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Information about Massage Therapy Programs
Massage therapists can specialize in over 80 different types of massage, called modalities. Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, acupressure, sports massage, reflexology, and neuromuscular massage are just a few of the many approaches to massage therapy. Most massage therapists specialize in several modalities, which require different techniques.
Massage therapists work by appointment. Before beginning a massage therapy session, therapists conduct an informal interview with the client to find out about the person’s medical history and desired results from the massage. This gives therapists a chance to discuss which techniques could be beneficial to the client and which could be harmful. Because massage therapists tend to specialize in only a few areas of massage, customers will often be referred to or seek a therapist with a certain type of massage in mind. While giving the massage, therapists alter their approach or concentrate on any areas of particular discomfort as necessary.
Education Needed to be a Massage Therapist
In 2007, 38 States and the District of Columbia had laws regulating massage therapy in some way. Most of the boards governing massage therapy in these States require practicing massage therapists to complete a formal education program and pass a national certification examination or a State exam.
Training standards and requirements for massage therapists vary greatly by State and locality. There are roughly 1,500 massage therapy postsecondary schools, college programs, and training programs throughout the country. Massage therapy programs generally cover subjects such as anatomy; physiology, the study of organs and tissues; kinesiology, the study of motion and body mechanics; business; ethics; as well as hands-on practice of massage techniques. Training programs may concentrate on certain modalities of massage. Several programs also provide alumni services such as post-graduate job placement and continuing educational services. Both full- and part-time massage therapy programs are available.
After completion of a training program, many massage therapists opt to take the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB). Many States require that therapists pass this test in order to practice massage therapy. There are many massage therapy schools to consider, so search and find the one that is best for you.
Employment Outlook for Massage Therapists
Employment growth for massage therapists is expected to increase 20 percent from 2006 to 2016, which is faster than average. Also, there will be very good job prospects, particularly for those seeking part-time work. Employment will grow as more consumers learn about the benefits of massage therapy and the demand increases for massage therapists.
Earnings for Massage Therapists
Median wage and salary hourly earnings of massage therapists, including gratuities, were $16.06 in May 2006. The highest 10 percent if massage therapists earned more than $33.83. Generally, massage therapists earn 15 to 20 percent of their income as gratuities.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Massage Therapists, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos295.htm
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