How PTAs Can Increase Their Value—and Their Impact

What actually increases your worth as a PTA—and how do you make it happen on purpose?

In this episode of PTA+, host Katie Sutton sits down with Sanaz Holcomb, PTA, BS, to explore the developmental pathways that help PTAs grow their skills, expand their influence, and increase their professional value.

Sanaz breaks down several powerful opportunities available to PTAs, including:

• APTA PTA Advanced Proficiency Pathways (APPs)
• LIFE Series Leadership Academy through the Ohio Physical Therapy Association
• LAMP Leadership through the APTA Academy of Leadership and Innovation

As a home health PTA with extensive experience in outpatient physical therapy, Sanaz brings a well-rounded perspective on how leadership, mentorship, and professional development translate across settings.

This conversation goes beyond certifications and titles. Sanaz shares how both giving and receiving mentorship reshaped her career path—and how stepping into leadership roles at the state and national level changed what she believed was possible as a PTA. She also discusses her current role as one of eight members of the newly formed APTA PTA Council Steering Group, helping guide the future of PTA representation.

You’ll hear about:

• how advanced proficiency pathways actually work
• why leadership development increases real-world value—not just résumés
• the role mentorship plays in career momentum
• advocacy, patient networks, and professional visibility
• how PTAs can be intentional about growth instead of waiting to be “picked”

If you’re looking for a clearer roadmap to professional growth—and want to increase your impact, confidence, and worth as a PTA—this episode delivers practical insight and inspiration.

???? Resources & Contact

• Follow Sanaz Holcomb on Twitter: @sanaz_armand
• APTA PTA Advanced Proficiency Pathways:
• https://www.apta.org/for-ptas/pta-advanced-proficiency-pathways
• APTA Academy of Leadership and Innovation (LAMP):
• https://www.aptahpa.org/page/LAMP
• Ohio Physical Therapy Association LIFE Series Leadership Academy:
• https://www.ohiopt.org/page/LIFESeriesLeadership

Contact the host:

Katie Sutton — [e-mail]

Follow Katie on Twitter: @ksuttonpta