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The freedom, growth, and adventure that make travel therapy the perfect first step for new OTs and COTAs After years of classes, fieldwork, and late nights writing treatment plans, you’ve finally made it — you’re a licensed occupational therapist ready to make a difference. Now comes the big question: What’s next? For many new grad OTs, the answer isn’t a traditional staff job. It’s travel therapy — a career path that lets you grow your skills, explore new places, and gain experience faster than you ever thought possible. If you’re wondering why so many new grads are jumping into travel OT, here’s what makes this path such an appealing (and rewarding) way to start your career.

Stay Organized, Save Time, and Make Every Mile Count Life on the road as a travel therapist is full of possibilities—new places to explore, new people to meet, and new experiences around every corner. But let’s be honest—if you’re not a born planner, figuring out the details can get a little overwhelming. With a few smart apps, you can turn those long drives into adventures, make housing searches stress-free, and even find your next favorite coffee spot before your shift. Travel therapy is all about balance—leaning into the adventure even as you figure out the logistics of settling somewhere new. These five apps will help you do just that, making your journey smoother and your experience richer.

Simple ways to feel confident, prepared, and true to yourself So, you’ve landed your first interview as a travel Speech-Language Pathologist—congrats! That’s a big step. Somewhere out there, a team is looking for someone with your heart, your skills, and your spark. And while interviews can feel a little nerve-wracking, they’re also a chance to share what makes you you—your love for communication, connection, and helping others find their voice. Let’s walk through how to prep in a way that feels confident, grounded, and true to who you are.

Exploring settings, patients, and possibilities—one assignment at a time One of the most beautiful aspects of travel therapy is that it gives you space to figure things out. You don’t have to know exactly where you belong or what setting is the perfect match for you right now. Traveling as a physical, occupational, or speech therapist lets you explore different environments, work with a variety of patients, and discover your strengths—all while earning a living and exploring new parts of the country. The best part? You’re never stuck. Every assignment has an end date. If you don’t love the setting, you complete the contract and move on to something totally different. If you do love it, you can take your next contract in the same setting or even settle in permanently. Travel therapy is like “dating” different work environments—you get to explore your options without pressure or long-term ties.

Why Travel Therapy Is the Perfect Launchpad for Your Career Graduating as a PTA is a huge milestone—you’ve worked hard, earned your degree, and are ready to start making an impact in patients’ lives. But stepping into the workforce with student loans, bills, and the pressure to figure out your next move can feel overwhelming. That’s where travel therapy comes in—not just as an adventurous path, but as a supportive and practical way to start your career. If you’re a new grad PTA wondering how to balance your finances, gain real-world experience, and avoid burnout, travel therapy might be the perfect place to start.