Physical Therapy Advisor

A non-government organization in the Philippines is looking for experienced physical therapists to enhance their developmental services for children with learning and behavioral disorders.

There is an urgent need for rehabilitation and mobility support services for children in the Philippines. Cases of developmental delays, congenital and neurological conditions, and pediatric injuries are on the rise. Despite families and educators recognizing the value of early intervention, therapy services can be costly and there is a persistent shortage of specialized pediatric therapists. Stepping Stone offers effective therapy and special education programs, but staff recognize there is room for improvement. By strengthening their systems, professional capacity, and evidence-based physical therapy practices, Stepping Stone will provide high-quality, continuous, and effective interventions to each child—maximizing their function development and potential to productively participate in their communities. The organization’s current priorities include standardized motor assessment, individualized intervention planning, documentation systems, caregiver engagement, and integration of physical therapy into educational programming.

As a Physical Therapy Advisor, you will collaborate with the Stepping Stone staff to strengthen the support provided, ensuring each child-student can succeed. Together, you will integrate physical therapy strategies into individualized education plans. By mentoring therapists, teachers, and caregivers, you will support long-term continuity of care for children with disabilities.

Qualified candidates will meet the following criteria:
Education:
BA/BS in biology, physiology, kinetics, or related and licensed physical therapist
Experience:
5 or more years of experiencing working as a physical therapist in a health or school setting

The Volunteer will live independently in an apartment or house within Metro Manila and can expect basic amenities, including running water, electricity, cell phone service, and a flushing toilet. The Volunteer will be able to walk or take public transportation to markets, pharmacies, internet cafes, churches, and banks.

Gain international experience while enhancing educational support offered in the Philippines.
Learn Tagalog from highly experienced language intercultural facilitators.
Make a lasting impact by applying your physical therapy expertise to support students with learning and behavioral disorders.

Conduct a participatory assessment of current practices, training needs, and service gaps in physical therapy.

Develop and pilot standardized assessment tools, therapy documentation, and monitoring systems aligned with evidence-based practice.

Provide structured mentoring and coaching to therapists and teachers on positioning, mobility, postural management, and functional motor development.

Support integration of physical therapy strategies into individualized education plans and classroom routines.
Develop caregiver education and home program resources to promote continuity of care.

Produce sustainability tools such as manuals, protocols, and training materials for ongoing institutional use.

You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as supporting after-school sports or yoga to teach teamwork and mindfulness.

After two weeks of orientation on topics such as health and safety, you will move to an urban community where you will collaborate with the staff at Stepping Stone. You will work with their community to assess learning needs and develop evidence-based solutions.

Peace Corps/Philippines will help equip you with Tagalog language resources and you may work with a tutor who can help you build basic language skills to connect with the community.