Massage therapy can help relieve pain, ease stress, heal injuries, and improve general health. It’s important to find a therapist who understands your specific needs.
Massage therapy is considered a health care profession and it can help improve overall physical, mental and emotional well-being. It can be used as a supplement to traditional medical treatment or as an adjunctive treatment. It can also be a useful tool for pain relief and it has been shown to alleviate the symptoms of chronic conditions such as low back pain, arthritis, asthma and depression. Contact Massage Therapist Tulsa for specialized services.
This career offers a flexible schedule and opportunities to work with a variety of people. Massage therapists can also obtain advanced training and certification in specific massage or bodywork modalities such as Thai massage, medical massage, pregnancy massage, lymphatic massage (MLD), reflexology, Shiatsu, chair massage and sports massage. Some therapists choose to specialize in serving specific client populations, such as geriatric clients or trauma survivors.
Working as a massage therapist can be physically demanding, but it can also be rewarding. Many therapists find it gratifying to see the positive effect that their work has on others, such as helping relieve the pain of a disabled veteran or relieving stress and anxiety for a cancer patient.
Massage therapists are in high demand and have multiple options for employment, including private practice, franchised clinics, spas and medical facilities. Self-employment can yield higher earnings, but it requires a significant time commitment for marketing and other non-billable tasks. Massage therapists are also required to maintain their credentials by participating in continuing education classes and workshops.
Massage therapists can also diversify their careers by moving into the related health, wellness or fitness sectors and combining roles such as health coach with massage therapy. In addition, they can expand their earning potential by offering services such as incorporating hot stones or aromatherapy into their treatments.
Requirements
A massage therapist needs to be licensed in order to work professionally. This process typically involves passing an exam and completing continuing education requirements. In addition, the massage therapist must abide by a professional code of ethics and maintain a high standard of cleanliness and safety.
To begin the licensing process, massage therapists must complete a program that has been approved by the State Education Department. These programs must provide at least 1000 hours of instruction. Many of these hours are spent in practical application, while others include coursework and training in subjects such as massage theory and technique, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and business management.
The curriculum also includes a requirement to complete a course in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). Additionally, massage therapists must pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) before they can be licensed. Applicants can prepare for the MBLEx by taking a series of practice tests or by studying with an approved MBLEx study guide.
Individuals who have completed an acceptable massage therapy program in another state, country, or territory may be eligible for licensure by endorsement. These individuals must have worked as a massage therapist for at least two years.
Unlike other health care professions, massage therapists do not need a physician’s prescription in order to treat patients. However, a patient’s physician or other health care practitioner may make a referral or consult with the massage therapist regarding treatment options. The massage therapist should be aware of any condition or injury that could interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment and should communicate this to the client before each session.
Training
If you’re considering becoming a massage therapist, it’s important to choose a program that offers the right mix of academics and hands-on learning. Many states require a minimum number of hours of training, an exam to demonstrate competency and continuing education to stay licensed. You can find programs through community colleges, vocational and career training schools, independent schools, and some universities.
The curricula vary, but most programs include courses in anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, massage application, medical terminology, and business management. Some also offer specialty certifications in particular modalities or areas of study. For example, an aromatherapy certificate can help you incorporate this therapy into your practice.
It’s best to look for a program that’s accredited by an agency such as the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) or the National Association of Career Schools and Colleges. These agencies will certify that the school meets certain standards, and students can apply for financial aid. Narrowing down your school options starts with looking at their website to read any available reviews and check out the institution’s exam pass rates and other data.
Once you’ve completed your studies, you’ll need to pass the Massage Therapy Licensure Examination (MBLEx) to become a licensed massage therapist. New York State Department of Education (NYSED) will then review your credentials and let you know if there are any educational deficiencies that you need to make up. It’s also a good idea to join a professional organization to keep up with industry developments and expand your network of resources and peers. These groups can also support your business and prevent practitioner injuries. For example, the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals has a member benefits program that provides discounted products and liability insurance to its members.
Licenses
Most states and some certifying bodies require Massage Therapists to pass a licensing exam to practice. These exams test for entry-level competence, ensuring you’ve completed your education, passed a background check and met other minimum requirements. Some also test your knowledge of the profession. Most state licenses and certifying bodies require a certain number of continuing education hours to maintain your licensure. It’s important to keep track of the expiration dates and set reminders for yourself.
Most of the exam questions are related to the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, including muscle, nerve, bone and ligament damage; pain, swelling, spasms, congestion and circulatory problems. Other areas tested include the modalities of trigger point therapy, myofascial release and deep tissue massage. A total of 20% of the exam questions are dedicated to Eastern methods (meridians, Asian theory and Ayurvedic techniques).
All applicants must provide proof that they have successfully completed a first aid and CPR course that meets or exceeds the current standard set by the state board. In addition, a background check will be conducted and you will need to have liability insurance with coverage of not less than $1 million per occurrence and a minimum annual aggregate of $3 million.
If you’re a licensed Massage Therapist from another country, state or territory that meet specific education and examination requirements, you may be eligible to apply for licensure by endorsement. You’ll need to submit your professional license from the jurisdiction where you’re currently licensed, a letter from the registrar and transcripts of your education, MBLEx or NCETMB scores and a letter from the Massage Therapy Association in Iowa. You must have at least two years of massage experience to qualify for the licensure by endorsement process.
Certifications
Most states require that massage therapists complete a minimum number of training hours and pass a state-mandated exam, known as the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). These requirements also include passing a background check, being at least 18 years old, and taking a CPR certification course. Most programs combine in-class studying with hands-on practice to give students the practical experience they need to start their careers.
When researching schools, look for accreditation from the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation. Also, check out a school’s website and read any available reviews to help you make an informed decision. A good program should offer a wide range of subjects, including anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology; modalities; client assessment and treatment; and business practices. It should also cover topics such as the lymphatic, circulatory, digestive, respiratory, skeletal, and endocrine systems.
Some massage therapists choose to get certified in a specific modality, such as massage cupping, reiki, or structural integration. These options can increase your credibility as a practitioner and allow you to offer these services to clients.