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 manipulates muscles, tissue and skin to reduce stress and eliminate tension and pain in their patients. Swedish, or Classic Massage, is the kind of massage that many people think of when researching massage therapy, and most Charleston WV massage therapy schools teach it as their principal type of massage. But keep in mind, there are many other types of massage that programs 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 therapeutic massage 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 professional. However, these names often carry a derogatory connotation among Charleston WV professionals and the public at large and should be avoided.
Massage Therapist Training Requirements
Almost all Charleston WV schools offering massage therapy require enrolling students have a high school diploma or a GED to qualify. Programs can vary in length from several 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 based 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 daytime or in the evening. Also, an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy often has general studies requirements and the credits may be transferrable into a related Bachelor’s Degree Program. Once you have received your Certificate or Degree, the training doesn’t stop there. The amount and type of continuing education you will need 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 Therapist Licensing
After your graduation from an accredited Charleston WV massage therapy program, you will then need to become licensed 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 the majority of States as part of the licensing process. Some States have additional tests or their own, so check with your State before enrolling in a massage therapy school. If you do not pass the MBLEx in the first attempt, you can take it again after thirty days but must pay an additional 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 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 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 meet the requirements to legally practice there.