How to Become a Massage Therapist

In the job industry there are several different jobs which can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis. One such career opportunity is that of a massage therapist, sometimes referred to as a 'massager'. This is a job that can be started at home and is also well rewarding financially. As more people are trying to get rid of stress with the aid of regular massage sessions, the services of massage therapists are in great demand.

The first and foremost step that you need to take to enter this career is to get to know all about the job and what it entails. You can avail a massage therapy package at your nearest health and wellness center, and observe what the responsibilities are.

After you are aware of the basics of the job, you need to look forward to joining a formal massage therapy program. Generally, you would require to possess a high school diploma or a similar degree in order to gain admission in such programs.

Some of the best massage therapy schools are Everest Institute, Lincoln Technical Institute, Apollo College, Cortiva Institute, Kaplan College, Utah College of Massage Therapy, and many other good ones.

Training courses would include lessons on kinesiology, anatomy, physiology, body mechanics, and other relevant areas. For those wondering how long it takes to become one, these programs are of 500 - 600 hours duration, which you can avail on a full-time or part-time basis. Some programs are even well known to provide post-graduate job placements and services. These programs will also make you eligible for applying for the licensure.

Remember that there are some states which have certain licensing regulations regarding massage therapy, whereas other have licensing requirements set on a local level.

States with local licensing requirements are Minnesota, Alaska, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Idaho, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Vermont. Therefore, you need to get in touch with your state and local authorities for finding out the exact detailed licensing requirements. You also need to choose what type of accreditation does the training program refer to.

In order to receive license for the purpose of practicing the profession, you may be required to give state-administered exams such as National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB) and Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).

Once you receive the certification, you can then move on to work in medical settings and beauty centers, or simply think of starting a business of your own. You can also try to find employment in facilities such as physical rehabilitation centers, spas, fitness centers, hotels and resorts, malls, airports, etc.

These are the educational and licensing requirements in becoming a massage therapist. You also need to have other prerequisites such as good communication, listening to clients' requests, and interpersonal skills.

In case you opt for starting your own business, understand about obtaining a small business license and apply for the same. In order to get the skill groomed properly and attract a good salary range for job as a massage therapist, it is suggested to take additional massage therapy lessons and consider continuing education in the field.

This is some general information on requirements of a massage therapist. If you are thinking about the income, a good thing is that these professionals also get paid on an hourly basis, which may eventually add up substantially to the monthly income. It is believed that those working in these jobs may receive up to $62,000 per year on an average.