Are you a licensed rehab therapist who loves the idea of exploring new places while making a meaningful impact? A career as a travel therapist could give you the flexibility, income potential, and professional growth you are looking for.
Whether you are a physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech language pathologist, or therapy assistant, travel assignments offer a dynamic way to practice your craft across diverse clinical settings. If you have ever considered working in the Pacific Northwest, particularly Oregon or Washington, Therapeutic Resources can open those doors and many more.
What Is a Travel Therapist?
A travel therapist is a licensed rehab professional who accepts short term contract assignments at healthcare facilities that need temporary staffing support. Most travel assignments are 13 weeks long, though they can range from 8 to 26 weeks depending on the facility.
Travel rehab therapists work in a wide range of settings, including:
- Acute care hospitals
- Inpatient rehabilitation facilities
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Outpatient clinics
- Home health agencies
- Schools
Common rehab therapy disciplines include:
- Physical Therapist (PT)
- Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
- Occupational Therapist (OT)
- Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
- Speech Language Pathologist (SLP)
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Specialized and niche therapy roles
Instead of working permanently at one facility, you bring your expertise where it is needed most.
Why Become a Travel Rehab Therapist?
1. Explore New Regions While Advancing Your Career
Travel therapy jobs allow you to experience new cities, climates, and patient populations without committing to a permanent move. Many therapists choose assignments in the Pacific Northwest to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle in Washington and Oregon while gaining valuable experience.
You can spend one contract near the coast, the next in a mountain town, and another in a major metropolitan hospital. Each travel assignment builds your resume and broadens your clinical skill set.
2. Gain Diverse Clinical Experience
As a travel therapist, you adapt quickly to different documentation systems, team dynamics, and patient needs. This makes you more versatile and marketable over time.
You’ll likely get exposure to:
- Various EMR systems
- Different productivity expectations
- Unique patient populations
- Interdisciplinary teams
These can help you grow professionally in ways that are hard to replicate in a single permanent role.
3. Increase Earning Potential
Travel rehab therapists often earn higher weekly pay compared to permanent staff roles. Compensation packages may include:
- Competitive hourly rates
- Tax advantaged stipends
- Housing or housing stipends
- Travel reimbursement
- Health benefits and retirement options
For clinicians looking to pay down student loans, save for a home, or build financial flexibility, travel therapy can be a strategic move.
4. Maintain Flexibility and Control
Travel assignments allow you to decide:
- When you want to work
- Where you want to work
- What type of setting you prefer
- How long you want to stay
You can take time off between contracts, try different specialties, or focus your career in regions like the PNW that align with your lifestyle goals.
Requirements to Become a Travel Therapist
To work as a travel rehab therapist, you must meet professional and licensing standards in each state where you practice.
Education
Therapist education requirements vary by discipline:
- PTs and OTs typically require a doctorate degree
- SLPs require a master’s degree
- PTAs and COTAs typically require an associate degree
- LCSWs require a master’s degree and clinical licensure
Licensure
You must hold an active license in the state where your assignment is located. Some states participate in licensure compacts, which can make it easier to practice across state lines.
For example:
- Physical therapists may qualify under the PT Compact
- Occupational therapists may qualify under the OT Compact
- Speech language pathologists may qualify under the ASLP Compact
If you are considering travel therapy jobs in Oregon and Washington, one of our recruiters can guide you through the licensing process and timelines.
Experience
Most travel therapy positions require at least one year of recent clinical experience. Facilities rely on travel therapists to step in with minimal onboarding, so confidence and competence in your setting are essential.
What Makes a Great Travel Therapist?
Success in travel rehab therapy is not just about clinical skill. The best travel therapists are:
- Adaptable
- Strong communicators
- Organized
- Open to new environments
- Comfortable with change
If you thrive in new situations and enjoy learning continuously, travel therapy can be incredibly rewarding.
Travel Therapy in the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest remains a top destination for travel therapists. Assignments in Washington and Oregon offer:
- Access to world class hiking and outdoor recreation
- Vibrant urban centers like Seattle and Portland
- Diverse patient populations
- Strong healthcare systems
For rehab therapists who value both career growth and lifestyle, the PNW delivers a compelling combination.
How to Get Started as a Travel Therapist
If you are ready to explore travel therapy jobs, here is how to begin:
1. Update Your Resume
Highlight:
- Clinical settings and specialties
- Years of experience
- EMR systems used
- Certifications and continuing education
2. Connect With a Specialized Recruiter
Partnering with an agency that understands rehab therapy is critical. A knowledgeable recruiter can:
- Match you with the right settings
- Guide you through state licensure
- Negotiate pay packages
- Support you before, during, and after assignments
3. Define Your Goals
Ask yourself:
- Do I want to work in acute care, outpatient, or schools?
- Am I targeting Washington, Oregon, or another region?
- Am I prioritizing pay, location, or clinical growth?
Clarity helps your recruiter find the right opportunities faster.
Next Steps
If you are ready to combine purpose with adventure, now is an excellent time to explore travel therapist opportunities. The demand for qualified clinicians continues to grow, especially in high need regions like the Pacific Northwest.
If you are ready to explore this further, apply now to connect with a recruiter and discover where your rehab therapy skills can take you next.