If you’ve ever been curious about how to become a massage therapist, then this guide is for you. Read below to find out exactly what you can expect on the road to your new career:
Step 1: Do You Need a License?
There are only four states that do not require massage therapists to have a license or certification: Alaska, Minnesota, Kansas and Nevada. So unless you live in one of those states, you must attend an accredited massage therapy school or training program. These schools teach the fundamentals of massage therapy and offer specialized instruction as well (such as hot stone massage or Thai massage).
Step 2: Find a Program That Speaks to You
If you have your high school diploma or have completed your GED, you can start looking for the massage therapy school that fits with your personality and your career goals. Make sure you talk to a program counselor, asking lots of questions about what the classes are like and what you can expect to learn. Will you learn a number of new skills, including the specialized massage you’re most interested in? (Genesis offers specialized instruction in prenatal massage, stone massage and aromatherapy, to name a few.)
Step 3: Earn Your License
Once you finish your program, it’s time to get your license. Visit the American Massage Therapy Association’s website to see what the requirements are for your state, including information on the certifying exam. Genesis’ massage therapy school is in Bowling Green, Kentucky, which requires students to complete 600 hours of education before taking the exam.
Step 4: Get to Work!
Whether you’re interested in joining a team or starting your own massage therapy business, you’re now ready to get to work. Usually, your school or training program offers career assistance such as help with writing resumes and preparing for job interviews. Learn more about how Genesis helps our massage therapy students.