4 answers
Hailey
Student
De Pere, Wisconsin
1
Question
Asked
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How did you find the work place that was right for you?
I do not have really any experience in the physical therapy field (no internships) so how can I find where to start?
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4 answers
Andrea C Wooldridge White, PT, DPT, FPHC, cert. HGP-I
Physical Therapist
7
Answers
Northport, Alabama
Updated
Andrea C Wooldridge’s Answer
This question is exactly why PT schools require PT clinical experience/observation hours as part of the application process. Exposure to the environments plays a heavy role in your decision of whether it is the right career field for you. As Jacob T answered, some self reflection is important in this process. I know I get bored easily, so I maintain a caseload of mixed populations: in-person and virtual schools, virtual and in-person ortho and pelvic health, Vestibular, and psychiatric facilities. One great thing about this career field is that you have SO MANY choices on how to guide your career if you're dedicated to pursuing your interests.
The easiest environment to get observation hours is an outpatient setting. Hospital, nursing home and school settings usually require you to have TB tests, background checks, and other things (which cost money on your end) to intern or observe, making it more difficulty to get in. A few ways to get around this and dip your toe in the water...
1. Ask friends and family if they are participating in PT and ask if you can come with them to appointments to observe. This includes family in nursing homes (Skilled Nursing or Rehab facilities).
2. Ask if anyone you know is a Virtual PT and see if they would do a "mock session" with you via Zoom or FaceTime.
3. Call area clinics and ask who accepts interns.
The easiest environment to get observation hours is an outpatient setting. Hospital, nursing home and school settings usually require you to have TB tests, background checks, and other things (which cost money on your end) to intern or observe, making it more difficulty to get in. A few ways to get around this and dip your toe in the water...
1. Ask friends and family if they are participating in PT and ask if you can come with them to appointments to observe. This includes family in nursing homes (Skilled Nursing or Rehab facilities).
2. Ask if anyone you know is a Virtual PT and see if they would do a "mock session" with you via Zoom or FaceTime.
3. Call area clinics and ask who accepts interns.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Finding the right workplace, especially in a field where you lack experience like physical therapy, can be a rewarding journey. Here are steps to help you get started:
1. **Self-Assessment**: Begin by reflecting on your interests, strengths, and career goals. What aspects of physical therapy appeal to you? Identifying your preferences can help narrow down potential work settings.
2. **Research**: Research different settings within the physical therapy field. These can include hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, and home health agencies. Learn about the demands and advantages of each setting.
3. **Networking**: Connect with professionals in the field through networking events, online forums, or social media platforms like LinkedIn. Reach out to physical therapists for informational interviews to gain insights into their experiences and career paths.
4. **Volunteer or Shadow**: Even without internships, you can gain experience by volunteering at healthcare facilities or shadowing physical therapists. This hands-on exposure can help you decide if physical therapy is the right fit for you and build your resume.
5. **Education**: Consider enrolling in relevant courses or certifications, such as CPR or first aid training, to enhance your qualifications and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
6. **Resume Building**: Craft a well-structured resume highlighting your skills, volunteer experiences, and any coursework related to physical therapy. Emphasize transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
7. **Job Search**: Begin your job search by looking for entry-level positions such as physical therapy aide or rehabilitation assistant. These roles often require minimal experience and can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced positions.
8. **Continuing Education**: Stay updated with the latest developments in the field by attending workshops, webinars, or conferences. This can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
9. **Apply Strategically**: Tailor your job applications to each specific workplace and highlight how your skills and experiences align with their needs and values.
10. **Persistence**: Finding the right workplace may take time. Be patient and persistent in your job search. Rejection is part of the process, but it's essential to keep applying and learning from each experience.
Remember that your journey into the physical therapy field doesn't have to follow a linear path. Your determination, willingness to learn, and passion for the field can open doors even if you're starting with limited experience. Stay focused on your goals, keep building your skills, and take advantage of every opportunity to grow in the field of physical therapy.
1. **Self-Assessment**: Begin by reflecting on your interests, strengths, and career goals. What aspects of physical therapy appeal to you? Identifying your preferences can help narrow down potential work settings.
2. **Research**: Research different settings within the physical therapy field. These can include hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, and home health agencies. Learn about the demands and advantages of each setting.
3. **Networking**: Connect with professionals in the field through networking events, online forums, or social media platforms like LinkedIn. Reach out to physical therapists for informational interviews to gain insights into their experiences and career paths.
4. **Volunteer or Shadow**: Even without internships, you can gain experience by volunteering at healthcare facilities or shadowing physical therapists. This hands-on exposure can help you decide if physical therapy is the right fit for you and build your resume.
5. **Education**: Consider enrolling in relevant courses or certifications, such as CPR or first aid training, to enhance your qualifications and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
6. **Resume Building**: Craft a well-structured resume highlighting your skills, volunteer experiences, and any coursework related to physical therapy. Emphasize transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
7. **Job Search**: Begin your job search by looking for entry-level positions such as physical therapy aide or rehabilitation assistant. These roles often require minimal experience and can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced positions.
8. **Continuing Education**: Stay updated with the latest developments in the field by attending workshops, webinars, or conferences. This can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
9. **Apply Strategically**: Tailor your job applications to each specific workplace and highlight how your skills and experiences align with their needs and values.
10. **Persistence**: Finding the right workplace may take time. Be patient and persistent in your job search. Rejection is part of the process, but it's essential to keep applying and learning from each experience.
Remember that your journey into the physical therapy field doesn't have to follow a linear path. Your determination, willingness to learn, and passion for the field can open doors even if you're starting with limited experience. Stay focused on your goals, keep building your skills, and take advantage of every opportunity to grow in the field of physical therapy.
Cung Nguyen
36
Answers
Updated
Cung’s Answer
I m not in the same field that you are looking for, but i do have many friends in the healthcare fields and in PT specifically. They seem to enjoy their work, their schedule, and their peers and patients they encounter each day.
I would say in general you know the workplace is right for you when there is a support system from peers and from the company you are working for. If the workplace is fun, and the environment is supportive, you will find your day goes by much faster. Last but not least, make sure your compensation is competitive enough with other peers in the same industry. Join professional networking group locally and nationally to learn more how others do.
One way to start in the field is to volunteer at hospitals or nursing facility where there are physical therapy service offered. That way you can talk to not only the people who work there but also the patients who go there to learn more of their experience in the field. Good luck and stay positive and keep pushing hard to get what you want in the end.
I would say in general you know the workplace is right for you when there is a support system from peers and from the company you are working for. If the workplace is fun, and the environment is supportive, you will find your day goes by much faster. Last but not least, make sure your compensation is competitive enough with other peers in the same industry. Join professional networking group locally and nationally to learn more how others do.
One way to start in the field is to volunteer at hospitals or nursing facility where there are physical therapy service offered. That way you can talk to not only the people who work there but also the patients who go there to learn more of their experience in the field. Good luck and stay positive and keep pushing hard to get what you want in the end.
Joe Sholler
Sales
7
Answers
Weehawken, New Jersey
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Often times and can be a process of trial and error. You don't now what you don't know at this point. There may be entire career lanes or roles that you were entirely unaware of until you actually lean in try a role.