How to Become a Massage Therapist or Masseuse

Massage therapists often are self-employed.

If you like to help people and enjoy working with your hands, you may want to become a massage therapist or masseuse. Massage therapy isn't just about making your clients feel good. Masseuses or masseurs use massage to reduce stress, relieve pain and help with the healing process. In most cases, massage therapists must complete a state-required education program and pass a test before beginning a career as a masseuse.

Things You'll Need

• Certification
• Massage-related equipment

Instructions

1. Determine the massage therapy licensing requirements in your state, city or county. Each state is different, so make sure you understand what the requirements are in the state in which you plan on working. Even if the state you are in doesn't have any requirements, your county or city might, so check there as well. Your local courthouse or town hall will most likely have this information.

2. Decide which kind of massage you want to do. Do your research and get various types of massages yourself. Some of the types of massage you could explore are reflexology, sports massage, Swedish massage, shiatsu, deep-tissue massage, animal massage and acupressure. Choose a type of massage that most closely matches your interests.

3. Talk to massage therapists and ask them what they like and don't like about their profession. If you can, spend a day with a massage therapist to see firsthand what his or her job entails.

4. Get a massage degree or certificate from a school that offers an accredited massage therapy program. Research local massage schools and check to make sure they offer training in the type of massage in which you are interested. Check reviews of the massage school and ask people who have graduated about their experience to make sure it will be a good fit for you. You can attend a dedicated massage therapy school or attend a program at your local community college.

5. Take any certification examinations required by your state, county or city. You may be required to take the examination offered by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork or the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination offered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards. It's a good idea to become a certified massage therapist, even if your area doesn't require it. Becoming certified will set you apart from other aspiring massage therapists.

6. Apply for a massage therapy license if it is required by your state, county or city. You will have to show proof that you have completed the required amount of education and have the correct certifications. You may also have to pay a fee and take an additional exam. Find out how often you will need to renew your license.

7. Get a job as a massage therapist or start your own practice. Some of the businesses that employ massage therapists are hospitals, health clubs, spas, massage schools, wellness clinics, physical therapy offices, sports medicine clinics, chiropractic offices and various corporations. If you decide to start your own massage business, you will have a more flexible schedule, but you will need to find your own clients.

Tips & Warnings

• If you decide to start your own massage business, ask your friends and family to spread the word and help you gather clients.

References

• United States Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics; Massage Therapists;December 17, 2009