Massage therapists are highly educated health care professionals trained to help relieve the symptoms of most illnesses and injuries. Massage therapists obtain their degrees from accredited universities and several years of training in specialized programs before practicing their profession. There are a variety of schools with varying program requirements, but all massage therapists must meet specific needs.
First and foremost, massage therapists must be licensed by their state as massage therapy professionals. They usually need at least an associate’s degree, although some states will accept bachelor’s degrees for licensure. This means that you will employ your therapist; however, they should meet a minimum standard of education. Many states require experience with massage therapy to obtain licensure, and many times there is a requirement for continuing education courses or specific courses depending on what type of license is obtained.
Also, massage therapists must be able to run a legitimate business. This means they will purchase insurance covering uninsured accidents, employee medical benefits, and workers’ compensation. Each state’s requirements are different as to who you will be legally able to hire as a massage therapist.
Finally, massage therapists must meet licensing requirements in their particular state to practice their profession. Some states require continuing education courses and pass stringent exams to obtain continued licensure. Other states only require passing the state’s examination, which includes specific courses such as anatomy, physiology, and chemistry. Some states may require a college degree from an accredited institution of higher learning; however, some states waive this requirement for massage therapists with specific experience or education levels depending on the state’s rules and regulations.
You may work for yourself or a corporation that licenses spa treatments in Harrisburg as employees or independent contractors with company-paid benefits. In either case, you will most likely be responsible for hiring your staff of massage therapists and overseeing their training, supervision, and recordkeeping responsibilities.
In conclusion, there are various ways to become a massage therapist. Some states, cities, and establishments require licensure for all massage therapists. Certain massage therapy schools in other states may offer optional certification for massage therapists licensed in another state or country. Many employers will provide you with training and supervision as part of their benefits package if you’re hired as an employee in the massage field.
