Clinical Competency Certificate

The APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy Clinical Competency Certificate provides physical therapists and physical therapy assistants with a comprehensive study of the fundamental knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide safe evidence-based patient care using the aquatic environment. Participants in this course will demonstrate clinical competency in aquatic physical therapy by completing a series of both written and practical skills tests.

This is the only certificate program sponsored by a component of the APTA specifically designed for the aquatic physical therapy professional.

The APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy Clinical Competency Certificate is an assessment-based course in aquatic physical therapy.  It is important to note that there is not a credential associated with the completion of this program as it is not recognized by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists (ABPTS). Consequently, participants are also not entitled to the designation of board-certified specialists.

There are 7 online learning modules through the Education Center and a 3-day in-person pool course to complete the entire certificate series.

 

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Go to the New Education Center!

 

ELEARNING: ONLINE MODULES

• Aquatic Historical Perspectives - David Morris, PT, PhD
• Aquatic Physics - Lori Thein Brody, PT, ATC, PhD (prerequisite for pool course)
• Aquatic Physiology of Immersion - Marty Biondi, PT, DPT, CSCS (prerequisite for pool course)
• Critical Thinking and Aquatic Interventions - Holly Lookabaugh-Deur, PT, DSc, GCS, Emily Dunlap, PT (prerequisite for pool course)
• Pool Chemicals and Safety - Richard Vicory, PT, DPT
• Risk Management - Shelly E Muhlenkamp PT, MSPT
• Aquatic Billing and Documentation - Holly Lookabaugh-Deur PT, DSc

 

On-Site Learning: 3-day in-person pool/lab course

Participants at this 3 day course will experience hands-on training to integrate skills and knowledge learned from the online modules of the APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy Clinical Competency Certificate. Emphasis will be placed on handling techniques to give the participant confidence to apply their knowledge to a wide base of treatment applications. Participants will be challenged to maximize the effectiveness of their treatments utilizing the unique properties of water and pool equipment. A variety of aquatic therapy techniques will be demonstrated and multiple case studies will aid the learner in understanding the aquatic therapy continuum from evaluation to discharge to wellness. Participants can expect to be in the pool for the majority of the course and will be tested on their handling skills as well as the integration of online and pool course material.

 Pool Course Objectives:
 

1. Apply critical thinking to evidence-based practice to support the need for aquatic physical therapy intervention.
2. Recognize and respond to potential challenges prior to pool entry for specific patient populations.
3. Appropriately select pool equipment best suited for patient treatment goals.
4. Demonstrate the ability to logically progress exercise in the water.
5. Confidently handle patients of all types in the water in all depths and all positions.
6. Apply clinical interventions for gait and balance training in the water.
7. Integrate aquatic techniques for maximizing muscle performance during aquatic physical therapy treatments.
8. Demonstrate modifications to address possible sensory integration challenges when in an aquatic treatment session.
9. Develop and integrate individualized cardiovascular techniques based on the patient’s needs.
10. Demonstrate a basic understanding of Halliwick, Bad Ragaz Ring Method, Watsu, Ai Chi, AquaStretch, Aqua Yoga, and Burdenko Method.

If you'd like to learn more about the Clinical Competency Certificate, here's the Clinical Competency Information Sheet which covers the Overview, Course Requirements, and Cost.

Note: CEU not applicable in AK, CO, HI, LA, NJ, NM, NV (Exceptions may be arranged IF you contact admin@aquaticpt.org by January 1, 2023)

Note: CEU not pre-approved in the following states, but licensees may seek their own approval in AR, DE, FL (Exceptions may be arranged IF you contact admin@aquaticpt.org by January 1, 2023)

All other states: 2.5 CEU/25 Contact Hours

Packing List

CCC In-Person Schedule

 

PRICING

Click HERE for pricing information.

CORPORATE PROGRAM

Looking to have 12 or more staff members complete the APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy Clinical Competency Certificate? We can come to you! Contact us at admin@aquaticpt.org and ask about our corporate program.