About ABPTS
ABPTS coordinates and oversees the specialist certification process, is the governing body for certification and recertification of clinical specialists. This board is composed of nine individuals: board-certified physical therapists from five different specialty areas; one physical therapist member of the APTA Board of Directors; one physical therapist representing the APTA Council of Section Presidents; one individual with expertise in test development, evaluation, and education; and one non-physical therapist representing the public.

Specialist Certification
The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), a national professional organization representing more than 66,000 members throughout the United States, established the specialist certification program in 1978. Specialization is the process by which a physical therapist builds on a broad base of professional education and practice to develop a greater depth of knowledge and skills related to a particular area of practice.

Specialist Recertification
The purpose of recertification is to verify current competence as an advanced practitioner in a specialty area and to encourage ongoing education and professional growth. To maintain the certified specialist designation, individuals must recertify every 10 years. By maintaining their specialist certification, certified specialists indicate that they are committed to clinical excellence and the development of knowledge and skills in their chosen specialty.

Application Deadlines

Certification - 7/31/08

Women's Health* - 8/31/08
* extended

Reapplication - 8/31/08

Recertification - 10/31/08

Directory of Certified Specialists
The Online Directory of Certified Clinical Specialists in Physical Therapy, which may be viewed on this Web site, provides a number of convenient search options. This Online Directory may be searched by last name of specialist, specialty area, practice focus area within a specialty, state, or city.