Massage therapists work to help a person get rid of pain and tension, recover from illness or injuries and reduce stress. The modern field of massage therapy is now dramatically expanding.



As a Massage Therapist, you can help others overcome chronic pain, recover from injuries and illness, reduce stress, and just plain help them feel better. Massage therapists can obtain employment almost anywhere ? spas, physician's offices, health clubs, even vacation resorts.

1. Would You Enjoy a Career in Massage Therapy?

• Do you enjoy working with people?



• Do you love helping and caring for others?



• Can you socialize with others, while also knowing when to remain silent in the presence of certain clients?



• Can you work independently?



• Are you empathetic?



• Do you possess strong communication skills?

2. How to Obtain an Education in Massage Therapy

Massage therapists are trained in the basics of massage. They become familiar with trigger point therapy, deep tissue massage and Swedish massage. Today, there are many new emerging areas of massage therapy. Examples of these are Myofascial, pregnancy massage, animal massage and medical massage.

Many schools now offer massage therapy programs. One can choose to attend a certificate degree, which may only take two years. Students can also pursue a four year education degree. To find the college, vocational school or training center that best suits you, look in your local phonebook or do some research on the Internet. Many online courses can teach you the basics of your field and then allow you to visit the school periodically for hands-on training. Most education centers offer weekend and evening

classes for parents who have children or for those who already possess a full-time job.

It is important that you do not apply to the first school that offers a massage therapy training program. Look at several different schools or colleges, their individual class schedules, course curriculum, instructor credentials and hands-on training. You should also ensure that the training classes or school meets the basic standards for employment in the massage therapy industry.

3. Gain Some Experience

Once you begin to engage in massage therapy education, it is essential that you obtain some practice. You can volunteer your services on a one-time basis to clients. You can also give free massages to friends and families or offer your services to community organizations in your city or town. You can begin to build a client base even before you finish your schooling.

4. Seek Employment

The massage therapy industry is continuously looking for new therapists. Health care clinics, spas and medical offices are ideal places to begin looking for a permanent position. Some training centers also offer career placement immediately after graduation.