Massage Therapy

Quality of life is becoming increasingly important in our society – the idea that mental, emotional and physical well-being are not only important, they can lead to increased happiness. In addition to traditional healthcare techniques, many people are turning to alternative techniques to improve their quality of life and overall well-being to help relieve stress, reduce pain, or simply as a form of relaxation.

That’s one of the reasons massage therapy is predicted to grow by 20% over the next decade, higher than average for all careers. Having a license in this field gives you opportunities to work at salons, spas, doctors’ offices, sports facilities or your own business. If the idea of working with your hands, helping others and having a career with flexibility is something that appeals to you, there are things to know to get you prepared!

What a massage therapist does
A massage therapist uses their hands, sometimes with oils and lotions, to apply pressure to muscles. There are varying types of massage including Swedish massage, which is the most common and relaxing type; deep tissue massage, which uses more pressure and can cause some soreness; and sports massage, which uses massage techniques to increase athletic performance. There are other more specific areas of massage as well that a therapist may specialize in. Different techniques will be used depending on if you work at a spa, sports facility or with a doctor, and based upon the needs of your clients.

Qualities of a successful massage therapist
To do well as a massage therapist, you definitely need to be a people person, someone who can stay calm. People treat themselves to massages in order to relax – so it helps if you develop a relaxing presence. You also need to be in good physical shape. This job involves standing for a good part of the day and putting strength into the massage techniques you use.

How to become a massage therapist
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, as of 2007 38 states and the District of Columbia have some regulation of massage therapy. Most of them require massage therapists to be licensed through a state or national exam. So, the most important thing in becoming a massage therapist is fulfilling the requirements to get a license. How do you get that information though? Most massage therapists get their education and training through a technical school or community college massage therapy program. These programs teach techniques, make sure you have the required hours of experience for licensing, and give you hands-on experience.

How much massage therapists may earn
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the average hourly wage of a massage therapist was $16.06. This is about $33,000 annually. Some very successful therapists can make around $70,000 annually. Also keep in mind that you could be a freelance massage therapist, setting your own hours or doing it on the side of another job you may already have. You could also open your own business, which can really open some financial doors.

With a license in massage therapy you will have many career options. From freelancing to owning a business, working in a salon or with a doctor, you can find a job and schedule that will fit what you want.