Interdisciplinary Therapy Assistant

What to expect from the program

The program delivers theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills through a balance of discipline-specific and interdisciplinary courses.

You will learn occupational therapy and physical therapy assistant skills, along with essential assistant-level techniques in speech-language therapy and therapeutic recreation. Coursework includes practical labs and team-based learning to develop your ability to support clients in diverse rehabilitation settings.

Program graduates will be prepared to:

• Communicate and collaborate as a valuable member of a client-centred interdisciplinary health-care team
• Assist with effective physical therapy and occupational therapy practice by providing safe and competent care across client populations
• Support other rehabilitation disciplines, including therapeutic recreation and speech-language pathology
• Demonstrate effective professionalism, leadership, and reflective practice skills

Graduate with experience

NorQuest College believes in the importance of on-the-job experience that provides an enriched learning opportunity.

You’ll graduate from this program after completing five practicums with a minimum of 150 hours in each discipline.

Your practicum may be in your community or close by. Your schedule may include day, evening, or weekend shifts. You will work full-time during the practicum and provide your own transportation to the facility.

Career opportunities

Graduating interdisciplinary therapy assistants will have the ability to work within both the public and private health-care systems as multi-skilled professionals. The key role of therapy assistants is to provide direct and indirect client care which focuses on recovering function through rehabilitation under the supervision of a therapist. 

The therapy assistant also plays a key role in collaborating and communicating with all stakeholders to optimize services, and in continually maintaining and enhancing their level of competency. Settings can include private clinics, hospitals, continuing care centres, rehabilitation centres, clinics, and home care. 

Employers advertise for therapy assistants frequently using the following terms: 

• Therapy assistants 
• Rehabilitation assistants 
• Physical therapy assistants 
• Occupational therapy assistants 
• Health care assistants 
• Therapy aides 

For more information on related careers see: 

• ALIS OCCinfo occupational profiles 
• ALIS WAGEinfo salary info 

This program prepares you to step confidently into your field while providing the flexibility to continue your education. Credits you earn may be transferable toward additional diplomas, degrees, or certifications—helping you advance your career and increase your earning potential.

Explore transfer pathways

What to expect as a therapy assistant

Applicants should assess their ability to fulfill the demands of the therapy assistant occupation. 

As a therapy assistant, you must be able to: 

• Work shifts and weekends 
• Be on your feet for extended periods of time 
• Use your knees, back, and arms to assist clients 
• Lift 30 pounds 
• Touch and provide care for clients of all ages, cultures, and genders 
• Manage time and resources in a busy work setting 
• Communicate and collaborate effectively in a team 
• Enjoy working with people