Massage Therapist are In-Demand

By Sarah Clark
Career Colleges Columnist

More and more people are embracing massage as a method of treating stress and other illnesses, reports the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That growth in popularity is also driving up the number of massage therapy jobs being created in the United States.

Massage used to be something enjoyed by only the wealthiest members of society. That's no longer true today--all types of people, from secretaries suffering from repetitive stress disorders to construction foremen seeking lower back pain treatment, are looking to massage therapists for relief. That's great news for current and aspiring massage therapists. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job growth in the field to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2014.

Where to Find Massage Therapy Jobs

Where are these new massage therapy jobs being created? In recent years, the spa market has enjoyed a boom so some of the jobs have been created there, and will likely continue to grow, particularly in spas that cater to affluent clients. But as massage continues to be embraced as a mainstream health modality more jobs will likely emerge in medical facilities like doctors' offices, chiropractic firms, and hospitals.

Getting Your Credentials in Massage Therapy School

Most states require that massage therapists graduate from an accredited massage therapy school and pass a national certification exam. During school, students study anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. They also study and practice hands-on massage techniques.

Jobs growth is not the only factor that draws people to the field of massage. The flexible hours are also appealing to many. According to the Bureau, some two thirds of massage therapists are self employed. It is also relatively easy to find part-time positions in massage therapy, which is great for those looking for a job that will fit around their parenting responsibilities. Some massage therapists even work out of their homes, or visit clients in their homes.

But before you take the plunge into massage therapy school, make sure you research massage therapy programs well and find one that will equip you with the credentials that your state requires. For more information on state-by-state requirements, contact the American Massage Therapy Association.

Sources
The Bureau of Labor Statistics

About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer specializing in career development and postsecondary education.

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