What is Massage Therapy?
As mentioned in the introduction, massage therapy is an alternative form of healthcare that helps people feel and function better. The massage therapist manipulates skin, muscles and tissue to reduce stress and alleviate tension and pain in their clients. Swedish, or Classic Massage, is the type of massage that most people relate to when discussing therapeutic massage, and almost all San Ramon CA massage therapy schools teach it as their primary type of massage. However, there are numerous other types of massage that programs may or may not include as part of their syllabus. Below are some of the more popular examples.
- Neuromuscular Therapy Massage
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Sports Massage
- Shiatsu Massage
- Thai Massage
- Hot Stone Massage
- Pregnancy Massage
Professionals that work in massage therapy should be referred to as massage therapists. From time to time one may hear them called a masseur or a masseuse, which is generally the name of a male or female massage practitioner. However, these titles typically have a negative connotation among San Ramon CA professionals and the public at large and are better avoided.
Massage Therapy Training Requirements
Almost all San Ramon CA massage therapy programs require enrolling students have a high school diploma or a GED to qualify. Programs can range in length from a few months for a Diploma or a Certificate to as long as 2 years for an Associate’s Degree. The lengths of the programs will also be State specific based on the number of hours required for licensing. Another factor that may also influence the length of the program is whether classes are offered during the daytime or at night. Also, an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy often has general education requirements and the credits may be transferrable into a related Bachelor’s Degree Program. Once you have earned your Degree, Diploma or Certificate, the education does not end there. The amount and type of continuing education you will need to complete will vary based on the State where you are licensed. Some states require both a certain number of hours of continuing education as well as specific education in subjects, such as ethics or HIPAA compliance.
Massage Therapist Licensing
After your graduation from an accredited San Ramon CA massage therapy program, the next step is to obtain your license in the State where you will be practicing. The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), is a test conducted and controlled by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is mandated by the majority of States as a portion of the licensing process. There are States that have their own or additional exams, so find out from your State prior to enrolling in a massage therapy program. If you do not pass the MBLEx in your initial attempt, you can re-take it after 30 days but will be charged another testing fee. Once licensed, you will be required to maintain it in most states, which means paying a renewal fee and satisfying renewal requirements. As earlier stated, renewal typically requires a certain number of hours of continuing education be completed. And if you should move to another State, licensing will be required for that new State as well. Each State has different regulations for massage therapists, so do not assume that you will automatically be qualified for licensing. Confirm with your new State prior to moving that you have satisfied the requirements to practice legally there.