Explore Careers in Massage in the United States and Canada. Today, careers in massage are expected to grow faster than average so occupational outlook is very promising. However, before you decide to pursue careers in massage, it is equally important to acquire the appropriate education and training in order to fulfill individual State/Province requirements for certification and/or licensure to practice.

Why careers in massage?

For starters, the ancient healing art of massage therapy is broadly used as a complementary medicine throughout the world. Besides its healing attributes, massage therapy is proven to relax and revitalize tired muscles and enhance overall wellbeing. In addition, there are well over 80 types of massage modalities in which one can specialize; so the field is wide open to prospective massage therapists desiring certification in more than just one particular therapy.

As an example, typical careers in massage are available to those who have completed a minimum of 300 hours in basic education (anatomy, physiology, pathology); and training in Swedish massage, deep tissue massage and sports massage. However, to become Nationally certified, and to acquire more advanced careers in massage therapy, candidates seek courses that offer a minimal 500 hours training, in addition to specialty instruction in more massage modalities like acupressure, Trigger Point, craniosacral therapy, and the like.

What modalities are taught for careers in massage?

That depends on the healing arts school or massage school in which you enroll. While the vast majority of massage institutes offer general training in the top three modalities (aforementioned), a growing number of therapy require professionals to expand on client services; thus, educational programs have begun offering a greater variety of modalities. Some of the many massage techniques offered to students pursuing careers in massage include animal massage (canine/equine massage), infant massage, prenatal massage, geriatric massage, chair massage, Tuina, Thai massage, reflexology, Trager therapy, Esalen massage, cancer massage, lymphatic drainage massage, and meridian therapy, among others.

Is learning other therapies beneficial for careers in massage?

One of the great aspects of acquiring a massage education is that many training opportunities exist at healing arts schools; aside from traditional massage instruction. For example, a number of holistic schools also provide training in kinesiology (muscle testing), energy healing (Reiki, chakra balancing, etc.), nutritional counseling, holistic skin care and nutrition, and other relevant subject matter. Of course the more you learn the better chances for your professional success.

Are limited to massage therapy clinics?

Definitely not. Today, certified massage therapists work in hospitals, nursing homes, primary healthcare facilities, aboard cruise liners, resorts, sporting/athletic facilities, physical therapy offices, airports, day spas and other health and wellness clinics.

What earnings do careers in massage produce?

Though income varies according to education, experience and environment; professional massage therapists have the potential to earn over $30 hourly; in addition to gratuities.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in careers in massage, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore near you.

*Occupational Resources: BLS (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

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