Physical Therapy Aide Program in Paramount, CA
11-Month* Physical Therapy Aide Diploma
Healthcare Career College’s Physical Therapy Aide program in Paramount, CA prepares you to support physical therapists in 11 months.* You’ll learn to prepare treatment areas and equipment, help patients move safely, and handle front- and back-office tasks, with training in Swedish, deep tissue and sports massage techniques.
Physical Therapy Aide Program at a Glance
| Credential | Diploma, Physical Therapy Aide |
|---|---|
| Program length | 11 months* |
| What you’ll learn | Front- and back-office clerical duties; equipment and treatment-area setup; patient assistance; Swedish, deep tissue and sports massage techniques |
| Outcomes | On-time completion, job placement and exam pass rates for 2023 and 2024 are on the Student Outcomes page. |
| Financial aid | Available for those who qualify |
| Campus | Paramount campus, 8527 Alondra Blvd, Suite #128, Paramount, CA 90723, serving students from Long Beach, Downey, Compton, Lakewood, Bellflower, Norwalk, Cerritos and South Gate · Book a tour · Apply online · Admissions |
Aides in this role provide help when a patient is receiving physical therapy working under the supervision of a physical therapist. They help patients by ensuring that their therapy sessions are productive. They prepare for each session by getting the equipment ready, sterilizing equipment and instruments, and keeping treatment supplies in order.
In addition, aides provide physical support to patients that require assistance with moving on and off therapy equipment. Aides are a vital team member of Physical therapy offices performing clerical duties.
You will learn the key skills you need to become a physical therapy aide and build a strong foundation as a successful member of the rehab team. We give you the professional skills necessary to work in a busy physical therapy environment.
Is a Career as a Physical Therapy Aide Right for You? Take the Healthcare Career College Career Training Readiness Quiz
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Healthcare Career College, located in Paramount, CA, serves students in Long Beach, Compton, Lakewood, Downey, Bellflower, Norwalk, Cerritos, the greater Los Angeles area and north Orange County.
The best way to see if Healthcare Career College is the right fit for you is to attend an information session. You can book an information session to get a true feel for what it’s like to be a part of the Healthcare Career College community. Schedule an information session now or Get more info.
Become a Skilled Physical Therapy Aide
During this program, you will learn:
- Front and Back Office Clerical Duties
- Swedish Massage Training
- Deep Tissue Massage Therapy Training
- Massage Techniques for Sports Massage Applications
- ABC Adult School
- Five Keys Charter School
Diploma Features:
- Professional Hygiene and Ethics
- Sanitation and Safety
- Physiology
- Anatomy
- Massage Equipment and Safety
- Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Techniques
Job Outlook
As long as people stay active, there will be a need for PT aides and massage therapists. Aides assist patients recovering from injuries, and an active, growing population means more people need physical therapy.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapist assistants and aides is projected to grow 17% from 2025 to 2035**, much faster than the average for all occupations (4% for aides alone).
Being enrolled in Healthcare Career College had opened many doors for me. As a student, I was always encouraged by the staff and my instructors every day. I was determined to make everyone proud, and learn as much as I could about ultrasounds. Everything that was available to us was extremely helpful and brought out every students potential.
Career Opportunities for Physical Therapy Aides
Upon completion of your training, you will be qualified for the following positions in a physical therapy aide career:
- Physical Therapy Aide
- Customer Service (front office)
- Clinical Positions (back office)
You will be able to find work in the following areas:
- General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
- Nursing Facilities
- Hospice Care
- Board and Care
- Retirement Facilities
- Rehabilitation Hospitals
- Day Care Facilities for the Elderly
- Massage Clinics
- Health Spas
Median Pay: $35,240/year**
View Physical Therapy Aide job postings in Paramount, CA on Indeed.com
Explore Other Healthcare Career Training Opportunities at Healthcare Career College
Medical Assistant
Medical Billing and Coding
Dental Assistant
Massage Therapy
Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Phlebotomy Technician
Patient Care Technician
Nurse Assistant
Healthcare Management Associate Degree
Is a Rewarding Career in Physical Therapy Right for You? Get More Info…
If you’re interested in learning more about careers in Physical Therapy and exploring whether Healthcare Career College is right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information.
For immediate questions, call (562) 804-1239
*Program length when completed in normal time.
**Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook
What does a physical therapy aide do?
Physical therapy aides assist licensed physical therapists in preparing treatment areas, setting up equipment, guiding patients through prescribed exercises, and handling administrative tasks. They provide hands-on support under the direct supervision of a physical therapist or physical therapy assistant.
How long does it take to become a physical therapy aide?
Physical therapy aide programs typically take a few months to one year. At Healthcare Career College, the diploma program takes 11 months when completed in normal time.
Do you need certification to become a physical therapy aide?
There is no federal or state license required specifically for physical therapy aides, but completing a formal training program and obtaining a nationally recognized certification (such as the CPTA from American Allied Health) can significantly improve hiring prospects.
How much does a physical therapy aide earn in California?
Physical therapist aides earned a national median of $35,240 per year in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay in California varies by employer, setting and experience.
What is the difference between a physical therapy aide and a physical therapy assistant (PTA)?
A physical therapy aide performs support and administrative tasks under direct supervision and typically requires minimal formal education. A PTA holds a two-year associate degree, can work more independently, and performs clinical treatment procedures delegated by the supervising physical therapist.
What career advancement opportunities exist for physical therapy aides?
Physical therapy aides can advance to become Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) with further education, they can also use their experience as a strong clinical foundation to transition into nursing, occupational therapy, or other healthcare roles.