Understanding Physical Therapist Credentials and Specializations
Physical therapists (PTs) undergo extensive education and training to provide specialized care for individuals of all ages, from newborns to elderly adults. Their credentials can vary depending on when they obtained their degrees, as educational requirements have evolved over time. While PTs who began practicing before 1998 were not required to hold a doctoral degree, those entering the field after 1998 must complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program to practice professionally.
What Degrees Do Physical Therapists Earn?
To become a licensed physical therapist, individuals must complete multiple levels of education that build a strong foundation in human movement, rehabilitation techniques, and patient care.
- Bachelor’s Degree: Aspiring PTs must earn a Bachelor of Science in pre-physical therapy, health sciences, biology, or a related field. Coursework typically includes anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, physics, and statistics to prepare for graduate-level training.
- Doctoral Degree: A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is required for professional practice and must be obtained from an accredited program recognized by the American Physical Therapy Association. The DPT program typically takes three years to complete and includes extensive coursework, clinical training, and hands-on patient care experience.
Licensing Requirements for Physical Therapists
In addition to earning a doctoral degree, PTs must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to obtain state licensure. A valid license is required in every state where a physical therapist practices. Many states also mandate ongoing continuing education to ensure PTs stay up to date with advancements in therapy techniques, research, and best practices.
What Does It Mean to Specialize as a Physical Therapist?
While all physical therapists receive training in treating a wide range of conditions across different age groups, some choose to pursue additional training and certifications in specialized areas such as pediatrics, orthopedics, neurology, or sports medicine. Specialization allows PTs to develop advanced skills tailored to a specific patient population.
Becoming a Board-Certified Pediatric Physical Therapist
To become a Board-Certified Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy (DPT, PCS), a physical therapist must complete a pediatric residency or fellowship program that involves at least 2,000 hours of direct patient care in a pediatric setting. This additional training ensures that PTs are highly skilled in assessing and treating motor development challenges, movement disorders, and physical disabilities in infants, children, and adolescents.
Key Skills of a Successful Pediatric Physical Therapist
Pediatric PTs require a unique combination of clinical expertise and personal qualities to support children’s development effectively. Essential skills include:
- A passion for working with children and families
- Strong attention to detail in movement assessment and treatment planning
- Patience, flexibility, and adaptability to engage children in therapy
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with families and caregivers
- Empathy and enthusiasm to create a positive and encouraging therapy environment
Does Your Child Need a Physical Therapy Evaluation?
If you’re concerned about your child’s motor development, strength, or mobility, early intervention through pediatric physical therapy can make a significant difference. Contact Chicago Kids Therapy at 773-998-8400 to schedule an evaluation and learn how our expert pediatric physical therapists can support your child’s growth and movement.
