How to Get Certified in Swedish Massage

Getting certified in Swedish massage can lead to a job at a top spa or resort, or can allow you to work for yourself from your own studio. Though Swedish massage allows for flexible hours, it's a demanding job. Obtaining certification is equally demanding, but well worth it if you believe a career in massage is for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Choose a school with accreditations. These schools usually have a program that is aimed at you getting certified. Accreditation also gives the students availability to financial aid.

2. Decide on whether you want to get into a Clinical Massage Therapy program or just a Massage Therapy program. The first will take twice as long, but allows you to work in more settings. It also provides you with more knowledge and experience. Both exceed the 500 hours required for certification.

3. Calculate out the payment for a certification program. Usually the program that exceeds the required hours is almost double that of the initial training program. This can run upwards of $12,000.

4. Complete a training program and apply to take the nation certification exam. The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) gives the exam, which is recognized and required by many states. You may also need to show a portfolio of training experience.

5. Apply for the title of Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCTMB) after you pass the exam. The credentials are recognized nationally but must be renewed every 4 years. Renewal requires that 200 hours of message therapy be performed and 48 hours of continuing education be taken.