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Massage TherapistWhat is massage therapist? A massage therapist is a trained and licensed professional skilled in the medicinal benefits of massage. Massage therapists generally specialize in a few types of massage, so some will be better suited to clients with different needs. A massage therapist works by appointment. They may work out of a salon, spa or sports center, or even out of someone's home. Before a massage session, the therapist should learn each client's medical history. They will also learn the desired results from the massage. If the therapist determines that massage therapy could be beneficial and not harmful, he or she will begin the session. A massage therapist will concentrate on the areas of each client's discomfort. The therapist will work based on the person's goals, ailments, medical history, and stress- or pain-related problem areas. Massage therapists alter their approach or concentrate on a particular area as necessary. People also seek out massage therapists for relief of pain from accidents and sports injuries. This has contributed to rapid growth in the massage therapy field. The U.S. Department of Labor expects employment opportunities for massage therapists to increase between 18 and 26 percent by 2014. What can a massage therapist earn? There are lots of opportunities for monetary gain in the massage therapy field. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, consumers spend $4 to $6 billion a year on visits to massage therapists. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that massage therapists generally earn an hourly wage plus tips. The Bureau also indicates that median hourly earnings for massage therapists are $15.36. The middle 50 percent earn between $9.78 and $23.82 an hour. The highest 10 percent earn more than $32.21, and the lowest 10 percent earn less than $7.16. Gratuities can account for 15 to 20 percent of a massage therapist's income. Therapists who work in hospitals or medical settings do not receive tips. How do you become a massage therapist? There are approximately 1,300 massage therapist schools throughout the country, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These include postsecondary schools, college programs and training programs. Most of these programs require students to have at least the equivalent of a high school diploma. The programs may be part-time or full-time. They can also vary greatly in length and requirements, based mainly on state requirements. After completing their program, many massage therapists take the national certification examination for therapeutic massage and bodywork. This test is administered by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB). Several states require massage therapists to pass this test in order to practice. Once massage therapists pass the national certification exam, they can use the recognized national credential: Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCTMB). Therapists must renew this credential every four years. In order to remain certified, a therapist must perform at least 200 hours of therapeutic massage during the four-year period and complete a minimum of 48 credit hours of continuing education. What are the requirements? Most massage therapist schools require a high school diploma or the equivalent. Check with your state before you enroll to be sure. Take a look at our state license requirements page to find out more. Contact your state's licensing department to verify if any changes have been made in programs or required hours. How much do massage therapy programs cost? Tuition depends on the state where you live, the types of courses, hours of instruction needed, location of the school, and the schools' facilities and equipment. What are some of the career options for a massage therapist? As a massage therapist, you have the flexibility to create your own schedule by being self-employed. Many self-employed massage therapists travel with their equipment or rent out a space to practice. If you want more stability than self-employment provides, many other opportunities are available. Licensed massage therapists may work in salons, spas, resorts, chiropractic clinics or with athletic organizations. Some massage therapists also work in hospitals or other medical facilities. | |
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