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Beginning A Career As A Massage Therapist

Shannan Powell | May 14, 2008

Massage therapy is fast becoming a popular career choice for those looking to embark on their first career, as well as for those wanting a change from the ordinary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the US, the field of massage therapy is expected to grow dramatically over the next several years, as more people learn of the benefits of massage. Presently, salaries within the industry vary greatly, but the median hourly income for a massage therapist, working in a clinical setting, is approximately $16 an hour. Those who work in a non-medical massage setting can also expect a portion of their income to come from tips. Those who have their own private practice charge substantially more per hour, but generally have longer working hours and a greater overhead.

Job Requirements

The requirements of a massage therapist position vary by the setting in which massage is to be performed. Those who wish to work in a spa may specialize in one particular type of massage, catering to clients who want that specific therapy, all day long. Those who work in a medical setting are often trained in various physical therapy applications of massage and work with patients who are recovering from an illness or injury. These therapists often have additional physical demands, such as lifting and moving clients, added to their duties. Massage therapists who are self employed must not only take care of the massage needs of their clients, but also are responsible for running their business, caring for and moving their equipment, scheduling, and general office management duties.

Finding Training

There are many massage therapy schools available throughout the country, however not all of them are the same. Here are some important things that you should look for when choosing a massage therapy school:

Make sure that the school you have selected is accredited by an organization that has been approved by the US Department of Education.
Speak with current and former students about their own personal experiences with the school, staff, and their experiences after program completion.
Check the offerings of their programs against your state’s licensing requirements to be certain that you will receive all the tools you need to begin your career.
Look at the class schedule and be certain that you can fit the courses you will need into your own work and personal schedules.
Compare the costs of a few different schools and investigate any financial aid programs that are available.
Tour the schools and decide which is the most comfortable setting for you, taking the time to meet with instructors and advisors to assure the perfect fit.

Licensing and Regulation

Licensing and regulation vary from state to state, so checking the particular laws and requirements for the state in which you wish to work is important. Currently there are 37 states, plus the District of Columbia that have a licensure board for massage therapists. Some cities or counties within a state may have further regulations in place. In general, to receive a license from these regulatory organizations, you must prove that you have completed training courses and have had a certain number of hours of experience under a licensed therapist or within a classroom setting.

Additionally, you may be asked to take one of two tests to prove your knowledge massage therapy skills and techniques. The National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage are multiple-choice examinations which include questions about anatomy, pathology, massage application, assessment, and more related topics.