Massage Therapist: How to Become One

Have you ever wondered what a massage therapist does? Massage therapists use body manipulation to give relaxation to the body and even the mind. These therapists target the muscles, joints, connective tissues and even the skin through the use of pressure. The massage can help stimulate healthy functioning of the body. At present, there are a lot of massage styles available and offered to the public. The therapists usually use their hands or elbows but some other styles necessitate the use of foot. Techniques of massage therapy include reflexology, trigger point therapy, Thai and Swedish massage.

So, now you really want to become a massage therapist? You need to know that there are several requirements to become a massage therapist. First, you need a high school diploma. If you already have the first requirement, you can look for a massage therapy school. You need to make sure that your massage school is accredited by Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation. More than 100 massage therapy schools are already accredited by the said organization. Once you have chosen an appropriate school, you need to prepare for the coursework. The school will provide specialized training. You will study anatomy and physiology so will have an extensive knowledge of the human body. You need to know each organ system and tissue plus all their functions. Kinesiology or the science of human movements will also be tackled. This subject will give you the needed knowledge about human motion and the physics of the human body. Pathology, the study and diagnosis of disease, will also be studied. Of course, history and professional ethics will be included in the coursework. Generally, you should be able to get your certificate in less than a year. If you already have a certificate, you can also attend continuing education classes. Associate of Occupational Studies is an example of a degree program that serves as continuing education for massage therapists.

Where will you work? Massage therapists work in different settings. You may choose to work for health clinics, sports centers, nursing homes, spas or hotel. You can also work for Chiropractors or Physical Therapists. One interesting to note is that most massage therapists work in private practice. That means that they are self-employed or independent contractors. If you are interested in becoming self-employed, you need a strong foundation in business. You need to study accounting, finance and even tax laws if you want to start your own business.

Your next question would probably be: Would there be work for me? Yes, of course! This career is forecasted to grow faster in the upcoming years.