Training for massage therapy is quick and rewarding. The practice is becoming
more regulated across the country so it is important to train accordingly.
In states where massage therapy is regulated, there are generally very similar
requirements for education and licensure. Regulations required attendance at an
accredited institution. Massage therapy programs are accredited by several accreditation boards including Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation
(COMTA), Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology
(ACCSCT), Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET),
Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), and National Accrediting
Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). Accreditation allows for
federal grants and funding.
Most states require at least 500 hours of formal massage therapy education an
accredited institution. Training can take anywhere from 1 to 4 years to
complete. There are over 100 different types of massage, so training focuses on
a specific type of massage. Generally in the US people choose a type of massage
therapy that is most beneficial to the general population. This includes massage
therapies that provide pain relief, relaxation, or rehabilitation.
Coursework in massage therapy training programs includes human anatomy,
physiology, pathology, and healing arts. Training also focuses on a specific
type of massage which may be sports massage, deep tissue massage, deep muscle
therapy, or trigger point therapy. It is up to the student to choose which type
to pursue and choose the school accordingly. Massage therapy training is
essential in preparation for national examination.
Some schools focus on natural healing and holistic studies, while others focus
on the cosmetology of massage. Some massage therapy training is offered at
medical college, and also at community college, and technical schools. Schools
may be involved in general education, while others are solely dedicated to
massage therapy.
Choosing the school that is right for you involves careful consideration of what
you want to achieve with massage therapy. Training is available across the
country to start a career as a massage therapist.
This article was written by Angela Oliver for HealthCare-TrainingCenter.com. For more information about massage therapy, training programs, and continuing education, please visit HealthCare-TrainingCenter.com. Find jobs and available training programs in your area that can help you begin a career as a Massage therapist.
