Becoming a Certified Hand Therapist: Salary & Job Description

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Get the truth about a certified hand therapist's salary, training requirements and career prospects. Read the job description and see the pros and cons of becoming a certified hand therapist.
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A Certified Hand Therapist Career: The Pros and Cons

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A certified hand therapist (CHT) is credentialed to offer a type of rehabilitative therapy involving not only the hand but also the entire upper limb. Consider the following pros and cons before entering into the hand therapy industry.

Pros of a Certified Hand Therapist Career
Above average salary ($78,000+ for CHTs)*
Very high employment growth (36% and 29% in 2012-2022 for physical and occupational therapists, respectively)**
Multiple employment options (hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient facilities, home healthcare services, etc.)**
Daily opportunity to help others improve their quality of life**

Cons of a Certified Hand Therapist Career
Extensive education/training requirements (1-3 years post-bachelor's degree)**
5 years of clinical experience required for CHT eligibility***
Continuing education required to keep certification*** and state license**
Irregular working hours may be required (occupational therapists in particular)**

Sources: *Payscale.com, **U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, ***Hand Therapy Certification Commission.

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