How to Become a Massage Therapist in California

Massage therapists in California sometimes work in outdoor spas.

Massage therapy is a way of relieving stress and, in some cases, curing ailments by applying pressure to various areas of the body. If you are interested in science, anatomy, physiology or the wellness industry in California, massage therapy is a career worth considering. New legislation is on the horizon in the state so it is advisable to start your education in adherence with the forthcoming regulations. Each city is currently responsible for regulating licensing requirements.

Instructions

1. Start by researching schools in California that offer at least 500 hours of training and are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Bureau for Private and Post Secondary Education of California. In September of 2008, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a law calling for a 500-hour voluntary certification. Starting in 2015, proof of 500 training hours will be required for certification.

2. Establish your budget. Tuition varies by school and program. Some massage schools offer monthly interest-free payment plans for as many as two years. Decide on your timetable by analyzing if your schedule and financial situation allow you to attend training full time or part time.

3. Enroll in a school that offers at least 100 hours that focused on anatomy, physiology, contraindications, health and hygiene, as stipulated in the Senate bill. Review the curriculum to make sure that coursework in Swedish, Trigger point, deep tissue, sports and Shiatsu massage are included as they are the most commonly requested massages.

4. Research the California city where you want to work in to gain an understanding of licensing requirements. For example, to work in the city of San Francisco you need a permit to be a general or advanced practitioner. A second permit is necessary if the therapist will perform "outcalls" by traveling to the client's location. Additionally, massage therapists must pass an exam and pay the application fee to obtain a permit. Apply for the required permit.

5. Decide on a certification. People who want to obtain the voluntary certification may select one of two types. A Certified Massage Practitioner (CMP) certificate will be eliminated in 2015 because of the new legislation. Obtaining a Certified Massage Therapist (CMT) will benefit professionals who plan to remain in the state to 2015 and beyond.

6. Complete the nine-step application for certification. You must send the application along with your transcripts, application fee, Live Scan fingerprint documentation, passport photos and copy of your driver's license or state ID to the California Massage Therapy Council. The council notifies applicants within six weeks of approval for certification.

7. Decide on the type of employment you want to pursue. Massage therapists obtain jobs in wellness centers, hotels, hospitals, chiropractic offices, nursing homes and spas. Many work as sole practitioners. If you wish to work independently, create a business plan.

References

• Senate Bill 731: Enrolled Bill Text
• San Francisco School of Massage and Bodywork: Tuition Chart
• Diamond Light: Requirements to Practice Massage Therapy in San Francisco
• California Massage Therapy Council: Application for Certifications
• San Francisco School of Massage Therapy and Bodywork: Programs of Study