Physical Therapist Assistant Interview Questions

Top 5 physical therapist assistant interview questions with detailed tips for both hiring managers and candidates.

By Paul Peters, May 19, 2021

Paul Peters is the Chief Editor of Betterteam. He's a former print journalist and small business owner and has written articles for a variety of newspapers, magazines and websites.

Physical therapist assistant guides the patient in muscle stretching using an elastic band.

Physical therapist assistants, also known as therapist assistant aides, help physical therapists by setting up equipment, cleaning linen, and scheduling appointments. The physical therapist assistant is also responsible for massaging patients and guiding them through exercises.

When interviewing physical therapist assistants, the ideal candidate should be able to lift or move patients with mobility impediments. Be wary of candidates with poor interpersonal skills.

Interview Questions for Physical Therapist Assistants:

1. Describe some of your most challenging cases. What therapies did you use?

Reveals more about work history.

2. How do you assess a patient’s condition? How do you track progress?

Shows attention to detail.

3. How do you motivate patients? How do you deal with patients who refuse to cooperate?

Tests interpersonal skills.

4. How do you resolve disagreements with doctors/ PTs?

Tests conflict resolution skills.

5. How do you set expectations for family members/caregivers and provide status updates? How do you keep them engaged throughout recovery?

Shows communication skills.

Physical Therapist Assistant Interview Questions

Interview Questions for Physical Therapist Assistants:

1. Describe some of your most challenging cases. What therapies did you use?

2. How do you assess a patient’s condition? How do you track progress?

3. How do you motivate patients? How do you deal with patients who refuse to cooperate?

4. How do you resolve disagreements with doctors/ PTs?

5. How do you set expectations for family members/caregivers and provide status updates? How do you keep them engaged throughout recovery?

Related Articles:

Physical Therapist Interview Questions

Occupational Therapy Assistant Interview Questions

Occupational Therapist Interview Questions

Chiropractor Interview Questions

Physical Therapist Assistant Job Description