Job Summary
A Physical Therapist evaluates, diagnoses, and treats patients with physical impairments, injuries, or disabilities. The role focuses on restoring mobility, reducing pain, and improving overall functional ability through evidence-based therapeutic interventions.
Work Environment
- Hospitals
- Outpatient clinics
- Rehabilitation centers
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Home health settings
Salary (Seattle, WA)
- Average salary: ~$117,000/year
- Typical range: $105,000 – $128,000
- Entry-level roles may start around ~$100,000/year
Salary varies based on experience, specialization, and workplace setting.
Key Skills
- Patient assessment & clinical reasoning
- Manual therapy techniques
- Rehabilitation planning
- Communication & patient education
- Time management & documentation
Career Growth Opportunities
- Senior Physical Therapist / Specialist
- Clinical Supervisor or Manager
- Rehabilitation Director
- Specializations (sports therapy, Neuro rehab, pediatrics, etc.)
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive patient assessments and develop individualized treatment plans
- Administer therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and modalities (e.g., heat, electrical stimulation)
- Monitor patient progress and modify treatment plans as needed
- Educate patients and families on injury prevention, home exercises, and lifestyle modifications
- Collaborate with physicians and interdisciplinary healthcare teams
- Maintain accurate clinical documentation and patient records
- Ensure compliance with healthcare regulations and clinic standards
- Supervise physical therapy assistants or students (if applicable)
Physical therapists commonly treat conditions such as neurological impairments, injuries, and post-surgical recovery cases.
Required Qualifications
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program
- Active Washington State Physical Therapist license
- Strong knowledge of anatomy, bio mechanics, and therapeutic techniques
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a healthcare team
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–3+ years of clinical experience (varies by employer)
- Specialty certifications (e.g., Orthopedics, Sports, Neurology)
- Experience with electronic medical records (EMR) systems