Massage Therapists, Massage Therapy Schools, Massage Therapy Certification

Massage Therapy has been a serious form of Medical Treatment for over two thousand years.  A simple massage can be given to simply relax or rejuvenate the person being massaged. While a Standard Massage produces a sense of relaxation and re-invigoration, it is not considered medically significant. Massage Therapy, on the other hand, is practiced by Thoroughly Trained individuals who provide specialized care with their client’s Medical Health in mind.

Massage therapists can specialize in several dozen types of massage, called Massage Modalities. Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, reflexology, acupressure, sports massage, and neuromuscular massage are just a few of the many approaches to this form of treatment.  Most therapists are adept in more than one modality and handle a range of clients.  Based on the person’s goals, ailments, Medical History, and Stress- or Pain-Related Problem areas, a massage therapist will conclude whether a massage would be harmful, and if not, move forward with the session while concentrating on any areas of particular discomfort to the client.

Over thirty states require that massage therapists pass either a state certification exam or the national exam in order to practice.

Certificates and Degrees for Massage Therapists

• Certificate from National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
• Massage Therapy Diploma Program
• Certification in Swedish Massage
• Certification in Reflexology
• Associates/Bachelors in Sports Medicine
• Associates in Massage Therapy/Bodywork

Median Annual Salaries for Massage Therapists

Massage Therapist                $59,974

Source: Salary.Com