The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Massage Therapists. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
LINKS TO MASSAGE THERAPY DIRECTORY PAGES
WHAT MASSAGE THERAPISTS DO
Massage therapists treat clients by using touch to manipulate the muscles and other soft tissues of the body. Therapists relieve pain, help heal injuries, improve circulation, relieve stress, increase relaxation, and aid in the general wellness of clients.
Job Duties
PAY
National Average Annual Pay (2019): $47,180
Top 5 States
1. Alaska
$77,080
2. Washington
$65,770
3. Oregon
$62,130
4. Hawaiʻi
$59,770
5. Massachusetts
$57,530
Bottom 5 States
50. Louisiana
$28,790
49. Mississippi
$31,770
48. South Dakota
$32,620
47. Georgia
$35,240
46. Alabama
$35,650
STEPS TO BECOME A MASSAGE THERAPIST
To become a massage therapist, you first need to enroll in a massage therapy program. Programs are usually at least 500 hours long but can be more than 1,000 hours. Programs cover anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, business management, and ethics.
The next step is to get certified and get a massage therapy license in your state. Most states require massage therapists to graduate from an approved massage therapy program and take an exam. The massage therapy exam may be unique to your state or the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) licensure exam, offered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards.
1. Attend a Massage Therapy Program
Programs usually require at least 500 hours of study and training. Others require 1,000 or more hours.
2. Get Certified
Most states require massage therapists to get licensed and certified. The exam may vary by state, or be the national MBLEx licensure exam.
3. Get a Job as a Massage Therapist
This can take 1 month to 1 year.
QUALITIES OF MASSAGE THERAPISTS
Physical Stamina
Massage therapists may give several treatments during a workday and have to stay on their feet throughout massage appointments.
Communication Skills
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Decision-Making Skills
Massage therapists must evaluate each client’s needs and recommend the best treatment on the basis of that person’s needs.
Physical Strength & Dexterity
Massage therapists must be strong and able to exert pressure through a variety of movements of the arms and hands when manipulating a client’s muscles.
Empathy
Massage therapists must give clients a positive experience, which requires building trust between therapist and client. Making clients feel comfortable is necessary for therapists to expand their client base.
Integrity
Massage therapists often have access to client information such as medical histories. Therefore, they must be trustworthy and protect the privacy of their clients.
Time- Management Skills
Massage therapists must tailor an appointment to a client’s specific needs. They must use their appointment time wisely to help each client accomplish his or her goals.