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1. "Tell me about a time you adapted a treatment plan to fit a client’s cultural, linguistic, or personal needs."
Why they ask: Employers are prioritizing culturally responsive care and want to know how you individualize treatment.
How to answer:
Share a real-life example.

• Emphasize flexibility, empathy, and collaboration with families.
• Highlight awareness of DEI practices in healthcare.

�� “During a school placement, I adjusted my treatment approach to better suit a bilingual student by incorporating both English and Spanish prompts with input from the family and ELL coordinator.”

2. "How do you stay current with new research, technology, and best practices in therapy?"
Why they ask: Healthcare is constantly evolving. Therapists must show a commitment to lifelong learning.
How to answer:

• Mention reputable journals, CEU courses, or seminars.
• Show how you apply what you’ve learned in your practice.

�� “I recently attended a continuing education course on trauma-informed care and immediately incorporated strategies into my sessions with children affected by adverse experiences.”

3. "Describe how you handle a disagreement with a team member or supervisor."
Why they ask: They’re testing your interpersonal skills and professionalism, especially in team settings like schools or SNFs.
How to answer:

• Be honest and professional.
• Show that you prioritize the client’s needs and seek resolution respectfully.

�� “I once disagreed with a colleague on a discharge plan. I requested a meeting to collaboratively review the patient’s progress, and we reached a consensus that balanced clinical judgment and patient readiness.”

4. "How do you incorporate technology into your therapy sessions?"
Why they ask: Especially post-pandemic, technology is now an expected part of care, even in in-person settings.
How to answer:

• Mention apps, digital tools, or software you’ve used.
• Emphasize your willingness to learn and adapt.

�� “In outpatient pediatrics, I use interactive motor-planning apps to keep kids engaged and track their progress in real time.”

5. "What does patient-centered care mean to you?"
Why they ask: Employers want therapists who put the client’s needs, values, and goals first.
How to answer:

• Define patient-centered care in your own words.
• Share an example of how you’ve demonstrated it in your work.

�� “To me, patient-centered care means involving the client and their family in all decisions. For example, in early intervention, I create home routines with parents so they can support carryover between sessions.”

6. “How do you prioritize and manage a large caseload?”
Why they ask: Especially in school and SNF settings, time management is critical.
How to answer:
Discuss your organization strategies.
Talk about how you maintain quality care despite high demands.
�� “I use a digital tracking system to monitor goals and progress. I also block out weekly planning time to adjust schedules and make sure each client’s needs are met.”

7. “Why do you want to work in this setting?”
Why they ask: They want to know if you’re the right fit for the population and environment.
How to answer:

• Be specific about what draws you to the setting (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics, collaborative teams).
• Highlight relevant experience or passion.

�� “I love working in school-based settings because I enjoy helping students succeed in the classroom by improving their ability to participate in learning and social activities.”

Bonus: Questions Therapists Should Ask Employers in 2025
Interviews go both ways. Prepare thoughtful questions to assess if the position aligns with your goals. Ask:
 �� “What support is available for continuing education or certifications?”
 �� “How do therapists collaborate with other disciplines in this setting?”
 �� “What does success look like in this role during the first 90 days?”
These questions show you're engaged, proactive, and serious about delivering quality care.

Therapeutic Resources: Helping Therapists Ace the Interview and Land the Job
For 40 years, Therapeutic Resources has helped OTs, PTs, and SLPs not only find great jobs—but prepare to get hired.
Whether you’re applying to a school, SNF, early intervention program, or outpatient facility, we offer:

• Personalized Interview Coaching
• Resume Review and Optimization
• Access to Exclusive Job Openings in NYC
• Ongoing Career Support

Therapeutic Resources understands the healthcare job market—and we know exactly what hiring managers are looking for in 2025.  Send us your information here and a Placement Manager will be right in touch!

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