What Is Massage Therapy
Massage Therapy is a healthcare profession in which the practitioner applies manual techniques, and may apply adjunctive therapies, with the intention of positively affecting the health and well-being of the client.
Therapeutic massage involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasm, and stress and to promote health and wellness.
Massage therapy improves the functioning of the circulatory, lymphatic, muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems and may improve the rate at which the body recovers from injury and illness.
What Is Massage Therapy Exactly
Massage therapy is the systematic manipulation of the bodys muscles and soft tissues for wellness-related purposes, such as relief of pain and tension.
Specific techniques vary widely depending on the massage type, or modality, practiced the most common technique, known as Swedish massage, involves combinations of these basic movements:
Effleurage
Tapotement
Friction
Shaking
Swedish massage can also be called classic massageand despite its name, it did not originate in Sweden. While many textbooks attribute the invention of massage to Peter Henry Ling of Sweden, Lings technique is actually the Swedish Gymnastic Movement System, practiced in the Royal Central Gymnastic Institute he founded, according to Robert Noah Calvert , founder of MASSAGE Magazine and author of The History of Massage .
A technique called the Swedish Movement System, developed by Dutch practitioner Johan Georg Mezger , represents the beginning of Swedish massage therapy as we know it today over the years this term intermingled with Lings and credit for the development fell erroneously to Ling.
Classic, or Swedish, massage is the type of massage most people think of when the term massage therapy is mentioned, and most massage therapy schools teach it as their primary modality.
With that brief history out of the way, lets tackle some of the big questions you might have about getting your new massage therapy career started.
What Will My Massage Therapy Career Be Like
If you work in private practice, you may work alone as an independent contractor or you may choose to have employees.
Either way, you will have complete control over how you work, but be aware that you will also be responsible for making decisions for and funding all aspects of your business, including but not limited to booking and confirming client appointments marketing your services setting prices and collecting client payments renting a space for your business and paying for its utilities hiring, training and firing employees withholding and paying income tax collecting and paying sales tax if you sell retail products handling details of business licensing and permits dealing with laundry and purchasing supplies such as tables, linens, bolsters, lubricants and uniforms.
Choosing to work as an employee may mean not making as much money per massage as an independent contractor, but it also means having many business-related issues and associated expenses handled for you.
As an employee, you may not have control over how many clients you massage each day, the massage techniques and routines you use, marketing tactics, or details such as how you dress or what hours you work.
Many massage therapists choose to work as employees to gain experience and save money before opening up their own private practices. Others may work part-time for an employer while also seeing clients privately in their off hours. Still others build a fulfilling career working for an employer
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Which Bodies Are In Charge Of Accrediting Massage Therapy Programs In Schools
Currently, there are more persons embracing a career in the massage therapy field. This, in turn, has increased the number of schools offering massage therapy programs. However, to get a license to practice, it is of essence that prospective masseurs and masseuses get certified by accredited massage therapy schools.
The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation is a national accrediting agency specifically for the massage therapy field and profession. However, there are also other nationally recognized accrediting agencies that accredit health programs and/or trade schools.
Below is a list of bodies in charge of accrediting massage therapy schools both in the USA and in the world:
Massage Therapy Courses And Licensing Requirements
At the end of the course graduates apply for the licensed Board exam through the Federation of State of Massage Therapy Boards who govern and administer the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination .
In compliance with the FSMTB and the Program approved by the Board of Massage of Florida, students will receive all the education and training necessary in all subject areas of the MBLEx Content Outline from an approved massage therapy education program.
To enroll online click on the following link.
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Columbus State Community College
27343
Massage therapy programs at CSCC are accredited by the State Medical Board of Ohio and requires 40-hours of coursework over 4 semesters. Successful graduates of the program will be qualified to pass the state licensing exam and will be qualified to work in health and fitness environments, including spas, medical offices, and private practices. CSCC also offers certificate in advanced massage therapy and massage therapy entrepreneurship.
- 550 E Spring St, Columbus, Ohio 43215
- http://www.cscc.edu/
Florida Massage Therapy Careers
Average yearly salary for massage therapy in Florida
Florida massage therapists can earn an annual mean wage $38,500 or $18.51 hourly according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020. Growth in the massage therapy field is expected to be approximately 32% by 2026, a faster than average rate compared to other careers in the United States. The BLS reports Florida has the second highest rate of employment for massage therapists in the country.
In addition, the Naples-Marco Island area has the third highest concentration of massage therapy jobs in nation for metro areas, and the West Palm Beach-Boca Raton-Boynton Beach Metro area ranked fifth highest concentration of massage therapy jobs in nation for metro areas. Opportunities for Florida massage therapists include work at arthritis clinics, health resorts and spas, home health care programs, physical therapy clinics and sports medicine centers. As Florida is home to many cruise ship operations, many massage therapists are employed in the cruise industry. Consider these Florida massage schools when deciding where to begin your career exploration.
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Northwestern Health Sciences University In Bloomington Mn
Tuition: $363.00/credit hour
Number of Programs: 3
At Northwestern Health Sciences University, the rigorous massage therapy program explores the art and science of human health and natural, non-invasive, drug-free care. The NWHSU school of massage therapy focuses on the science of massage therapy throughout the curriculum. Courses include anatomy, physiology, nutrition, pathology, and medical terminology, as well as ethics and professionalism,
Here are some interesting facts about the Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington and why you should study here:
- Experience a superior hands-on clinical education.
- Blend science, art, and healing compassion into whole-person care
- It is nationally accredited.
- Gain exposure to integrative healthcare fields.
- Flexible school schedule Day and evening classes available.
- Also, NWHSU graduates receive 2-3 times the minimum clinical hours required of them. This additional experience, in turn, gives them a tremendous advantage when they graduate.
Furthermore, the NHSU Associate of Applied Science or Certificate in Massage Therapy has 3 to 5 trimesters and takes 11½ to 19½ months to complete.
On the other hand, the Certificate in Therapeutic Massage has both full-time & part-time schedules and 3 to 4 trimesters. It takes 11½ to 15½ months to complete.
Meanwhile, the Certificate in Relaxation Massage with full-time & part-time schedules and 2 to 3 trimesters, takes 7½ to 11½ months to complete.
- AAS in Massage Therapy
Accredited Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Schools
There are presently 54 schools, accredited through the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, for potential students of acupuncture and Oriental medicine to choose from. By attending accredited schools, students receive training that enables them to become licensed and legally practice in the majority of states.
Accredited programs include: Master’s degree and Master’s level certificate and diploma programs in acupuncture, and Master’s degree and Master’s level certificate and diploma programs in Oriental medicine with a concentration in both acupuncture and herbal therapies. The Commission also accredits postgraduate doctoral programs, but no accredited schools at this time offer doctoral programs. Learn more here about Acupuncture and Massage College’s oriental medicine program.
Accredited Acupuncture and Oriental medicine schools are somewhat similar in curriculum structure. The main difference being that Oriental medicine programs offer an extensive educational component in Chinese herbal therapy. Due to this additional component, Oriental medicine programs are lengthier than acupuncture programs.
Certain state acupuncture licensing boards require acupuncturists to have training in herbal therapy. Students seeking to practice in these states should choose an Oriental medicine program.
A core TCM curriculum focuses on a foundation base of traditional Chinese medicine theory, meridian theory, pathology, diagnosis, and TCM treatment principles.
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Why Study Massage Therapy
Are you still considering a career as a massage therapist? Here are some of the reasons why you should study massage therapy in any of the best massage therapy schools in the world:
- Greater Independence and Control of Your Time
- Helping Others is Rewarding
- Great Income Potential
- Balance and Happiness
A massage therapy career is one that lets you be your own boss. If you are a private practitioner, you have the power to control your schedule practitioner. You can easily choose between full-time or part-time work in a variety of holistic settings. In simple terms, you are in control!
If you find fulfillment in rendering help to others, then you are most definitely going to excel and enjoy being a massage therapist.
As a massage therapist, you will find career options in various exciting settings and locations. You can work with sports teams and help athletes reach their full potential, own private practice, or work in a luxurious, five-star resort.
Basically, potential environments that you could find work in as a massage therapist range from athletic to holistic to professional.
Currently, the U.S. News and World Report ranked massage therapy as #13 on their list of the Best Healthcare Support Jobs in 2019.
Massage Therapy School In Orlando Fl
Do you enjoy helping other people relax and heal? If so, a career in massage therapy might be right for you. Get started on your training by joining World of Beauty Academy. Our massage therapy school in Orlando, FL, offers a 500-hour course to get you ready for your state licensing exams. Several other cosmetology training programs are also available. Contact our school to learn more about the opportunities available to you.
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Who Is A Massage Therapist
Massage therapists are professionals that treat clients by using touch to manipulate the muscles and other soft tissues of the body. With their touch, therapists relieve pain, help heal injuries, improve circulation, relieve stress, increase relaxation, and aid in the general wellness of clients.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are the duties of massage therapists:
- Talking with clients about their symptoms, medical history, and desired results
- Evaluating clients to locate painful or tense areas of the body
- Manipulating muscles and other soft tissues of the body
- Providing clients with guidance on stretching, strengthening, overall relaxation, and how to improve their posture
- Documenting clients conditions and progress
Want to advance your career as a massage therapist? Learn more on How Can I Become A Massage therapist In 2021? Schools, Cost Programs & Salary
Here’s The Greatest Part
First, depending on your state, there are various grants available to help reduce your tuition. Then, your local Hand & Stone will pay up to $3,000 in scholarships . With grants and the scholarship, you pay a fraction of the normal cost of massage school.
Our school partners have great financing plans available with as little as $200 down and less than $80 for the first 9 months.*
Finally, consider the average starting Massage Therapist at Hand & Stone makes between $20-$25 per service, plus tips. Plus, there is additional earning potential from enhancements, product sales, and bonus contests. All of this makes massage therapy an immediately rewarding career. And through this unique program you will discover the fastest, least costly and most convenient way to join this rewarding new career in one of healthcare’s fastest growing professions.
To learn more and apply, or fill out the form below.
All training is via a 3rd party school not affiliated with our location, we provide scholarships and job opportunities only.
*For those who qualify. Payments increase to about $250 after 9 months, but you will be licensed and making the money or scholarship amount to pay it off quickly.
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Tom P Haney Technical Center
This school in Lynn Haven offers a 750-hour program, from August through April, that enrolls no more than 25 students.
Courses cover subjects such as the theory and practice of massage therapy, anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, hydrotherapy, Florida laws and rules, hygiene, practical demonstrations, leadership and human relations skills, health and safety, CPR, and employability skills.
The program also provides reinforcement of basic skills in English, mathematics, science, and appropriate research and computer technologies.
- 3016 Hwy 77 N, Panama City, Florida 32405
- http://www.bayschools.com/htc
This company has a 600-hour program, which takes 18 weeks to finish, on its campuses in Davie and Tallahassee.
Students take courses and get hands-on training in Swedish massage, reflexology, and aromaology. They perform the complete AVEDA spa experience, using ancient Ayurvedic practices, on real clients and learn how to use pure flower and plant essences in massage and bodywork.
The curriculum also covers business development, wellness, and retail knowledge. Students spend time in labs and clinical settings, as well.
- 4186 S. University Drive, Davie, Florida 33328
- https://avedainstitutessouth.edu/
Education And Training Programs
Welcome to the Florida Board of Massage Therapy Education Programs page a place for students, educators, and the public to search for approved schools, apply for approval, learn how to do business with the board and other important information.
The Florida Board of Massage Therapy approves new massage therapy education programs that meet the application requirements specified in Rule Chapter 64B7-32, Florida Administrative Code. Programs must also meet the licensure requirements and abide by the program quality measures of the Florida Department of Education. For more information about the Department of Educations requirements, .
New Programs
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Canadian College Of Massage And Hydrotherapy Toronto
Tuition:
Domestic Students $10,294.00 $10,301.00 .International Students $12,480.00 $12,020.00 .
Number of Programs: 1
Since 1946, the Canadian College of Massage And Hydrotherapy has been providing a first-class education in massage therapy. In fact, it is one of the worlds best massage therapy schools. CCMH, along with its sister school, the West Coast College of Massage Therapy, has a national footprint, with campuses in Ontario, Nova Scotia, and British Columbia.
Located in midtown Toronto, this CCMH campus is home to approximately 120 students and over 30 faculty. Also, in addition to academic and practical education, the campus includes a busy Public Intern Clinic that operates 5 days a week.
Basically, the schools renowned mastery-level Massage Therapy Program was designed to build an understanding of the human body through various courses such as anatomy, neurology, pathology, and kinesiology, in addition to 330+ hours of practical clinical training.
Here are some interesting facts about the Canadian College of Massage And Hydrotherapy and why you should study here:
- Real-World Experience
- Career Opportunities
- National Footprint
Typically it takes about 20 months or approximately 2 years to complete a massage therapy program at CCMH. Although, there are options for a 16-month accelerated program.
- Massage Therapy Diploma Program
The CCMH is accredited by the following bodies:
Radford M Locklin Technical Center
This small public school in Milton provides a 750-hour program.
The acceptance rate is 100 percent, but class sizes are limited to fewer than 10 participants. Students who post substandard scores on the Adult Basic Education Test may have to enroll in remedial math, language, or reading classes.
The textbooks are A Massage Therapists Guide to Pathology Mosebys Essential Sciences for Therapeutic Massage, Anatomy, Physiology, Biomechanics, and Pathology Tappans Handbook of Massage Therapy: Blending Art With Science and Trail Guide to the Body.
- 5330 Berryhill Rd, Milton, Florida 32570-8188
- http://www.locklintech.com
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Okanagan Valley College Of Massage Therapy
Tuition: $30,365
Number of Programs: 2
Founded in 1994, OV College of Massage Therapy is one of the top 10 massage therapy schools in Canada. The school is also the first Nationally Accredited Registered Massage Therapy program in Canada.
The massage program comes in two formats: practical and academics training.
During the on-hand training, students get to learn massage theory and practice, hydrotherapy, clinical assessment, sports massage and a lot more. On the other hand, at the mind training, they get to learn anatomy & physiology, musculoskeletal anatomy, communication & ethics, and so on.
Here are some interesting facts about the OV College of Massage Therapy and why you should study here:
- OV College of Massage Therapy offers experience, passion, and exemplary programs.
- It is nationally accredited.
- Top industry professionals engage students with the latest in technology and learning principles.
Typically, it takes about 2 years to complete the massage training program at the OVCMT.
- Massage Therapy Training Diploma Program
- Continuing Education Massage Classes
The OVCMT is accredited by the following bodies:
- Canadian Massage Therapy Council
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Cortiva Institute Schools Of Massage Therapy
Tuition: $12,587
Number of Programs: 2
Cortiva Institute is a network of massage therapy and skincare schools all united by a common mission and standards that help students, clients and the community thrive.
The school basically provides a comprehensive educational experience that focuses on both the art and science of massage therapy. They also offer continuing education and career services for continued career development and success.
Here are some interesting facts about the Cortiva Institute Massage Schools and why you should study here:
- Convenient day and night classes that fit your life
- Access to job opportunities
The Cortiva Institute is accredited by the following bodies:
- Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
- The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation
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