It’s a question we get a lot—how soon can I travel? For travel nurses, assignments require two years of experience before they can hit the road. Other specialties, like lab, cardio and radiology also require time on the job before being able to take a travel position. But what about rehab therapy?
Rehab therapy pros can travel immediately after graduation, which is why Triage has a special program just for rehab therapy students. Our student outreach coordinator travels to schools around the Midwest to talk to rehab therapy students about what it means to travel and what kind of opportunities are available. Aren’t able to meet up with our student outreach coordinator? We’ve still got you covered—keep reading.
Why Travel Over a Staff Job
There are multiple reasons someone might choose a travel rehab therapy job over a staff position. But it’s not one-size-fits-all. Here are a couple reasons that we commonly hear about.
Travel, Travel, Travel. A travel rehab therapy job lets you work regular hours, but gives you the freedom to sightsee in your temporary location. It’s the perfect way to transition from student life to full-time employment, while still giving you the chance to see different parts of the country.
Testing Out Locations Before Moving. Aren’t sure where you want to settle down? A travel job really helps you float between locations, 13 weeks at a time. Want to see if the Pacific Northwest is for you before fully committing? A travel assignment allows you to check it out, without moving all your belongings and signing a year-long lease.
Mo’ Money. Travelers make more money. It’s an undeniable fact. This is because rehab therapy travelers earn a regular wage, as well as a tax-free stipend that helps out with duplicating housing expenses and meals away from home.
What Rehab Therapy Specialties Do We Staff?
In rehab therapy, Triage staffs occupational therapists, physical therapists and physical therapy assistants, speech therapists, audiologists and social workers. And, many of our recruiters have actually worked as a physical therapist, an occupational therapist or a speech language pathologist themselves. This means, whether you’ve got questions about working as a rehab therapy pro or specifically about travel, our team can handle it.
What About Licensing?
Of course, you’ll need to pass your boards and get licensed before you can practice. Traveling makes it slightly more complicated because you have to make sure you’re licensed in the state you will be working in. If you’re a physical therapist, check to see if your state participates in the PT compact. This is a group of states that agree to honor each other’s licenses, making it a more streamlined process to work outside of your home state.
If you’re not a PT or you’re not living in a compact state, you’ll have to get a license before you can practice in your state. Your recruiter can help walk you through the process, but we’ve also created a list of state boards so you know where to start.
- PT/PTA Licensure Applications & Fees by State
- OT/OTA Licensure Applications & Fees by State
- SLP Licensure Applications & Fees by State
Where to Find Triage
Throughout the year, we visit schools, either in-person or on Zoom so that you can learn about what it means to be a traveling rehab therapy pro. Check us out.
- March 21, 2024—Creighton University (in person)
- March 21-23, 2024—AOTA in Orlando
- April 15, 2024—Cerritos College (Zoom)
- April 17, 2024—University of Wisconsin (Zoom)
If your school isn’t scheduled for an in-person or Zoom visit, reach out to our student outreach coordinator at [email protected]. If you’re a practicing rehab therapy pro looking for a travel opportunity, connect with a recruiter here.