How To Become A Massage Therapist In Texas
Knowing how to become a massage therapist in Texas is the first step towards a successful career in massage therapy.
Before we go to the steps on how to become a massage therapist in Texas, let us look are what massage therapy really is.
Massage therapy means the manipulation of soft tissue by hand or through a mechanical or electrical apparatus for the purpose of body massage.
The term includes effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, compression, vibration, friction, nerve strokes, and Swedish gymnastics.
Massage therapy may include the use of oil, lubricant, salt glows, heat lamps, hot and cold packs, or tub, shower, jacuzzi, sauna, steam or cabinet baths.
Massage therapy can be termed a health care service when the massage is for therapeutic purposes, and a licensed massage therapist may receive referrals from a physician to administer massage therapy. Read on to see the steps on how to become a massage therapist in Texas.
What Is Massage School Like
Once you choose a school for progressing through your massage therapy coursework, you will usually find you are taking a blend of online and in-person learning. There will be quizzes and final exams just like in any college course but answering the question of how long does it take to be a massage therapist? is going to depend on the program. State boards for massage therapy have minimum amounts of training that must be completed in order to apply for a massage license and become a full-fledged licensed massage therapist .
Bottom line, you can expect between 500 hours and 1,500 hours for the typical program which translates into anywhere from a few months to six months or more, depending on the program.
How Much Does Online Massage Therapy School Cost
The cost of earning a massage therapist credential varies widely based on a number of factors, including whether the student is earning an associate degree or certificate/diploma, state and county residency status, type of school , and whether the school charges a different tuition rate for courses delivered online. Here are a few examples of what a massage therapist student can expect to pay for their education. Note: The following tuition figures are accurate as of May 2019. Please check school websites to confirm tuition and other costs.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2018
Recommended Reading: Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance Cover Massage Therapy
What Are The Requirements To Be A Massage Therapist
Before you can work as a massage therapist, you must register and complete an educational program for massage therapy. You must follow between 330 and 1000 hours of training, this can take weeks to two years.
The time you spend in training prepares you for taking the MBLEx Junior Massage Therapist license exam, administered by the State Massage Therapy Association.
Not every state has the same licensing requirements for massage therapists, so check with your states regulatory board to make sure the massage therapy program meets their minimum requirements.
Take Your State’s Exam
So, yes, taking your state’s exam may seem overwhelming. But passing this exam means you can apply for a state license and begin practice as a massage therapist legally in your state.
48 out of 50 states require the successful completion of this exam to practice massage therapy. This exam is typically regulated through the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards . For more information about your states massage therapy regulations and an exam content outline, head to the FSMTB website.
Now that youre halfway through the steps for how to become a licensed massage therapist, the next step is to get your license!
Recommended Reading: Deep Tissue Massage Long Island
Best On A Budget: Allied Health Career Institute
Allied Health Career Institute
-
Lack of interactive online format
The Massage Therapy Certificate Program from Allied Health Career Institute is a 700-credit hour program offering self-paced learning. It prepares students for health and wellness careers, providing a good blend of online and in-classroom education in Arizona.
At a cost of $6,999, the Allied Health Career Institute program is affordable, especially since it prepares students to sit for the MBLEx certification program. It’s also beneficial to those on a budget because of flexible payment plans and financial aid potential, plus students can complete their education over time.
Allied Health Career Institutes comprehensive course includes topics such as kinesiology, anatomy, pathology, and musculoskeletal applications. Students receive practical skill training in trigger point therapy, Western massage, reflexology, and myofascial massage. There is also some business-focused content provided to help students develop good relationships with clients and build their practice.
Although the program is not comprehensive in covering all types of massage. it does offer a hands-on learning style that can help perfect the skills and techniques that are covered.
Is It Worth Getting An Online Massage Therapy Certification
It may be worth completing an online massage therapy certification if the program provides in-depth training, flexible learning methods, and teaches a variety of massage techniques. A good program is also valuable if it prepares you to take your certification exam.
A massage therapy certification can also open you up to career opportunities, either with a spa or massage center or by starting your own practice. A licensed massage therapist in the U.S. can earn an average of $43,620 per year.
Also Check: How Many Ceus For Massage Therapist
Stone Massage Therapist Certification
Massage therapists may earn the Stone Massage Therapist certification to specialize in hot stone therapy. This program teaches the benefits and contraindications, care and usage of materials and basic protocols. Students learn about the effects of hot and cold stones on the body. Upon completion of their training, they take a multiple-choice exam and receive a certification if they pass.
Best For Specializations: The Professional Massage Academy
The Professional Massage Academy
-
Based in Minnesota, with online components
-
Some may need more training for state exams
The Professional Massage Academy offers an online massage therapy program with flexible online classes and some in-person learning. Those in Minnesota can sit for their state licensing exam after course completion. Some taking the program out-of-state may need more hands-on training locally to meet their state requirements.
It’s possible to take specialized massage therapy programs for one or two areas of focus in other courses and programs. Students have access to some specialization options included the program such as sports massage, advanced massage techniques, and specialized massage areas such as reflexology, medical massage, and deep tissue massage. This is taught through demonstration and practical application. Students also learn core topics such as kinesiology, medical terminology, and anatomy.
The Professional Massage Academy also offers personalization and flexibility by providing three learning plans with 15, 29, or 40 hours per week of study, allowing students to complete their education in as little as 15 weeks. At a cost of $7,500 and requiring 600 hours of completion, this program is a moderate choice across the board. There is also a $150 fee for online access to the program.
Don’t Miss: Best Foot Massager With Air Compression
Faq On Earning Your License In Massage Therapy
Some states require massage therapists to get individual liability insurance, even if their employer has coverage.
In order to keep a massage license current, professionals must complete a certain number of continuing education credits at schools approved by their state. Topics may include business, general massage, ethics, research, or marketing. Some continuing education classes are available online through the American Massage Therapy Association. In addition, the organization provides information on schools where students can take these courses in their local area.
Some massage therapists learn a specific type of massage in order to help them build their practice. There are several massage modalities to choose from, including the following:
- Deep tissue massage
Change in Employment : 10.80%
Currently Employed: 120
Change in Employment : 12.60%
There are several factors that influence what school massage students choose. Whether they are concerned about the length of the program, taking courses online versus on campus, or the amount of tuition, students need to compare programs before making a decision. The search tool below can help.
Learn More About The Massage Therapy Program At Icohs College
Learn to become a massage therapist at ICOHS college! Our Professional Massage Therapist diploma program is a California Massage Therapy Council approved school as recognized by the state of California. Program courses include the following subjects:
- Fundamentals of Massage
- Body Systems, Pathology, and Special Populations
- Career Development
Students will receive bodywork techniques and therapeutic massage methods designed to relieve pain and improve the overall health and wellness of their clients. Theyll also undergo classroom experiences to learn all necessary medical terminology and prepare for the state licensing exam.
After leaving our programs, students can find promising career opportunities at massage therapy clinics, spas and resorts, cruise ships, holistic health centers, and more. Students may also open up their own business or work as independent contractors.
You May Like: Foot Massage San Leandro Ca
Massage Therapist Program Accreditation
When choosing an educational pathway, itis important to consider whether programs and institutions areaccredited. Schools and programs holding accreditation have proventhat they meet the highest standards of academic and professionalintegrity. Students, staff and faculty, and future employers allbenefit from investing their time, tuition, and talents in anaccredited educational program.
The Commissionon Massage Therapy Accreditation is a national accrediting agency for the massage therapyprofession. Other massage therapy programs may be accredited bynationally-recognized agencies that accredit allied health or similartrade school programs.
The U.S. Department of Education has a list of all nationally-approved accrediting agencies that havebeen approved by national standards.
Why Massage Is So Expensive
The therapist is serving only you, and expects to make enough money to make a living doing massages. So the biggest cost of the service is the human time that the therapist invests into you, which is the reason spa services will seem expensive if you compare to discretionary spendings such as restaurants and cinema.
You May Like: Osaki Pro Omni Massage Chair
Five Reasons To Become A Massage Therapist In 2014
the1. Class Time: start your career as a massage therapist2. Career Ready:
- Medical Massage Therapist
- Hot Stone Massage Therapist
- Hydrotherapy Massage Therapist
3. Flexible Hours: 4. Diverse Working Environments: 5. Relaxation: *Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition, Massage Therapists, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/massage-therapists.htm .
Board Certification In Therapeutic Massage And Bodywork
The Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork is the highest voluntary credential for massage professionals. Some benefits of this title include attracting more clients, gaining credibility and becoming more versatile.
To become board certified, you must graduate from a National Certification Board in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork assigned school and pass the board certification exam. The exam comprises questions on applied science, massage techniques, professionalism, ethics and law and business practices. You also must pass a criminal background check, verify your current massage therapy state license and agree to abide by the NCBTMB standards and code of ethics.
Related:How To Become a Massage Therapist
You May Like: How To Become A Sports Massage Therapist
How To Become A Licensed Massage Therapist In California
Massage therapists specialize in the Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology of the body as it relates to soft tissue injury, treatment and prevention. They use a variety of different techniques or modalities to ease muscular tension and stress, relieve pain from injuries and accelerate healing from certain chronic and acute conditions. Here is some helpful information on how to become a certified Massage Therapist in California.
New York College Of Health Professions
The College of Health in New York is the first American college to offer massage therapy. Students in the institution can obtain associate professional studies in massage therapy.
The School of Health Professions in New York offers students the opportunity to spend two weeks at the Luo Yang Medical Center, where they can attend presentations and enjoy the Chinese culture.
Don’t Miss: California Massage Therapy Council Renew
Best Live Program: Whatcom Community College
Whatcom Community College
-
Requires commitment of 20 hours per week
-
Not as comprehensive as other programs
-
May require previous college experience
The massage therapist program at Whatcom Community College in Washington enables students with previous college experience to enroll in a 20-hour a week live-session educational program. Students wishing to obtain an associate degree will need to meet with a counselor to ensure they meet prerequisite educational requirements.
This hybrid program requires students to meet at specific times each week to engage in live training. The massage program starts each fall and runs for three quarters, allowing students to complete their education in under a year.
Through the Whatcom Community College program, students learn massage modalities and therapies along with anatomy, kinesiology, and pathology. They also learn safety, ethical, and legal applications to massage therapy as well as client communication skills. The program meets all guidelines set by the Washington State Board of Massage. At a cost of $9,540, its ideal for those who wish to switch career paths into massage therapy with some completed college credits.
What You Get With Both Programs
The Alpha Anywhere online massage therapy program offers learning modules with two different textbooks in eBook format. You will gain access to live video group sessions, group discussions, and even live question and answer sessions with instructors.
The Learning Management System makes it easy to complete the coursework at home. You will have access to live-recorded lectures you can watch anytime day or night. Both hybrid programs allow you to complete the hands-on instruction at the Jacksonville Alpha campus or at Massage Theory.
If you’ve been looking for a better way to complete your massage therapy courses, now is the time. Enroll in the Alpha Anywhere program and you’ll be able to do most of the work from home. Work at a pace comfortable for you, rewatch lessons, when necessary, and get the support you need.
Don’t Miss: Do You Need A License To Massage In California
Two: Earn Acertificate Or Degree In Massage Therapy
Complete a degree from an accreditedschool or educational program featuring didactic coursework andpractical experience. These programs are ideally accredited by theCommission on Massage Therapy Accreditation , but a studentsinstitution of choice should at least be approved by a regional bodyrecognized by the Commission on Higher Education Accreditation, which is part of the U.S. Department of Education.
How To Become A Massage Therapist In Your Location
Now, just meeting all the requirements for becoming a massage therapist in your state is only step one in a whole new career move. Your individual location is most likely going to have a slew of additional requirements that you will need to make sure you are meeting before you take on your first client.
Heres how the process can play out for getting started as a massage therapist:
If you take the time to do your homework in the planning stages, you will be far better off as you begin your massage therapy practice in the real world. Employing all the knowledge and skills you have in a professional setting and making a living from them is a very exciting time.
Read Also: What Does A Lymphatic Massage Do
How Long Does It Take To Become A Massage Therapist
A massage therapy license is obtained through vocational programs. Vocational training has a more limited scope than traditional degrees and the curriculum focuses exclusively on the job and industry involved.
This means that instead of a four-year degree training to work in the industry, you can easily complete your approved training in less than 5 months if you are full-time.
Depending on your commitment to the program, the training program takes about 5 months to two years to complete.
So you would really need to stay committed to attending all your classes, studying for exams, and participating in lab sessions where you learn the various techniques of massage.
Make sure you choose a program that offers many practical options so that you are ready when you enter the job market.
Massage Addict Tuition Reimbursement Program Academy Canada
Attention Academy Canada graduates we can help you pay off student loans faster and get your career off to a great start! The Massage Addict Tuition Reimbursement Program offers $5,000 in tuition reimbursement in addition to a position practicing in a Massage Addict Clinic. Click here to learn more.
Read Also: Licensed Massage Therapist Continuing Education
Complete A Massage Therapy Program
For you to obtain your massage therapy program, applicants are required to complete an approved course of at least 500 credit hours.
The Texas Department of State Health Services requires at least 125 hours of this to be in the Swedish massage therapy theory and technique.
Other classes to expect are in the following areas:
- Anatomy
- Professional ethics
- Health and Hygiene
There are specific areas of instruction that the course must include, including 50 hours or more of an internship.
In this internship, students perform massages in a student clinic under the supervision of a massage therapy instructor.
Completing your education is the first step on how to become a massage therapist in Texas.
How To Become A Massage Therapist: Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of massage therapy school ranges between $6 to $17 per hour of education, with the average cost* around $9 to $10 per hour. This means if your state has noor minimalrequirements, you can choose to take a shorter program, which will cost you less in massage therapy tuition. So if you multiply $10 by the number of hours it will take to complete you will have something around $10000 to $15000.
Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 22 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for alloccupations. Demand will likely increase as more healthcare providers understand the benefits of massage and these services become part of treatment plans.
Yes, Massage Therapists make decent money working at a spa. According to the current Occupational Outlook Handbook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , the median salary for massage therapists is $39,860 per year.
Yes, there are tons of massage therapy programs you can do online.
Also Check: Foot Bath And Massager Reviews