Advantages and disadvantages exist in every career. Being a physical or occupational therapist or an SLP is no exception. However, we believe a PT, OT, or SLP is a rewarding career path. The advantages certainly outweigh the disadvantages. In this article, we will highlight the top pros and cons of being a therapist to give you greater insight into this profession.
Top 10 Advantages and Disadvantages of Being A Therapist
As you consider the career path of a physical therapist, occupational therapist, or SLP, you want to think about the advantages and disadvantages. “I always tell people considering being a travel therapist to think about the pros and cons,” said Host Healthcare recruiter Sarah Powell. “There are certainly a lot of advantages. I just want to make sure I inform them of some disadvantages so they can be well informed.”
5 Advantages of Being A Therapist
- Caring for others. This is a top advantage for anyone that works in healthcare. As a therapist and medical professional, you help someone who is working through something whether it be in person or via online therapy session. It’s rewarding when you get to help others get better.
- Learning something new. As a therapist you are constantly working with and meeting new people, whether it be in the form of individual virtual therapy sessions or group therapy sessions. And if you are a travel therapist you meet even that many more people to learn new skills from.
- Job growth. The growth and demand for therapists continues to be on the rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for PT, OT, or SLP is projected to grow “much faster” than average. Looking specifically at physical therapists, their job outlook is expected to grow by 28% from 2016 – 2026.
- Plenty of opportunity for advancement. Like most careers, therapists start at the bottom. Learning, experimenting, and building a strong career. However, most therapists can grow rapidly. The more experience and education you have allows you to advance your career as far as you want.
- Get your license reimbursed. Okay so maybe this is more of a common benefit of being a travel therapist, but you can get your license reimbursed! How cool is that?
5 Disadvantages of Being A Therapist
- Difficult patients. There are certainly easy-to-work-with patients, however, the fact is there are also difficult ones. Just something to be aware of.
- Difficult co-workers. Just like most careers, you could have to work with difficult co-workers. You will work with some amazing individuals, but you can also work with some difficult co-workers too.
- Stress. Careers in healthcare can all be stressful. In fact, most careers offer some level of stress. There will certainly be stressful situations as a therapist. The key to supporting your mental health is to understand it and do what you can to work through it.
- Physical demands. Most therapists have some physical requirements. That is certainly a requirement for any physical therapist as you pick up equipment and demonstrate exercises to your patients.
- Emotional strain. The sad part about being a therapist is you see people who are not doing well. And if those people don’t progress the way you want them to, it can be taxing.
Host Healthcare Travel Therapist
Hopefully you enjoyed reading our list of the top 10 advantages and disadvantages of being a therapist. If you are interested in being a travel therapist, you are in the right spot.
Host Healthcare offers an extensive list of travel therapy jobs. In addition, call a specific recruiter directly or if you don’t have a recruiter, call (844) 812-8094 and one of our friendly recruiters will be happy to help.
