physical Therapy Assistant.

By including these key elements in your resume, you can showcase your qualifications and stand out to recruiters as a top candidate for a Physical Therapy Assistant position.

Physical Therapy Assistant Resume Examples

In this article, we will provide you with 4 resume examples for Physical Therapy Assistants. Each resume example will follow a different template to give you a better understanding of how to structure your resume.

Physical Therapy Assistant Chronological Resume Example – 1

Name: John Doe
Email: [email protected]
Location: CVello Town, USA
Summary: Dedicated and compassionate Physical Therapy Assistant with over 5 years of experience in helping patients recover from injuries and illnesses. Skilled in providing therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and patient education. Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
Experience:
Physical Therapy Assistant
ABC Rehabilitation Center
CVello Town, USA
January 2018 – Present
Assist physical therapists in developing and implementing treatment plans for patients with various conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, and orthopedic injuries.
Provide therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation.
Educate patients and families on home exercise programs, safety, and injury prevention.
Collaborate with healthcare professionals such as physicians, nurses, and occupational therapists to ensure coordinated care.
Education:
Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy Assistant
XYZ College
CVello Town, USA
September 2015 – May 2017

The chronological resume template is the most commonly used format for resumes. It highlights your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. This template is ideal for Physical Therapy Assistants who have a stable work history and want to showcase their career progression. In this resume example, John Doe’s work experience is highlighted, starting with his current position as a Physical Therapy Assistant at ABC Rehabilitation Center.

Physical Therapy Assistant Chronological Resume Example – 2

John Doe
123 Main St. | CVello Town, USA | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890
Objective: To obtain a Physical Therapy Assistant position at XYZ Hospital where I can utilize my skills and experience to help patients recover from injuries and illnesses.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy | XYZ University | CVello Town, USA | May 2015
Experience:
Physical Therapy Assistant | ABC Hospital | CVello Town, USA | June 2015 – Present
Assist physical therapists in developing and implementing treatment plans for patients with various injuries and illnesses
Administer therapeutic exercises and modalities under the direction of a licensed physical therapist
Document patient progress and communicate with physical therapists regarding patient status and treatment plans
Assist with patient education regarding injury prevention and rehabilitation exercises
Physical Therapy Aide | DEF Clinic | CVello Town, USA | January 2014 – May 2015
Assisted physical therapists and physical therapy assistants with patient care, including exercises and modalities
Prepared treatment areas and equipment for patient use
Documented patient progress and communicated with physical therapists and physical therapy assistants regarding patient status
Certifications:
Physical Therapy Assistant License | State of California | Expires: December 2021
CPR and First Aid Certification | American Red Cross | Expires: June 2022

A chronological resume is a great format for physical therapy assistants who have a solid work history in the field. This type of resume highlights your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job and working backwards. This format is easy for employers to read and understand, as it shows your progression in the field and emphasizes your most recent experience. In addition to your work experience, be sure to include your education, certifications, and any relevant skills or achievements. Use bullet points to describe your job duties and accomplishments in each position, and be sure to tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for.

Physical Therapy Assistant Functional Resume Example – 1

Name: John Doe
Address: 123 Main St, CVello Town, USA
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Objective: To obtain a Physical Therapy Assistant position at a reputable healthcare facility where I can utilize my knowledge and skills to provide excellent patient care.
Summary:
Highly motivated and dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant with over 5 years of experience in providing patient care, developing treatment plans, and assisting physical therapists in achieving treatment goals. Possess excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with healthcare professionals to provide optimal patient care.
Skills:
Ability to develop and implement treatment plans based on patient needs and goals
Proficiency in using therapeutic exercise, modalities, and manual techniques
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work collaboratively with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals
Experience in working with patients of all ages and backgrounds
Knowledge of medical terminology and documentation procedures
Experience:
Physical Therapy Assistant
ABC Healthcare, CVello Town, USA
January 2018 – Present
Assist physical therapists in developing and implementing treatment plans for patients with various conditions, including orthopedic injuries, neurological disorders, and chronic pain
Provide therapeutic exercise, modalities, and manual techniques to patients
Educate patients and their families on exercises and activities to improve their functional abilities
Document patient progress and communicate with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care
Education:
Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy Assistant
XYZ College, CVello Town, USA
Graduated May 2015

This functional resume example for a Physical Therapy Assistant showcases the candidate’s skills and experience in a clear and concise manner. The objective statement highlights the candidate’s career goals, while the summary section provides an overview of their experience and expertise. The skills section lists the candidate’s key strengths, and the experience section provides specific examples of their work history. The education section highlights the candidate’s academic achievements and qualifications. This resume is tailored to the specific job of a Physical Therapy Assistant and is sure to catch the attention of potential employers.

Physical Therapy Assistant Functional Resume Example – 2

Personal Information
Name: John Doe
Address: 123 Main St, CVello Town, USA
Phone: 555-555-5555
Email: [email protected]
Summary
Highly motivated and dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant with over 5 years of experience in providing exceptional patient care. Skilled in developing and implementing treatment plans, conducting assessments, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to achieve optimal outcomes. Seeking to leverage my expertise in a challenging role at a reputable healthcare facility.
Education
Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy Assistant, XYZ College, CVello Town, USA, 2015
Professional Experience
Physical Therapy Assistant
ABC Healthcare, CVello Town, USA
June 2015 – Present
Conduct initial patient assessments and develop individualized treatment plans
Provide hands-on therapy and exercises to improve patient mobility, strength, and range of motion
Collaborate with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated care
Document patient progress and adjust treatment plans as needed
Provide education to patients and their families on home exercise programs and injury prevention strategies
Physical Therapy Technician
DEF Rehabilitation Center, CVello Town, USA
January 2014 – June 2015
Assisted physical therapists and physical therapy assistants in providing patient care
Prepared treatment areas and equipment for patient use
Provided administrative support, including scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records
Assisted with patient transfers and mobility as needed
Skills
Strong knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Proficient in electronic medical records (EMR) systems
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

This functional resume example highlights the candidate’s skills and experience in a clear and concise manner. The format emphasizes the candidate’s qualifications and achievements, rather than a traditional chronological work history. This type of resume is ideal for candidates who have gaps in employment or who are changing careers. It allows them to showcase their transferable skills and relevant experience, regardless of when or where it was acquired.

Physical Therapy Assistant Combination Resume Example – 1

John Doe
123 Main St, CVello Town, USA | (123) 456-7890 | [email protected]
Objective: To obtain a Physical Therapy Assistant position at XYZ Healthcare utilizing my skills and knowledge in assisting patients in their rehabilitation journey.
Summary: Certified Physical Therapy Assistant with 2 years of experience in providing patient care in various settings. Proficient in patient assessment, treatment planning, and documentation. Skilled in therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and modalities.
Education:
Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy Assistant, CVello Community College, CVello Town, USA, May 2018
Certifications:
– Certified Physical Therapy Assistant, National Physical Therapy Examination, June 2018
– Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification, American Heart Association, May 2018
Professional Experience:
Physical Therapy Assistant, ABC Rehabilitation Center, CVello Town, USA, June 2018 – Present
– Assisted physical therapists in developing and implementing treatment plans for patients with various conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, and orthopedic injuries
– Conducted patient assessments and documented progress notes in electronic medical records
– Instructed patients in therapeutic exercises and activities of daily living
Physical Therapy Technician, DEF Hospital, CVello Town, USA, May 2017 – May 2018
– Assisted physical therapists in patient care activities such as transferring, positioning, and ambulating patients
– Maintained cleanliness and organization of treatment areas and equipment
– Scheduled patient appointments and managed patient records
Skills:
– Patient assessment and treatment planning
– Therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and modalities
– Electronic medical records documentation
– Communication and interpersonal skills

Our Physical Therapy Assistant Combination Resume Example – 1 provides a comprehensive overview of a candidate’s qualifications and professional experience. The objective statement highlights the candidate’s career goals, while the summary section summarizes their skills and experience. The education and certification sections showcase the candidate’s academic and professional achievements. The professional experience section details the candidate’s work history and responsibilities, demonstrating their ability to provide patient care and work collaboratively with physical therapists. Finally, the skills section highlights the candidate’s relevant skills and abilities. By using this combination resume format, the candidate can showcase their qualifications and experience in a clear and concise manner.

Physical Therapy Assistant Combination Resume Example – 2

Full Name
Physical Therapy Assistant
Contact Information:
Email: [email protected] | Phone: 123-456-7890
CVello Town, USA
Summary:
Physical Therapy Assistant with 5 years of experience in outpatient and inpatient settings. Skilled in creating and implementing treatment plans, conducting patient assessments, and providing education to patients and families. Proficient in using electronic medical records and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. Seeking a position that utilizes my skills and experience to improve patient outcomes.
Skills:
Creating and implementing treatment plans
Conducting patient assessments
Providing education to patients and families
Using electronic medical records
Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams
Excellent communication skills
Experience:
Physical Therapy Assistant – XYZ Hospital
CVello Town, USA
June 2018 – Present
Create and implement treatment plans for patients with various conditions, including stroke, spinal cord injury, and orthopedic injuries
Conduct patient assessments and document progress in electronic medical records
Provide education to patients and families on home exercise programs and safety measures
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, nurses, and occupational therapists, to improve patient outcomes
Physical Therapy Assistant – ABC Clinic
CVello Town, USA
January 2016 – June 2018
Assisted physical therapists in creating and implementing treatment plans for patients with various conditions
Conducted patient assessments and documented progress in electronic medical records
Assisted with patient education on home exercise programs and safety measures
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to improve patient outcomes
Education:
Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy Assistant – LMN College
CVello Town, USA
Graduated May 2015

This combination resume example showcases the candidate’s skills, experience, and education in a clear and concise manner. The summary section highlights the candidate’s experience and qualifications, while the skills section provides a quick overview of their abilities. The experience section details the candidate’s work history and responsibilities, emphasizing their ability to create and implement treatment plans, conduct patient assessments, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. The education section provides information on the candidate’s degree and graduation date. Overall, this combination resume example is an effective way to showcase the candidate’s qualifications and experience to potential employers.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Writing Physical Therapy Assistant Resume

As a Physical Therapy Assistant, your resume is your first point of contact with potential employers. It is essential to create a resume that showcases your skills, experience, and qualifications effectively. To help you create an effective resume, we have compiled a list of do’s and don’ts.

Do’s:

Highlight your education: Include your degree, certification, and any relevant coursework or training you have completed.
Showcase your experience: Include any relevant work experience, internships, or volunteer work that demonstrates your skills and knowledge in the field.
Use keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description to ensure your resume gets past the applicant tracking system (ATS).
Quantify your achievements: Use numbers to highlight your accomplishments, such as the number of patients you treated or the percentage of improvement you helped them achieve.
Proofread: Ensure your resume is free of errors and typos. Have someone else review it to ensure it is error-free.

Don’ts:

Include irrelevant information: Avoid including information that is not relevant to the job, such as personal hobbies or interests.
Use generic language: Avoid using generic language and cliches. Instead, use specific and concise language that demonstrates your skills and experience.
Make it too long: Keep your resume concise and to the point. Avoid including unnecessary information that makes your resume too long.
Forget to customize: Customize your resume for each job application. Avoid sending the same generic resume for every job you apply for.
Lie: Never lie on your resume. Employers conduct background checks and can easily verify your qualifications and experience.

Conclusion

Creating an effective resume as a Physical Therapy Assistant requires highlighting your education, experience, and qualifications effectively. By following the do’s and don’ts listed above, you can create a resume that stands out to potential employers and increases your chances of getting hired. Remember to customize your resume for each job application and always proofread it before submitting it.