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 more options when choosing assignments. 

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.

How expert guidance can help you transition from travel roles to permanent placement with confidence

As a travel therapy company, we know that many therapists love the adventure and flexibility of short-term contracts. But what if you’re looking for something more permanent? Whether you’re ready to settle down in one location, want long-term stability, or are exploring your next career step, our Permanent Placement team is here to help. Finding the rightlong-term therapy job can be overwhelming, but working with a perm job recruiter simplifies the process. Our team specializes in placing therapists in the settings and locations that align with their skills, passions, and career goals. Here’s how a perm job recruiter can make a lasting impact on your career.