What is a Massage Therapist?
As previously discussed, massage therapy is an alternative form of healing that provides relief from pain and helps people function better. The massage therapist manipulates skin, muscles and tissue to diminish stress and eliminate tension and pain in their clients. Classic, or Swedish Massage, is the kind of massage that most people think of when discussing massage therapy, and almost all South Bradenton FL massage therapy schools teach it as their primary form of massage. But keep in mind, there are many other forms of massage that programs may or may not include as part of their course of instruction. Following 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 are properly 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 professional. However, these names typically have a derogatory connotation among South Bradenton FL professionals and the public at large and are better avoided.
Massage Therapist Training Requirements
Almost all South Bradenton FL massage therapy programs require enrolling students have a high school diploma or its equivalent to qualify. Programs can vary in length from a few months for a Certificate or a Diploma to as long as two years to earn an Associate’s Degree. The lengths of the programs will also vary by State dependent on the training hours required for licensing. Another factor that may also have an effect on the length of the program is whether classes are scheduled during the daytime or in the evening. In addition, an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy may have general studies requirements and are often transferrable into a similar Bachelor’s Degree Program. Once you have received your Certificate or Degree, the training doesn’t stop there. The type and amount of continuing education you will need to complete will vary based on the State where you are licensed. Some states have requirements for both number of hours and subjects covered, such as HIPPA compliance or ethics.
Massage Therapy Licensing
After your graduation from an accredited South Bradenton FL massage therapy school, 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 controlled and administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is mandated by most States as part 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 fail the MBLEx in your initial attempt, you can take it again after 30 days but will be charged another testing fee. After obtaining your license, you will need to maintain it in most states, which means paying a renewal fee and satisfying renewal requirements. As earlier stated, completion of a specific number of continuing education hours are usually required as a prerequisite for renewal. And if you decide to move to a different State, licensing will be required for that new State also. Each State regulates massage therapy differently, so it is not safe to assume that you will automatically qualify for licensing. Confirm with your new State prior to moving that you have satisfied the requirements to practice legally there.