To obtain physical therapy certification, you must complete three steps: postsecondary education, physical therapy experience, and passing the certification exam. Physical therapy is used to help people regain or maintain their muscle strength. This type of therapy consists of a set of exercises that are either weighted or not.
People who want to become certified as a physical therapist have typically worked in the health care or fitness industries for several years and enjoy working with people. The National Physical Therapist Examination is the body that certifies physical therapists (NPTE). In order to work as a physical therapist in the United States, you must have this certification.
Completing a post-secondary education program is the first step toward obtaining a physical therapy certification. Candidates must have a degree from an accredited university in physical therapy, physiology, or physiotherapy. Alternatively, some states allow candidates with a physical therapy college diploma to become certified through a combination of additional courses and work experience.
Before you can sit for the physical therapy certification exam, you must have a certain amount of physical therapy experience. Physical therapy assistance must be verifiable and supervised a licensed physical therapist. The majority of candidates complete this requirement in two stages. The first phase is completed as part of their education through a job placement or internship program. The second phase begins after they have graduated and secured their first physical therapy job.
The physical therapy certification exam is a computerized multiple choice test that lasts five hours. To help students prepare for this exam, many state physical therapy associations offer preparation courses and seminars. Examine the study preparation courses available to you and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Candidates can apply for positions in clinics, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other institutions after completing the physical therapy certification. Many large companies will not hire candidates unless they have received certification. When combined with three to five years of work experience, the certification will not immediately result in a higher salary, but it will open up more opportunities.
A career as a physical therapist necessitates a strong commitment to personal fitness and strength. Working with clients to improve muscle strength, flexibility, and tone necessitates a lot of interaction. People who enjoy participating in exercise programs and staying active will be able to maintain their health for a longer period of time.