Massage Therapist Employment Opportunities

Massage Therapist Employment Opportunities

Licensed Massage Therapists (LMT) are in demand everywhere in health and wellness professions. These are the trained professionals that make people feel good by working their muscles and soft-tissue. The Bureau of Labor Statistic estimates that this business will grow by 23 percent over the next eight years. There are an estimated 340,000 Licensed Massage Therapist practitioners in the United States, according to the American Massage Therapy Association. Have you considered a career in this fast growing and very rewarding industry?  If so, all the information you need to know is right here!

LMTs can find jobs in the following businesses:

• Clinic and physical therapy centers including orthopedic centers
• Sports medicine
• Nursing homes
• Doctor’s office
• Spas and salons including franchises
• Cruise ships
• Fitness centers and health clubs
• Hospice
• Self-employment

People seeking employment as a Licensed Massage Therapist should consider the following tips:

1. Decide what types of massage you want to specialize in and learn as much as you can while training. This includes acupressure, reflexology, sports medicine and massage, physical therapy and muscle rehabilitation.

2. A license is necessary practice in most states. Some states require the license to be renewed annually. Massage therapists are encouraged to take classes to learn new techniques and the latest modalities. Also, national accreditation by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork is possible.

3. Plan a career goal that includes working in a special location. Cruise ships employ licensed massage therapists so that passengers can enjoy a relaxing massage while cruising.

4. Spa facilities, including luxury hotels, employ licensed massage therapists for the convenience of hotel guests. The hotel may have a spa facility onsite or recommend one nearby.

5. Many graduates consider self-employment as a traveling massage therapist with their own tables and supplies. Or, they may have a single business location. Business classes are recommended for people who want to start and maintain their own practice.

6. Many Licensed massage therapists work with veterans recovering from injuries who need massage therapy as part of a rehabilitation program. There is a growing need for massage therapists in this field.

7. Sports fans may find jobs working with baseball, soccer, football and other sport teams. Players often need special massage therapy after practice or play. Tennis and golf athletes also use the services of a massage therapist. Many therapists work with the athletic trainers to help athletes improve their range of motion and prevent injuries.

8. Many massage therapists look for opportunities where they can move on to become physical therapists with a four-year degree and graduate training.

9. Some find work in the field of Ayurvedic massage that is part of a complete health program that also includes special diets and exercise.

10. Newly licensed massage therapists are encouraged to try working at their profession in a variety of fields to find the one they prefer.

Education to become a Massage Therapist

According to the American Massage Therapy Association, there are over 700 colleges in the U.S.. offering training in the field. Classes include anatomy, physiology, humanities, business and sports training. Therapists have approximately 642 hours of initial training.

A full-time LMT spends 17 or more hours a week actually administering massage treatments. This is a physically demanding job for therapists who are on their feet using their muscles while administering the massage.

Still need more information about becoming a Massage Therapist?

Try these two articles:

Massage Therapy Job Outlook and Career Infographic

The Advanced Guide to Massage Therapy Careers

The Chesapeake, Newport News and Virginia Beach Centura College campuses offer an Associate of Occupational Science Degree in Massage Therapy that will open the door to a variety of career opportunities. If you would like more information about massage therapy career training or to speak with an admissions representative and apply for admission, contact Centura College today by visiting our Website.  You can also learn more about Centura College at our Consumer Information Disclosure page, Your right to know.

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