Massage therapy is an industry that is growing at a rapid rate. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for massage therapists is growing at a rate of 22% through the years 2014-2024. That is much higher than the average growth rate. It’s clear that the demand for massage therapists is there, and now you might be curious as to how you can get in on it, but you might be wondering, “What does a massage therapist do?”
What Does a Massage Therapist Do?
Depending on where they work, massage therapists use several modalities (types of massage) and bodywork to help their clients feel better. Massage therapists can help with stress relief, relaxation, or even recovery from muscle injury. Some types of modalities that they can learn are:
- Swedish massage
- Deep-tissue massage
- Sports massage
- And more!
They can also help their clients improve their posture by teaching stretching and strengthening techniques. The short answer is this: massage therapists use massage and bodywork to help their clients feel better!
Where Can a Massage Therapist Work?
Massage therapists can work in a variety of places depending on their skillset and interests. Here are a few of the places that they could potentially work:
- Spas
- Franchise clinics
- Doctor’s offices
- Chiropractic offices
- Hotels
- Cruise ships
- Resorts
- Fitness centers
- Freelance
Massage therapists could have the ability to travel while they work or stay close to home! It all depends on the person.
How Do You Become a Massage Therapist?
Here at Montana Academy of Salons, it takes 700 clock hours and a 75% or higher on the national written exam to become qualified to apply for a license. The Montana Board of Massage Therapy requires 500 clock hours, but we provide additional training in business management, ethics, and guest services because we believe those additional hours make the difference!
Our students, after 300 hours of basic instruction, are offered the opportunity to practice what they’ve learned in our student salon and spa*.
To apply for Montana Academy, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, proof of graduation, and a photo I.D. For more information on our application procedures, please read here.
Are You Interested?
Does an education in massage therapy sound like something you’d like to do? See our program page for more information, and contact us with any questions.
*All services performed by students under the supervision of licensed professionals.