What is Massage Therapy?
As previously discussed, therapeutic massage is a holistic form of medicine that helps people feel and function better. The massage therapist manipulates muscles, tissue and skin to diminish stress and alleviate pain and tension in their patients. Classic, or Swedish Massage, is the kind of massage that most people relate to when researching therapeutic massage, and the majority of Farmers Branch TX massage therapy schools offer it as their principal form of massage. But keep in mind, there are numerous other forms of massage that schools may or may not 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 one may hear them called a masseuse or a masseur, which refers to a female or a male massage practitioner. Unfortunately, these titles typically carry a derogatory connotation among Farmers Branch TX professionals and the public at large and are better avoided.
Massage Therapist Education Requirements
The majority of Farmers Branch TX schools offering massage therapy require enrolling students have a high school diploma or its equivalent to qualify. Programs can range in length from a few months for a Certificate or a Diploma to as long as two years to earn an Associate’s Degree. How long the programs are will also be State specific dependent on the number of hours required for licensing. An additional factor that can also influence the length of the program is whether classes are offered during the day or in the evening. 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 education does not end there. The type and amount of continuing education you are required 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
Once you have graduated from an accredited Farmers Branch TX 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 controlled and administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is mandated by most States as part of the licensing process. Some States have their own or additional exams, so find out from your State prior to enrolling in a massage therapy school. If you do not pass 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 be required to maintain it in most states, which means paying a renewal fee and satisfying renewal requirements. As previously mentioned, 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 regulates massage therapy differently, 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 legally practice there.