How to Become a Massage Therapist

If you are interested in how to become a massage therapist, then you have made a good choice.  In the current economic situation, when the number of jobs has been on a steady decline, it is important to identify some career prospects that can help you make a living.  Not only is it a rewarding and fulfilling career in that you will be able to help people, it is expected to grow over the next several years.

Even with the current state of the economy, the massage therapy industry is still holding steady.  As a matter of fact, because of the bad economy, more people are stressed out, so they turn to massage therapy for stress reduction and relaxation.  Not only does massage alleviate stress, it can also relieve anxiety, depression, migraines and high blood pressure.  And it is fairly affordable.  Even doctors, acknowledging the benefits of massage therapy, are recommending their patients to go get massages to help reduce stress and facilitate recovery.  If you are wondering how to become a massage therapist, the follow information will help you get started.

First, you need to find out what the licensing requirements are for where you live.  There is no national standard for the massage therapy profession yet.  The requirements vary depending on your jurisdiction.  In some places, the state regulates the profession, while in other locations, local municipalities have their own regulations and requirement for a massage therapy license.  The requirement for a massage license is anywhere from 500 hours to 1000 hours.  The requirements for licensing can be found here

Next, you need to find an accredited massage therapy school that fulfills the requirements of your state or city.  The school should be accredited by a national organization like the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) or Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET).  You should check the school’s curriculum to see if will suit your particular preferences.

After you are done with your training and have received your degree or certificate, you will need to get certified to become a massage therapist before you can practice massage.  Depending on where you live you will need to submit your application, with proof of your eligibility and application fees to take an exam.  Some jurisdiction may even require you to submit fingerprints with your application.

If you pass your exam and meet all your requirements, then congratulations!  You have now become a massage therapist and can start practicing massage.