How to become

How to become a Massage Therapist

How to become a Massage Therapist

Overview

Massage therapists play an important role in the sector of allied health. They use touch and pressure to manipulate the soft tissues of the body to promote relaxation, relieve pain, reduce stress,relieve pain and promote the overall wellness of their clients.

Massage therapy might just be the world’s oldest profession. As far back as Ancient Egypt, therapeutic massage was used to relieve stress and pain and is one of the most popular wellness procedures. About forty seven million Americans received some sort of massage in 2018.

However, massage is more than just a perk you get on cruise ships; massage therapists work with all different types of injuries and conditions and can form a major part of their clients’ healthcare routine.

That’s what makes massage therapy such a rewarding career—and a pretty lucrative career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, massage therapists make about $45,000 on average. The field is expected to grow by 22% between 2019-2029 (way, way higher than the 5% average growth of all occupations).

Since massage therapy can be a form of healthcare, there are licensing requirements you will need to fulfill to ensure the physical safety of your clients and that you are adhering to the professional ethics of the industry. Below is a breakdown of what you will need to know to get started in your new career as a massage therapist!

Becoming a massage therapist includes training, as well as a state license in most cases.  Aspiring massage therapists can also choose to earn a certification in addition to their license. In this article, we explore what massage therapist licenses and certifications are and give a list of several types of massage therapist certifications to consider for your professional development.

What does a massage therapist do?

Massage therapists are a form of healthcare worker; they deal with the body’s soft tissues, encompassing muscle tissue, lymph tissue and connective tissue, to help with general wellness and healing. There are different types of massage which all target different things. For example, a deep-tissue massage is amazing for those who suffer from chronic pain, while a Swedish massage might be better for post-injury treatment or stress reduction.

Massage therapy is not just for relaxation; in fact, many doctors and physicians suggest massage sessions to help with illness and pain, from alleviating side-effects of cancer treatments to easing the pain of childbirth to helping with clinical depression.

Massage Therapist Skills & Competencies

Massage therapy is a distinct field that calls for a combination of soft (people) skills and physical skills. Massage therapists should know how to interact with customers who are in pain, while also remembering their training as they apply massage therapy. Given below are some of the skills massage therapists need:

Customer Service: 

Massage therapists need to build rapport and communicate with others with a high measure of patience and compassion.

Dexterity: 

Using your arms, hands, and fingers, you will need to be able to complete a great deal with slight, acute motions. You need to be fully mindful of your actions during a massage therapy session so that you can find points of tension and properly apply pressure.

Physiology: 

All massage therapists should know what is inside the body. Physiology indicates to the functioning of organs and tissue inside the body, including diseases that attack organs (including the skin) or injuries that have direct and indirect effects on all the parts of the body.

Kinesiology: 

Beyond identifying all the parts of the human body, kinesiology is the study of how these body parts move and interact. You will mostly be working with patients that have recurring injuries as a result of certain kinds of motion and impact. Your job will mostly include advising these patients on how to properly stretch or adjust their form so that these injuries are less frequent.

Physical Stamina: 

Squeezing and kneading muscles for several hours at a time is very taxing on your hands and fingers. Thus, massage therapists must develop significant physical stamina.

Massage Therapist Responsibilities

Here are examples of responsibilities from real massage therapist resumes denoting typical tasks they are likely to perform in their roles.

  • Management of employees and office, administer payroll.
  • Management of a high-volume caseload and organize the daily schedules of other LMT and clients.
  • To Work in a professional center performing massage therapy, energy therapies, hot stone therapy, and reiki.
  • Specialization in Swedish, deep tissue, prenatal, sports, reflexology and hot stone massage incorporating integrated technique and style.
  • To Perform massage therapy and Reiki on palliative care patients
  • To Provide massage therapy in various therapeutic settings including several chiropractic offices, in-home appointment (s) and at charity/sponsored events.
  • Starting as student, hired on as CMT and promoted to manager.
  • To Perform Swedish, deep tissue, seat massage and acupressure techniques on walk-in patients at school clinic
  • To Recruit, interview, hire, and train facility LMT employees according to license, policy, and procedures.
  • To Administer massage and body care by utilizing various treatments such as deep tissue, Swedish, hot stone, and pre-natal.
  • Handling emergency situations with violent patients.
  • To Provide therapeutic massage, reflexology and relate services to enhance customer health and wellness
  • Foot Reflexology demonstrating acupressure on certain areas of the feet for relief and relaxation.
  • To Perform therapeutic massage to chiropractic and non-chiropractic patients to help correct postural dysfunctions, improve physical function and injury prevention education.
  • To Practice excellent HIPPA rules and regulations.
  • Volunteering in chair massages as a group for the company @ Summerfest grounds.
  • Working with emotionally disturb adolescents who are in crisis.

Why become a massage therapist?

The main reason is because you want to help people; you want to help them reduce pain; you want to help them destress and cope with anxiety; you want to help them through rehabilitation after an injury or an illness; you want to use your skills and training to make their lives better and easier. Massage therapy is all about providing a warm, positive and sensitive environment for healing, and by delivering quality massages, you could literally be changing someone’s life. Not to mention you may build lasting relationships with your clients, which can be meaningful in its own way. 

Massage therapy is a growing field 

On the practical side, the massage therapy field is growing as of now, which means job opportunities will also be on the rise and certified massage therapists are in demand. 

Flexibility is what most massage therapists will focus on as a large benefit of the profession; you have the ability to cater your work schedule to accommodate your life schedule and work as much or as little as you choose. You can establish your own business, or, if you’d rather have a more formal day job, there are options for that as well in a hotel or spa or other businesses that will likely also result in employee benefits and paid time off. It is one of a handful of professions that permits for both full-time salaried employment options as well as freelance/self-employment

Massage therapist specialties

The massage industry has different types of specializations to focus your areas of study. Depending on the type of clients you want to work with and techniques you prefer can influence what specialty you choose to pursue. Other types of massage therapist specialties include:

  • Bioenergetics: 

Bioenergetics is a therapy that relieves stress by applying bodywork and psychotherapeutic techniques.

  • Breema: 

Breema aims on balancing energy in the mind with the body through using nurturing touches and supported postures.

  • Chair massage: 

The chair massage specialty gives clients back, neck and arm massages from a chair.

  • Craniosacral therapy: 

Craniosacral therapy is a type of manual therapy that applies light touch to manipulate the spine and head.

  • Cupping therapy: 

Cupping therapy utilizes heated cups to apply suction to the skin to facilitate healing in the blood flow.

  • Lomi lomi massage: 

This type of massage uses the forearms and hands to create wave motions on clients and enhance free flow in the body.

  • Polarity therapy: 

Polarity therapy utilizes stretching and bodywork to address energy imbalances in the mind and body.

  • Shiatsu: 

Shiatsu applies deep pressure on specific parts of the body using fingers and palms to relieve areas of pain.

  • Trigger point massage: 

As the name suggests, a trigger-point massage is best suited for those who have specific issues or conditions, such as chronic pain. Areas of tightness in the muscle tissues are called as trigger points and can cause serious pain. By relieving these trigger points, you will reduce that pain. This kind of massage combines deep pressure with more gentle and relaxing movements.Trigger point massage uses deep pressure on tender muscles to influence healing and eliminate pain in an area.

  • Reflexology

This is a type of massage that consists of applying different amounts of pressure to the hands, feet and ears. It is rooted in a theory that believes those body parts are connected to specific organs and body systems. It was developed as a main component to ancient Chinese medicine and is connected to the idea of qi (pronounced “chee” in English) which they believe flows through every human. Stress causes your qi to get blocked, and that imbalance can lead to illness or injury.

  • Hot Stone Massage

A hot stone massage is mainly for clients who suffer from muscle pain and tension. This is a therapeutic massage, similar to a Swedish massage, except the massage therapist uses heated stones in addition to your hands. The heat improves blood flow and eases muscle tension.

  • Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy massages also comprises an emotional healing component, not just physical. This type of massage is intended to boost the mood of your client, reduce anxiety, release muscle tension and pain and can also help reduce symptoms of depression. These massages aggregate soft pressure with the use of essential oils (so this will not be ideal for everyone, especially those who are sensitive to scents). Distinct essential oils will help with different issues, so make sure to do thorough research on this.

  • Sports massage

Sports massage is best for clients who have repetitive stress injuries from physical activity or just any repeated activity. This kind of massage can also be done preventatively, for those who are prone to injuries. This may be a full-body massage or one pinpointed on a specific problem area. The severity and placement of the injury will change how deep you go and the amount of pressure you use.

  • Prenatal massage

Prenatal massage uses mild pressure to work on the  back and legs, hips, and other areas that pregnancy can impact. It helps to release muscle tension and helps to reduce aches and pains that come along with growing a human life.

There are different other areas of massage therapy study as well, so there is no shortage of paths to take when looking to advance your training.

Steps to Becoming a Licensed Massage Therapist

Step 1: Make sure this career goes with your career expectations and goals. 

The role of a massage therapist can vary widely depending on your specialty, but you will mostly be working closely with clients to understand their medical histories and symptoms; using your hands, fingers, and arms to manipulate the body’s muscles and soft tissue; and offering guidance to patients relating to posture, gait, sleep, strength, and relaxation. Your salary as a massage therapist can vary depending on where you live and the type of specialty massage work you do. A significant factor for massage therapists who work for themselves is the time you choose to work. If you are charging by the hour, your salary  varies based on the number of clients you see.

Step 2 :Find a program that meets your state’s requirements.

Every state has its own professional guidelines for massage therapy practitioners. Before you go for a program, find out what is required by the state in which you want to practice, and make sure you meet the prerequisites for the program.

Step 3 :Complete a massage therapy program

Prospective massage therapists must complete a certificate or diploma degree program from an accredited school approved by the state. During studies, future massage therapists may take coursework in medical terminology,  massage ethics,  body mechanics,anatomy, and physiology.

Step 4 :Complete practical requirements

Every state has a requirement for the number of hours of hands-on experience massage students must have before they can obtain their license. This can be attained through an internship and/or working at a school’s massage clinic.

Step 5 : Pass the licensing examination

After completing the massage therapy education course, a licensing exam is required. In some scenarios, massage school graduates take a specialized exam created by the state. Apart from that , states require completion of the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). The MBLEx, which is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB), is a 100-question test that should be completed in just under 2 hours. Areas that are included in the exam include ethics, client assessments, kinesiology, and the physiological effects of massage.

Step 6 :Apply for a state license

Prospective massage therapists should put in an application and provide proof that they have met the requirements for a license. Those who want to take a massage therapy career can find information about each state’s licensing requirements on the American Massage Therapy Association’s website.

Step 7 :Complete a certification

A certification—which is earned by completing a specific number of clinical hours and an examination—is not necessarily required to get a massage therapy license, but it can make the process easier in some cases.

Other massage therapy certifications can be gained in veterinary massage, palliative care, sports massage, spa management, and clinical rehabilitative message.

What is a license for a massage therapist?

A license for a massage therapist is a state-issued license that permits processionals to practice massage therapy on patients. Massage therapists complete it prior to beginning their careers. A massage therapist license encompases an approved licensing exam that tests individuals on the following topics:

  • Massage therapy ethics
  • Anatomy, kinesiology and physiology
  • Client assessment
  • Massage therapy history
What are the licensing requirements for a massage therapist?

Many states require individuals to have a license to practice massage therapy. This ensures clients that the massage therapist has got specific requirements as posted by the state regulatory board. The requirements for massage therapist licensing varies depending on state. To find your state’s requirements,visit the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) website. The professionals must complete between 500 and 1,000 hours of training from a board-approved massage school. Other states may require additional training, such as taking a first aid class or becoming CPR certified . After completing education, prospective massage therapists take their state’s exam to get licensed.

Seven types of massage therapist certifications and their requirements

Massage therapist certifications aid professionals increase their knowledge and skill set. Given below is a list of massage therapist certificates to consider earning:

1. Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB)

The Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB) is the biggest voluntary credential for massage professionals. Some benefits of the title include attracting more clients, gaining credibility and becoming more versatile.

To become board certified, you should graduate from a National Certification Board in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) assigned school and pass the board certification exam. The exam consists of questions on applied science, massage techniques, professionalism, ethics and law and business practices. You should also pass a criminal background check, verify your current massage therapy state license and agree to abide by the NCBTMB standards and code of ethics.

2. Stone Massage Therapist certification

Massage therapists may get the Stone Massage Therapist certification to specialize in hot stone therapy. The program teaches the benefits and contraindications, care and usage of materials and basic protocols. Students learn about the effects of cold and hot stones on the body.After completion of their training, they take a multiple-choice exam and receive a certification if they pass.

3. Certification Exam for Structural Integration (CESI)

The Certification Exam for Structural Integration (CESI) is a course that works to maintain the ethical standards of practice for practitioners in structural integration. Structural integration is a kind of bodywork that focuses on fascia, or the connected tissue of the body. This kind of manual therapy relieves individuals of pain and provides them with comfort. The Certification Board for Structural Integration (CBSI) provides this program and an exam for massage therapists to take.

4. Medical Massage Therapy certification

The Medical Massage Therapy certification consists of multiple classes focusing on different parts of the body. Medical massage therapy is a kind of remedy for those experiencing pain from injuries or illnesses. It applies corrective and restorative techniques on patients. To get this certification, complete 600 hours of supervised instruction and pass an exam.

5. Sports Massage certification

The Sports Massage certification teaches massage therapists techniques and applications to use it when you are working with athletes. Offered by the AMTA, this 6-course class examines the science and settings of sports massage. It provides an overview for entry-level massage therapists and refreshes those who have more experience. The Sports Massage certification consists of a hands-on workshop and certification exam. Requisites for this certification include graduation from an entry-level massage therapy school and proof of your current state or provincial licensure or certification by the NCBTMB. It can also be helpful to have a background in physiology, research and anatomy.

6. Scandinavian Mobilization Therapy certification

The Scandinavian Mobilization Therapy certification gives advanced training for manual therapists. This includes chiropractic, osteopathic, naturopathic, medical, physical, occupational and massage therapists. Scandinavian mobilization therapy gives restorative and corrective movement to joint structures and soft tissues that may have lost traditional function after experiencing an illness or injury. The certification involves multi-level training and exams.

7. Zero Balancing Certification Program

The Zero Balancing Certification Program provides students experience working with body structure and energy through touch. It aids students to deepen their skills and gain access to mentorship and community. To become a certified zero balancer (CZB), complete 100 course hours. This can include one-on-one touch feedback and other activities.

How much does it cost to become a licensed massage therapist?

The cost of licensure in massage therapy comes from 3 main sources: your education program, the cost of exams, and the cost of the license itself.

Like any schooling or training program, massage therapy education varies in cost, depending on where and what you’re studying. Certificate programs tend to start around $4,000 to $6,000, while associate degree programs can be from $10,000 and $25,000. You will also need to pay for any books or materials, which can cost anywhere from $1,300.

The prices may look high, but most massage training programs will offer some sort of financial aid, so be sure to look over all your options!After completing your training, you will need to pay an application and administrative fee to take the MBLEx, which is $265. The FSMTB also provides an official MBLEx study guide for about $30, which is not required but can be a valuable resource.Once you have passed your exam, you’re ready to register with your state’s Massage Therapist’s Board. Licensing fees vary by state, but almost all states require you to renew your license timelly. For example, New Hampshire licensing costs $110 and requires an annual renewal.

If you decide to run your own clinic or work as an independent contractor, you will also want to get small business insurance. 

All in all, you are looking at around a minimum of $4, 300 to finance your new career path. A heavy investment, but worth it if massage therapy is your passion!

How long does it take to become a massage therapist? 

Well, regarded massage therapists will receive a 1 or 2 year diploma in a licensed massage therapy program.

During your massage therapy training, you will learn research and evidence-based information that is upto the national standards. Topics you might encounter include anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, general principles and techniques, first aid, orthopedic assessment and clinical massage treatments.

Another aspect of a massage therapy career many do not take into account is the business side of things. Many massage therapists are self-employed and take roles from numerous different companies and clients. So, your massage therapy program will also likely go over the basics of owning your own business and what comes along with that, comprising learning management concepts, how to deal with any legal issues you may encounter and how to document your incoming and outgoing finances to help you when tax time rolls around.

Depending on which province you are in, you might have to take an entry-to-practice examination, which tests competency, knowledge, skill, safety and professionalism in the practice of massage therapy. Exam consists of both written and practical components.

10 Best Massage Therapy Schools in the US
  • 1. Parker University School of Massage Therapy (Dallas, TX)

Parker University offers a top-rated Massage Therapy Certification at its Dallas campus. Also, if students elect to take a few general education courses as well, they can also graduate with an Associate’s of Applied Science. Students have 600 hours of hands-on training, ensuring they are prepared for careers as massage therapists after graduation.

Students at Parker receive a well-rounded education along with many opportunities for hands-on learning. For example, students hone their skills in using massage to relieve pain and stress and to help clients in recovering after injuries. Furthermore, Parker’s faculty also assists students in developing their business goals,in a way the school ensures its graduates are ready for successful careers in the healthcare industry. 

  • 2. Miami Dade College (Miami, FL)

Miami Dade Community College provides a massage therapy program on its Medical Campus. Specifically, students can get a Career Technical Certificate in massage therapy while studying techniques like deep tissue and sports massage. Also, they can choose between traditional and accelerated tracks depending on their previous education and experience level.

However, the Miami Dade curriculum is very challenging. Therefore, the school recommends that students attend class full-time, as then they tend to be more successful. In addition, if students do not have at least an associate’s degree, they should pass the Test of Adult Basic Education before starting the program. This exam helps the program know that students can thrive in this rigorous curriculum that cmprises lectures mixed with clinical opportunities at the Miami Dade Medical Campus.

  • 3. National Holistic Institute Emeryville Massage School (Emeryville, CA)

The National Holistic Institute is wholly dedicated to training massage therapists. It is also one of the largest massage therapy colleges in the country, with 10 campuses spread throughout California. In fact, it was also the state’s first massage therapy school that was nationally accredited. Students can make a choice between an 8-month Massage Therapy Training Program or the Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Program for advanced practitioners. Since the institute is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, students may also apply for federal financial aid.

The instructors at NHI are known for incorporating different teaching styles into their curriculum because they understand that different students learn differently. And as a result of their high standards of teaching, over 88% of their graduates go on to work in the field as massage therapists. 

  • 4. New York College of Health Professions (Muttontown, NY)

The New York College of Health Professions is a leader in holistic healthcare education since the 1980s. Moreover, the college is the only private, non-profit institution of its kind in NYC that was institutionally accredited. The school focuses training, community service, and research alike, so students get a balanced education. Also, students can earn an Associate’s degree in Occupational Studies that make them eligible to sit for the Massage Board licensing exam in New York. The program may be completed in 20-24 months, depending on whether students attend full-time or part-time.

In addition to training in traditional Asian Bodywork and European Swedish massage , students also learn about holistic health care. Specifically, the program teaches about the connections between massage and maintaining certain health conditions like neuromuscular diseases and even asthma and diabetes.

  • 5. Northwestern Health Sciences University (Bloomington, MN)

Northwestern Health Science University provides a comprehensive and evidence-based education in natural healthcare. Massage therapy students have the opportunity to learn alongside students studying related disciplines like chiropractic studies, Chinese medicine, and acupuncture. Furthermore, NWHSU teaches a collaborative approach to patient-focused health, providing students the skills they need to work with teams of other providers in healthcare facilities and hospitals. Specifically, the NWHSU massage therapy program focuses on natural and drug-free care that is non-invasive. 

In addition to classroom instruction, students may apply their new skills at student and public clinics. Although health practitioners givesupervision, students learn by doing while treating actual patients. In fact, NWHSU students receive an average of 2 to 3 times the number of clinical hours they need to sit for board certification exams. 

  • 6. National University of Health Sciences (Lombard, IL)

Since 1906, National University is educating students in integrative and natural medicine, striking a balance between the science and art of patient-focused care. Also, the school was the first to publish peer-reviewed scientific journals in natural health care. In addition to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in the health sciences, National University also provides a massage therapy certification program and an Associate’s degree in Applied Science in Massage Therapy. These accredited programs teach students in Swedish and sports massage as well as specific techniques like neuromuscular facilitation. 

Being a leader in healthcare education, National University has high academic and admission standards for potential students. Also, the school keeps student-to-faculty ratios low at about 6 to 1. And what is more, about 90% of National University students receive some sort of financial aid, helping to keep education costs lower. 

  • 7. Lincoln Technical Institute (Somerville, MA)

Lincoln Tech is part of the Lincoln Group of Schools, an institution that is training students in a variety of medical and technical fields for more than 70 years at campuses across the country. Thus, students who choose Lincoln Tech become part of a network of professionals helping students get the practical knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen field. At the Somerville campus, students may study to become massage therapists as well as other healthcare careers like medical and dental assistants. 

The school knows that for Massachusetts students, the need for massage therapists in that state is very strong. So, students pursuing a Massage Therapist and Bodywork Technician Diploma are provided the foundations they need to meet that demand. By a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on learning, instructors teach anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and deep tissue therapy along with medical ethics. 

  • 8. Myotherapy College of Utah (Millcreek, UT)

Myotherapy College has been training students with a clinical approach to massage therapy since 1987. The instructors at the Myotherapy College know that the act of massage can be a form of self-empowerment. Thus, they teach students to recognize the associations between the mind and body. Also, students are encouraged to understand why their clients are seeking out a massage in the first place, which may help improve a client’s overall healing experience. 

Students at MCU learn the anatomy of the human body, including how muscles are connected to the nervous, muscular and skeletal systems. The college keeps class sizes small so all students have ample one-on-one time with their instructors. And students have many opportunities to hone their massage skills at the in-house clinic where they work with real clients with the assistance of established professionals. 

  • 9. Southern California University of Health Sciences (Whittier, CA)

At SCU’s School of Professional Studies, students can get in a 7-month, 13-course program to earn a certificate in massage therapy, which is approved by the California Massage Therapy Council and enables graduates to sit for board licensing exams. The curriculum is a combination of lecture courses and lab hours; in fact, over half of the program is devoted to hands-on experiences. Also, students must take a clinical clerkship before graduation for even more practical learning in examining and caring for patients. 

Through this program, students gain basic science knowledge of anatomy and physiology, master massage and bodywork techniques, and understand how massage therapy can be integrated into other self-care practices. Classes are kept in the evenings and on weekends, allowing students to continue to work during the day if needed.

  • 10. Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (Tempe, AZ)

The Southwest Institute of Healing Arts has been training students for almost 30 years and offers a variety of degrees and courses. SWIHA has 2 tracks: the Therapeutic Track or the Advanced Polarity Specialist. Diplomas are awarded after 750 to 1,000 hours of hands-on instruction. Also, students can also pursue an Associate’s Degree in Occupational Studies. But regardless of which path students opt, they will learn all of the core skills needed for classically trained massage therapists. 

Classes are flexible, and students may choose between morning and evening courses. Also, classes start in both the summer and the fall. SWIHA even allows potential students to sit in on classes for up to four hours to see if education in massage therapy is right for them.

Work Environment

Mostly massage therapists are self-employed. That means they can work out of their home, make house calls, or work part-time at a doctor’s office (often alongside chiropractors). Also massage therapists work at healthcare offices, spas, fitness centers, and resorts.

Work Schedule

Full-time massage therapists can see as many as five patients each day for sessions lasting an hour to an hour and a half. For most people, it is very strenuous. That is why if you choose to be a massage therapist, a key part of your training will be learning how to pace yourself and developing physical endurance while on the job.

How much does a Massage Therapist make?

Massage therapists make $47,235 per year on average, or $22.71 per hour, in the United States. Massage therapists on the lower end of that spectrum, the bottom 10% to be exact, make roughly $22,000 a year, while the top 10% makes $102,000.

Location affects how much a massage therapist can expect to make. Massage therapists make the most in Alaska, California, Oregon, Hawaii, and Nevada.

FAQs

  • Do I require insurance to be a massage therapist?

Some states want massage therapists to get individual liability insurance, even if their employer has coverage.

  • Am I needed to complete continuing education classes?

In order to keep a massage license current, professionals should complete a certain number of continuing education credits at schools approved by their state. Topics may have business, general massage, ethics, research, or marketing. Some continuing education classes are also available online through the American Massage Therapy Association. Also, the organization provides information on schools where students can take these courses in their local area.

  • Should I specialize in a specific type of massage?

Some massage therapists learn a specific type of massage to help them build their practice. There are different massage modalities to choose from, including the following:

  • Deep tissue massage
  • Acupressure
  • Stone therapy
  • Reflexology
  • Swedish massage
  • Shiatsu massage
  • Reiki massage
  • Therapeutic touch massage
  • Pregnancy massage
  • Sports massage
  • Do I require a business license?

Massage therapists who want to have their own business are required to get licensed with their state.