Blog

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.

Embrace the spirit of the season in new places and with new faces Holidays on the road as a travel therapist just hit different, and while you might be miles away from your usual traditions, that doesn’t mean the season loses its sparkle. In fact, spending the holidays on contract can open the door to new experiences, unexpected connections, and memories that can last a lifetime.

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.

Hidden Gems and Breathtaking Views Across the Country One of the best parts of being a traveling SLP? Getting to explore the country—one assignment, one city, and one cute little coffee shop at a time. We asked our community of travel therapists to share the places that have stayed with them—the scenic drives they loved, the parks they visited, and the little roadside spots they stumbled upon. The result? A living, traveler-made Google Map full of can’t-miss road trips, peaceful detours, and off-the-beaten-path finds across the country. Whether you’re getting ready for your next contract, taking the long route between assignments, or simply looking for something new to discover on your days off, this map is your invitation to explore like a local—guided by travelers who’ve been there before.