Find out what it means to be a Massage Therapist.
Along with proper massage therapy training, certain personality traits can lead to success for those who wish to enter the growing and evolving field of massage. A friendly nature, bolstered by strong communication skills and an innate ability to empathize, will go a long way toward developing a loyal client base.
The successful massage therapist should be willing to work on nearly anyone, no matter their shape, size, gender or physical attributes. For the individual who wishes to provide healthy touch, appearances should always be trumped by the sincere desire to enhance the health and wellness of each and every client.
Besides an enthusiasm for the good health of others, a number of prospective massage therapists enter the profession in hopes of enjoying flexible hours, and perhaps opening their own private practice. With an entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to stay organized, these goals are not out of reach. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, three-quarters of all massage therapists worked flexible schedules in 2004, and about two-thirds of these professionals reported self-employment.
Whether working in a private practice, a spa or any other wellness setting, a standard massage session will include certain elements. For instance, a new client will typically fill out an intake form, so the massage therapist has a general understanding of painful areas, medical issues and reasons the client is seeking healthy touch. Next, the massage therapist will leave the session room so the client can undress and get settled under a sheet or blanket on the table. The practitioner will then begin the massage, attempting to gear the session toward the individual needs of the client, focusing on any specific areas of stress or pain, and checking in to make sure the client is comfortable with the pressure and nature of the touch.
Before a massage therapist can start working on clients, he or she must comply with any state or local laws that apply to massage. That’s why it’s important to know the laws that govern massage in your state before enrolling in massage school, because certain states require more formal education hours than others to earn a massage therapy license or credential. Currently, 38 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian provinces regulate massage.
