Blog

What it is, how it works, and why it matters for your career If you’re a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant dreaming about taking your skills on the road (or the next state over), there’s one tool that can make that process a whole lot easier: the PT Compact. In Short, the PT Compact is an agreement between 37 states plus Washington, D.C. (as of April 2026) that allows eligible PTs and PTAs to practice in another state without having to go through the full licensure process for each state. Instead of waiting weeks —or sometimes months—for a new license to process, you can purchase a compact privilege and often start working in your new location that very same day. Think of it as a passport for your license: once your home state—where you live and are licensed—participates in the compact agreement and you're in good standing, you can quickly add other compact states privileges to your resume with minimal red tape. It’s a game changer for travel therapists who want flexibility, speed, and morefalse

Explore new places, support diverse communities, and grow your speech therapy career along the way For travel SLPs, spring isn’t just about better weather, it’s about better opportunities. It’s the perfect time to step into a new setting, meet new patients, and explore places that bring both personal and professional growth into focus. And as we move from spring into early summer, that sense of momentum only builds. Schools wrap up, new contracts open, and healthcare facilities across the country are actively seeking skilled speech-language pathologists to support their teams. Right now, states like Oregon, Missouri, New York, South Carolina, and New Mexico are offering exciting travel SLP opportunities, each with its own unique blend of clinical experience, scenery, and seasonal charm. Let’s explore where your next assignment could take you.

Making Sense of Taxes, Benefits, and Liabilities on the Road You may find yourself unsure of whether you’re a 1099 independent contractor or a W-2 employee, and you're not alone in this! We're often asked if Jackson Therapy Partners travelers are W-2 employees or 1099 contractors, and all JTP travelers are W-2 employees. We’re going to break down the difference between the two, so you’ll have a complete understanding of what being on a travel contract means.

Stepping into new settings, trusting your instincts, and growing into the clinician you’re meant to be There’s a moment in every clinician’s journey when knowledge meets real-world uncertainty. You’ve put in the hours, passed the exams, and built a strong foundation—but confidence? That’s something different. It’s not just learned. It’s earned through experience, adaptability, and the willingness to step into the unknown. For many physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech language pathologists, travel therapy becomes the catalyst for that transformation. Because when you take your skills on the road, something powerful happens: you stop waiting to feel ready and start becoming ready.

The mindset, preparation, and insider tips to help you land your first assignment Landing an interview as a traveling Occupational Therapist isn’t just a career milestone—it’s a powerful reminder that your skills are needed somewhere new. It’s a doorway into a community you’ve yet to meet, filled with clients whose lives you might help transform, one session at a time. And while interviews can bring a few nerves, they’re also your chance to speak about your passion out loud, connect with a future team, and begin a journey rooted in both service and self-growth. Here’s how to walk into your travel OT interview prepared, confident, and grounded in your purpose.