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The Specialty Councils represent the 10 areas of specialty governed by ABPTS.

The Council:

  • Conduct practice analysis research to define specialty area advanced clinical competencies.
  • Develop minimum eligibility requirements for certification and recertification in a specialty area, based on ABPTS guidelines.
  • Screen applicants for eligibility to sit for the specialist certification exam.
  • Develop the examination instruments to be used in the certification process.
  • Travel for meetings and exam development work at the testing agency.

Appointed Group Size

Each specialty council consists of four members, with the exception of the orthopaedic specialty which consists of five members. Members serve a four-year term that begins January 1.

Term of Appointees

Specialty council appointments are four-year terms beginning January 1. Nominations open in mid-May annually. The nomination process closes July 31. 

Candidate Requirements

Individuals seeking appointment to ABPTS and the Specialty Councils must have the following qualifications:

  1. Must be a board-certified physical therapist in a specialty area, 
  2. Show evidence of effective group participation, and
  3. Demonstrate the ability to complete tasks in a timely manner.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Participate in conference calls each year as needed to address issues that occur between annual meetings.
  • Review agenda materials before meetings including specialty council documents and candidate requests.
  • Serve as a contact to one of the specialty councils (outside of their particular specialty area) and communicate with that council on an ongoing basis.

APTA reimburses ABPTS members for all travel expenses.

Specialists who serve on the specialty councils and ABPTS receive 1 MOSC credit per year of service.

Apply Online

The nomination process is currently open with a July 31 submission deadline.

Apply via Engage