If you're reading this article, you probably have a misdemeanor or felony criminal conviction in your past and you're concerned about the conviction affecting your future. Background and criminal checks are common practice among health care facilities and individuals with these convictions are somewhat correct in their worries. There are several things to consider, however, that should give you hope if you are facing this situation.

Physical therapists and many physical therapy assistants are required by most states to be licensed. The licensing process involves submitting an application to the licensing agency in which you are interested in becoming licensed by. Many of the applications contain questions related to criminal convictions. For example, the Indiana application for licensing for physical therapists or assistants asks the question "Have you ever been convicted of, plead guilty to or nolo contendre to any offense, misdemeanor or felony in any state? (Except for minor violations of traffic laws resulting in fines)." The application also asks if an applicant has currently or in the past been treated for drug or alcohol abuse. It's vital that applicants answer these questions truthfully. The application indicates that dishonesty on the application can result in denial of licensing. The application, however, directs applicants who answer affirmatively to any of the questions to include a signed and notarized statement explaining the details related to the offense, location, and date.

The licensing agency for each state is typically comprised of a board of professionals who decide on an individual basis the eligibility of each candidate. It's difficult to say specifically what criminal convictions will bar an applicant from getting approval from the board. A candidate with drug-related or alcohol-related criminal convictions that has completed substance abuse treatment should prepare a statement that fully explains their rehabilitation efforts. Everyone has made mistakes. Don't let the mistakes in your past deter you from following your dreams in the future.Taking responsibility of your mistakes while making positive changes in your life speaks volumes about the type of person you are.

There is another issue to consider, however. Individuals pursuing a degree in physical therapy or physical therapy assisting will find that educational programs often require the completion of clinical hours. Many of the clinical sites that colleges have agreements with require background checks, finger printing, or a drug screen prior to allowing students to be placed in the facility. Your past criminal convictions could interfere with the ability to complete your education. It may be a good idea to meet with the director or chairperson of the physical therapy program you are interested in attending. Be honest with the department head about your past and ask for direction from them about your specific circumstances.

There are criminal convictions that are particularly difficult to overcome for those contemplating a career in physical therapy. Those convicted of violent crimes such as rape, battery, or armed robbery may have more difficulty obtaining licensing. Also, physical therapists and assistants often work with dependent populations so any convictions related to sexual or physical abuse will likely bar them from obtaining licensing. People change, however, so if you are determined to become a physical therapist or assistant even with these convictions, don't give up on your goals.

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