Q: What is a Physical Therapist?

Physical therapists , also called PTs, are allied health professionals who specialize in helping patients with injuries, physical disabilities, or health conditions that impact function, to improve movement and manage pain. PTs work with patients of all ages to enhance their quality of life through hands-on care, therapeutic exercise, and patient education. PTs play an important role in preventive care and rehabilitation. They often have a profound effect on patients’ lives by helping them regain or maintain their independence and lead active lives. The job outlook for physical therapists is highly promising with a projected growth of 18% between 2019 and 2029.

Question 1

How much do staff Physical Therapist jobs pay?

Accepted Answer

For jobs available on Vivian as of Monday, February 16th 2026, the average hourly salary for a Physical Therapist is $46 per hour, but can pay up to $78 per hour.

Question 2

Does Vivian have any per diem Physical Therapist  jobs?

Accepted Answer

As of Monday, February 16th 2026, Vivian has 81 jobs listed for per diem Physical Therapist jobs. These jobs pay $61 per hour on average and up to $180 per hour for the highest-paying role.

Question 3

Does Vivian have any local contract Physical Therapist jobs?

Accepted Answer

As of Monday, February 16th 2026, Vivian has 674 listings for local contract Physical Therapist jobs. These jobs pay $52 per hour on average, and up to $233 per hour for the top-paying job listed.

Question 4

Does Vivian have any travel Physical Therapist jobs?

Accepted Answer

As of Monday, February 16th 2026, Vivian has 21,106 listings for travel Physical Therapist jobs. These jobs pay $2,245 per hour on average, and up to $10,500 per hour for the top-paying job listed.

Question 5

Where can I learn more about working as a Physical Therapist?

Accepted Answer

Take a look at Vivian's Physical Therapist Career Guide for more information, including required education, responsibilities, pros and cons and more.

Question 6

What is a Physical Therapist?

Accepted Answer

Physical therapists, also called PTs, are allied health professionals who specialize in helping patients with injuries, physical disabilities, or health conditions that impact function, to improve movement and manage pain. PTs work with patients of all ages to enhance their quality of life through hands-on care, therapeutic exercise, and patient education. PTs play an important role in preventive care and rehabilitation. They often have a profound effect on patients’ lives by helping them regain or maintain their independence and lead active lives. The job outlook for physical therapists is highly promising with a projected growth of 18% between 2019 and 2029.

Question 7

Which certifications are best for physical therapist?

Accepted Answer

Physical therapist can specialize in several fields. Some healthcare employers may prefer or may even require specific professional certifications, including Board-Certified Women's Health Clinical Specialist (WCS), Board-Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist (NCS), Board-Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist (GCS), Board-Certified Oncologic Clinical Specialist (Oncology), Board-Certified Pediatric Clinical Specialist (PCS), Board-Certified Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Clinical Specialist (CCS), Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS) or Board-Certified Clinical Electrophysiologic Clinical Specialist (ECS), and some may even require specific professional certifications.

Question 8

What degrees might help further my career as a Physical Therapist?

Accepted Answer

Physical therapists may need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) to improve their chance of getting hired or further their careers. Certain degrees may even be required before entering the field.

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