Physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants and speech language therapists all make up Triage’s rehab therapy division. The recruiters in this small, but mighty department work tirelessly to match rehab therapy pros with jobs throughout the country. Interested in starting a career in rehab therapy, but aren’t sure which specialty is the right one for you? We got you.
From physical therapy to speech language pathology, every rehab discipline plays a unique role in helping people heal, move and thrive. Here’s a closer look at the different types of rehab therapy travelers, plus what education you’ll need to join them. Rehab therapy travelers can start traveling immediately once they pass their boards, meaning they don’t need a few years of experience like their friends who work in nursing specialties.
Physical Therapists (PTs)
Physical therapists help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, and chronic conditions through movement-based treatment. They use a mix of exercise, manual therapy and education to improve strength, flexibility and mobility,
Education: PTs must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program, which typically takes about three years after completing a bachelor’s degree. After graduation, they must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and get licensed in the state where they plan to practice.
Travel Opportunities: PTs are needed everywhere—from outpatient clinics to skilled nursing facilities to home health. As travelers, they can explore new places while making a difference in communities that need their expertise. However, it’s not quite that easy. PTs need to be licensed in each state before they can work there. The PT compact agreement allows PTs to work in other states, as long as their main license is from a compact state. Currently, there are 35 states in the PT compact. If your main license isn’t from a compact state, your Triage recruiter can help with the process of getting a new PT license (and reimburse you for it after your assignment starts).
Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs)
PTAs are the hands-on teammates who help bring a PT’s treatment plan to life. They guide patients through exercises, track progress, and provide motivation along the way. One important distinction—both PTs and PTAs can work directly with patients, but PTAs do not come up with treatment plans. Instead, they implement the PT plan and report on progress to the physical therapist.
Education: PTAs complete a two-year associate degree program that combines classroom learning with supervised clinical experience. After graduation, they also must pass a national licensing exam.
Travel Opportunities: PTAs can find travel roles in hospitals, rehab centers, outpatient clinics, and long-term care facilities. It’s a great path for those who want to make a difference without the time or cost of a doctoral program. Even better, the PT compact also applies to PTAs, making licensing between the states an easier process for most PTAs.
Occupational Therapists (OTs)
Occupational therapists help patients develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for everyday living—from dressing and eating, to returning to work or driving. Their work is all about promoting independence and improving quality of life. OTs can help after injuries or illnesses, or assist with life skills for people with developmental delays, chronic pain or mental health struggles.
Education: OTs need at least a master’s degree in occupational therapy, though some now go on to earn a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD). After completing their degree, they must pass the national board exam (NBCOT) and obtain state licensure. There is an occupational therapy compact agreement, but it is fairly new and it is not yet issuing compact privileges as of September 2025. It’s likely that more states to become a part of the OT compact as time goes on.
Travel Opportunities: OTs can find assignments in schools, hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health, and skilled nursing facilities. The wide variety of settings keeps travel work fresh and exciting.
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs)
COTAs work closely with OTs to put customized treatment plans into action. They help patients practice daily activities, use adaptive tools, and rebuild confidence after illness or injury. Like PTAs, COTAs don’t come up with a treatment plan, but they work closely with OTs and patients to implement treatment plans.
Education: COTAs earn an associate degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program, which usually takes about two years. Like OTs, they must pass the NBCOT exam to become certified and licensed to practice. Once the OT compact is fully implemented, COTAs who are from compact states will be able to apply for a compact license to work in other states.
Travel Opportunities: COTAs are in demand across the country, especially in school and long-term care settings. Travel roles offer flexibility, variety, and the chance to work with diverse patient populations.
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)
Speech-language pathologists (sometimes called speech therapists) do far more than help people pronounce words correctly. They assess and treat communication disorders, swallowing difficulties, cognitive impairments, and language challenges across all age groups.
Education: SLPs must earn a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from an accredited program and complete supervised clinical hours. After graduation, they pass a national exam and complete a clinical fellowship before becoming fully licensed. There are a number of states that are members of the Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC), which allows SLPs to work in other compact states without being relicensed.
Travel Opportunities: SLPs can find travel assignments in schools, hospitals, rehab centers, and skilled nursing facilities. With opportunities ranging from pediatrics to adult care, it’s one of the most flexible and rewarding travel therapy careers.
Why Travelers Love Rehab Therapy
Rehab therapy travelers don’t just see the country — they change lives along the way. Whether you’re helping a child say their first words or an older adult regain balance and independence, every assignment brings new faces, new challenges, and new growth.
Ready to Take the Leap?
If you’re ready to combine your passion for helping others with a career that takes you places, travel therapy might be your next big move. Check out current rehab therapy jobs with Triage, connect with a recruiter, and see where your skills can make an impact — one assignment at a time.