Aquatic Therapy Credentialing (2 Tiers)
Aquatic Therapy University offers 2 credentials for Aquatic Therapy providers and Aquatic Specialists. Through a combination of live seminars and digital distance learning clinicians can achieve certificates of advanced recognition. ATU credentials provide recognition of training; they do not confer the right to practice aquatic therapy if the clinician does not have aquatic interventions in their scope of practice.
Are you looking to complete Tier I Aquaticist™ training after holding a live custom ATU class?
Purchase the Introductory Learning Pathway (16 Hrs) for your entire team and get credentialed today.
| ATU Clinical Aquaticist Associate™ (Tier I) (PT/PTA, OT/OTA) 36 Hrs |
ATU Aquatic Specialist Associate™ (Tier I) (Other Licensed Providers, e.g. TR, ATC) 36 Hrs |
| Attend digital Aquatic Therapy Essentials: Bootcamp (4 Hrs) | Attend digital Aquatic Therapy Essentials: Bootcamp (4 Hrs) |
| Attend any live 2-day ATU Class (16 Hrs) | Attend any live 2-day ATU Class (16 Hrs) |
| Attend digital Introductory Learning Pathway (16 Hrs) | Attend online Introductory Learning Pathway (16 Hrs) |
| ATU Clinical Aquaticist™ (Tier II) (PT/PTA, OT/OTA) 84 hrs |
ATU Aquatic Specialist™ (Tier II) (Other Licensed Providers) 84 Hrs |
| ATU Clinical Aquaticist Associate (Tier I) PLUS the following: | ATU Aquatic Specialist Associate (Tier I) PLUS the following: |
| Attend 2 additional live 2-day ATU classes (32 Hrs) | Attend 2 additional live 2-day ATU classes (32 Hrs) |
| Attend additional digital Specialized Learning Pathway (16 Hrs) OR Attend 1 additional live 2-day ATU classes (16 Hrs) |
Attend additional digital Specialized Learning Pathway (16 Hrs) OR Attend 1 additional live 2-day ATU classes (16 Hrs) |
| Proof of current licensure (PT/PTA, OT/OTA) | Proof of current licensure (Profession must have scope of practice which includes hands-on aquatic interventions) |
| Proof of university/college diploma (PT/PTA, OT/OTA) | Proof of university/college diploma (allied health) |
| Proof of 250 Hrs of practice in aquatic therapy | Proof of 250 Hrs of practice in aquatic interventions |
ATU Clinical Aquaticist™
Available to PT/PTA/OT/OTAs. The AquaticistTM Certification will be granted to physical and occupational therapy professionals who earn a minimum of 84 hours in aquatic therapy education through ATU. To receive this recognition, therapists must provide verification of their diploma and state license and 250 hours of pool experience as a therapist/assistant prior to obtaining recognition.
Therapists and assistants may seek this advanced recognition though ATU by following one of these specialty Tracks.
- Pediatric
- Musculoskeletal
- Geriatric
- Generalist
IMPORTANT: This Certificate recognizes your dedication to obtaining training in aquatic therapy through continuing education; it does not permit individuals to use aquatic therapy in their practice if they are not already permitted to do so.
ATU Aquatic Specialist™
Available to other allied health providers who are legally permitted to provide aquatic interventions. The ATU Aquatic Specialist™ will be granted to other allied health professionals who earn a minimum of 84 hours in aquatic therapy education through ATU. To receive this recognition, therapists must provide verification of their diploma and state license and 250 hours of pool experience prior to obtaining recognition.
Allied health providers may seek this advanced recognition though ATU by following one of these specialty Tracks.
- Pediatric
- Musculoskeletal
- Geriatric
- Generalist
IMPORTANT: This Certificate recognizes your dedication to obtaining training in aquatic therapy through continuing education; it does not permit individuals to use aquatic therapy in their practice if they are not already permitted to do so.
ATU courses are taught with the assumption that attendees have at least an entry-level degree or its equivalent in experience. No time is spent on the underlying principles of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. ATU offers therapy professionals a tiered, evidence-based progression of continuing education.
Aquaticist™ training is open only to PTs/PTAs and OTs/OTAs. Other professionals who are legally permitted to perform aquatic therapy may also attend ATU's seminars with the assumption that each professional is required to only apply knowledge within his or her scope of practice. Only PTs, PTAs, OTs and OTAs can seek recognition through the Aquaticist™ Credential training.
However, other professions may complete the ATU Aquatic Specialist™ training.
Aquaticist™ training is open only to PTs/PTAs and OTs/OTAs. Other professionals who are legally permitted to perform aquatic therapy may also attend ATU's seminars with the assumption that each professional is required to only apply knowledge within his or her scope of practice. Only PTs, PTAs, OTs and OTAs can seek recognition through the Aquaticist™ Credential training.
However, other professions may complete the ATU Aquatic Specialist™ training.
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Disclaimer
The content provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for use by licensed and student rehabilitation professionals. It does not constitute legal, medical, or billing advice, nor does it create a provider–patient or attorney–client relationship. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy and current compliance, laws, payer policies, and professional regulations vary by state and may change over time. Users are responsible for verifying all information with applicable federal, state, and payer rules before applying it in clinical or administrative practice. Participation in any ATU course, program, or resource does not guarantee licensure, certification, or reimbursement and should not be interpreted as a substitute for professional judgment, legal consultation, or individualized clinical decision-making. By using this site, you agree that Aquatic Therapy University and its affiliates are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from use of this information.
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