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Whether you're an experienced therapist starting a new chapter or a recent graduate stepping into your first role, the first 90 days in a new job are critical. As an Occupational Therapist (OT), Physical Therapist (PT), or Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), how you show up during this time can shape your reputation, relationships, and long-term success.
At Therapeutic Resources, we’ve spent over 40 years helping therapy professionals transition smoothly into new roles across schools, skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), early intervention (EI) programs, and outpatient settings. We’ve seen what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to establishing yourself in a new position.
This guide shares actionable strategies to make your mark during the first 90 days—so you can grow, lead, and love where you work.

Why the First 90 Days Matter
Your first few months in a new role are a golden opportunity to:
 ✔ Build trust with your team and supervisors
 ✔ Understand the culture and expectations of the facility
 ✔ Set professional boundaries and routines
 ✔ Demonstrate initiative and reliability
 ✔ Start developing a plan for long-term growth
When you approach this period with purpose and strategy, you set yourself up for career success, job satisfaction, and leadership opportunities down the line.

✅ Phase 1: Days 1–30 – Learn, Listen, and Observe
Your first month is all about absorbing information and understanding the big picture.
Key Goals:

• Learn the facility’s systems and workflows:
• Get comfortable with documentation platforms, scheduling tools, and protocols.
• Understand your caseload and responsibilities:
• Review IEPs, treatment plans, or care notes. Ask for a caseload summary and a list of key contacts.

Meet your team and key stakeholders:

•  Introduce yourself to teachers, nurses, family members, and other therapists you’ll collaborate with. A warm, professional introduction goes a long way. Listen more than you talk:
•  Observe how your team communicates, what’s valued in the setting, and how clients respond to different approaches.

�� Pro tip from Therapeutic Resources: Ask your supervisor or mentor, “What does success in this role look like to you in the first 90 days?” It shows initiative and clarity.

✅ Phase 2: Days 31–60 – Build Relationships and Take Initiative
Once you’ve got the lay of the land, it’s time to start making contributions and building your professional presence.
Key Goals:

• Start making clinical decisions confidently (with support):
• Apply your training and judgment while continuing to seek input when needed.Be visible and reliable:
• Show up on time, follow through on documentation, and communicate clearly with your team.

Collaborate meaningfully:

• Suggest ideas during team meetings, contribute to treatment plans, and offer help when you see an opportunity to support a colleague.Seek feedback regularly:
•  Ask for input on how you're doing so far—and be open to constructive suggestions.

✅ Phase 3: Days 61–90 – Set Your Standards and Look Ahead
By the third month, you’re not just learning—you’re contributing. This is your time to solidify your role, reinforce good habits, and start planning for growth.
Key Goals:
Refine your workflow:
 Identify routines and systems that help you manage your caseload efficiently without burnout.

Demonstrate professionalism:
 Be the therapist who communicates respectfully, adapts gracefully, and handles challenges with confidence.

Offer ideas for improvement:
 If you’ve noticed gaps or inefficiencies, this is a great time to share solutions or ideas for enhancing patient outcomes or processes.

Schedule a 90-day check-in:
 Whether it’s formal or informal, meet with your supervisor to review progress, clarify expectations, and discuss your future in the organization.

�� Soft Skills That Help You Stand Out
In addition to clinical expertise, these soft skills make a big impact during your first 90 days:
Emotional intelligence: Read the room. Understand how to support your clients and colleagues.

Adaptability: Be open to learning different systems and styles of care.
Communication: Be clear, consistent, and professional in both verbal and written interactions.
Team spirit: A “we’re in this together” attitude goes a long way in collaborative settings like schools and SNFs.

�� How Therapeutic Resources Supports Your First 90 Days (and Beyond)
At Therapeutic Resources, we don’t just place OTs, PTs, and SLPs—we set them up for success. For over 40 years, we’ve matched therapists with roles where they can thrive, and we provide ongoing guidance before, during, and after placement.
When you work with us, you get:
✔ A personal recruiter who knows your career goals
 ✔ Pre-start guidance and orientation tips
 ✔ Advice on handling first-day jitters and establishing strong boundaries
 ✔ Check-ins during your first 90 days to ensure everything’s on track
 ✔ Access to jobs in supportive school districts, reputable SNFs, innovative EI programs, and more
We’ve helped thousands of therapists make confident, meaningful transitions into new roles—and we’re ready to help you do the same.

Final Thoughts: Start Strong, Stay Grounded
Your first 90 days in a new therapy position set the tone for everything that follows. With the right balance of humility, professionalism, and initiative, you can build strong relationships, create real impact, and chart a path for long-term success.
At Therapeutic Resources, we’re proud to stand beside OTs, PTs, and SLPs as they take bold steps forward in their careers. Let us help you find the right setting—and start your next chapter with confidence.
Peruse our website to upload your resume, explore current opportunities, and connect with a team that’s been supporting therapists for 40 years and counting.

Your next role is just the beginning. Let’s make your first 90 days your strongest yet.
 

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