Do you want to know how to become a massage therapist? On average, a massage therapist can earn up to $40 an hour when accounting for all fees and customer gratuities. It takes many hours of training plus the passing of a written exam, to become a licensed massage therapist. What are some of the other steps you need to earn your massage license? Read on.

To get your license in massage therapy, you will first need to have a high school diploma. It may also be necessary to take basic classes in human anatomy before you can start a specialized massage program. Once you have enrolled in a program, you will need to spend at least 625 hours in a supervised massage therapy training program before you can apply for licensure in Oregon.  Other states have different licensing rules.

How Long Does it Take to Complete a Licensing Program?

The amount of time it takes to complete your program depends on how much time you can afford to dedicate to it. Students may take classes during the day or on nights and weekends while working a full-time or part-time job. Therefore, it can take as many as two years to meet state licensing requirements. It may be possible, however, to find accelerated programs that may finish in a year or less. Depending on the state in which you want to practice, you will then take the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx) or some other exam.

What Happens After You Pass the Exam?

The next step is to complete the other licensing requirements.   State massage licensing boards may require CPR and First Aid, background checks, taking a written exam about the state laws or other steps.   Once all of these steps are successfully completed and you receive your license, you can either find employment through an established massage therapy provider or start your own practice.

There is currently a high demand for massage therapists in spas, chiropractor’s offices, and massage facilities.   You will need to do some research to find the position that’s a good match for you.   You may be able to talk with the massage school you attended to get support in finding the job that is a good fit for your interests and needs.

If you do decide to start your own practice, you will need to ensure that you abide by all state and local regulations. These can be found online through your state’s business department. If you are self-employed, it may be necessary to withhold money for your personal income taxes as well as collect sales taxes from customers.

Although it will take time and effort to become a professional in the field of massage therapy, massage therapy can be rewarding financially and emotionally.

Sources:

Become a Massage Therapist, www.ehow.com

How to Become a Massage Therapist, healthcareers.about.com