If you’ve ever had the opportunity to experience a massage from a licensed massage
therapist, you know how relaxing the experience can be. In our fast-paced society,
these types of relaxation treatments are in high demand. Beyond creating a
rejuvenating experience for clients, massage therapy is recognized as an important
healing method in many clinics and hospitals around the world.
If you are interested in becoming a massage therapist, there are important
considerations you must think through to ensure that this is the right path for you.
Education and Requirements
Today, massage therapists play an important role in caring for a variety of patients
with different ailments. Because of the professionalization of the massage therapist
industry, continued learning has become the norm.
In the U.S., most states have some form of licensing you will need in order to become
a certified massage therapist, with a majority of the states requiring at least 500-600
hours of training.
Once you have completed training, you may then take an entry-level massage
therapist licensing exam called the MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing
Exam).
States vary on licensing requirements, so it is a good idea to check with your state’s
regulatory board before you begin training.
Career paths as a massage therapist
As a licensed massage therapist, you’ll be qualified to work in a variety of different
office settings. A few potential workplaces include:
Spas
Rehab clinics
Hospitals
Cruise ships, hotels and resorts
Health and wellness centers
Private practices
YOU
You read that right. Having all the relevant information about becoming a massage
therapist is important, but it is even more important to know yourself. What makes
you happy? What is boring to you? Are you good with your hands, but impatient?
Are you compassionate? Will a career in this industry make you happy?