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In Massage Therapy, the Job Comes to You

By BJ Fairfax
Learning & Life Columnist
April 23, 2007

If you'd like to help others live their lives with much less pain and stress--and do it from home--consider a career in the booming field of massage therapy. Many therapists see clients in their homes, set their own schedules and choose how much work they want to do in a given week. Read on to find out how to own your own time and still make good money.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the massage therapy profession is expected to grow faster than the national average for about the next decade, as more people discover the benefits it can provide. Get in on this wealth of opportunities by getting a career education in massage.

Career Training in Massage Therapy

In the past, few states regulated the practice of massage therapy, and nearly anyone could hang a shingle and take clients as a massage therapist. Today, 33 states and the District of Columbia regulate massage, so it's necessary to get the proper training in order to sit for a licensing exam.

Before you enroll in your massage training program, be sure to look up your state's requirements. Even if your state does not regulate massage, be sure to check local laws as well, as certain cities and towns require formal training for practicing massage therapists.

Your Career Education

No matter where you choose to earn your practical training in massage, or how long it takes, certain elements of massage therapy education are fairly standard. For instance, you will most likely take classes in anatomy and physiology, and also spend time practicing hands-on massage therapy routines. There are many different kinds of massage therapy, so you will probably choose a particular specialty early on (such as Shiatsu or Swedish massage). Many programs also offer tips and information on the business aspects of attracting and handling clients, setting up your practice and so on.

So if you want a work-from-home job that puts a smile on your clients' faces, consider a career in massage therapy.

Source:

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Massage Therapists

About the Author
BJ Fairfax holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She writes for a variety of print and online publications.

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