What is Therapeutic Massage?
As mentioned in the introduction, therapeutic massage is an alternative form of medicine that helps people feel and function better. The massage therapist manipulates skin, muscles and tissue to reduce stress and relieve pain and tension in their patients. Classic, or Swedish Massage, is the kind of massage that many of us think of when researching therapeutic massage, and almost all Sammamish WA massage therapy schools offer it as their principal type of massage. But keep in mind, there are many other types of massage that schools may or may not include as part of their syllabus. 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 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 practitioner. Unfortunately, these names often carry a negative connotation among the general public and Sammamish WA professionals alike and are better avoided.
Massage Therapist Training Requirements
Almost all Sammamish WA 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 vary by State dependent 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. In addition, an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy often has general education requirements and are often transferrable into a related Bachelor’s Degree Program. Once you have received your Certificate or Degree, the education doesn’t stop there. The amount and type of continuing education you are required to complete will depend 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 Therapy Licensing
Once you have graduated from an accredited Sammamish WA 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 an exam conducted and controlled by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is mandated by most States as a portion of the licensing process. Some States have their own or additional exams, so check with your State prior to enrolling in a massage therapy school. If you fail the MBLEx in your initial attempt, you can take it again after 30 days but will be charged another testing fee. Once licensed, you will need to maintain it in most states, which means paying a renewal fee and satisfying renewal requirements. As previously 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, you will need to get licensed in that new State also. Every State regulates massage therapy differently, so it is not safe to assume that you will automatically qualify for licensing. Check with your new State before moving to confirm that you have satisfied the requirements to practice legally there.