What is a Massage Therapist?
As mentioned in the introduction, therapeutic massage is an alternative form of healthcare that helps people feel and function better. The massage therapist manually stimulates muscles, tissue and skin to diminish stress and alleviate tension and pain in their clients. Classic, or Swedish Massage, is the kind of massage that most of us relate to when researching therapeutic massage, and most Hickory NC massage therapy schools teach it as their principal form of massage. However, there are numerous other types of massage that programs have the option to include as part of 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 massage therapy are properly referred to as massage therapists. From time to time you might hear them called a masseuse or a masseur, which is generally the name of a male or female massage practitioner. However, these terms generally carry a negative connotation among the general public and Hickory NC professionals alike and should be avoided.
Massage Therapy Education Requirements
Almost all Hickory NC massage therapy programs require enrolling students have a high school diploma or its equivalent to qualify. Programs can vary in length from several months for a Certificate or a Diploma to as long as 2 years for an Associate’s Degree. The lengths of the programs will also vary by State based on the training hours required for licensing. Another factor that can also influence the program length is whether classes are scheduled during the day or at night. Also, an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy may have general studies requirements and the credits may be transferrable into a similar Bachelor’s Degree Program. After you have received your Certificate or Degree, the training 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 have requirements for both number of hours and subjects covered, such as HIPPA compliance or ethics.
Massage Therapist Licensing
After your graduation from an accredited Hickory NC 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 an exam conducted and controlled by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is required 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 school. If you fail the MBLEx in the first attempt, you can take it again after thirty days but must pay an additional exam 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, 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. Every 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 have satisfied the requirements to legally practice there.