The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 19% increase in physical therapy assistant and aide jobs from 2023 to 2033, equivalent to about 27,500 physical therapy assistant (PTA) and aide openings each year. This increase can be attributed to the increased need for physical therapy services nationwide.
Kim Dallara, a Physical Therapy Assistant at ProRehab Physical Therapy’s Springhurst Clinic, spoke with HealthcareDegree about her journey to becoming a PTA and advice for aspiring PTAs.
Meet the Expert: Kim Dallara, PTA
Kim has had a diverse career path spanning seven years at a global advertising agency, four years in commercial photography production, and 13 years in corporate staff training and development. Finally, an idea for a fitness boutique led Kim to the discovery of being a Physical Therapy Assistant.
In 2021, she got her associate degree in science from Jefferson Community and Technical College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program. Kim is passionate about patient education and continuing education within her role, which is a core value of ProRehab Physical Therapy.
She holds specialty certifications in orthopedics, rehabilitation of injured runners, and certification as a clinical bike fitter. Additionally, she is Pelvic Floor Level 1 and 2A certified through Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute.
HealthcareDegree.com: What is something most people don’t know about being a physical therapy assistant?
Dallara: Most people don’t realize how important clinical reasoning and problem-solving are to a physical therapist assistant or how important the PTA’s role is in a patient’s progression. Rehab is rarely linear, but collaboration with the PT team, from the desk check-in to the tech and ultimately the evaluating PT, is key to this success.
HealthcareDegree.com: What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring physical therapy assistant?
Dallara: Effective communication is critical. This includes listening between the lines, not just to what the patient is saying, but what they’re trying to tell you while they’re talking. This is often the first time anyone has listened to them. Practice active listening and ask follow-up questions to ensure you understand. Manage their expectations using clear and simple language. Ask for what you need from them to help ensure their success. Don’t just listen to respond—listen to understand. Be prepared to abandon plan A and move on to plan B, C, etc.
For more information on physical therapy assistants and to read the full article, please click here: Physical Therapist Assistant and PT Aide
