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When people talk about earning massage certificates and diplomas, they do not mean the same thing as gaining massage therapy certification. It is possible to get certificates after a number of hours of training in one specific area of massage, but still not be legally qualified to practice in many states. There are several very deliberate steps required before one can become a certified massage therapist, and almost every state has its own laws and regulations to follow. Accreditation - The first step towards certification is to check for accreditation There are hundreds of good accredited massage therapy schools across the US and Canada that can train you to pass exams for certification. The school you are planning to attend should be accredited by reputable, professional associations. Find out also if it's recognized by your state or provincial government. One significant sign is whether or not students of the school are eligible for public funding in the form of grants or loans. If not, that may indicate that the school's curriculum doesn't meet the government's idea of best practices when it comes to massage therapy. Some States Require Licensing - Most states require successful completion of a practical and written exam in order to gain licensing. You may want to find out what is required of you as you are selecting a school. This will help you to study items that you will be tested on. You will want to join the massage therapy association. Membership of this association will be able to answer questions about certification and other benefits. It's a great way to get questions answered about your new career choice. What's needed - To practice massage therapy in most states requires certification from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. Many states also require certified massage therapists to be licensed. The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork requires that candidates acquire a minimum number of 500 hours of training from an approved school (accredited by the US Department of Education or approved by the state of practice); required education must include: 40 hours assigned to pathology training 200 hours of massage and bodywork assessment, theory and application 40 hours of pathology 10 hours of business and ethics, including at least 6 hours of ethics 125 hours of additional instruction Students must also demonstrate practice understanding and knowledge by completing a hands-on or practical exam. You may also have to provide continuous education credits yearly or bi-yearly to keep your license current. Your school may also provide the continuous education credits in certain classes or they may be able to guide you to the institution that will have this available for you. Respect in Your Field - There is no career quite like being a massage therapist. You are training to become a natural healer. Various techniques are possible for you including therapeutic deep-tissue massage as well as some more popular techniques such as Swedish, shiatsu and sports. As you train and decide what technique is right for you, your certification will help you stand out. As a licensed massage therapist you will be respected by your clients and health care professionals.
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There are currently many jobs available to recent graduates that have their Massage Therapist Certification or even a Massage Therapy Degree. Check it out today!
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