Are you thinking of a career as a massage therapist? Massage therapy is a rewarding career choice where you help people relieve stress and relax. Massage therapists use focused, soothing techniques to promote relaxation and increase the circulation to the soft tissues of the body. Do you want to know more about massage therapy?
The demand for qualified massage therapists increases every year, and a properly trained and certified individual can experience a satisfying and fulfilling career. However, it’s important to consider these factors before pursuing a career in massage therapy:
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Physical Demands
One of the most overlooked aspects of a career as a massage therapist is the physical demand that is placed on the body. Imagine being a baker and kneading dough for 6-8 hours every day. This is exactly what it is like for a massage therapist. You need to take your own health and fitness into consideration before pursuing a career as a massage therapist, and develop a schedule that allows you to take time between massage sessions and at the end of the day to prevent burnout and fatigue.
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Certification
While Medical Training College offers training to become a massage therapist you will need to pass your state boards for certification and license to practice. Your board certification shows that you meet the minimum requirements to practice massage therapy. This helps to ensure that your clients receive the highest-quality service and sets you apart from others.
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Professionalism
Today, massage therapists are thought of as more than spiritual health workers. Massage therapy is considered a medically advanced profession and is looked to help treat injuries, muscle tension, and other ailments. Your clients and your employer will expect you to hold a high level of professionalism in your practice, as well as the ability to stay positive and upbeat for the benefit of your clients.
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Laws and Conduct
Continuing on the previous point, massage therapists are required to adhere to a code of conduct and laws in the state in which you practice. Most states are regulating massage therapy and several others are moving to regulation. You will likely need to pass a competency exam, have a minimum number of training hours and maintain a set number of continuing education hours once you are certified.
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Continuing Education
With the movement to adhere to a code of professionalism within the industry, most states now require a minimum amount of continued education to maintain your massage therapy license and continue to practice. Each state posts the amount of Continuing Education Units required to maintain licensure, which you can find by contacting the licensing board in your state.
Although demanding, the massage therapy career path is one of the most rewarding you will find. Medical Training College is proud to offer massage therapy career training to help prepare you for the licensing exam and a career as a massage therapist. To schedule an appointment for an interview and to tour Medical Training College, click here.