How Much Does a Doctor in Physical Therapy Make? Salary Insights and Career Potential

September 1, 2025
Written By Admin

Physical therapy is a dynamic and rewarding healthcare profession that offers significant financial opportunities for dedicated professionals. Doctors of Physical Therapy (DPTs) play a crucial role in helping patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall physical well-being. Understanding the potential earnings in this field is essential for those considering a career in physical therapy or current professionals looking to evaluate their career trajectory.

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What Doctor of Physical Therapy Covers

A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is an advanced healthcare professional who specializes in:

  • Diagnosing and treating movement-related injuries
  • Developing comprehensive rehabilitation programs
  • Providing pain management strategies
  • Helping patients restore physical function and mobility
  • Implementing preventive care techniques
  • Offering specialized treatment for various medical conditions

Who Can Benefit from Becoming a Physical Therapist

Several individuals are well-suited for a career in physical therapy:

  • Recent college graduates interested in healthcare
  • Healthcare professionals seeking career advancement
  • Individuals passionate about helping others recover and improve their quality of life
  • Those with strong interpersonal skills and physical stamina
  • Students with backgrounds in biology, kinesiology, or related sciences

Salary Insights by State

Based on the provided data, physical therapist salaries vary significantly by state:

State Median Hourly Wage (2023) Median Annual Wage
California $54.94 $114,270
Colorado $47.12 $98,000
Connecticut $49.94 $103,870
Delaware $50.26 $104,530

How Physical Therapy is Provided at Bearden Medical Clinic

While specific details about Bearden Medical Clinic’s physical therapy services are not provided, typical clinic offerings include:

  • Comprehensive patient evaluations
  • Individualized treatment plans
  • One-on-one therapy sessions
  • Advanced rehabilitation techniques
  • Patient education and prevention strategies

Benefits and Outcomes of a Physical Therapy Career

Professional benefits include:

  • Competitive salary potential
  • Job stability in healthcare
  • Opportunities for specialization
  • Flexible work environments
  • Direct patient impact
  • Potential for private practice ownership
  • Continuous learning and professional development

Career Growth and Advancement

Physical therapists can enhance their earning potential through:

  • Specialized certifications
  • Advanced degrees
  • Healthcare leadership roles
  • Research and academic positions
  • Consulting opportunities
  • Specialized treatment niches

Factors Influencing Physical Therapy Salaries

Several factors impact a physical therapist’s earnings:

  • Geographic location
  • Years of experience
  • Specialization areas
  • Healthcare setting (hospital, private practice, rehabilitation center)
  • Advanced certifications
  • Additional qualifications

A career as a Doctor of Physical Therapy offers not only competitive compensation but also the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives. With median annual wages ranging from $98,000 to over $114,000 in selected states, this profession provides both financial stability and personal fulfillment.

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How much does a doctor in physical therapy make

Reference Links

  1. https://pt.usc.edu/about/dpt-physical-therapist-salary/
  2. https://www.usa.edu/blog/doctor-of-physical-therapy-dpt-salary-guide/

FAQ

What is the highest paying specialty in physical therapy?

What Are The Top Paying Physical Therapy Specialties
  • Neurology. …
  • Sports Medicine. …
  • Cardiovascular & Pulmonary. …
  • Geriatrics. …
  • Pediatric. …
  • Traveling PT. …
  • Acute Care. …
  • Orthopedic.

Is it worth getting a doctorate in physical therapy?If you want to help patients with mobility issues and work in one of these environments, a Doctor of Physical Therapy helps you get there. A Doctor of Physical Therapy can also pave the way for other career paths such as becoming the owner of a physical therapy outpatient clinic.

Can physical therapists make 100k?Yes, some physical therapists can earn $100,000 a year or more, depending on their experience and responsibilities.

What is the highest salary for a Doctor of Physical Therapy?

Doctor Physical Therapy Salary in California
Annual Salary Hourly Wage
Top Earners $82,900 $39
75th Percentile $73,000 $35
Average $65,579 $32
25th Percentile $55,300 $27

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