You're the go-to therapist for the most challenging cases. You've earned specialty certification, mentor the next generation, and your expertise shapes how your clinic delivers care. Whether you're pursuing clinical directorship, private practice, or thought leadership, let's show your full impact.
Crafting a Standout Physical Therapist Summary
Your summary is the first thing recruiters see. Here are examples that actually work for mid-level physical therapists:
“Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist (OCS) with 6 years developing spine and shoulder programs. Leads team of 4 PTs. Established physician referral network driving 40% of clinic volume. Pursuing clinic director role.”
“Senior Physical Therapist with 5 years building neurological rehabilitation program. NCS certified. Treats complex stroke, MS, and Parkinson's patients. Mentors PT residents. Published researcher.”
“Clinical Manager PT with 7 years in outpatient orthopedics. Manages 5-person therapy team. Oversees clinical education program. Developed standardized protocols improving outcomes 25%.”
“Sports Medicine Specialist (SCS) with 5+ years treating collegiate and professional athletes. Developed return-to-sport protocols. Partners with orthopedic surgery practice. Considering private practice.”
Pro Tips for Your Summary
- Lead with years and specialty certification
- Show leadership and program development
- Include team or practice impact
- Reference business development if applicable
Essential Skills for Mid-Level Physical Therapists
Technical Skills
Soft Skills
- Show clinical AND leadership skills
- Include business/referral development
- Reference program development
- Team leadership is expected at this level
Physical Therapist Work Experience That Gets Noticed
Here are example bullet points that show real impact:
- •Lead clinical team and programs
- •Develop specialty treatment protocols
- •Build physician referral relationships
- •Mentor and develop therapy staff
- •Drive quality and outcomes improvement
- •Contribute to strategic planning
Ready to Build Your Mid-Level Physical Therapist Resume?
Stop staring at a blank page. Choose from 17+ ATS-friendly templates.
Start Building FreeEducation & Certifications
Relevant certifications for mid-level physical therapists:
- Specialty certification is expected
- Consider tDPT or PhD for academic path
- Publications establish expertise
Common Mistakes Physical Therapists Make
❌ Mistake
Resume reads like senior clinician only
✓ Fix
Show leadership: 'Leads team of 5,' 'Built referral network,' 'Developed program,' 'Business development.'
❌ Mistake
No evidence of practice building
✓ Fix
Senior PTs build practices. Show: 'Increased referrals 40%,' 'Physician partnerships,' 'Marketing initiatives.'
❌ Mistake
Missing team development
✓ Fix
Leaders develop others. Show: 'Mentored 3 residents,' 'Developed staff,' 'Led training programs.'
Quick Wins
- Feature specialty certification prominently
- Add program/team leadership
- Show business development
- Include publications or research
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I pursue clinic director or owernship?
Director offers stability and growth within organization. Ownership offers autonomy and wealth potential but with risk. Consider your risk tolerance and goals.
How do I transition to academia?
Start with adjunct teaching, develop research, consider PhD or tDPT. Academic jobs require teaching and scholarship track record.
Is PhD worth it for clinicians?
Only if pursuing research or tenure-track academic career. Not necessary for clinical leadership or practice ownership.
When to open private practice?
When you have: specialty expertise, patient following, business knowledge, capital access, and 5+ years experience typically.
The Bottom Line
Your mid-level physical therapist resume should show what you've accomplished, not just what you've done. Focus on impact, use numbers, and keep it clean and ATS-friendly. When you're ready, use our free resume builder to create a polished, professional resume in minutes.
Average Salary: $90,000 - $120,000 | Job Outlook: Growing 17% through 2030
Your Mid-Level Physical Therapist Resume Awaits
You've got the knowledge. Now put it into action with our free, ATS-friendly templates.
Create Your Resume Free