Newsflash… it’s probably easier to become a massage therapist than you think! If you love helping people and you’re looking for a lucrative career field, where you can set your own hours, this one is probably for you. Keep reading, to learn more about what the future holds for the massage therapy industry and why you should consider working in the field.
Training Requirements
The requirements and standards for the training it takes to become a massage therapist varies from state to state. Most states require prospective therapists to complete a training program and pass an examination.
According to Money.US.News.com, the programs that are offered at colleges typically require 500 hours of training, although some may require 1,000 hours or more. Some programs cover a general overview of the field, while others focus on one particular area or technique.
Students who are planning to run their own business may wish to seek out business training courses as well. Many states also require that massage therapists regularly renew their license, or continue to enroll in courses to further their education.
Job Outlook
Donald Dillon, massage therapist and writer at MassagetTherapyCanada.com, says that massage therapists have benefited from economic growth. Due to both broader health insurance plans and an increase in how much people are willing to spend, there is no shortage of people seeking the services of a massage therapist.
Job-related stress and disorders are also on the rise, which automatically leads to an even further increase in demand. This demand is expected to grow for at least the next 5 to 10 years and beyond.
Earning Potential
In 2013, the average annual wage for massage therapists was nearly $36,000. The best-paid 10 percent of all massage therapists made more than $71,000. The bottom 10 percent, on the other hand, made less than $18,280.
Some massage therapists are self-employed, and their income is limited only by the number of clients they are able to see. At the time of a recent study, data indicates that the three cities massage therapists made the most money were Anchorage, Alaska; Pittsfield, Massachusetts; and Holland, Michigan.
Get the Real Scoop
To get the real scoop on what it takes to become a massage therapist, take the time to get in touch with the admissions department at Avenue Five Institute. It’s the best way to get answers to all of your questions and to begin the enrollment process. Why not follow in the footsteps of countless graduates before you? Schedule a tour of the campus today!