What is Therapeutic Massage?
As mentioned in the introduction, therapeutic massage is a holistic form of healthcare that helps people feel and function better. The massage therapist manually stimulates skin, muscles and tissue to diminish stress and eliminate tension and pain in their patients. Classic, or Swedish Massage, is the type of massage that most people think of when researching therapeutic massage, and almost all Rahway NJ massage therapy schools offer it as their primary type of massage. But keep in mind, there are many other forms of massage that programs have the option to include within their course of instruction. 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 therapeutic massage should be referred to as massage therapists. From time to time one may hear them called a masseur or a masseuse, which refers to a male or female massage professional. However, these names generally carry a negative connotation among the general public and Rahway NJ professionals alike and should be avoided.
Massage Therapist Education Requirements
Almost all Rahway NJ schools offering massage therapy require enrolling students have a high school diploma or its equivalent to qualify. Programs can range in length from several 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 number of hours required for licensing. An additional factor that can also have an effect on the length of the program is whether classes are offered during the day or in the evening. In addition, an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy may have general education requirements and the credits may be transferrable into a related Bachelor’s Degree Program. Once you have received your Degree, Diploma or Certificate, the education does not end there. The amount and type of continuing education you will need to complete will depend on the State where you are licensed. Some states have requirements for both number of hours and subjects covered, such as ethics or HIPAA compliance.
Massage Therapy Licensing
After your graduation from an accredited Rahway NJ massage therapy school, you will then need to become licensed in the State where you will be practicing. The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), is an exam conducted and controlled by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is required by most States as a portion of the licensing process. Some States have additional tests or their own, so check with your State before enrolling in a massage therapy program. If you do not pass the MBLEx in the first attempt, you can take it again after 30 days but must pay an additional testing fee. Once licensed, you will be required to renew it in most states, which means complying with renewal requirements and paying a renewal fee. As previously stated, completion of a specific number of continuing education hours are usually required as a prerequisite for renewal. 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 it is not safe to assume that you will automatically qualify for licensing. Confirm with your new State prior to moving that you meet the requirements to practice legally there.