Professional Physical Therapy Launches RISE Program for Student Loan Repayment

Professional Physical Therapy has introduced a new initiative aimed at alleviating the financial strain faced by physical therapists and students aspiring to join the profession. The Student Loan Repayment Incentive Supporting Employees (RISE) Program offers up to $50,000 in student loan repayment support over five years of full-time employment with the company.

Eligible participants include licensed physical therapists and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students graduating in 2026, 2027, or 2028. The program provides payments that increase annually: $5,000 after the first year, $7,500 after the second, $10,000 after the third, $12,500 after the fourth, and $15,000 after the fifth, totaling a maximum of $50,000.

"Traditional recruiting incentives are not sufficient to address the financial pressures today's clinicians face," said Steve Schneider, CEO of Professional Physical Therapy. "RISE is a bold step to support our workforce and ensure a more accessible path into the profession."

Schneider highlighted that the company has already committed over $6 million to existing employees through student loan repayments and aims to exceed this amount. "This is a long-term investment in our clinicians, their careers, and the future of physical therapy," he stated.

The launch of RISE coincides with significant changes in student lending reforms. Effective July 1, 2026, federal reforms generally eliminated Graduate PLUS Loans for new borrowers and introduced new federal borrowing limits, making private financing a more common option for DPT students. Aspiring physical therapists may now face higher out-of-pocket costs, creating additional barriers to entering the profession.

"We recognize the financial challenges faced by physical therapists and are committed to supporting them in meaningful ways," said Tess Michaels, CEO and Founder of Clasp, which administers the RISE program. "Our goal is to make the profession more financially sustainable for clinicians."

The application process involves applying separately for an eligible full-time physical therapist position, successfully completing the company's standard application and interview process, and being selected by Professional Physical Therapy. Payments begin after the first full year of employment.

DPT students, recent graduates, and practicing physical therapists are encouraged to learn more and apply for RISE through the company’s website at [https://www.professionalpt.com/careers/].

Professional Physical Therapy, founded in 1999, is a leading provider of outpatient physical, occupational, and hand therapy across the Northeast. With over 200 locations in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, the organization focuses on personalized, evidence-based care and the professional development of its clinicians.

Clasp, the program administrator, supports employers in attracting and retaining clinical talent through student loan repayment programs. Clasp makes direct payments to participants' qualifying loan servicers on behalf of employers.

Applications are now open, with limited program availability.