If you are a massage therapist or want to be, there are steps you can take to become certified. These include accreditation of your massage therapy school or program and continuing education. You can also work for yourself and become self-employed as a massage therapist.
Accreditation of a massage therapy school or program
Accreditation is an excellent way to know you are getting a quality massage therapy education. However, you will still need to graduate with a degree or certification that will make you a successful massage therapist. In most states, massage therapists must complete a massage therapy program, pass a licensing exam, and get a massage therapy certification Atlanta. The requirements vary from state to state, so check yours before enrolling in a school.
A massage therapy program usually includes classroom study and hands-on training. The curriculum varies by program, but most have classes in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and the workings of the human body. You can also earn a specialty certificate if you wish, like this Corexcel anatomy and physiology course that can be handy for your career. These certificates range from sports massage to integrative health care. Many massage therapists choose to become board certified. This certification proves that the therapist is committed to the profession and has reached a high skill level.
Pathology section of the massage therapy certification
A massage therapy pathology course teaches students about common disorders and how massage can help treat them. This is an essential part of understanding the human body. For instance, massage is used to alleviate muscle tension and pain. Massage is also indicated for several digestive problems. Massage therapists have been known to work with oncology patients, and many have received advanced training on the different types of cancer. Some conditions are contraindicated for massage, so make sure you know what you are getting into before you begin. Pathology is a branch of medicine that studies disease in general or the effects and causes of a particular illness. As a massage therapist, you must understand how the body works and how to position a patient properly.
Self-employment as a massage therapist
There are two options if you want to be a massage therapist but need help figuring out how to get there. You can work for another business, or you can become self-employed. Choosing to be self-employed allows you the flexibility to fit your schedule with your family and other commitments. However, being self-employed comes with a lot of responsibilities. These include handling the marketing and business side of your practice. You must also understand the tax laws that affect your business. To be a successful massage therapist, you must keep up with current massage philosophies and techniques. To do this, you can pursue a voluntary board certification or a more formal education. When you become a self-employed massage therapist, you’ll be responsible for handling every aspect of your business. This includes everything from scheduling appointments to marketing and product sales. Self-employment allows you to build a client base. It also gives you a solid paycheck.
Continuing education requirements for massage therapists
Massage therapists are required to complete continuing education hours to maintain their licensure. The requirements vary by state. You may be asked to take a course on massage therapy techniques, law and regulation, ethics, and business management. There are also general courses on communication with clients, infection control, and record keeping. Before applying to renew your license, you must ensure that you have met all continuing education requirements. This includes holding current certifications in CPR, AED, and First Aid.
