Massage Therapist
National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork8201 Greensboro Drive, Suite 300
McLean, VA 22102
(800) 296-0664
(703) 610-9015
(703) 610-9005
Hints for Choosing the Right Massage Training Program:
Do your homework first!
- Learn about the profession of massage therapy, e.g. different methods of therapy and the particular requirements to practice in your state.
- Collect information about several programs--attend an open house or orientation, interview former students, read catalogues, audit a class, or call the Better Business Bureau and/or vocational school office in your state.
- Consider your career intentions--some programs focus on relaxation massage techniques while others target remedial or medical applications.
- Review the curriculum to make sure that the style(s) of massage taught match what you want to learn.
- Be aware of time requirements for a particular program. Make sure your other obligations will allow enough time to study and practice outside of class.
- Examine the credentials and experience of the faculty.
- Find out whether the educational philosophy of the program and the faculty agree with your own views about health, healing, and the purpose and use of massage therapy.
- Receive massage therapy sessions from the faculty, graduates, and/or student clinic.
- Request information about student services--post-graduate job placement, tutoring, continuing education, financial aid, etc.
- Consider tuition, fees, any other costs, the availability of financial aid, and the quality of the program. Remember to budget in additional funds for a massage table, books, and supplies.