A massage therapy career could be a rewarding way to make a living by helping others achieve physical and mental well-being. Whether you’re drawn to the healing aspects of massage therapy or looking for a flexible, fulfilling career, becoming a massage therapist can be an excellent choice. But there are a few things to consider before you get started, like the education required, work settings, and skills needed for success.
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Requirements to be a Massage Therapist
Before starting a career in massage therapy, you should understand the general requirements. Licensing requirements for massage therapists vary by state or country but generally involve a combination of education and passing a licensing exam or a certification exam.
In the U.S., most states require aspiring massage therapists to complete an approved program. Once you’ve completed the necessary education, you will likely need to pass an exam, such as the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). 1 Some states might have additional requirements, like background checks or CPR certification. The best place to start is by thinking about where you want to work as a massage therapist and researching what that state or country requires.
- Other requirements for this career path include:
- Excellent communication skills
- Physical stamina
- A caring, empathetic nature
If this all sounds like a good career path to you still, read on to learn more about the types of massage therapy training and how to make sure you choose the right education program.
Education and Training needed for a career in massage therapy
Formal education and hands-on training are the keys to success for starting your massage therapy career. Most programs offer certificates, diplomas, or associate degrees and typically take 6 months to 2 years to complete, depending on the type of program.
No matter which education program you choose, you should make sure the curriculum includes both theoretical and practical aspects of massage therapy. In massage therapy school, you can learn different massage techniques, like deep tissue massage, sports massage, and Swedish massage. 1 But you should also make sure the curriculum covers:
- Anatomy
- Kinesiology (the study of body movement)
- Ethics
- Physiology
- An externship or clinical practice, where you can apply the skills you have learned in real-world settings
Once you complete your training, you should set aside some time to pass any state or national certification exams you need. The most widely accepted exam in the U.S. is the MBLEx. This exam focuses on your knowledge of:
- Anatomy
- Client assessment
- Professional ethics
Continuing Education and Specializations
Like many career paths, your learning does not end once you get licensed. Many massage therapists take continuing education to keep up to date with industry trends. New research and clinical data are just two things that can influence changes in massage techniques or styles, so it’s important to stay in the know. There are also specializations available within the industry, including:
- Prenatal massage, focused on helping people during pregnancy
- Sports massage, helping athletes prevent and recover from injury
- Medical massage, targeting specific health conditions
- And more
If you’re looking to increase your marketability and potential earnings, a specialization in massage therapy is worth considering. If you’re not sure where to begin, that’s okay. You’ll learn more about what types of specializations you might want to pursue as you gain practice and start working.
Work Settings for Massage Therapists
Massage therapists have a lot of flexibility when it comes to places where they can work. This is a big reason some people could choose this career path. The places you can apply for work after finishing your massage therapy program and becoming licensed include:
- Spas and wellness centers
- Chiropractic or physical therapy offices
- Gym or sports facilities
- Private practices
As you consider if massage therapy is a good career choice, think about where you’d like to work. If a relaxed atmosphere is what you want in a daily workplace, a spa would be a great option. If you want a more structured work schedule and a steady flow of clients, a massage therapy career at a chiropractic office can be a good fit. Some massage therapists choose to open their own private practices, so they can fully control their schedule, clientele, and earnings. It truly is up to you, which is a big reason why many people enter the massage therapist career field!
Is this the career for you?
Choosing a career in massage therapy requires careful consideration of your personal and professional goals. Here are some key questions to ask yourself to decide if massage therapy is a good career option for you:
- Do you enjoy working with people and helping people? If so, massage therapy could be a highly fulfilling career.
- Do you have the physical stamina, or are you willing to train so that you do? Massage therapists spend a lot of time on their feet and use upper body strength to apply massage techniques.
- Are you willing to commit to lifelong learning? Massage therapy, like many other careers, is a changing industry. Staying current on trends and news is important.
- Are you looking for flexibility, with the option to work full- or part-time?
Another thing to consider is your financial expectations. Massage therapists’ earnings vary widely depending on your location, experience, and specialization. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for massage therapists in 2023 was around $55,000.1 However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is an average of ALL massage therapists throughout the country with various backgrounds (where they work, the city/state they live in, how much experience they have, etc.). Be sure to research the job market in your area to make sure you can set realistic financial goals.
A career in massage therapy can be incredibly rewarding. It offers flexibility, personal fulfillment, and opportunities for growth. With the right education and dedication, you can find success in this dynamic and growing field.
Getting started with Dorsey College
If you want to pursue a massage therapy career in Michigan, Dorsey College is here to help you reach those career goals. The Massage Therapy training program aims to teach students the information and skills needed to launch your career. Ready to learn more and get started? Click the button below!
Dorsey College has determined that its Massage Therapy program curriculum is sufficient to fulfill educational requirements for licensure in the State of Michigan only. No educational determinations have been made for any other state, district or US territory in regards to licensure requirements.
