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In a competitive healthcare landscape, Occupational Therapists (OTs), Physical Therapists (PTs), and Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) often assume that every available job is listed online. But the truth is, many of the best opportunities are never posted on job boards at all. These unadvertised positions make up what’s known as the hidden job market—and for therapy professionals in New York City and beyond, tapping into it can be a game-changer for career advancement.

At Therapeutic Resources, we’ve spent over 40 years helping OTs, PTs, and SLPs discover exclusive opportunities in schools, early intervention programs, skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), and outpatient centers—often before they’re ever made public.
If you're ready to take your therapy career to the next level, understanding how the hidden job market works—and how to access it—can help you stay one step ahead.

What Is the Hidden Job Market?
The hidden job market refers to positions that are filled through internal promotions, professional referrals, or direct recruiter outreach—never advertised publicly. In the therapy world, many facilities rely on trusted staffing partners or word-of-mouth to fill vacancies quickly and discreetly.
Why? Because hiring is time-consuming and costly. Employers often prefer to work with reputable agencies like Therapeutic Resources that already have pre-vetted, qualified therapists on file, ready to step into roles with little delay.

Why the Hidden Job Market Matters for OTs, PTs, and SLPs
Many of the most desirable therapy positions—those with competitive pay, manageable caseloads, and great team environments—don’t make it to public job boards. If you’re relying only on online listings, you could be missing out on:
School-based therapy roles with flexible schedules

 

• Early intervention openings with steady referrals
• SNF and rehab positions in high-performing facilities
• Part-time and per diem work that fits your lifestyle
• Short-term contracts that open doors to long-term placements
• Getting access to these jobs often comes down to who you know, and how you connect.

How to Unlock the Hidden Job Market
1. Work with a Specialized Staffing Agency
Partnering with a healthcare staffing agency like Therapeutic Resources is one of the most effective ways to access the hidden job market. Our long-standing relationships with New York City’s top therapy providers mean we hear about openings before they go public—and we can match you to them directly.
Our agency works exclusively with OTs, PTs, SLPs, COTAs, PTAs, and Special Educators, so we understand the nuances of your career path and the settings you prefer.
2. Keep Your Resume Updated and Targeted
When your resume is up-to-date and clearly reflects your skills and certifications, you’re more likely to be considered for those quiet-but-critical roles. Include licensure, specialty populations, and setting preferences.
Not sure if your resume is optimized? Therapeutic Resources offers personalized resume support to help you stand out.
3. Let Recruiters Know You’re Open to Work
Many unadvertised jobs are filled through proactive outreach. Make sure your recruiter knows you’re looking—and be specific about what you want, including location, setting, hours, and population.
At Therapeutic Resources, we maintain strong communication with our therapists so we can act quickly when the right fit appears.
4. Stay Connected to the Therapy Community
Sometimes, hidden opportunities surface through professional conversations or continuing education events. Attending seminars, conferences, or CEU courses can lead to connections that result in unposted job leads.
Therapeutic Resources regularly offers CEU-approved workshops and webinars, helping therapists build community while advancing their skills.

How Therapeutic Resources Helps You Navigate the Hidden Job Market
With four decades of success, Therapeutic Resources has a deep network of connections in New York City’s schools, EI agencies, SNFs, and outpatient clinics. When you partner with us, you get:
First access to exclusive and unadvertised therapy positions

 

• A dedicated recruiter who understands your goals
• Resume support and interview preparation
• Opportunities tailored to your specialty, schedule, and preferences
• Flexibility to work per diem, part-time, or full-time—with no pressure

We’re proud to support thousands of OTs, PTs, and SLPs throughout every stage of their career, from new graduates to seasoned clinicians.   Send us your information here, and we'll be in touch ASAP.  

 

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