Massage Therapy Careers
Are you interested in getting into massage therapy? If so, you are making an excellent choice. There are many wonderful things about working as a massage therapist, including the fact that jobs are widely available. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job growth for massage therapists to grow by as much as 23% from now through 2022. Before getting into a career in massage therapy, however, it is important to keep the following in mind:
What Does a Massage Therapist Do?
A massage therapist will work with clients through touch in order to manipulate tissues in the body. Through a series of motions, these therapists can relieve pain and stress, improve circulation, promote relaxation and rehabilitate injuries. Usually, a massage therapist will specialize in a certain type of massage such as sport massage, deep-tissue massage, Swedish massage or Thai massage. When meeting with clients, massage therapists might use lotions or oils and can use massage chairs or tables. A massage session can last from just a few minutes to over an hour. Generally, massage therapists find work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes and doctor's offices. They will also find work in spas, at resorts, on cruise ships, or even in their own private studio.
How Do I Prepare for a Career in Massage Therapy?
Massage therapists typically need about 500 hours of study before they can become licensed or certified. This will depend on the state, however, and some will require more hours. Courses for massage therapy can be found at community colleges and trade schools. You will find that most of these programs will ensure you have enough classroom experience to become certified based on state requirements. Following a massage therapy course, students will also need to take an exam in order to get a license. This license is required in 44 states as well as in the District of Columbia. Even if your state does not require a license, there may be local regulations requiring licensing, so make sure to do your research.
A career as a massage therapist will help you to make a difference in the lives of others and can be very rewarding. Start today by getting the right education.
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