A Massage Therapist Certification - 500+ Hours of Coursework is Needed to Practice in Most States

Much like physicians and nurses, most manner of medical, clinical, and therapy providers are required to hold some sort of state license or certification. It is no different for masseurs in most of the states. While the average individual is aware that every doctor actively practicing in the U.S. needs to be licensed by the American Medical Association or AMA, most individuals are not familiar with the requirements and regulations which masseurs and masseuses need to follow.

The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, or NCBTMB, currently administers two certification exams which are recognized by 37 states. In addition to passing one of these tests, it is necessary for the certified massage therapist to have at least 500 hours of coursework. The coursework covers a variety of topics and information such as anatomy, physiology, ethics, pathology and more.

Even though 37 states require an individual to hold a certification and pass a background check, many local governments may have additional requirements above and beyond that of the state. Some states, however, do not as yet require massage therapists to be certified by the NCBTMB. Again, even in those few states with no requirements, local jurisdictions within those state may require certification.

Many massage therapists who have been practicing for years may not need to fulfill every requirement. Depending upon whether a new law is passed, some masseurs or masseuses can be "grandfathered" in instead. For those massage professionals which do need to hold certifications, much like doctors, continuing education is required to maintain their certification or re-taking the certification test every four years. Often times should a massage therapist move to another state, completing the coursework needs to be accomplished again.

There are numerous types of massage therapy and many considerations that a massage therapist must address when working with a client. Circulatory issues, nervous system issues, the lymphatic system, pregnancy, and many more come into play. As a client, you would certainly want someone who is qualified and certified as a therapist, rather than an inexperienced person who may endanger your health.

The purpose of passing the NCBTMB certification requirements is to uphold the standards and legitimize the professional of a massage therapist. By requiring continued education in the field of massage, a therapist shows that they are dedicated to their clients' well-being and professional in their conduct. These standards are set in place to help ensure that the client will receive the attention of a professional and qualified massage therapist.