Is a career in physical therapy right for you?

Choosing a career in physical therapy is a big decision — one that blends a passion for science with a deep desire to help others. PTs work closely with patients recovering from injuries, managing chronic pain, or adapting to physical challenges. If you’re curious about how to know if physical therapy is right for you, this guide breaks down what it takes to succeed in this field and what you can expect from a career in PT.

Whether you’re a high school student, a college graduate exploring next steps, or someone considering a career change, this article will walk you through key factors like educational requirements, personal traits, and long-term job outlook — all to help you decide if becoming a physical therapist is your next move.

What makes physical therapy a rewarding career?

Physical therapy is often described as one of the most rewarding healthcare careers — and for good reason. As a PT, you help people regain strength, improve movement, and restore quality of life. Here are a few benefits that make this career appealing:

• Strong job security – According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 15% through 2032, much faster than average.
• Competitive salary – While earnings vary by location and setting, PTs in Rochester, New York, can expect a median salary well above the national average for all occupations.
• Work-life balance – Many PTs work 40-hour weeks with flexible scheduling options, especially in outpatient or private practice settings.
• Daily variety – No two patients are the same. Whether you’re treating athletes, older adults, or post-op patients, your day-to-day work stays interesting.
• Career satisfaction – Helping patients meet goals and return to the life they love can be incredibly fulfilling.

For many PTs, it’s this combination of purpose, stability, and variety that makes it a great long-term career.

How to know if physical therapy is right for you

Not sure if you’re a good fit for this path? Start by asking yourself these questions:

Do you enjoy helping others?

At its core, physical therapy is about supporting people during recovery, whether it’s helping someone walk after surgery or empowering an athlete to avoid re-injury. PTs work closely with patients during some of their most vulnerable times. If you find joy in making a difference in others’ lives, PT could be a meaningful career.

Are you interested in science and how the body works?

Physical therapy relies heavily on anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and kinesiology. You’ll need a strong foundation in science, not just during school, but throughout your career as you adapt to new research and techniques.

Can you communicate clearly and effectively?

Whether you’re explaining a complex rehab plan to a patient or coordinating with a surgeon or nurse, strong communication is essential. PTs must be good listeners, empathetic speakers, and skilled at breaking down medical concepts into digestible instructions.

Are you physically and emotionally resilient?

The job is both physically active and emotionally demanding. You’ll be on your feet most of the day and may help patients with hands-on movement or stretching. Emotionally, you’ll need to support patients through tough moments, setbacks, and slow recoveries. Despite some of the tougher days, physical therapy job benefits, such as seeing your patients achieve their goals, find relief, and get back to their routines, are very rewarding.

Do you have patience and persistence?

Rehabilitation takes time, and progress isn’t always linear. PTs must be patient, encouraging, and solution-focused, especially when patients feel discouraged.

What education do you need to become a PT?

To become a licensed physical therapist, you’ll need to:

• Earn a bachelor’s degree (typically with coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics)
• Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which takes about 3 years
• Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
• Meet state licensing requirements (which may include background checks or additional exams)
• Continue with ongoing education to maintain licensure and stay current with best practices

Some aspiring PTs start their journey by working as physical therapy aides or technicians, gaining hands-on exposure in outpatient clinics or hospital settings. This can be a great way to test the waters before fully committing to graduate school.

Is physical therapy a good career in the Rochester, NY area?

Yes — especially in the Greater Rochester region, where demand for physical therapists continues to grow. From sports injuries to post-surgical care, physical therapy plays a vital role in local healthcare. With a mix of rural and urban communities across Monroe, Ontario, Livingston, Wayne, and Penn Yan counties, PTs have opportunities to work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, home care, and more.

Start your journey with Lattimore Physical Therapy

If you’re serious about becoming a physical therapist, one of the best ways to explore the field is by gaining experience in a clinic setting. At Lattimore Physical Therapy, we offer opportunities for students and aspiring PTs to learn, grow, and make a difference.

We’re proud to support the next generation of PT professionals — from mentorship to hands-on roles. If you’re ready to take the first step toward a rewarding career, we’d love to meet you.

👉 Contact our team or check out our Careers page to learn more.